Hirde Me Prabhu Aap - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Hirdemen Prabhu Aap" (Lord in the Heart), a biography of Param Shraddheya Sant Shree Atmanandji, authored by Prof. Jayant Modh and published by Shrimad Rajchandra Sadhna Kendra Koba.

Book Title: Hirdemen Prabhu Aap (Lord in the Heart) Author: Prof. Jayant Modh Publisher: Shrimad Rajchandra Sadhna Kendra Koba Subject: Biography of Sant Shree Atmanandji

Overall Summary:

"Hirdemen Prabhu Aap" is a detailed and inspiring biography of Sant Shree Atmanandji, tracing his life from his early childhood as Mukund Soneji to his spiritual awakening and eventual renunciation of worldly life to dedicate himself to spiritual pursuits. The book highlights his journey through various stages of life, including his education, professional career as a doctor, profound spiritual experiences, and his significant contributions to spiritual literature and the propagation of Jain philosophy. It emphasizes his transformation from a conventional individual to a realized soul who dedicated his life to serving humanity and the divine principles.

Key Themes and Content:

Early Life and Spiritual Inclination:
- Born as Mukund Soneji, the book details his childhood in Ahmedabad, marked by strong family values and a predisposition towards spiritual inquiry.
- Even in his youth, his philosophical questions to his father about the extent of devotion reveal an early inclination towards deeper spiritual truths.
- Key texts like "Kundakundacharya's Three Gems" and "Samadhi Shatak" profoundly influenced him, sparking a strong desire for self-realization.
- His early life was marked by intellectual curiosity and a broad range of reading, spanning philosophy, literature, and various spiritual traditions.
Education and Professional Career:
- The biography chronicles his academic journey, culminating in his medical education and his career as a doctor, Dr. Mukund Soneji.
- Despite achieving professional success and even receiving offers for further studies abroad, his inner calling for spiritual growth gradually led him to re-evaluate his priorities.
- The text highlights his dedication to his profession while simultaneously deepening his spiritual quest.
Spiritual Awakening and Transformation:
- A significant turning point in his life was a period of illness in 1968, which led to a prolonged period of introspection and intense spiritual study. This period is described as a "rebirth" or "awakening."
- His encounter with the teachings of Shrimad Rajchandra, particularly "Kundakundacharya's Three Gems," was pivotal, clarifying his life's purpose and spiritual direction.
- His adoption of lifelong celibacy in 1976, at the age of 45, under the guidance of Pujya Shree Shivanand Saraswati and in consultation with his wife, Dr. Sharmishthaben, marked a significant step in his spiritual journey.
- His renunciation of worldly ties and establishment of the "Shrimad Rajchandra Adhyatmik Sadhana Kendra" in Koba signifies his complete dedication to spiritual service.
Spiritual Mission and Contributions:
- The book elaborates on his tireless efforts in spiritual propagation through extensive reading, contemplation, writing, and public discourse (Swadhyay).
- He is described as a gifted orator whose talks, infused with spiritual songs and poetic verses, deeply affect listeners. His style is noted for its simplicity, clarity, and accessibility, making profound spiritual concepts relatable to all.
- The establishment of the Shrimad Rajchandra Adhyatmik Sadhana Kendra at Koba served as a central hub for his spiritual activities, including camps, pilgrimages, and the publication of spiritual literature.
- His literary works, such as "Sadhana Sopan," "Charitra Suvas," "Sadhak Sathi," "Bhakti Marg ni Aradhana," and "Adhyatma Marg ni Yatra," are highlighted as significant contributions to spiritual literature, offering practical guidance for spiritual seekers.
- His travels across India and internationally for religious discourses and spiritual gatherings further amplified his mission.
Personal Qualities and Philosophy:
- The biography consistently portrays Sant Shree Atmanandji as embodying qualities like simplicity, humility, compassion, equanimity, unwavering faith, meticulousness, organizational skills, and a profound respect for all beings.
- His philosophy emphasizes the eternal nature of the soul and the importance of introspection, self-realization, and detachment from worldly possessions.
- He is depicted as a "doctor of the soul," guiding individuals towards inner peace and spiritual liberation.
- His life serves as an example of integrating spiritual knowledge with practical living and selfless service.
Testimonials and Impact:
- The book includes testimonials from various individuals, including fellow spiritual practitioners, scholars, and public figures, underscoring the profound impact of Sant Shree Atmanandji's life and teachings.
- These testimonials highlight his ability to inspire, guide, and transform lives, leading many towards a more meaningful and spiritually fulfilling existence.

Key Life Events and Dates Mentioned:

Birth: December 2, 1931 (Vikram Samvat 1988)
M.B.B.S. Degree: 1956
Marriage: May 9, 1960, to Dr. Sharmishthaben
Studies in the UK: 1961-1966
M.R.C.P. Degree: 1965
Start of Clinic and Maternity Home in Ahmedabad: March 5, 1967
Spiritual Awakening/Illness leading to profound study: 1968-1969
Atmasakshatkar (Self-realization): February 14, 1969
Lifelong Brahmacharya Vow: July 5, 1976
Establishment of Shrimad Rajchandra Adhyatmik Sadhana Kendra, Koba: April 29, 1982
Nam-Vesh Parivartan (Name change to Atmanandji): July 5, 1984

Overall Message:

The biography of Sant Shree Atmanandji, "Hirdemen Prabhu Aap," is a testament to a life dedicated to spiritual realization and selfless service. It showcases a remarkable journey of transformation, from a worldly professional to a revered spiritual guide, leaving a lasting legacy of wisdom, compassion, and inspiration for generations to come. The book encourages readers to seek their inner spiritual potential and live a life of purpose, devotion, and service.