Dharm Prapti Kone Ane Kyare - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Dharm Prapti Kone ane Kyare" (When and To Whom is Religion Attained?), based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Dharm Prapti Kone ane Kyare (When and To Whom is Religion Attained?) Author(s): Acharya Shri Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj (original discourse), Muni Shri Kirtiyashvijayji Ganivar (compiled and edited) Publisher: Sanmarg Prakashan Series: Shri Vijay Ramchandrasuri Smriti Granthmala (Part 87)

Overall Purpose and Theme:

This book is a collection of discourses by the revered Acharya Shri Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, compiled and published by Sanmarg Prakashan as part of a larger series honoring his legacy. The central theme of this particular discourse is to explore the fundamental questions of when and to whom true religious principles can be imparted and understood. It emphasizes that religion is not something to be given arbitrarily but requires a specific readiness and qualification in the recipient, and the right timing from the giver.

Key Concepts and Arguments:

The Value of True Religion: The text begins by highlighting the immense value of the Dharma established by the omniscient and omniscient Vitaraga Paramatmas (Tirthankaras). This religion is capable of bringing welfare to all living beings.
The Importance of Proper Timing and Recipient: It strongly argues against the idea that religion can be given "anytime, to anyone." Such statements, it suggests, come from those who do not understand the true worth of religion. Just as giving beneficial things at the wrong time or to the wrong person can be harmful, so too can religion be detrimental if imparted improperly.
The Nature of the Soul and its True Form: The text delves into the inherent nature of the soul (Atma). It draws a parallel between the liberated souls (Siddhas) and our own souls. Both have the same inherent pure form, but the souls of the Siddhas have manifested this form, while ours is currently suppressed by karmas, passions (kashayas), and senses. Understanding this similarity is the first step towards aspiring for liberation.
The Goal of Jainism is Moksha (Liberation): The discourse clearly states that the path prescribed by the Tirthankaras is solely for the purpose of achieving Moksha. The dedication of the Tirthankaras in attaining Tirthankar Namkarma and establishing the Jain path stems from a profound desire for all beings to be free from suffering and to attain eternal happiness in Moksha. If one does not desire Moksha, this path is not useful for them.
The "Charamavart" (Final Cycle of Rebirth): A crucial concept introduced is the idea of Charamavart. It is stated that even those with innate potential (bhavya jivas) will not develop a true desire for Moksha until they are in their final cycle of rebirth (or have less than one Pudgala Paravart remaining in samsara). Only at this stage does the soul become receptive to the teachings of the Jinavani (Jain scriptures) and develop the aspiration for Moksha.
The Role of "Aashay" (Intention/Mindset): The text repeatedly emphasizes the paramount importance of Aashay (intention or inner motivation) in religious practice.
- Moksha Aashay: The true religious seeker is motivated by the desire for liberation, not by worldly gains like wealth, pleasure, or honor.
- Poulgali Aashay (Worldly Desires): Pursuing religion for worldly benefits leads to the binding of negative karma and ultimately causes suffering, even when experiencing worldly pleasures.
- Aashay-Shuddhi (Purification of Intention): This purification is essential. Even small religious actions performed with the correct intention for Moksha yield significant benefits, while grand rituals with wrong intentions can be detrimental.
The Significance of the Current Era: The discourse suggests that the current time is conducive for the development of the Moksha Aashay. Having access to the Jinavani and the presence of virtuous beings provides an opportune moment for spiritual progress.
The Importance of Self-Realization and Humility (Nalayakatva): A significant portion of the text focuses on recognizing one's own "Nalayakatva" (unworthiness or inadequacy) in spiritual practice.
- True understanding of one's inadequacy leads to sincere efforts to overcome it.
- Pride and ego in religious practice (even with minor actions) are detrimental.
- One should introspect and recognize if their practice is driven by true renunciation or by hidden worldly desires.
The Distinction Between True and False Devotion:
- True Devotion: Driven by the desire for Moksha, leading to contentment, peace, and the avoidance of excessive attachment to worldly pleasures and sorrows.
- False Devotion (Dambh): Performed with the intention of gaining worldly recognition or out of obligation, rather than from a genuine inner conviction. This leads to more karmic bondage.
The Responsibility of the Religion Giver (Dharma Data): The text highlights the critical role of the spiritual teacher or preacher. They must carefully assess the readiness and intention of the seeker before imparting religious knowledge or practices.
- The Vinayaratna Incident: A cautionary tale is recounted about an Acharya who, despite his vast knowledge, was deceived by a prince who feigned piety to gain entry to the king for assassination. This highlights the danger of not properly vetting recipients and the potential for deception even by seemingly pious individuals. The Acharya's subsequent remorse underscores the gravity of this responsibility.
- The "Dayaalu Vaidya" (Compassionate Doctor) Analogy: A true spiritual giver, like a compassionate doctor, will not administer medicine (Dharma) if they believe it will be misused or lead to greater harm due to the recipient's inability to follow the prescribed regimen (Pathya-Apathy). They would rather guide the seeker to develop the necessary qualification.
The Power of Intention Over Ritual: The text implies that the quality of intention behind a religious action is more important than the quantity or grandeur of the ritual itself. Even a small act done with pure intention for Moksha is more beneficial than elaborate rituals performed with worldly desires.
The Path to True Happiness: True happiness is found not in the accumulation of worldly pleasures but in the detachment from them and the pursuit of Moksha. Those who have the Moksha Aashay can experience joy even in difficult circumstances and are not overly attached to worldly comforts.

In essence, "Dharm Prapti Kone ane Kyare" serves as a profound guide for sincere spiritual seekers, emphasizing:

Self-reflection: Understanding one's true motivations and inner state.
The ultimate goal: Recognizing Moksha as the sole aim of true religion.
Patience and readiness: Accepting that spiritual progress is a journey, and true understanding of Dharma comes at the right time and with the right internal disposition.
The integrity of intention: Stressing that the purity of purpose behind religious actions is paramount.

The book encourages readers to cultivate a sincere desire for liberation and to approach religious practices with a clear, unadulterated intention, rather than seeking worldly gains. It also subtly reminds spiritual teachers of their solemn duty to impart the sacred teachings responsibly.