Ishtafal Siddhi Prakaranam

This document is a comprehensive summary and explanation of the Jain text "Ishtafal Siddhi Prakaranam" by Padmasenvijay, published by Mehul Jain Mitra Mandal Ahmedabad. The provided text is primarily the table of contents and a selection of verses with their explanations, sourced from various Jain scriptures.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content based on the provided text:

1. Purpose and Context:

• Introduction: The text begins with a preface expressing gratitude for the positive reception of previous editions and the ongoing efforts to publish a third edition. It highlights the advice of learned monks to strengthen the understanding of Anekantavada (non-one-sidedness) and free oneself from Ekantavada (one-sidedness). The book aims to clarify the scriptural meaning of "Ishtafal Siddhi" (achievement of desired results) and counter "Ekantavada."
• Publication Details: It mentions the publication is supported by Shri Sola Road J.M. Jain Sangh and published by Mehul Jain Mitra Mandal.

2. Table of Contents (Anukramanika):

• The majority of the text consists of a detailed table of contents, listing numerous Jain scriptures and the specific verses or pages used in this compilation. This indicates that "Ishtafal Siddhi Prakaranam" is a collection of teachings and excerpts from a wide range of Jain canonical and post-canonical literature.
• The references include works like:
  • Nalpanchami Katha
  • Samyaktva Saptatika
  • Dharma Pariksha
  • Yogabindu
  • Aakhyanak Manikosh
  • Dharmaratna Prakaran
  • Gyan Sar
  • Yog Dhrishti Samuchchay
  • Shripal Charitra
  • Siriwal Katha
  • Sripal Ras
  • Shodashak
  • Upamiti
  • Pushpamala (Upadesh Mala)
  • Uttaradhyayan Sutra
  • Chappanna Purischaran
  • Shraddhavidhi
  • Yogashastra
  • Upadesh Tarangini
  • Bharat Sarvritti
  • Sukrut Sagar
  • Vitragastotra
  • Trishashti Deshna Sangrah
  • Kalpa Sutra
  • Lalitvistara
  • Sanghachara Vritti
  • Prashna Chintamani
  • Vrundaru Vritti
  • Pratima Shatak
  • Ashtak Shastra
  • Atma Prabodhh
  • Dwatrinshat-Dwatrinshika
  • Panchashak
  • Suyagdanga Sutra
  • Cheiavandana Mahabhash
  • Paumchariam
  • Upadesh Pad
  • Pandav Charitra
  • Hirsaukhya
  • Vasudev Hundi
  • Parvakatha Sangrah
  • Agam ni Puja (Phal Puja)
  • Samyaktva Kaumudi
  • Shantinath Charitra
  • Shraddh Pratikraman Sutra
  • Kupadeshtant Vishadikaran
  • Savason Gathastavan
  • Upadesh Rahasya
  • Gautam Swami Ras
  • Upadesh Prasad
  • Manorma Katha
  • Shastra Varta Samuchchaya
  • Moti Shanti
  • Jayanand Kevali Charitra
  • Ajit Shanti
  • Kaharayan Kos
  • Devadravyaadi Siddhi
  • Prashnottar Karnika
  • Vividh Prashnottar
  • Dharmaratna Prakaran Teeka
  • Upadesh Ratnakar
  • Navpad Prakaran
  • Acharaanga Sutra
  • Chaturvishati Prabandh
  • Mahanishith
  • Bhavbhavana
  • Siddhachakra
  • Aavashyak Niryukti
  • Dharmabindu
  • Manana Minarethi Mukti na Kinare (Introduction)
  • Ekantavada Samne Lalbatti (Excerpts from Divya Darshan)
  • Ishtafal Siddhi no Shastra Path Siddha Artha (Articles 1-7)
  • Dharm Kyamaal Karvo (Articles 1/2)

3. Core Themes and Arguments (Based on selected verses and explanations):

• The Nature of Tapasya (Austerities): Several verses discuss the nature of tapasya.
  • Nidana-Saha (With Intentions): The text explores whether tapasya done with worldly intentions (nidana) is valid. It concludes that while the ultimate goal should be liberation, tapasya with worldly desires is permissible, especially in the beginning, as it can lead to purity of mind (bhavashuddhi) and pave the way for higher spiritual pursuits. It emphasizes that such tapasya is not inherently wrong and is considered beneficial in the long run.
  • Motivations for Dharma: A significant portion of the text delves into the various motivations for practicing dharma (righteousness/spiritual practice). It argues that while the ultimate aim is liberation (moksha), even desires for worldly happiness, fame, health, or protection from suffering are valid starting points for engaging in dharma. The scriptures are presented as supporting the idea that dharma is the means to achieve all four purusharthas (virtue, wealth, desire, and liberation).
  • Dharma as Primary: Repeatedly, the scriptures quoted emphasize that dharma is the primary purushartha, as it leads to all other goals, including worldly prosperity and ultimate liberation.
• Importance of Faith and Devotion:
  • Prarthana to Tirthankaras: It is stated that one should not seek help from other deities if their prayers to Tirthankaras are not fulfilled, as seeking from others can pollute one's samyaktva (right faith).
  • Importance of Jin Puja: The practice of worshipping Jinamurti (Jain idols) is highlighted as beneficial, even if done with worldly intentions, as it can lead to spiritual progress.
• The Role of Guru and Adherence to Teachings: The importance of following the guidance of one's acharya (spiritual teacher) is stressed, as their guidance is considered a means to cross the ocean of worldly existence. Disobedience or going against the guru's wishes can lead to severe suffering.
• Overcoming Ego and Attachment: The text discusses the need to shed ego (mada) which often leads to acting against the guru's wishes. It advises following virtuous practices that lead to knowledge and right vision.
• Universality of Dharma: The teachings suggest that dharma is beneficial regardless of the immediate intention, as it can lead to spiritual progress. Even seemingly mundane actions performed with sincerity and faith can be considered virtuous.
• The Meaning of "Ishtafal Siddhi": The text explains that "Ishtafal Siddhi" refers to the achievement of desired results, both worldly and spiritual, through adherence to dharma.
• Anekantavada vs. Ekantavada: The preface and some concluding remarks strongly advocate for understanding the nuances of Anekantavada and avoiding rigid, one-sided interpretations (Ekantavada). This is a central theme, suggesting the book aims to provide a balanced perspective on spiritual practices and their motivations.
• The Role of various motivations: The compilation emphasizes that while the ultimate goal is liberation, engaging in dharma even with worldly desires is acceptable and beneficial, as it can lead to purity and further spiritual growth. This is a key point for understanding "Ishtafal Siddhi" – the desired outcome can be material or spiritual.
• Criticism of Rigid Interpretations: The text strongly criticizes those who rigidly interpret scriptures to deny any benefit from dharma done with worldly intentions or who criticize those who do so. It argues for a more inclusive understanding that acknowledges the gradual progression of spiritual practice.

4. Specific Examples and Arguments:

• Shripal's devotion: The story of Shripal is cited multiple times to show how dharma practices, like remembering Navapad, were used for both worldly (e.g., sailing ships) and spiritual benefits.
• Sutasa's devotion: The example of Sulasa, who devoted herself to Arhants for the birth of a son, is used to illustrate that even worldly desires can be fulfilled through devotion to Jain principles.
• Merits of various Motivations: Verses are quoted to show that actions done out of respect, fear, curiosity, or even greed can still lead to favorable outcomes if they are performed with the correct principles and faith.
• The Caution Against "Visha-Garal Anushthan": While advocating for the benefits of dharma even with worldly intentions, the text also acknowledges the concept of "Visha-Garal Anushthan" (poisonous or detrimental practices). However, it distinguishes between these and practices done with sincere, albeit potentially worldly, intentions, especially when performed within the Jain framework. It suggests that the negative connotation applies more to practices done out of malice, ignorance, or with perverse intentions that actively cause harm.
• The "Vajraswami Nyaaya": The discussion highlights the importance of understanding different philosophical standpoints (Nayas) within Jainism and avoiding rigid, one-sided interpretations.

In essence, "Ishtafal Siddhi Prakaranam" appears to be a scholarly work that aims to:*

• Clarify the scriptural basis for achieving desired results (both worldly and spiritual) through Jain practices.
• Demonstrate the multifaceted nature of dharma and its motivations, showing that even worldly desires can be a starting point for spiritual progress.
• Promote a balanced understanding of Jain philosophy, emphasizing Anekantavada over rigid, exclusionary interpretations.
• Provide extensive scriptural evidence and examples to support its arguments.

The text is a deep dive into Jain philosophy and practice, showcasing the depth and breadth of its teachings by referencing a vast array of its scriptural heritage.