Gyanmanjari

This Jain text, titled Gyanmanjari, is a Gujarati translation and commentary on Gyanasar by Yashovijayji, with a Sanskrit commentary called Gyanmanjari by Devachandraji. The translator is Brahmachari Govardhandasji B.A., and the publisher is Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram, Agas.

The book itself is a significant work within Jain literature, aiming to provide a profound understanding of spiritual knowledge, particularly focusing on concepts like knowledge, detachment, introspection, equanimity, control of senses, renunciation, action, satisfaction, purity, yoga, detachment from worldly desires, the nature of the self, control of emotions, the ephemeral nature of the world, and the path to liberation.

The text includes a series of "Ashtakas" (groups of eight verses or principles) that delve into these topics:

• Gyanmanjari (Page 7 onwards): This section, through a poem called "Gyanmimansa" (Analysis of Knowledge), defines true knowledge according to Jinavara (Jinasena or a similar enlightened being). It emphasizes that true knowledge is not merely from scriptures or linguistic skill but from understanding the self and detachment from the body and worldly affairs. It highlights the importance of virtue and righteousness.

• Purnatastak (Page 20 onwards): This section focuses on the concept of "Purnata" (completeness or perfection). It contrasts the superficial completeness derived from external possessions and worldly attachments with the true, inherent completeness of the soul, which is pure consciousness and bliss. It emphasizes living a detached life, free from worldly desires, and finding true fulfillment within the self.

• Magnastak (Page 34 onwards): This section discusses "Magnata" (immersion or absorption), particularly in the context of spiritual practice. It describes how true absorption is found in the knowledge of the soul, not in external worldly matters. It contrasts the futile absorption in sensory pleasures with the profound absorption in the self, which leads to true bliss and liberation.

• Sthirataastak (Page 54 onwards): This section emphasizes "Sthirata" (steadfastness or stability) as crucial for spiritual progress. It suggests that true stability comes from internal focus and detachment from external fluctuations. It advocates for controlling the mind and senses and finding unwavering calm within the self.

• Mohatyagaastak (Page 64 onwards): This section deals with "Mohatyaga" (renunciation of delusion or attachment). It highlights how the concepts of "I" and "mine" are the root cause of worldly suffering and how their relinquishment is essential for spiritual liberation. It stresses the importance of letting go of worldly possessions and attachments to achieve inner peace.

• Gyanastak (Page 79 onwards): This section is dedicated to the nature and importance of "Gyan" (Knowledge). It defines true knowledge as the understanding of the self and its eternal nature, distinguishing it from mere intellectual learning or scriptural knowledge. It suggests that true knowledge leads to detachment and inner peace.

• Shamaastak (Page 100 onwards): This section focuses on "Shama" (tranquility or calmness). It describes how true tranquility is achieved by controlling the mind, overcoming desires, and finding peace within the self, independent of external circumstances. It emphasizes the importance of inner peace and mental stillness.

• Indriyajayaastak (Page 114 onwards): This section focuses on "Indriyajaya" (victory over the senses). It describes how the senses, when uncontrolled, lead to attachment and suffering, and how their mastery is essential for spiritual progress. It advocates for withdrawing the senses from external objects and focusing inward.

• Tyagaastak (Page 125 onwards): This section discusses "Tyaga" (renunciation or detachment). It highlights the importance of relinquishing worldly desires, attachments, and possessions to achieve spiritual freedom. It emphasizes that true renunciation comes from an inner state of detachment, not just external actions.

• Kriyaastak (Page 143 onwards): This section focuses on "Kriya" (action or practice). It stresses that while knowledge is essential, it must be accompanied by righteous action and spiritual practice to achieve liberation. It emphasizes that true action is aligned with virtue and leads to inner purification.

• Trupti-astak (Page 150 onwards): This section discusses "Trupti" (satisfaction or contentment). It explains that true satisfaction comes from within, from self-realization and contentment with the soul's inherent nature, not from external worldly pursuits which are ultimately fleeting and unsatisfying.

• Nirlep-astak (Page 164 onwards): This section deals with "Nirlepata" (non-attachment or freedom from impurity). It describes the state of the soul that remains untouched by external influences or karmic actions, maintaining its inherent purity and bliss. It emphasizes the importance of staying detached from the material world.

• Nihspṛha-astak (Page 174 onwards): This section focuses on "Nihspṛhota" (freedom from desire or longing). It explains that true liberation comes from eradicating all worldly desires and attachments, finding complete satisfaction in the self. It encourages detachment from all external wants.

• Maunaastak (Page 183 onwards): This section discusses "Mauna" (silence or inner stillness). It emphasizes the importance of inner silence and contemplation of the soul, transcending the limitations of external sensory experiences and mental chatter.

• Vidyā-astak (Page 203 onwards): This section highlights the significance of true "Vidya" (knowledge). It distinguishes between superficial worldly knowledge and the profound spiritual knowledge that leads to self-realization and liberation. It stresses the transformative power of spiritual wisdom.

• Vivek-astak (Page 214 onwards): This section deals with "Vivek" (discrimination or discernment). It emphasizes the importance of discerning between the eternal self and the transient world, between virtue and vice, and between true and false knowledge to navigate the path to liberation.

• Madhyastha-astak (Page 233 onwards): This section focuses on "Madhyastha" (equanimity or impartiality). It describes the state of a spiritual aspirant who remains balanced and neutral, free from attachment and aversion, amidst the dualities of life.

• Nirbhay-astak (Page 267 onwards): This section discusses "Nirbhaya" (fearlessness). It explains how true fearlessness arises from self-realization, inner strength, and unwavering faith in the spiritual path, transcending all worldly anxieties.

• Anātmaśansā-astak (Page 274 onwards): This section emphasizes "Anātmaśansā" (self-praise of non-self or detachment from ego). It cautions against self-pride and emphasizes the importance of humility and recognizing the self as distinct from the ego and worldly achievements.

• Tattvadṛṣṭi-astak (Page 280 onwards): This section focuses on "Tattvadṛṣṭi" (vision of reality or true perception). It highlights the importance of seeing the world with spiritual insight, understanding the true nature of reality, and transcending superficial perceptions.

• Sarvasamṛddhi-astak (Page 294 onwards): This section discusses "Sarvasamṛddhi" (all-encompassing prosperity or fulfillment). It describes the true prosperity and fulfillment that comes from spiritual attainment, which is far superior to any worldly wealth or achievement.

• Karma-vipāka-chintan-astak (Page 304 onwards): This section delves into "Karma-vipāka-chintan" (contemplation of the consequences of actions). It emphasizes the understanding of the law of karma and the importance of righteous actions to shape one's destiny.

• Bhava-udveg-astak (Page 317 onwards): This section discusses "Bhava-udvega" (anxiety about existence or the cycle of birth and death). It aims to instill a sense of urgency and detachment from worldly existence by highlighting its impermanent and suffering-filled nature.

• Lokasaṅjñā-tyāga-astak (Page 326 onwards): This section focuses on "Lokasaṅjñā-tyāga" (renunciation of worldly conventions or popular opinions). It advises against blindly following popular beliefs or external rituals and encourages adherence to the true spiritual path.

• Śāstra-aṣṭak (Page 334 onwards): This section emphasizes the importance of "Śāstra" (scriptures) as a guide. It highlights the necessity of understanding and following the teachings of enlightened beings for spiritual progress.

• Yoga-aṣṭak (Page 374 onwards): This section discusses "Yoga" (union with the divine or self-realization). It describes various spiritual practices and disciplines that lead to the union of the individual soul with the supreme reality.

• Bhāvapūjā-aṣṭak (Page 386 onwards): This section focuses on "Bhāvapūjā" (inner worship). It emphasizes that true worship is not merely external ritual but an internal devotion and communion with the divine within.

• Dhyāna-aṣṭak (Page 392 onwards): This section is dedicated to "Dhyāna" (meditation). It explains the process and benefits of meditation, emphasizing the importance of inner focus and contemplation for self-realization.

• Tapa-aṣṭak (Page 402 onwards): This section discusses "Tapa" (austerity or penance). It highlights the spiritual significance of self-discipline and austerity in overcoming desires and achieving purity of mind and body.

• Sarvanaya-āśrayaṇa-aṣṭak (Page 410 onwards): This section emphasizes "Sarvanaya-āśrayaṇa" (reliance on all viewpoints or comprehensiveness). It stresses the importance of understanding different perspectives and synthesizing them to gain a holistic understanding of reality.

• Upasaṃhāra (Page 424 onwards): This section serves as a conclusion, summarizing the key teachings and principles discussed in the book.

The translator, Brahmachari Govardhandasji, expresses his motivation for translating the Sanskrit commentary into Gujarati as a labor of love, driven by his personal conviction and the desire to make these profound spiritual discussions accessible to a wider audience. He acknowledges the challenges in translation and the assistance received from friends in completing the work.

The text also includes quotes from Shrimad Rajchandra, a prominent Jain saint, reflecting his spiritual insights and devotion.

Overall, Gyanmanjari is a comprehensive Jain text that offers guidance on the spiritual path, emphasizing self-knowledge, detachment, righteous action, inner peace, control of the senses, renunciation, knowledge, and devotion as the means to achieve ultimate liberation and spiritual fulfillment.