Dhammam Sarnam Pavajjami Part 4

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Book Title: Dhammam Sarnam Pavajjami Part 4 Author: Bhadraguptasuri (Pravachankar: Acharya Shri Vijaybhadraguptasuri) Publisher: Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra Koba Based On: First chapter of the 'Dharmabindu' text by Acharya Shri Haribhadrasuri. Publisher's Note: This book is part of a series of lectures by Acharya Shri Vijaybhadraguptasuri, presented as engaging, informative, and simple discourses based on the 'Dharmabindu' text. It aims to guide individuals from the beginning of their spiritual journey to its culmination.

Overview of the Content:

This book, "Dhammam Sarnam Pavajjami Part 4," is a collection of discourses by Acharya Shri Vijaybhadraguptasuri, elaborating on the principles outlined in Acharya Shri Haribhadrasuri's foundational Jain text, 'Dharmabindu.' The discourses focus on various aspects of virtuous living for householders, drawing lessons from historical anecdotes and philosophical insights.

The series of lectures (Pravachan) cover several key themes, including:

• Pravachan 73: 'Adeshkalcharyapariharah' (Avoiding inappropriate conduct based on time and place) and 'Yathochitlokayatra' (Appropriate worldly conduct):

  • Emphasizes the importance of being aware of one's surroundings, the ruling powers, and societal conditions before acting.
  • Highlights the need to exercise caution and wisdom in worldly dealings to avoid unforeseen troubles.
  • Uses the story of Ded, a merchant who encountered the sage Nagarjuna, to illustrate the significance of virtue, service, and steadfast adherence to principles even in dire circumstances. Ded's integrity and self-restraint in refusing food from an unknown source, despite extreme hunger, earned him the grace of Nagarjuna and the secret of 'Suvarnasiddhi' (gold-making power).
  • The narrative also serves as a cautionary tale about the potential pitfalls of sudden wealth and the importance of considering societal perceptions and the authorities.

• Pravachan 74: 'Yathochitlokayatra' (Appropriate worldly conduct according to one's capacity) and 'Dharmanusandhanam' (Attachment to Dharma):

  • Explains 'Lokayatra' as proper social conduct and the importance of navigating the world with intelligence and awareness of others' opinions and sentiments.
  • Stresses the need to maintain one's dignity and reputation through virtuous actions.
  • Advocates for harmonizing religious practices with worldly duties, family obligations, and societal expectations.
  • Illustrates the principle with the story of Ayyu, son of Bhutayya, a cruel moneylender. Ayyu, unlike his father, showed compassion and transformed his relationship with the villagers, demonstrating the power of benevolent conduct. Ayyu's act of selflessly saving Gullu's wife and later forgiving his tormentors highlights the impact of positive transformation.

• Pravachan 75: 'Vyavaharanayoga' (Appropriate conduct) and 'Parinayanasamyoga' (Harmonious relationships):

  • Reinforces the importance of treating all individuals with respect, regardless of their background or status.
  • Emphasizes the need to avoid causing harm or distress to others and to cultivate positive relationships.
  • Uses the story of a farmer named Gullu and the moneylender Ayyu to demonstrate the consequences of malice and the transformative power of forgiveness and compassion. Gullu's initial animosity towards Ayyu is overcome by Ayyu's kindness, leading to a reconciliation and a better community.

• Pravachan 76: 'Atiparichayatyaga' (Avoiding excessive familiarity):

  • Warns against over-familiarity, which can lead to disrespect, disregard for boundaries, and strained relationships.
  • Uses examples of how excessive familiarity with sacred places (like Palitana) or religious figures (like temple priests) can lead to complacency and disrespect.
  • Illustrates this with the story of a Jain Sadhviji who, due to excessive familiarity with a laywoman, becomes implicated in the theft of jewelry. The event highlights how excessive association can lead to misinterpretations and damage one's reputation.

• Pravachan 77: 'Vratadhari jnanavanta mahapurushanam sevayah' (Service of great souls who are vow-keepers and knowledgeable):

  • Stresses the importance of serving and respecting those who uphold vows and possess profound knowledge.
  • Explains that true service stems from an internal inclination towards knowledge and disciplined living.
  • Discusses the ninefold sins and the importance of practicing the five great vows (Mahavratas) with utmost sincerity, as exemplified by Jain monks. The life of Pethadshah, a minister who became a devout follower of Acharya Shri Dharmaghoshasuri, is presented as an example of diligent service and profound spiritual growth.

• Pravachan 78: 'Dharmarthkamapurusharthnam samanam' (Balancing Dharma, Artha, and Kama):

  • Explains that Dharma, Artha (wealth), and Kama (desire/pleasure) are interconnected aspects of life that must be pursued in balance.
  • Emphasizes that prioritizing any one aspect to the detriment of the others leads to imbalance and unhappiness.
  • Uses the anecdote of a wealthy doctor consumed by his pursuit of wealth, neglecting his family and spiritual life, leading to personal and familial ruin. This serves as a warning against the excessive pursuit of wealth.
  • It also touches upon the importance of introspection and self-awareness, highlighting the contrast between outward show and inner spiritual development.

• Pravachan 79: 'Dharmarthkama-purusharthnam samanam' (Harmonious pursuit of Dharma, Artha, and Kama):

  • Continues the discussion on balancing the three life pursuits.
  • Highlights how the unchecked pursuit of Artha (wealth) can lead to unethical practices and a neglect of family and spiritual duties. The story of King Siddharaj, described as 'Kapadi Raja' (a deceptive king), illustrates the negative consequences of ambition and greed.
  • The discourse further delves into the dangers of excessive Kama (desire/pleasure), showing how it can lead to addiction, moral decay, and the breakdown of family structures. The story of a young man consumed by lust and the subsequent tragic events serves as a stark warning.

• Pravachan 80: 'Dharmarthkama-purusharthnam samanam' (Harmonious pursuit of Dharma, Artha, and Kama) - continued focus on Kama:

  • This lecture focuses on the dangers of excessive Kama (desire/pleasure) and how it can lead to physical and mental deterioration. It critiques modern trends like excessive consumerism, the influence of media, and the decline in moral values.
  • It advises moderation in sensory pursuits and highlights the importance of maintaining mental purity.

• Pravachan 81: 'Dharmarthkama-purusharthnam samanam' (Harmonious pursuit of Dharma, Artha, and Kama) - emphasis on avoiding extremes:

  • Reinforces the need to avoid extremes in the pursuit of Artha and Kama, and to prioritize Dharma.
  • Discusses the detrimental effects of neglecting one's family and responsibilities in the pursuit of wealth or pleasure.
  • It emphasizes that while wealth and pleasure are necessary for a householder, they should not become the sole focus of life, overshadowing Dharma.

• Pravachan 82: 'Balabalapeksha' (Considering strength and weakness):

  • Explains the importance of assessing one's capabilities and limitations before undertaking any task, whether it be religious, financial, or personal.
  • Stresses the need for careful planning, considering factors like time, place, resources, and personal strength.
  • Uses the example of Theodore Roosevelt and his candid admission of his decision-making accuracy to illustrate that even wise individuals may not always be right, but the process of careful consideration is crucial.
  • It also highlights the importance of perseverance and learning from failures.

• Pravachan 83: 'Buddhi Gunanam Vruddhi' (Cultivating the eight qualities of intellect):

  • Delves into the eight qualities of intellect that are essential for spiritual and worldly success: Sushrusha (eagerness to listen), Shravana (listening attentively), Grahan (reception/understanding), Dharana (retention), Vijnana (specific knowledge), Ooha (reasoning), Apoha (analysis), and Tattvabhinivesha (firm conviction in truth).
  • It emphasizes the importance of seeking knowledge from qualified teachers and the role of humility and sincere effort in developing one's intellect.
  • The story of the bandit Narvir, who transformed into King Kumarpal through the guidance of Acharya Yashobhadrasuri, exemplifies the transformative power of righteous association and wise counsel.

• Pravachan 84: 'Kalochitapeksha' (Timeliness and appropriateness):

  • Stresses the critical importance of timing and appropriateness in all actions, whether it be giving charity, offering hospitality, engaging in business, or practicing forgiveness.
  • Uses the story of a shrewd businessman who carefully managed his finances, distinguishing between frugal saving and wasteful spending, to illustrate the principle of 'Kalochitapeksha.' His ability to discern opportune moments for expenditure and his unwavering commitment to his principles earned him respect and prosperity.
  • The narrative also serves as a warning against extravagance and the pursuit of fleeting pleasures.

• Pravachan 85: 'Dharmashravanam' (Listening to Dharma discourses):

  • Highlights the significance of regularly listening to discourses on Dharma from qualified and virtuous preceptors.
  • Explains the fourteen qualities of an ideal discourse and a speaker, emphasizing the need for the speaker to be knowledgeable, virtuous, eloquent, and free from ego.
  • It criticizes the superficial approach to religious listening where people attend for entertainment or to find fault, rather than for genuine spiritual growth. The story of Ankmal and the discerning nature of true spiritual seeking is presented.

• Pravachan 86: 'Dharmashravanam' (Listening to Dharma discourses) - continued:

  • Reiterates the importance of sincere and attentive listening to Dharma discourses, emphasizing that mere attendance without understanding or application is futile.
  • Advocates for cultivating qualities like enthusiasm, concentration, and appreciation for the virtues of others to derive true benefit from religious teachings.
  • The story of the bandit Vankchul, who was transformed by the compassionate guidance of Acharya Yashobhadrasuri, illustrates how even a hardened criminal can be reformed through sincere spiritual instruction and personal transformation.

• Pravachan 87: 'Abhiniveshatyaga' (Renunciation of prejudice and firm adherence to one's own beliefs):

  • Explains 'Abhinivesha' as the stubborn adherence to one's own views, often leading to prejudice and the condemnation of others.
  • It criticizes the tendency to denigrate or malign others, especially those with differing beliefs or practices.
  • The stories of Queen Sita and Queen Rishi Dutta illustrate how envy and prejudice can lead to malicious actions and suffering. The discourse emphasizes the importance of cultivating compassion, forgiveness, and a non-judgmental attitude.

• Pravachan 88: 'Abhiniveshatyaga' (Renunciation of prejudice) - continued:

  • Further explores the detrimental effects of prejudice and the importance of fostering harmonious relationships.
  • Uses the story of Lord Rama's queens and the incident involving the minister Pethadshah and his wife Padmavati to show how envy and misunderstandings can cause immense pain.
  • It highlights the positive outcomes of renouncing prejudice and cultivating qualities like forgiveness and understanding, as seen in the transformation of the bandit Vankchul and the reconciliation of Pethadshah with his wife.

• Pravachan 89: 'Abhiniveshatyaga' (Renunciation of prejudice) - focus on societal and political contexts:

  • Discusses the prevalence of prejudice and unethical practices in society, particularly in the context of elections and political dealings.
  • It criticizes the tendency to resort to slander, personal attacks, and unfair means to gain an advantage.
  • The story of the Bandits' village, which was reformed through education and opportunity, illustrates the positive impact of social reform and compassion. It also emphasizes the importance of inner transformation over external punishment.

• Pravachan 90: 'Gunapashpatata' (Appreciation of virtues):

  • Stresses the virtue of appreciating the good qualities in others, even if one lacks them personally.
  • Highlights the importance of avoiding envy and promoting positive qualities like generosity, compassion, and integrity.
  • Uses the examples of Ravana's appreciation for his rival Sahasrakiran's bravery and the story of Devendranath Tagore's integrity in upholding his father's financial obligations to illustrate the power of appreciating virtues.

• Pravachan 91: 'Uhapohadiyogah' (Application of intellect with eight qualities):

  • Details the eight qualities of intellect: Sushrusha (eagerness to listen), Shravana (attentive listening), Grahan (understanding), Dharana (retention), Vijnana (specific knowledge), Ooha (reasoning), Apoha (analysis), and Tattvabhinivesha (firm conviction in truth).
  • Emphasizes that these qualities, cultivated through diligent effort and guidance from wise individuals, are crucial for spiritual realization.
  • It critiques superficial religious practices that lack genuine understanding and highlights the importance of critical thinking and intellectual inquiry in spiritual pursuits. The example of a foreign scholar researching the Jain Agamas is presented.

• Pravachan 92: 'Buddhi vruddhi evan buddhi shuddhi ke upay' (Means of intellectual development and purification):

  • Continues the discussion on intellect, differentiating between mere intelligence and wisdom.
  • Explains the concept of 'Hetu-hinsa' (intentional violence) and 'Swarup-hinsa' (unintentional violence) in the context of Jain philosophy, clarifying that while all violence leads to some karmic consequence, intentional violence is more detrimental.
  • It addresses the perceived conflict between religious practices like temple construction and the principle of Ahimsa, explaining that unintentional violence in the pursuit of noble goals is often mitigated by the purity of intention and devotion.

• Pravachan 93: 'Buddhi Gunanam Vruddhi' (Cultivating the eight qualities of intellect) - continued:

  • Focuses on the practical aspects of developing intellectual qualities, emphasizing the role of humility, sincerity, and consistent effort in seeking knowledge from learned preceptors.
  • It stresses the importance of introspection and learning from both successes and failures.
  • The story of William Prescott, who overcame blindness to become a renowned historian, serves as an inspiring example of human resilience and the power of determination.

• Pravachan 94: 'Niyamapalan aur avasar-vivek' (Adherence to principles and discernment of opportune moments):

  • Highlights the importance of balancing Dharma, Artha, and Kama, and the need for judicious decision-making in all aspects of life.
  • It emphasizes that true success lies not just in acquiring wealth but in its wise and ethical use, contributing to spiritual growth and societal well-being.
  • The discourse critiques the modern tendency towards excessive materialism and the neglect of familial and spiritual responsibilities.
  • It uses the example of King Chand Khan and Queen Bheeman to illustrate the dire consequences of acting impulsively without considering the opportune moment and the potential dangers involved.

• Pravachan 95: 'Manushya Jeevan ki durlabhta aur mrutyu ka chintan' (The rarity of human life and contemplation of death):

  • Underscores the extreme rarity and preciousness of human life, urging listeners to make the most of it for spiritual advancement.
  • It advocates for contemplating death not as a source of fear but as a motivator for righteous living and the pursuit of spiritual goals.
  • The story of Tom, who found faith in God through his encounter with mortality and the teachings of his friend Jimmy, illustrates the profound impact of contemplating death.

• Pravachan 96: 'Dharmashravan aur chintan' (Listening to Dharma and contemplation):

  • Serves as a concluding discourse, summarizing the importance of sincere listening, contemplation, and the practice of Dharma in daily life.
  • It reiterates the teachings of 'Dharmabindu' as a guide for householders and stresses the need for a balanced approach to Dharma, Artha, and Kama.
  • It also touches upon the importance of cultivating positive qualities like compassion, humility, and gratitude, and warns against the pitfalls of ignorance, prejudice, and attachment.

Key Themes:

• Virtuous Conduct: The primary focus is on guiding householders towards a virtuous and righteous life by adhering to the principles of Dharma.
• Balance: The discourses emphasize the importance of maintaining balance in life, particularly in the pursuit of Dharma, Artha, and Kama, avoiding extremes in any area.
• Awareness and Wisdom: The text stresses the need for constant awareness of one's surroundings, societal norms, and the consequences of one's actions. Wisdom and intellect are highlighted as crucial tools for navigating life's complexities.
• Integrity and Principles: The narratives consistently underscore the importance of upholding moral principles, honesty, and integrity, even in the face of adversity.
• Spiritual Growth: The ultimate aim of these teachings is to guide individuals towards spiritual enlightenment and liberation by purifying their thoughts, words, and actions.
• The Role of the Guru: The importance of seeking guidance from learned and virtuous spiritual preceptors is repeatedly emphasized, as they are instrumental in dispelling ignorance and illuminating the path to liberation.
• Inner Transformation: The discourses advocate for inner transformation, emphasizing that true happiness and fulfillment come from within, through the cultivation of virtues and the purification of the mind.

This summary provides a glimpse into the profound teachings presented in "Dhammam Sarnam Pavajjami Part 4," offering practical guidance for leading a meaningful and spiritually fulfilling life as a householder within the Jain tradition.