Jain Achar Darshan

This book, "Jain Achar Darshan" (Jain Conduct Philosophy) by Dr. Ramanlal C. Shah, published by Shri Mumbai Jain Yuvak Sangh, is a comprehensive collection of articles exploring various aspects of Jain conduct and philosophy. Edited by Dr. Jitendra B. Shah and coordinated by Dr. Dhanvant Shah, the book is divided into five sections.

Section 1: Jain Achar Darshan focuses on the philosophical underpinnings of Jain conduct, featuring articles on the rarity of human birth, the glory of restraint (sanyam), and the eleven vows of the lay follower (upasak).

Section 2: Aavashyak Kriya explains essential daily Jain practices, including Samayik (equanimity), Loggassa Sutra (a devotional hymn), Vinay (respectful conduct), Pratikraman (confession and repentance), Kayotsarg (self-reflection and non-attachment), and Pacchakkhan (vows and resolutions).

Section 3: Jain Vrat-Achar delves into specific Jain observances and ethical principles. Articles discuss Irnavahi (conscious movement), Adattadan Viraman (non-stealing), implications of Sheelvighat (breaches of chastity), Anarthdand Viraman (abstinence from purposeless harm), Abhyakhyan (abstaining from false accusation), Tapascharya (ascetic practices), Pratisevana (service and respectful conduct), Upsarg (obstacles in spiritual progress), Parīṣaha (endurance of hardships), Prabhāvanā (propagation of Jainism), Bodhi Durlabh Bhavana (contemplation on the rarity of spiritual awakening), and Swadhyaya (self-study).

Section 4: Paryushan Parva is dedicated to the most important Jain festival, Paryushan, offering insights into its significance and observances.

Section 5: Jain Jyotirdhar introduces the life and teachings of Upadhyaya Shri Yashovijayji, a prominent Jain scholar and saint.

The book emphasizes that its primary focus is on conduct, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of the principles that elevate human life and lead to spiritual upliftment. This collection of articles by a profound scholar of Jain Dharma and literature is expected to be a source of inspiration for all curious minds seeking to understand Jainism. The book also includes sixteen pages of images and a comprehensive index.