Deshna Mahima Darshan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Deshna Mahima Darshan," based on the provided pages:

Title: Deshna Mahima Darshan (Presentation of the Glory of Preaching) Author: Anandsagarsuri (referred to as Āgamoddhārak Āchārya Bhagavanta Shri Āgam Lāgī Sarivar) Publisher: Shri Āgamoddhārak Pravachan Prakashan Samiti, Mumbai

Overall Purpose and Context:

This book is a collection of discourses (deshna) delivered by Acharya Shri Ānandsagarsuri Mahārāj Sāheb, a revered Jain scholar and spiritual leader. The publication is a significant effort by the Shri Āgamoddhārak Pravachan Prakashan Samiti to make the profound teachings of Ānandsagarsuri accessible to a wider audience, particularly by reprinting previously unavailable or out-of-print works. The discourses aim to guide individuals towards spiritual upliftment, knowledge, and ultimately, liberation (moksha).

Key Figures and Their Roles:

• Acharya Devesh Shri Ānandsagarsuri Mahārāj Sāheb: The primary author and source of the discourses. He is revered as an "Āgamoddhārak" (one who revives or upholds the scriptures) and a "Shāsanashāḷi Āchārya."
• Āchārya Devesh Shri Darshansagarsuri Mahārāj Sāheb: Credited as the "Preranādātā" (inspirer or motivator) for this publication.
• Ganivaray Shri Nityadoyasagarji Mahārāj Sāheb: The "Sampadak" (editor) and noted for his organizational skills.
• Shri Amarachand Ratanchand Zaveri: The publisher and a key figure behind the Samiti.
• Shri Lalchandbhai K. Shah (Vaṇodwālā): Took full responsibility for printing and publication, enabling the swift release of the book.
• Shri Hiralal R. Kapadia: Author of the "Prakāshakīya Nivedan" (Editorial Note) and the "Prāveshak" (Introduction), providing valuable insights into the text and the Acharya's work.
• Various Muni Mahārāj Sāheb and other esteemed individuals: Many are credited with supporting the endeavor through inspiration, guidance, financial contributions, and compilation.

Core Themes and Content:

The book covers a wide range of Jain philosophical and practical topics, delivered through discourses that are described as profound, philosophical, and inspiring. Based on the table of contents and introductory remarks, the key themes include:

1. The Nature of Dharma and Spiritual Pursuit: The importance of understanding true dharma, which leads to peace and liberation, distinguishing it from materialistic knowledge that can lead to downfall. The emphasis is on Samyaḻ Jñāna (right knowledge) as a prerequisite for liberation.
2. The Role and Importance of a Guru: The text highlights the extraordinary qualities of a Guru and the necessity of having a Sadguru like Ānandsagarsuri to guide souls towards spiritual well-being.
3. The Glory of Preaching (Deshna): The title itself, "Deshna Mahima Darshan," signifies the central theme of the book – the immense value and significance of spiritual discourses in guiding individuals towards the right path.
4. Re-publication of Scarce Literature: A major objective of the Samiti is to bring back into circulation the valuable discourses of Ānandsagarsuri that have become unavailable, satisfying the continuous demand from scholars and spiritual seekers.
5. Key Jain Concepts Explored: The table of contents reveals discussions on various fundamental Jain principles, including:
   • Family duties (Kutumb Prati Shrāvakni Sāndhya Faraj): The responsibilities of a householder towards their family.
   • The superiority of fellow Jains (Sādharmikni Shreshṭhatā): The importance of camaraderie and support within the Jain community.
   • The cycle of birth and karma (Janma Karma ni Paramparā): Understanding the causal relationship between actions and rebirths, and the attainment of Samyaḻ Tva (right faith).
   • The purpose of human life (Mānav Jivan no Sadupayog): Emphasizing the rarity and value of human birth and urging its proper utilization.
   • The nature of the soul (Ātmā): Discussions on the self, its true nature, and its inherent purity.
   • Dharma and Intellect: The interplay between spiritual principles and rational understanding.
   • The nature of the Jain faith: Its unique characteristics and distinctiveness from other religions.
   • Deities (Jain Dhruva ane Jnetar Dev): The Jain perspective on deities, contrasting them with the divine principles of Jainism.
   • Faith and Skepticism (Āstik ane Nāstik): Exploring the concepts of belief and disbelief within a spiritual context.
   • Jain Festivals and Celebrations: Highlighting the unique significance of Jain festivals.
   • The importance of overcoming obstacles (Vighna ane Samyaktva): How spiritual fortitude helps in overcoming challenges.
   • The concept of "I" (Apehāvad ane Ātmā, "Hu" etle Ken?): Philosophical explorations of self and identity.
   • The nature of worldly happiness and suffering: Describing the impermanent nature of worldly pleasures and the inevitability of suffering.
   • The essence of Dharma: Understanding the true meaning and practice of righteousness.
   • The importance of auspiciousness and purity (Shubha Bhāv, Shuddhicharan): The role of pure intentions and righteous conduct.
   • The nature of bondage and liberation (Bandh ane Nirjara): Understanding the causes of spiritual bondage and the means of achieving liberation.
   • The path to freedom (Ātmāni Āzādi): Guidance on achieving spiritual emancipation.
   • The signs of a less worldly person (Parit-sansārī nā Lakshana): Identifying characteristics of those who are detached from worldly entanglements.
   • The significance of virtuous actions (Punya Bāndhvānā Upāy): Methods for accumulating spiritual merit.
   • The pursuit of knowledge and its application (Shrāvaṇ ane Dharmagnān): The process of acquiring and applying spiritual wisdom.
   • The concept of equanimity (Vairāgya ane Purushārtha): The role of detachment and self-exertion in spiritual progress.
   • The essence of Dharma: Understanding Dharma as the true path.
   • The importance of purity of thought, word, and deed: Aligning one's inner intentions with outward actions.
   • The significance of various Jain concepts: Including Anumodan (appreciation of good deeds), Moun Ekadashi (a specific vow of silence), Manushya Bhav (human birth) as a boon, and the importance of Niti-Nyay (ethics and justice).

Revival and Dissemination of Knowledge:

The Samiti's effort, driven by the inspiration of Acharya Darshansagar Surishwarji and the dedication of Ganivaray Nityadoyasagarji, aims to fulfill the desire of many seekers for the profound and often inaccessible literature of Ānandsagarsuri. The book is presented as a key to unlocking the wisdom contained within the Jain Āgamas.

Contribution and Support:

The publication highlights the collective effort involved, with mentions of financial support from various Sanghas (religious congregations), Sādharmiks (fellow Jains), and generous individuals, underscoring the community's commitment to preserving and propagating Jain teachings.

In essence, "Deshna Mahima Darshan" is a tribute to the spiritual legacy of Acharya Ānandsagarsuri, a testament to the enduring power of Jain philosophy, and a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand and practice the profound principles of Jainism.