Gems Of Jaina Wisdom - Book Summary

The text provided is an English translation of "Dasha Bhakti," a significant work by Acharya Devanandi, also known as Pujyapada. The book is Volume 9 of the "Gems of Jaina Wisdom" series, published by Jain Granthagar. The English translation is by Dashrath Jain and Professor P.C. Jain.

Here's a comprehensive summary based on the provided pages:

Core Content and Significance:

Dasha Bhakti: The primary content of the book is the translation of "Dasha Bhakti" (Ten Devotional Eulogies) by Acharya Devanandi (Pujyapada). These eulogies are regularly recited by Digambar Jain saints and Aryikas. The book also includes translations of two additional eulogies, making it a collection of twelve.
Authorship and Heritage: Acharya Devanandi (Pujyapada) was a prominent Digambar Acharya of the 5th-6th century AD, renowned as a philosopher, poet, grammarian, and medical scientist. His commentary on the Tattvartha Sutra, "Sarvartha Siddhi," is highly esteemed. The Prakrit portion of these eulogies is attributed to Acharya Kundakunda.
Spiritual Practice: The book highlights the importance of "pratikraman" (expiation) as a daily essential duty for saints and Aryikas, emphasizing the purification of the soul through repentance and seeking punishment for faults. It underscores the significance of "parinama-shuddhi" (purity of volitions) for spiritual progress and salvation, as emphasized by Acharya Kundakunda.
Nature of Devotion (Bhakti): The text clarifies that in Jainism, devotion is defined as attachment to the virtues or merits of the pure souls (Arhats, Siddhas), Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and learned saints, coupled with pure thought-actions. True devotion is selfless, devoid of desire for worldly gains or fulfillment of desires. The Jina, being non-attached, does not directly intervene; rather, the devotion arises from the purity of the devotee's thoughts inspired by contemplation of the Jina. Devotion is presented as an end in itself, not a means to an end.
Eulogies in Jainism: The nature and content of Jain eulogies are distinct due to the unique Jain concept of God (Jina) as an embodied pure soul or a liberated soul, distinct from the creator-god concept in other religions.

The Twelve Eulogies Translated:

The book translates the following twelve eulogies:

Iryapatha Bhakti: Eulogy of careful walking, emphasizing the need to avoid harming living beings.
Siddha Bhakti: Eulogy of the Siddhas, the bodyless, pure, and perfect souls in eternal bliss.
Chetya Bhakti: Eulogy of sacred shrines and temples.
Shruta Bhakti: Eulogy of the sacred scriptures.
Charitra Bhakti: Eulogy of right conduct and the fivefold conduct (Panchachara).
Yogi Bhakti: Eulogy of ascetics and their austere practices.
Acharya Bhakti: Eulogy of the heads of the monastic orders (Acharyas).
Pancha Guru Bhakti: Eulogy of the Five Supreme Beings (Pancha Parameshti).
Shanti Bhakti: Eulogy dedicated to Lord Shantinath, seeking peace.
Samadhi Bhakti: Eulogy of union with the self, meditation, and equanimity.
Nirvan Bhakti: Eulogy of salvation and liberation.
Nandiswara Bhakti: Eulogy of the celestial island of Nandiswara and its temples.

Key Themes and Concepts:

Praise of the Jinas: The eulogies are directed towards the Tirthankaras and other revered figures, praising their virtues, knowledge, conduct, and the path to liberation they revealed.
Spiritual Path: The text outlines the Jain path to liberation through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct, emphasizing the role of austerities, devotion, and self-discipline.
Importance of Rituals and Practices: The recitation of these Bhaktis is presented as a vital part of the daily routine and spiritual practice of ascetics.
Cosmology and Geography: The text provides details about various celestial beings, heavens, and sacred geographical locations in the Jain cosmology, particularly in the Eulogy of Nandiswara.
Miracles and Divine Manifestations: The descriptions of the Samavasarana (holy assembly) and the attributes of Tirthankaras and other revered beings highlight the miraculous and divine aspects of Jainism.
Importance of Preceptors: The role of Acharyas and Gurus as guides on the spiritual path is highly praised.

Publisher's Note and Preface:

Jain Granthagar's Mission: The publisher aims to make important Jain literature accessible and promote Jain literature through various means.
Significance of the Publication: The English translation of "Dasha Bhakti" is presented as a significant contribution, making this revered work available to a wider audience.
Call for Preservation of Research: The publisher expresses concern over unpublished research in Jainology and urges cooperation to bring such works to light.

In essence, "Gems of Jaina Wisdom: Dasha Bhakti" serves as a profound devotional guide, offering insights into core Jain principles, the lives and teachings of spiritual exemplars, and the practices that lead to spiritual purification and liberation. The translation aims to make this rich spiritual heritage accessible to English-speaking readers.