Derasarni Vidhi - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Derasarni Vidhi" by Shasan Seva Samiti, based on the provided text:

The book "Derasarni Vidhi" (Procedure for the Temple) published by Shasan Seva Samiti is a guide intended to educate Jain devotees on the correct and devout way to worship and conduct themselves within a Jain temple (Derasar). It also includes sections on the "Bhav Puja" of Shri Shatrunjay and addressing common questions related to the Jain faith.

Core Principles and General Conduct:

Reverence for the Idol: The text emphasizes treating the Jain idol (Jin Pratima) as the literal presence of God (Parmatma) and performing rituals with utmost respect and devotion.
Purity and Ahimsa (Non-violence): A central theme is the strict adherence to ahimsa in all actions within the temple. This includes:
- Careful movement to avoid harming tiny organisms.
- Gagling (straining) water and using proper cleaning methods.
- Wearing clean, modest clothing.
- Avoiding the use of plastic or other materials that cause violence.
Niyams and Discipline (Nisihid): The book outlines specific prohibitions and disciplines to be observed:
- "Nisihid" (Prohibitions): Three "Nisihid" are mentioned: the first upon entering the temple premises (leaving worldly thoughts behind), the second upon entering the inner sanctum (Gabhara) (detaching from temple duties), and the third at the beginning of chanting or prayer (focusing on the meaning and God's qualities).
- Modest Attire: Men should wear a Dhoti and Khes (shawl), preferably made of natural fibers. Women should always cover their heads and wear modest clothing that reflects reverence.
- Cleanliness: Maintaining personal and environmental cleanliness is crucial. This includes using clean water for rituals and keeping the temple premises clean.
- Respectful Behavior: Avoiding loud conversations, worldly discussions, and improper behavior is essential.
Merit from Temple Visits: The text quantifies the immense merit gained from even the intention and act of visiting a temple, equating it to multiple fasts. This highlights the spiritual significance of dedicating time to worship.
Self-Purification: Visiting the temple is seen as a means for self-purification and spiritual upliftment.

Specific Rituals and Practices:

Pradakshina (Circumambulation): Three circumambulations are prescribed, symbolizing the removal of worldly attachments, the attainment of the three jewels (Samyak Darshan, Samyak Gyan, Samyak Charitra), and keeping the Lord to one's right.
Abhigam (Rules of Conduct): Five specific rules of conduct in the temple are detailed:
1. Not bringing personal items like shoes, umbrellas, or bags into sacred areas.
2. Bringing items for offering to God (Kesar, fruits, milk).
3. Wearing a Khes.
4. Joining hands in reverence when facing the idol and saying "Namo Jinanam."
5. Maintaining a stable and pure mind, focusing intensely.
Vastra Paridhan (Clothing): Specific instructions are given on appropriate attire for worship, emphasizing natural fibers and modesty.
Ang Puja (Worship of the Body): The text describes the detailed ritualistic worship of the idol, including:
- Panch Kalyanaks: The five auspicious events in a Tirthankar's life (Chyavan, Janma, Diksha, Kevalgyan, Nirvana) are symbolically represented in the puja.
- Abhisheka (Anointment): Using pure water, Panchamrut (a mixture of milk, yogurt, ghee, sugar, and water), and scented substances for anointing.
- Tilak: Applying tilak to various parts of the idol's body, each with associated spiritual meanings and bhavana (contemplations).
- Chandan Puja (Sandalwood Worship): Applying sandalwood paste with devotion and mindfulness.
- Pushpa Puja (Flower Worship): Using fresh, pure flowers with respect.
- Dhoop Puja (Incense Worship): Symbolizing the burning away of negative tendencies.
- Deepak Puja (Lamp Worship): Symbolizing the illumination of knowledge.
- Akshat Puja (Rice Worship): Symbolizing the desire for an eternal, unblemished state.
- Naivedya Puja (Food Offering): Symbolizing the renunciation of worldly tastes.
- Phal Puja (Fruit Offering): Symbolizing the ultimate attainment of liberation.
Use of Pure Water: Emphasizing the use of water from wells, rivers, or natural sources for rituals, avoiding chemically treated municipal water.
Self-Service: Encouraging devotees to perform temple cleaning and other tasks themselves, rather than relying solely on priests, as a way to earn merit and destroy negative karma.
Bhava Puja (Worship with Emotion): The ultimate goal of all these rituals is to cultivate a deep, heartfelt devotion and connect with the divine presence. This is achieved through contemplation, mindfulness, and surrendering ego.
Aarti: Instructions on performing Aarti (waving of lamps) with reverence and remembering God's virtues.
Stavan and Doha: Singing devotional songs and couplets with a clear voice, without disturbing others.

Addressing Concerns and Clarifications:

Use of Sacred Items: Instructions are given on the proper handling and storage of malas (rosaries) and other religious items.
Donations and Offerings: Guidelines are provided on how to make offerings and the importance of using pure, self-earned money.
Temple Maintenance: Emphasis is placed on the responsibility of devotees and administrators to maintain the temple's purity, cleanliness, and grandeur.
Social Equality: The temple is described as a place where everyone, regardless of wealth or status, is equal before God.
Modern Practices: The book advises against using electronic lights or plastic items in the inner sanctum and strongly discourages activities like loud music, dancing, and photography during religious observances, as they can lead to disrespect and violence.
Pujari's Role: Instructions are given for the welfare and proper conduct of temple priests, ensuring their hygiene and adherence to temple rules.
Financial Management: The importance of proper financial management of temple funds and contributions is highlighted.
Trustees and Administration: The need for knowledgeable and honest trustees and administrators is stressed, along with compliance with legal and tax regulations.
Importance of Knowledge and Action: The book stresses the synergy between knowledge (Gyan) and action (Kriya) for spiritual progress, likening them to two wheels of a chariot or an eye and two hands.

Specific Sections:

Shri Shatrunjay Bhav Puja: A detailed description of a mental pilgrimage to the sacred Shatrunjay hill, outlining the order of visiting various temples and observing the footprints of revered souls.
Addressing Jain Questions: The book also addresses common queries within the Jain faith, likely related to rituals, beliefs, and practices.
"Shasan na 45 Prashno" (45 Questions of the Faith): Mentioned as a separate booklet, indicating a broader scope of Jain knowledge dissemination by the publisher.

Overall Message:

"Derasarni Vidhi" serves as a comprehensive manual for Jain temple etiquette and worship. It aims to foster a deeper understanding and practice of Jain principles, emphasizing purity, devotion, ahimsa, and correct ritualistic procedures to maximize spiritual benefit and avoid transgressions. The book encourages active participation and personal responsibility in maintaining the sanctity and purpose of Jain temples.