Deshna Chintamani Part 06

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Deshna Chintamani Part 06," by Acharya Vijaypadmsuri, based on the pages you've shared:

Overall Context:

The text is the sixth volume of the "Deshna Chintamani" series, authored by Acharya Vijaypadmsuri. It is published by Shri Jain Granth Prakashak Sabha and was financially supported by the Sheth Jesinghbhai Kalidas Sherdelal Charity Trust. The volume focuses on the teachings (Deshna) and wisdom (Chintamani) related to Jainism, specifically highlighting the teachings of Shri Padmprabh Swamiji and including other important Jain texts and historical accounts.

Key Sections and Themes:

1. Introduction and Salutation (Pages 1-6):

   • The book begins with standard Jain auspicious beginnings, including invocations to Shri Padmprabh Swamiji and the author's guru, Acharya Vijaynemisurishwarji.
   • It expresses gratitude to the guru and dedicates the book.
   • A section titled "Hit Shiksha Bhavana" (Beneficial Instruction and Contemplation) is presented in Hari Gita meter, offering moral and spiritual advice to the soul (Jiva). Key themes include:
     • Remembering the passage of time and reforming one's conduct, thoughts, and speech.
     • The nature of karma, equating equanimity with the rise of merit and disequilibrium with the rise of demerit.
     • Adhering to truth, righteousness, and compassion even in hardship.
     • The ephemeral nature of worldly happiness and suffering.
     • Avoiding worldly attachments and desires, and cultivating purity of thought through chastity and equanimity.
     • A prayer for the well-being of all beings and their attainment of liberation.
   • "Atmshiksha-ashtakam" (Eight Verses of Self-Education) in Arya meter is included, emphasizing:
     • The rarity of human birth and the opportunity it provides for spiritual progress.
     • The importance of Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct as the path to liberation.
     • The cycle of transmigration and the importance of detachment from worldly attractions.
     • The ultimate goal of realizing one's true self and attaining liberation.

2. Tribute to Gurus and Patrons (Pages 7-16):

   • The text includes respectful mentions and visual representations of the gurus: Acharya Vijaynemisurishwarji and Acharya Vijaypadmsuri. Their biographical details (birth, initiation, attainment of various titles like Ganip, Nyayvisharad, Upadhyay, Acharya) are provided, highlighting their significant contributions to Jain literature and spiritual guidance.
   • A prominent section is dedicated to Sheth Jesinghbhai Kalidas Sherdelal, the financial supporter of the book. His birth and passing details are mentioned, along with a detailed account of his philanthropic and religious activities. He is lauded for his contributions to printing Jain scriptures, supporting religious institutions, undertaking pilgr14tim L28as to holy sites, and initiating charitable funds for the welfare of the Jain community (Sangh). His family lineage and commitment to Dharma are also emphasized. His sons, Sarabhai and Manubhai, continued his legacy of generosity.

3. The Core Teachings - Shri Padmprabh Swamiji's Deshna (Pages 17-42):

   • This forms the main body of the volume. It details the life story and teachings of the sixth Tirthankar, Shri Padmprabh Swamiji.
   • Previous Lives and Early Life: The text traces Shri Padmprabh Swamiji's life from his third-to-last existence as King Aparajit, highlighting his virtues like control over senses, adherence to truth, compassion, justice, and equanimity. It describes his renunciation of worldly life, his spiritual journey, and his eventual initiation into monkhood. The narrative then moves to his royal life as King Dhar, father of Padmprabh, and his queen, Sushimavti, describing their virtues and the auspicious events surrounding the Tirthankar's conception and birth.
   • Shri Padmprabh's Birth and Life: The text elaborates on the divine signs and the auspicious events surrounding Shri Padmprabh's birth. It describes his childhood, his eventual ascension to the throne, his reign marked by righteousness and virtue, and his eventual renunciation of the kingdom.
   • The Teachings (Deshna): The core of the volume lies in the extensive teachings of Shri Padmprabh Swamiji, presented in a question-and-answer format (Niyavali) between the Tirthankar and his disciples, as well as the heavenly beings. These teachings cover a vast range of Jain philosophy and practice:
     • The Rarity and Importance of Human Birth: The text repeatedly emphasizes how precious and rare a human birth is, and how it is the only opportunity for liberation.
     • The Nature of Karma: It explains how karma binds the soul and the necessity of its purification.
     • The Path to Liberation: The importance of Right Faith (Samyaktva), Right Knowledge (Samyagjnana), and Right Conduct (Samyakcharitra) is stressed as the exclusive path to Moksha.
     • The Four Noble Truths of Jainism: The text highlights the four essential elements for liberation: Human birth, the teachings of the Tirthankars, Right Faith, and Self-Control (Samyam).
     • The Four States of Existence (Gati): It describes the suffering in the realms of hellish beings, animals, humans, and gods.
     • The Nature of the Soul: The incorporeal and eternal nature of the soul is described.
     • The Four Types of Knowledge (Jñana): Mati, Shruta, Avadhi, and Manahparyaya Jñana, and the ultimate goal of Keval Jñana (Omniscience).
     • The Concept of Lattlis (Supernatural Powers): Various siddhis and their attainment are discussed.
     • The Seven Tattvas (Realities): The discussion touches upon the fundamental principles of Jainism.
     • The Eight Karmas: Their nature and how they are shed.
     • The Fourteen Stages of Spiritual Progress (Guṇasthana): The entire spiritual path is outlined.
     • The Significance of Taps (Austerities): The text emphasizes the crucial role of austerities in purifying the soul and overcoming karma, with a particular focus on the "Vardhaman Ayambil Tap."
     • The Nature of Devotional Practices: It discusses the importance of reverence, worship, and faith.
     • The Cycle of Birth and Death: The teachings explain the continuous cycle of rebirth and the means to escape it.
     • Ethical Principles: The summary includes discussions on virtues like non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, chastity, and non-possession.
     • The Significance of Tirthas (Holy Places): The spiritual benefits of visiting pilgrimage sites are mentioned.
     • The Importance of Gurus: The text underscores the role of the Guru in guiding the disciple towards spiritual realization.
   • Historical Accounts and Exemplary Lives:
     • Shri Aparajit Raja: His virtuous reign and eventual renunciation are detailed.
     • Shri Dhan, Shri Yashovijayji: The text recounts the intellectual prowess and influence of these historical figures, particularly highlighting the scholarly achievements of Shri Yashovijayji.
     • Sheth Jesinghbhai Kalidas Sherdelal: His life and philanthropic activities are detailed, emphasizing his devotion and contributions to Jainism.
     • Stories Illustrating Jain Principles: The text includes narratives that illustrate Jain philosophical concepts, such as the importance of forgiveness, the consequences of anger, the nature of true happiness, and the impermanence of worldly possessions. These stories often serve as allegories to convey deeper spiritual lessons.

4. Inclusion of Other Texts and Stotras (Pages 31-34):

   • The volume includes translations or summaries of other significant Jain works:
     • Shri Stambhan Parshva Brihatkalpa: A text detailing the history and miracles associated with the idol of Shri Stambhan Parshvanath. It discusses who established the idol, when, and the benefits derived from its worship. It also delves into historical questions about figures like Nagarjun and Padmalipsuri.
     • Shri Stambhaprdippa: A text presented in five sections (dhal) that further elaborates on the significance of Shri Stambhan Parshvanath, including the story of its manifestation and worship by Sagardatta Seth.
     • Shortened translations of five Bṛhatkalpas: These are likely summaries or adaptations of larger texts covering:
       • The miraculous Lord Shri Manikyadeva.
       • The ancient city of Shri Ayodhya.
       • The significance of Akshay Tritiya (Akhatrij).
       • The glory of Champapuri.
       • The ancient city of Kaushambi.
     • Shri Vardhaman Tap Prakash (or Bhav-Arogya Rasayan): This section, presented in a dialogue between a Guru and a disciple, focuses on the practices and benefits of austerities, particularly the "Vardhaman Ayambil Tap." It explains the concept of Tapa, its types, the significance of Ayambil, and provides historical examples of individuals who practiced it successfully, including Shri Chandrakavli and others. It emphasizes the spiritual and physical benefits of fasting and austerity.

5. The Importance of Tapa (Austerity) (Pages 34 onwards):

   • This section delves deeply into the concept and practice of Tapa (austerity) within Jainism.
   • It explains the meaning and purpose of Tapa as a means to burn away karma and purify the soul, likening the soul to gold and Tapa to the fire that refines it.
   • It discusses the benefits of Tapa, such as warding off illness, achieving desired goals, and ultimately attaining liberation.
   • The text outlines general principles for practicing Tapa, including the importance of purity, devotion to the Guru, equanimity, and avoiding worldly attachments.
   • Specific examples of Tapa practices are alluded to, such as Ayambil, and the importance of proper intention and adherence to rules.
   • The text provides a list of virtuous individuals from Jain history who practiced Tapa, such as Shri Chandrakumar, highlighting their achievements and the profound impact of their austerities.

Overall Tone and Purpose:

The "Deshna Chintamani Part 06" appears to be a didactic and devotional text. Its purpose is to educate and inspire the Jain community by:

• Imparting spiritual knowledge: Explaining Jain principles, philosophical concepts, and the path to liberation.
• Promoting ethical conduct: Encouraging adherence to virtues like truth, compassion, and self-control.
• Highlighting the importance of Tapa: Underscoring the power of austerities in spiritual growth and karma annihilation.
• Preserving Jain history and traditions: Sharing the lives of Tirthankars, revered gurus, and devout patrons to inspire future generations.
• Encouraging devotion: Fostering reverence for Tirthankaras, gurus, and the Jain faith.

The detailed summaries of historical figures and the extensive explanations of Jain concepts indicate a comprehensive approach to spiritual education within the Jain tradition.