Dharm Karm Rahasya

The provided text is a Jain work titled "Dharma-Karma-Rahasya," compiled based on Pandit Bhawani Shankar's "Sadhan Samgraha." The book delves into the fundamental principles of Dharma (righteousness, duty, virtue) and Karma (action and its consequences) within a Hindu and Jain philosophical context.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the key themes and concepts presented in the text:

1. Definition and Essence of Dharma:

• Dharma originates from the root "Dhri," meaning "to hold" or "to sustain." It is described as the inherent nature of the world and its beings, the foundation of welfare, and the cause of prosperity.
• Dharma is the basis for the world's growth, protection, and sustenance. It is what allows the universe to function properly.
• Dharma is identified with the eternal principles that guide righteous conduct and moral living. It is considered the highest entity.
• The sources of Dharma are scripture (Shruti), tradition (Smriti), righteous conduct (Sadaachar), self-discipline, and pure intentions.
• Dharma is inherently beneficial to righteous people and serves as their refuge. It is the force that drives the three worlds.
• The inclination towards performing actions that lead to welfare is Dharma, while the restraint from forbidden actions (like violence) is Adharma.

2. The Cosmic Origin and Dharma:

• The universe originated from God's will to manifest from one into many. This primal intention is driven by a desire for the welfare of all beings, not for personal gain.
• This primal intention is characterized as "Tapas" (austerity) and "Yajna" (sacrifice), implying a selfless act for the benefit of others.
• The divine power (Gayatri) is the source of cosmic order and the Vedas, which in turn are the origin of Dharma. This power bestows divine qualities and bliss through "Yajna."
• God, by embracing their primal intention, manifested the universe. This self-limitation, even while remaining the regulator, is considered God's "Tapas" or "Yajna." God is thus the "Yajna-Purusha" (the embodiment of sacrifice), constantly engaged in selfless action for the world's well-being.
• Therefore, participating in this cosmic "Yajna" by aligning with Dharma is the sole means of welfare for the universe.

3. The Body as a Microcosm:

• The human body is a microcosm, mirroring the universe with its interconnected parts (atoms, senses).
• All these parts, though distinct, are unified by their purpose: to obey and serve the soul (the indweller).
• They have sacrificed their individual selfish desires and work in a disciplined manner, assisting each other to fulfill the soul's purpose.
• This collective effort, even without individual selfish gain, leads to the progress of all parts.
• The analogy is drawn between body parts and the cosmic body, emphasizing the principle of unity and mutual dependence.

4. The Ten Universal Virtues (Samasika Dharma / Sadharan Dharma): The book details ten fundamental virtues considered universal and essential for all humans, forming the bedrock of Dharma. These are elaborated upon extensively:

• Dhriti (Fortitude/Patience): The ability to remain composed and content in difficult circumstances, accepting pleasure and pain as consequences of karma. It emphasizes not being agitated by external events and finding inner peace through contentment.
• Kshama (Forgiveness): The capacity to endure wrongdoing without retaliation, even when having the power to do so. True forgiveness involves not harboring anger internally and aiming for the offender's improvement through compassion.
• Dama (Self-Control): The discipline of the mind and senses, preventing them from dwelling on negative thoughts, lustful desires, or evil intentions. It involves purification of the mind.
• Asteya (Non-Stealing): Not taking anything that does not rightfully belong to oneself, including through deceit, coercion, or withholding rightful dues. This extends beyond material theft to intellectual or emotional appropriation.
• Shaucha (Purity): Both external (cleanliness of body and environment) and internal (purity of mind, thoughts, and intentions). Internal purity, stemming from righteous thoughts and devotion to the Supreme, is considered paramount.
• Indriya Nigraha (Control of the Senses): The mastery over the senses, preventing them from being led astray by temptations. It emphasizes using senses for necessary and righteous actions rather than indulgence.
• Dhi (Intellect/Wisdom): The power of discernment, gained through study of scriptures, contemplation, and experience, to differentiate between right and wrong, beneficial and harmful.
• Vidya (Knowledge/Self-Realization): True knowledge, specifically the realization of the Self's connection with the Divine, leading to the transcendence of worldly suffering.
• Satya (Truthfulness): Speaking and acting in accordance with reality, with consideration for the well-being of others. It is considered superior to superficial actions and rituals.
• Akrodha (Absence of Anger): The complete eradication of anger, which is described as a powerful enemy that destroys virtue and peace.

5. The Importance of Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity):

• The text places significant emphasis on Brahmacharya, especially for students and youth, as the foundation for all other virtues and spiritual progress.
• It explains the vital importance of preserving semen, which is the essence of life, strength, intellect, and longevity.
• Loss of semen through improper means leads to physical and mental weakness, moral decay, and spiritual downfall.
• The principles of Brahmacharya are extended to married life, advocating for controlled and purposeful conjugal relations for procreation within prescribed times and conditions.
• Examples from scriptures and history (like Lakshmana, Bhishma, Shuka) are cited to illustrate the power and benefits of strict Brahmacharya.

6. Karma Theory and Its Implications:

• Every action, whether of thought, word, or deed, has a corresponding consequence. Good actions yield good results, and bad actions yield bad results.
• Karma is not lost; it is imprinted on the subtle body (Bhuvor-loka) and observed by divine entities like Chitragupta, who are overseen by Yama.
• The concept of "Adrishta" (invisible consequence) explains how karma's effects manifest, often through subtle influences and interactions with cosmic forces or deities.
• The cycle of birth and death (Samsara) is driven by desires and the karmic impressions they create.
• The text categorizes karma into Sanchita (accumulated), Prarabdha (destined to be experienced in this life), and Kriyaman (actions being performed now). While Prarabdha influences current circumstances, Kriyaman karma shapes future lives.

7. The Role of Divine Will and Personal Effort (Deva and Purushartha):

• While acknowledging the influence of destiny (Deva or Prarabdha), the text strongly advocates for personal effort (Purushartha) in aligning with Dharma and improving one's future.
• The analogy of a chariot driven by both the wheel of destiny and the effort of the driver highlights the interplay between the two.
• It is a mistake to be passive, waiting for destiny to fulfill one's desires. Righteous effort is necessary to mitigate negative karma and cultivate positive outcomes.

8. The Nature of Suffering and its Purpose:

• Suffering is not arbitrary but a consequence of past unrighteous actions.
• Dharma-abiding individuals often experience suffering, which serves as a means of purification, learning, and a warning against future transgressions.
• The purpose of suffering is to awaken consciousness, foster detachment from worldly desires, and guide individuals towards righteous living.

9. Conclusion:

• The ultimate goal of human life is spiritual liberation (Moksha) and the attainment of true happiness and peace through the cultivation of Dharma and the mastery of Karma.
• The book emphasizes that true welfare and prosperity in both this world and the next are achieved solely through righteous conduct and the diligent practice of the universal virtues.
• It serves as a guide to understanding the profound relationship between one's actions and their far-reaching consequences, urging readers to live a life of integrity, self-discipline, and selfless service.

In essence, "Dharma-Karma-Rahasya" is a treatise that aims to elucidate the moral and spiritual principles that govern human existence, emphasizing personal responsibility, ethical conduct, and the transformative power of Dharma and Karma in achieving ultimate well-being.