Jain Bal Bodhak 03

This is a comprehensive summary of "Jain Bal Bodhak 03," the third volume in a series aimed at educating Jain children.

Overall Purpose and Philosophy:

The primary goal of this book, as stated by its compiler, Pannalal Vakilwal of Sujangarh, and publisher Bharatiya Jain Siddhant Prakashini Sanstha in Calcutta, is to impart Jain religious teachings and general moral knowledge to Jain children. The authors express concern that the prevalence of Western education might be diminishing the importance of Jain principles in the minds of young Jain students. This book aims to counteract this trend by offering lessons rooted in Jain dharma and ethics, ensuring that future generations remain knowledgeable and connected to their faith.

Content and Structure:

The book is structured as a collection of lessons, stories, prayers, and ethical teachings. It covers a wide range of topics, reflecting the holistic approach to Jain education. The content can be broadly categorized as follows:

• Prayers and Devotional Material:

  • Prarthana (Prayer): A prayer to Lord Mahavir, expressing devotion, seeking guidance, and praying for adherence to Jain principles, good conduct, and the welfare of the world.
  • Stuti Sangrah (Collection of Praises): Praises (Stutis) for various Tirthankaras like Adinath, Chandraprabh, Shantinath, Naminath, Parshvanath, Vardhaman, and Siddhas, as well as a praise for Sadhus. These stutis highlight their divine qualities and virtues.
  • Darshan Path (Lesson on Darshan/Vision): Contemplating the vision of the Tirthankaras and its purifying effect on the mind.
  • Panchamrit Abhishek: A detailed description of the ritualistic bathing of the idol with five types of pure substances (milk, curd, ghee, honey, and water), symbolizing purification and devotion.
  • Various Arghas (Offerings): Instructions and verses for performing Arghas to Tirthankaras, the Jain Shastra, and Gurus.

• Ethical Teachings and Principles:

  • Sapt Vyasan (Seven Vices): A detailed explanation of the seven major vices that Jainism strongly condemns: gambling, meat consumption, alcohol consumption, hunting, prostitution, adultery, and theft. Each vice is described with its negative consequences.
  • Shuddha Vayu (Pure Air): Emphasizing the importance of clean air for health and well-being, and how to maintain it.
  • Sharirik Parishram (Physical Labor): Highlighting the benefits of physical exercise and labor for health and strength, and the consequences of a sedentary lifestyle.
  • Pudgal Parmanu (Matter and Atoms): A lesson on the Jain concept of matter and atoms, their properties, and their role in the creation of the universe.
  • Panch Indriya (Five Senses): Explaining the five senses (sight, hearing, smell, taste, touch) and their functions, emphasizing the need for control over them.
  • Bhumdhar Jain Nitya Upadesh Sangrah (Collection of Daily Teachings by Bhumdar Jain): Selections of teachings on various topics like differentiating Jain and non-Jain paths, detachment (Vairagya), renunciation of worldly pleasures, the nature of the body, the importance of time, and education.
  • Moksha Marg (Path to Liberation): Discussions on the essence of Jainism, distinguishing between righteous and unrighteous paths.
  • Grahsthashram (Layperson's Life): Principles for Jain householders, including the "Shat Karma" (six daily duties): Dev Puja (worship), Guru Pāsti (service to gurus), Swadhyay (study), Sanyam (restraint), Tap (penance), and Dan (charity).
  • Keval Gyana (Omniscience): Describing the attributes of omniscience attained by Tirthankaras.
  • Asta Pratiharya (Eight Auspicious Symbols): Describing the eight special symbols that accompany a Tirthankara.
  • Anant Chatushthay (Infinite Attributes): The four infinite qualities of a liberated soul (knowledge, perception, bliss, and power).
  • Parameṣṭhi Mool Guna (Core Virtues of the Five Supreme Beings): Detailed explanations of the virtues and qualities of Arhats, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus, including their respective numbers of attributes and vows.
  • Shravakāchāra (Conduct of a Layperson): A series of lessons (parts 1-11) outlining the progressive stages and rules of conduct for Jain laypeople, including the vows (anuvratas, gunavratas, shikshavratas), their transgressions (aticharas), and the concepts of Samyagdarshan (right faith), Samyagyan (right knowledge), and Samyakcharitra (right conduct).
  • Sallēkhanā/Sanmana Maraṇ (Voluntary Fasting Unto Death): The practice of progressively renouncing food and worldly attachments as a means of spiritual purification at the end of life.
  • Kṣamā (Forgiveness): Emphasizing the importance of forgiveness.
  • Renunciation of Vices: Detailed explanations and condemnations of alcohol, meat, gambling, theft, and other vices.

• Stories and Parables:

  • Sagaradatta and Somak: A cautionary tale about the dangers of displaying wealth and the consequences of greed, leading to a tragic murder.
  • Satyavadi Chor (The Truthful Thief): A story illustrating the power of truthfulness, even for a thief, leading to divine intervention and a change of heart.
  • Dridha Surya Chor (The Determined Sun Thief): A story about a thief whose devotion to truthfulness leads to miraculous transformations and ultimately spiritual liberation.
  • Udayan Raja (King Udayan): A narrative demonstrating the importance of the "nirvichikitsa" (non-disgust) aspect of right faith through the king's unwavering devotion and tolerance.
  • Varishena Rajaputra (Prince Varishena): A story illustrating the virtue of "sthitikarana" (stabilizing others in righteousness) and the consequences of attachment.
  • Vajrakumar (Prince Vajrakumar): A story highlighting the importance of "prabhavana" (spreading the glory of religion) and righteous conduct.
  • Yamapala Chandala (Yamapala the Outcaste): A powerful story showcasing the transformative power of a single vow of non-violence (ahimsa) even for a person from a violent profession, leading to divine favor.
  • Anantmati's Story: A tale of a virtuous maiden who faces numerous trials due to her unwavering chastity and devotion to Jainism.
  • Kadarpingala's Death: A story illustrating the karmic consequences of past deeds.
  • Bhojya Padarth (Edible Substances): Discussions on pure and impure foods, and the importance of consuming pure substances for spiritual and physical well-being.
  • Nili, the Merchant's Daughter: A story demonstrating the power of chastity and righteousness in overcoming adversity.
  • Kaundesha's Story: A narrative highlighting the merit of donating religious texts.
  • Shukara in Vastika Dan (Pig in Monastery Donation): A story illustrating the karmic results of actions, even those performed by animals, based on their intention.
  • Medhaka (The Frog): A story emphasizing the immense merit of even a small act of devotion towards a Tirthankara, leading to rebirth as a powerful deity.
  • Bhagavata Puja (Worship of God): A story about a frog whose simple act of devotion leads to divine favor.
  • Yamadanda Kotwal: A story about a deceitful official whose actions lead to a terrible fate.
  • Jayakumara: A story emphasizing the virtue of controlling possessions and desires.
  • Dhanashri's Story: A cautionary tale about greed and its destructive consequences.
  • Vrshabhsena, the Merchant's Daughter: A story highlighting the miraculous powers of virtuous actions and the importance of righteousness.
  • Govinda, the Cowherd: A story about the merit gained from donating religious texts.
  • Satyaghosh: A story about a deceitful person who ultimately faces dire consequences due to his dishonesty.
  • Vishnukumar Muni: A story illustrating the virtue of "sthitikarana" and the power of miraculous feats.

• General Knowledge and Values:

  • Doodh (Milk): The nutritional value of milk and proper consumption practices.
  • Shuddha Vayu (Pure Air): The importance of clean air and how to maintain it.
  • Shuddha Jal (Pure Water): The necessity of pure water and methods for purification.
  • Swadesha Unnati (Progress of One's Country): An appeal to the youth to contribute to the progress of their nation through education and adherence to traditional values.
  • Physical Labor: The benefits of physical exertion for health and the body.
  • Twenty-four Tirthankaras and their Symbols: A list of the Tirthankaras and their identifying symbols.

Educational Approach:

The book employs a pedagogical approach that combines:

• Stories and Anecdotes: These are used to illustrate moral and religious principles in an engaging and memorable way.
• Doctrines and Philosophical Concepts: Jain principles like the seven vices, five senses, and the duties of a layperson are explained clearly.
• Devotional Poems and Prayers: These foster a sense of devotion and connection to the Tirthankaras and the Jain path.
• Cautionary Tales: Stories often highlight the negative consequences of vices and unethical behavior.
• Emphasis on Practice: The book encourages the practical application of Jain principles in daily life.

Target Audience and Tone:

The book is specifically designed for Jain children ("Jain Bal Bodhak" means "Jain Child's Instruction"). The language is generally simple and accessible, with explanations provided for potentially complex terms. The tone is encouraging, instructive, and sometimes cautionary, aiming to instill a strong moral and spiritual foundation.

Publisher's Note:

The book includes a "Fair Use Declaration" from "The Free Indological Collection," stating that the material is provided for educational and research purposes under fair use guidelines. It acknowledges the source and aims to make valuable texts accessible to a wider audience.

In essence, "Jain Bal Bodhak 03" serves as a foundational text for Jain children, aiming to equip them with knowledge of their religious heritage, ethical conduct, and the foundational stories and principles that define Jainism.