Devdarshanadi Dharm Karni - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Devdarshanadi Dharm Karni" by Bhadrankarvijay, based on the provided pages:

Title: Devdarshanadi Dharm Karni (Acts of Dharma like Devdarshan) Author: Acharya Shri Bhadrankarvijayji Maharaj Publisher: Chimanlal Mohanlal Zaveri Theme: The book emphasizes the significance and practice of various religious activities in Jainism, with a particular focus on the importance and method of worshipping the Tirthankaras (Jineshwaras or Vitraga Devs).

Core Message:

The central theme of the book is that Devdarshanadi Dharm Karni (acts of Dharma like worshipping the divine) are the keys to the elevated future life of virtuous souls. It asserts that remembering the Vitraraga (those free from attachment and aversion) is true prosperity, and forgetting them is true adversity.

Key Concepts and Sections:

The Nature of "Dev" (Divine): The book begins by exploring the etymology of the word "Dev," which derives from Sanskrit roots meaning "to play," "to conquer," "to shine," "to be praised," and "to move." While acknowledging various meanings, it emphasizes the primary meaning in this context as "one who is praised or worshipped." It also notes that "Dev" can encompass various levels of divinity, from "Nar-dev" (human deities like kings) to the ultimate "Dev-dev" or "Devadhi-dev" (the Tirthankaras).
The Importance of Devapoojan (Worship of the Divine): The book highlights that worshipping the divine and the guru is the first of four essential steps to attaining liberation, as outlined by Jain scholars. This worship purifies the soul by removing karmic impurities, leading to the manifestation of inherent divine qualities. It stresses that worshipping the divine and guru is crucial for spiritual progress, as it fosters respect for virtue, which in turn enables the practice of good conduct and penance, ultimately leading to liberation.
The True Nature of the Divine (Paramarthik Dev): The text extensively discusses the characteristics of the ultimate divine, the Tirthankaras. These are souls who have conquered all passions (Raga, Dvesha, Moha), are free from all eighteen types of flaws (doshas), possess omniscience (Sarvajna), are the creators of all ethics and philosophies, and are worthy of worship by all beings. They are described as being free from bodily limitations, possessing infinite knowledge, perception, bliss, and power. The book critiques the deities of other religions (like Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, Indra, etc.) by highlighting their human-like flaws, attachments, ignorance, and dependence, contrasting them with the pure and liberated nature of the Tirthankaras.
The Attributes of a Pure Divine (Shuddha Dev): A pure divine is described as one who is omniscient, conquered all passions, is worshipped by all, speaks truth, and whose teachings are universally applicable. The book rejects deities associated with worldly desires, violence, or flawed ideologies.
The Glorification of Devadhi-dev (The Tirthankaras): The text details the numerous divine attributes (Atishayas) of the Tirthankaras. These are categorized into those present from birth, those attained after the destruction of karma, and those bestowed by celestial beings after attaining Kevala-jnana (omniscience). These include miraculous physical attributes, perfect speech, and the power to dispel all forms of suffering and ignorance.
Names of the Divine: The book lists various epithets used for the Tirthankaras, such as Arhat, Jin, Paragat, Sarvajna, Bhagvan, Tirthankar, Jineshwar, Shiva, etc., explaining the meaning and significance behind each name.
The Significance of Devdarshan (Seeing the Divine): The book describes the immense spiritual benefits derived from merely seeing the divine image or idol. It outlines the rewards in terms of spiritual merit, equating them to various forms of penance and fasting. Devdarshan is presented as a powerful tool for purification, removing negative karma, and fostering positive qualities.
The Fruit of Vitraga Bhakti (Devotion to the Vitraraga): Devotion to the Tirthankaras, even without their direct response or intervention, is highly rewarding. This is because such devotion purifies the devotee's inner state, leading to the reduction of karma and the attainment of spiritual merit. The Vitraraga's teachings and examples serve as a guide, and by following them, devotees can overcome worldly suffering and attain liberation.
The Justice and Logic of Devapoojan: The book justifies the practice of worshipping the Tirthankaras, explaining that their worship is a logical path to spiritual upliftment. It emphasizes that the worship is not for the divine's need but for the devotee's own purification and ultimate liberation.
The Rituals of Jin-Poojan (Worship of the Jina): The text provides details on the proper rituals and procedures for worshipping the Jinas. This includes the use of pure substances, correct postures, mental focus, and the correct recitation of mantras and prayers. It also differentiates between various levels of worship (Panchopachara, Ashtopachara, Sarvopachara) based on one's capacity and spiritual stage.
The Importance of Proper Intent (Aashay) in Worship: The book repeatedly stresses that the true benefit of any religious act, including Devdarshan and Poojan, lies in the purity of intention (Aashay). Actions performed with selfish desires, ego, or ignorance are considered ineffective or even detrimental. The ultimate goal is to cultivate a pure heart filled with devotion, detachment, and the desire for liberation.
Shattering Doubts and Misconceptions: The book addresses common doubts and misconceptions regarding Devdarshan and worship, such as the argument that it is futile as the divine is already perfect. It refutes such arguments by explaining the inherent spiritual benefits for the devotee, irrespective of the divine's own perfection.
The Glory of Vitraga Darshan: The darshan (seeing) of the Vitraraga is described as a purifying act that dispels sins, bestows spiritual knowledge, and guides the soul towards liberation. It's likened to the moon dispelling heat, the sun dispelling darkness, and the rain dispelling drought.
The Significance of Vitraraga Darshan during Stavan (Praise): The book highlights specific verses and prayers (Stavans) to be recited during Devdarshan, emphasizing the feelings of devotion, humility, and the recognition of one's own shortcomings compared to the divine's perfection.
The Three States of the Tirthankara: The text explains the three states of the Tirthankara: the state before enlightenment (Chhadmastha), the state of omniscience (Kevali), and the state of liberation (Siddha), and how to meditate on these states during worship.
The Meaning of Rituals: The book delves into the deeper symbolic meanings of various worship practices, such as the significance of bathing the idol, offering flowers, incense, and lamps, all relating to internal purification and the cultivation of virtues.
The Need for Adherence to Rituals (Aashatana): The book provides extensive lists of "Aashatanas" (transgressions or improprieties) to be avoided within the Jain temple. These cover a wide range of actions, from eating and drinking to improper behavior and disrespectful gestures, emphasizing the importance of maintaining sanctity and decorum in the divine presence.
Conclusion on Devdarshan: The book concludes by reiterating the profound and lasting impact of Devdarshan. It asserts that the practice of Devdarshan, when performed with understanding and devotion, leads to spiritual growth, karmic purification, and ultimately, liberation. It encourages continuous practice and genuine devotion, stating that the benefits are immeasurable and surpass worldly gains.

In essence, "Devdarshanadi Dharm Karni" is a guide that meticulously explains the spiritual importance and practical application of worshipping the Tirthankaras in Jainism. It aims to equip devotees with the knowledge and understanding necessary to perform these rituals with the correct intention and achieve the ultimate spiritual goal of liberation.