Jain Adarsh Prasango Part 11

This document, "Jain Adarsh Prasango Part 11," authored by Bhadreshvarvijay and published by the same, is a collection of inspiring stories and teachings from the Jain tradition. The book, edited by Muni Yogiratna Vijay, aims to present ideal Jain examples, focusing on truth, present realities, excellence, and religious insights.

The book begins with dedications and acknowledgments, including a tribute to the late Pushpaben Jayantilal Shah. It then delves into several inspiring narratives, illustrating Jain principles through real-life examples.

Here's a summary of the key stories and themes presented:

1. The Pride of a Jain Child (Pages 5-12): This section narrates the story of a young Jain boy who stood firm in his religious convictions, even in the face of adversity at school. When a teacher spoke disrespectfully about Jainism, the boy, despite his young age, fearlessly defended his faith, even resorting to physical protest by slapping the teacher. This incident led to a wave of solidarity among his Jain classmates and ultimately resulted in the teacher realizing her mistake and apologizing. The story highlights the importance of courage, conviction, and defending one's dharma. It also touches upon the boy's later decision to embrace asceticism.

2. Remember God in Suffering (Pages 16-19): This is an account from Bela Ben of Surat, detailing her experience during a dangerous mob attack on her car. While recounting the incident, she emphasizes the immense power of chanting the Navkar Mantra during times of distress. The story highlights how devotion and faith can provide protection and guidance during perilous situations.

3. The Serenity of Faith (Pages 17-19): Hetal Ben from Surat shares her miraculous experience with Lord Kalikund Parshwanath. She recounts how her unwavering faith and continuous chanting of the mantra helped her overcome a life-threatening childbirth complication. The story underscores the belief that devotion can indeed make the impossible possible.

4. The Path of Ascetic Life (Pages 19-21): This narrative describes the journey of a mother who, after losing one son in an accident, felt immense grief but also a profound realization about the impermanence of worldly life. Despite the tragedy, her primary regret was not having encouraged her second son towards asceticism. The story emphasizes the value of spiritual detachment over material possessions and worldly relationships, especially in the face of loss.

5. The Sangha is Everything (Pages 21-23): This story illustrates the deep commitment and dedication of a devotee to the Jain Sangha (community). Despite the sudden demise of his mother on the eve of an important Sangha event (establishment of a new Sangha), the devotee prioritized the community's event, ensuring its smooth proceeding before attending to family matters. It highlights the supreme importance of Sangha service and devotion.

6. A Strange Tale (Pages 22-25): This section tells the story of a young man named Rajnikantbhai Devdi from Surat. Facing financial hardship and advised to move to Mumbai for better prospects, he accepted a job with strict religious observances. Despite his poverty, he upheld his commitment to donate his entire first salary to a needy Jain family, demonstrating extraordinary generosity and integrity. His actions impressed his employer, leading to further support and eventual success in business, making him a renowned philanthropist.

7. The Transformation of a Patel (Pages 25-26): This is a brief account of a Patel woman who, after attending a religious discourse, became deeply inspired by Jainism. At the age of 47, she dedicated herself to learning and practicing Jain rituals, eventually embracing a life of devotion and spiritual practice in her later years. The story encourages readers to follow suit and make their human birth meaningful through spiritual pursuit.

8. Obtaining a Son Instead of a Daughter (Pages 26-28): Anisha Ben from Surat recounts how, after having a daughter, her in-laws longed for a son. Through intense religious practices and unwavering faith in Lord Adinath, she was blessed with a healthy son. The story emphasizes the power of prayer and devotion in fulfilling one's desires, especially in accordance with religious principles.

9. 108 Consecutive Year-Long Fasts (Pages 28-29): Mrudula Ben from Malad shares her journey of devotion after her husband's death. She undertook a remarkable feat of performing 108 consecutive year-long fasts (Varshitap), alongside other rigorous penances. Her story inspires faith and dedication towards ascetic practices.

10. Adinath is Wonderful (Pages 28-30): Alpesh bhai from Khambhat recounts a terrifying experience of being kidnapped. His faith in Lord Adinath and continuous chanting of the Navkar Mantra led to his miraculous rescue by the police. The story highlights the protective power of devotion during life-threatening situations.

11. The Impact of Ayambil (Pages 29-30): Jignesh from Nadiad, despite a severe accident where his leg was injured, maintained his commitment to Ayambil (a specific type of Jain fast) and Chovihar (abstaining from food after sunset). His unwavering adherence to Jain practices and determination to complete his spiritual endeavors is showcased.

12. The Great Mantra is Mighty in the World (Pages 30-31): This story recounts the experience of Ratan Ben and her family during the Hyderabad riots. Their faith in the Navkar Mantra, combined with the bravery of an unknown individual, helped them escape a dangerous mob attack. The narrative reinforces the significance of chanting the Navkar Mantra during times of crisis.

13. Let's Perform Navanu Yatra (Pages 30-32): Ramesh Ben, a devout Jain lady, managed her blood pressure condition by undertaking the Navanu Yatra (a pilgrimage involving 99 rounds) of Shatrunjay Hill. Her faith and devotion helped her overcome her health issues and continue with her spiritual practices.

14. Admiration (Pages 32-33): This section briefly mentions the commendable deeds of two individuals: one who completed 50 years of Ayambil fasts and another who performs extensive daily rituals and visits numerous temples. It also includes a cautionary note about hygiene in food preparation.

15. The Journey to Infinity (Pages 32-34): This narrative tells the story of a family who, after a tragic accident during a pilgrimage to Shatrunjay, decided to honor their departed loved ones by organizing a devotional "Bhav Yatra" (spiritual journey) rather than traditional mourning ceremonies. This decision provided spiritual solace and inspiration to the attendees.

16. Husband, A Spiritual Preacher's Experience (Pages 33-38): A spiritual preacher shares the story of a devout Jain woman who, despite suffering abuse from her irritable husband, maintained a positive demeanor and deep devotion. Her unwavering faith and eventual request to her husband to join her in taking a lifelong vow of celibacy (Brahmacharya) led to a remarkable transformation in their relationship. The story emphasizes the power of compassion and spiritual guidance.

17. Dharma's Steadfastness in Adversity (Pages 38-41): A mother-in-law recounts the experience of her daughter-in-law, Reena, who, during a severe flood, refused to eat anything that was not prepared according to Jain dietary laws, even when faced with hunger and extreme conditions. Her unwavering commitment to Jain principles and the eventual miraculous provision of Jain food highlights the power of faith.

18. Dialysis Cancelled (Pages 41-43): Usha Ben from Vadodara, diagnosed with kidney failure, found relief and recovery through continuous chanting of the Loggasa Sutra. Her story demonstrates the potential of spiritual practices to heal and overcome severe medical conditions.

19. The Influence of Atthham Fast (Pages 42-44): Vijay bhai's daughter, Purvi, undertook an Atthham fast when her father was critically ill. The fast and prayers led to his miraculous recovery, showcasing the power of penance and faith.

20. Equanimity in Suffering (Pages 43-45): Arvind bhai, after a severe accident that resulted in the loss of his arm, maintained equanimity and focused on his faith. He guided rescuers and expressed gratitude for the remaining limb, demonstrating remarkable composure and spiritual strength.

21. The Miracle of Listening to Jin Vani (Pages 44-46): Nisha, a young woman initially averse to religion, experienced a profound transformation after accidentally hearing a religious discourse. This led her to embrace Jainism, renounce worldly desires, and ultimately take monastic vows. The story highlights the transformative power of listening to religious teachings.

22. Jinalaya Rickshaw Service (Pages 45-46): This section describes an initiative by a Jain Sangha in Mumbai to provide rickshaw services for elderly members to attend the Jinalaya (temple). It showcases community service and compassion in action.

23. I Don't Want to Eat Mangoes (Pages 46-47): A young man named Manan refused to eat mangoes with the peel due to his understanding of Jain principles regarding the protection of microscopic life. This story emphasizes a deep and meticulous adherence to Jain ethics.

24. Admiration (Pages 47-48): This briefly mentions Kalpesh V. Shah's commitment to a vow of immense charity after recovering from a heart attack.

25. Warning (Page 47): A cautionary note is given regarding hygiene in food preparation, specifically about using a cloth used for cleaning to stir ghee.

26. The Essence of Ahimsa (Pages 47-50): Sanjay bhai undertakes a massive project to rescue thousands of fish from a dilapidated mill that is slated for demolition. His selfless dedication and meticulous planning to relocate these fish to a canal demonstrate profound compassion and adherence to the principle of Ahimsa (non-violence).

27. Special Work with Jayana (Pages 48-51): This section details the grand celebration of the 200th anniversary of a Jinalaya in Mumbai. It highlights the meticulous planning and execution of distributing sweets and organizing a large community meal (Swamivatsalya) while strictly adhering to Jain dietary principles.

The book concludes with acknowledgments and contact information for meditation camps and youth programs. Overall, "Jain Adarsh Prasango Part 11" serves as a guide, offering practical examples and inspiring stories that encourage readers to deepen their understanding and practice of Jainism in their daily lives.