Dharmnu Anjan Karmnu Manjan Yane Shodashak Bhavanuvad

This document is the Gujarati translation of the Jain text "Shodashak Bhavanuvaad" (षोडशक भावानुवाद), meaning "Sixteen Chapters Explained," by Muni Kalpyashvijayji. The title itself, "Dharmnu Anjan Karmnu Manjan," translates to "The Application of Dharma, the Rubbing of Karma," suggesting that the text aims to guide readers in applying righteous principles to purify themselves from karmic impurities.

The book is published by Shri Jain Shwe Mu Pu Mandir Trust in Bangalore. The translation was done by Muni Kalpyashvijayji, a disciple of Acharya Bhagwant Shri Vijaysthulbhadrasurishwarji Maharaj Saheb.

The introductory pages highlight the importance of "Gyan Daan" (donation of knowledge) and praise the prolific work of Acharya Haribhadrasurishwarji Maharaj, a renowned scholar who authored 1444 works. He is credited with illuminating countless souls through his profound studies and writings on Jain scriptures. The text emphasizes that the "Shodashak Prakaran" (the original Sanskrit work) is a significant guide for spiritual upliftment, leading one from a state of ordinary being to a divine one.

Key Themes and Content of the Translation:

The book's core lies in the detailed explanation of sixteen chapters, each elucidated in sixteen verses (shlokas) by Acharya Haribhadrasurishwarji Maharaj. The translation by Muni Kalpyashvijayji aims to make these profound teachings accessible to a wider audience.

The translated chapters cover a wide spectrum of Jain philosophy and practice:

• Dharm Pariksha Shodashak (Chapter 1): Examines the nature of Dharma, how to differentiate true Dharma from false, and the different approaches to understanding it (child, middle, and wise). It emphasizes that true Dharma is not merely external appearance but internal realization and virtuous conduct.
• Deshna Shodashak (Chapter 2): Discusses the art of preaching and teaching, emphasizing the importance of tailoring the discourse to the audience's understanding (child, middle, and wise). It stresses the need for the preacher to embody the teachings and the content of the preaching to be beneficial.
• Dharmalakshan Shodashak (Chapter 3): Delves into the characteristics of Dharma, defining it as an internal state of purity derived from righteous actions that lead to spiritual growth and the shedding of karmic impurities. It outlines virtues like detachment, compassion, and knowledge.
• Lokottar Tattvaprapti Shodashak (Chapter 4): Explains the path to attaining "Lokottar Tattva" (transcendental truth or liberation). It emphasizes the gradual spiritual progress, the importance of right faith (Samyak Darshan), and the eventual attainment of liberation through the purification of the soul.
• Jin Mandir Nirman Shodashak (Chapter 5): Focuses on the principles of constructing Jain temples, stressing the importance of using pure materials, righteous means of acquisition, ethical treatment of workers, and building with selfless devotion for the glory of the Tirthankaras.
• Jinbimb Nirman Vidhi Shodashak (Chapter 6): Details the process of creating and consecrating idols of Tirthankaras, emphasizing the importance of purity of intention, skill of the artisan, and the spiritual significance of the idol as a focal point for devotion.
• Pratishtha Vidhi Shodashak (Chapter 7): Explains the rituals and significance of consecration ceremonies for Jain idols and temples, highlighting the importance of proper procedure and the internal spiritual state of the officiant.
• Puja Swaroop Shodashak (Chapter 8): Describes the true nature of worship, differentiating between external rituals and the internal devotional attitude. It emphasizes that sincere devotion, irrespective of the grandeur of the offerings, is the true essence of Puja.
• Puja Phal Shodashak (Chapter 9): Discusses the fruits of worship, explaining how sincere devotion leads to spiritual progress and auspicious outcomes. It differentiates between different types of devotion and their respective merits.
• Shrut Jnan Ling Shodashak (Chapter 10): Elaborates on the importance of scriptural knowledge (Shrut Jnan) and the attitude required for its assimilation, emphasizing the role of diligence, respect for the Guru, and the continuous pursuit of knowledge.
• Deeksha Adhikari Shodashak (Chapter 11): Discusses the eligibility and proper procedures for undertaking monastic vows (Deeksha), emphasizing the necessity of spiritual readiness, detachment, and adherence to the teachings of the Guru.
• Guru Vinay Shodashak (Chapter 12): Highlights the significance of respecting and serving one's spiritual teacher (Guru), outlining the virtues of humility, obedience, and gratitude that constitute true Guru Vinay.
• Yoga Bhed Shodashak (Chapter 13): Explains the different types of Yoga and meditation, emphasizing the importance of focused concentration and the proper cultivation of mental states for spiritual advancement.
• Dhyeya Swaroop Shodashak (Chapter 14): Describes the object of meditation – the divine form of the Tirthankaras, their exalted qualities, and the spiritual benefits derived from contemplating them.
• Samaras Shodashak (Chapter 15): Discusses the state of equanimity and the ultimate realization of oneness with the divine, leading to spiritual bliss and liberation. It contrasts different philosophical viewpoints on the nature of the soul and liberation.
• Haribhadri Vani (Concluding Sayings): This section likely includes selected verses or aphorisms attributed to Acharya Haribhadrasurishwarji, encapsulating key Jain principles.

The book aims to provide a comprehensive guide to applying Dharma in daily life to overcome karma and achieve spiritual liberation. It emphasizes the teachings of eminent Jain Acharyas and the importance of sincere devotion, righteous conduct, and spiritual knowledge for the ultimate welfare of the soul.