Gyansara Ashtak Ane Deshna Sangraha

This Jain text, titled "Gyansara Ashtak ane Deshna Sangraha" by Yashovijay and published by Kailash Kanchan Bhavsagar Shraman Sangh Seva Trust, is a profound compilation of Jain philosophy, presented through a collection of verses (Ashtak) and discourses (Deshna). The text delves deep into the essence of Jain knowledge, aiming to illuminate the path to spiritual liberation.

Key Themes and Content:

The book is structured around the Gyansara Ashtak, which comprises thirty-two octets (Ashtak), each dedicated to a specific spiritual principle or virtue. The title itself, "Gyansara," signifies the "Essence of Knowledge," indicating that the text aims to distill the core teachings of Jainism. Accompanying this is a commentary by Shrimad Devchandji, titled Gyana Manjari, which further elucidates the profound meanings embedded within the Gyansara Ashtak.

The text meticulously explores various aspects of Jain philosophy, including:

• Knowledge and Ignorance: It emphasizes that suffering arises from ignorance of the soul and can be overcome through self-knowledge. The verses advocate for the continuous pursuit of self-knowledge to achieve a soul filled with wisdom.

• The Nature of the Soul: The book touches upon the soul's inherent purity and its divine potential, which gets obscured by karmic impurities and worldly attachments.

• Spiritual Virtues: The Ashtak covers a wide spectrum of virtues essential for spiritual progress, such as:

  • Purna Ashtak (Fullness): Describing the state of spiritual completeness.
  • Manga Ashtak (Wholeness/Integrity): Focusing on the importance of being complete and undivided in spiritual pursuit.
  • Sthirata Ashtak (Steadfastness): Highlighting the need for unwavering devotion and practice.
  • Mohatyaga Ashtak (Renunciation of Delusion): Emphasizing the liberation from worldly attachments and illusions.
  • Jnana Ashtak (Knowledge): Detailing the different types and importance of true knowledge.
  • Shama Ashtak (Equanimity): Discussing the attainment of inner peace and stillness.
  • Indriyajaya Ashtak (Control of the Senses): Underscoring the necessity of mastering the senses.
  • Tyaga Ashtak (Renunciation): Exploring the spiritual merit of detachment and sacrifice.
  • Kriya Ashtak (Right Action): Explaining the significance of righteous conduct and practices.
  • Nishprakasha Ashtak (Unattached Action): Discussing action performed without attachment to results.
  • Nishpruha Ashtak (Non-desire): Focusing on freedom from worldly desires.
  • Mona Ashtak (Silence/Stillness): Highlighting the power of inner silence and contemplation.
  • Vidya Ashtak (Wisdom): Elucidating the nature of true wisdom.
  • Viveka Ashtak (Discrimination): Emphasizing the ability to discern the real from the unreal.
  • Madhyastha Ashtak (Equanimity/Impartiality): Promoting a balanced and unbiased approach to life.
  • Nirbhaya Ashtak (Fearlessness): Describing the state of spiritual courage.
  • Anatmasmasha Ashtak (Self-Humility): Advocating for humility and absence of pride.
  • Tattvadrishti Ashtak (True Vision): Focusing on the perception of reality.
  • Sarvasamruddhi Ashtak (All-encompassing Prosperity): Describing spiritual wealth.
  • Karmavipaka Ashtak (Consequences of Karma): Explaining the effects of actions.
  • Bhavodvega Ashtak (Detachment from Worldliness): Highlighting the dispassion towards worldly existence.
  • Lokasanjnatyaga Ashtak (Renunciation of Worldly Notions): Advocating for shedding societal expectations and opinions.
  • Shastra Ashtak (Scriptures): Emphasizing the guidance of scriptures.
  • Parigraha Ashtak (Non-possession): Discussing the virtue of detachment from possessions.
  • Anubhava Ashtak (Experience): Focusing on direct spiritual realization.
  • Chayoga Ashtak (Yoga/Union): Exploring the path of spiritual union.
  • Niyaga Ashtak (Dedication/Offering): Emphasizing selfless devotion.
  • Pujya Ashtak (Worship): Describing the act and significance of worship.
  • Dhyana Ashtak (Meditation): Focusing on the practice of meditation.
  • Tapa Ashtak (Austerity): Highlighting the role of self-discipline and penance.
  • Sarvanayashrayana Ashtak (Dependence on All Perspectives): Advocating for a comprehensive understanding through various viewpoints.

• The Author and His Work: The introductory sections provide a detailed biographical sketch of the author, Upadhyaya Yashovijayji, a renowned scholar, logician, and prolific writer of the Jain tradition. It highlights his intellectual prowess, his mastery over various philosophical schools, and his prolific literary output. The text also mentions the efforts of the annotator, Shrimad Devchandji, and the translation work, emphasizing the challenges faced due to inaccuracies in existing manuscripts.

• The Importance of the Text: The publisher'Winnote emphasizes that the Gyansara is like "churned butter" (navnit rup), offering new insights with each reading. The text is considered profound due to its ability to reveal deeper meanings with greater study.

• Commentary and Translation: The publication includes a commentary by Shrimad Devchandji, titled "Gyana Manjari," translated into Gujarati. The translator has meticulously worked to preserve the original essence while clarifying complex concepts.

• Inspiration and Dedication: The book is presented in memory of Shri Kailas Sagar Surishwarji Maharaj, and the publisher's trust is dedicated to the service of the Shraman Sangh.

In Essence:

"Gyansara Ashtak ane Deshna Sangraha" is a scholarly and devotional work that offers a comprehensive and detailed exploration of the core principles of Jainism. It serves as a guide for spiritual seekers, emphasizing self-knowledge, detachment, equanimity, and righteous conduct as pathways to ultimate liberation. The text's intricate structure and the author's profound scholarship, along with the valuable commentary, make it a significant contribution to Jain literature.