Jain Dharm Ane Syadvada Yane Trikalabadhit Sapeksha Satya

This book, "Jain Dharm ane Syadvada yane Trikalabadhit Sapeksha Satya" (Jainism and Syadvada, meaning Timeless, Relative Truth), authored by Shantilal Keshavlal and published by Panachand Bhagubhai, Surat, is a philosophical exploration of Jain principles, with a particular focus on Syadvada.

The book begins with a traditional Jain invocation and dedicates the work to Lord Mahavir Swami and his teachings. The author expresses gratitude to his teachers and acknowledges their contribution to the book.

Core Concepts:

• Jain Dharma: The book defines Jainism as the path to liberation (moksha), which is the purest state of the soul. It highlights that the universe is eternal, without beginning or end, composed of soul (jiva) and non-soul (ajiva) substances, characterized by continuous origination, decay, and permanence. The path to liberation involves Samvara (cessation of influx of karma) and Nirjara (shedding of accumulated karma), which are achieved through right faith, knowledge, and conduct.
• Syadvada: This is the central philosophical concept discussed. Syadvada, also known as the doctrine of "may be" or "perhaps," asserts that reality is multifaceted and can be viewed from multiple perspectives. No single viewpoint can capture the entirety of truth. Syadvada emphasizes the conditional and relative nature of all judgments and statements. The book explains that Syadvada is essential for understanding the complex and multifaceted nature of reality, as taught by the omniscient Jain Tirthankaras. It clarifies that Syadvada acknowledges the existence of both permanence (dhruva) and change (utpad and vyaya) in all substances.
• Relative Truth: The title itself emphasizes "Trikalabadhit Sapeksha Satya," meaning timeless, relative truth. This underscores the Jain understanding that truth is not absolute but dependent on context, perspective, and conditions. Syadvada provides the framework for understanding these relative truths.
• Karma and Liberation: The book delves into the Jain understanding of karma, explaining how actions (karma) bind the soul to the cycle of birth and death (samsara). It discusses the different types of karma and how their influx (ashrava) and subsequent shedding (nirjara) are central to the path of liberation.
• The Four Essential Truths (Chatvari Pad): While not explicitly detailed as separate sections, the underlying principles of the Jain path – Right Faith (Samyak Darshan), Right Knowledge (Samyak Gyan), Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra), and Right Austerity/Penance (Samyak Tap) – are woven throughout the discussion as the means to achieve liberation.
• Nayas and Pramanas: The text explains the importance of different perspectives (nay as) and valid means of knowledge (pramanas) in understanding reality, as Syadvada itself operates through the interplay of various nayas.
• The Nature of the Soul: The book touches upon the inherent nature of the soul as pure, eternal, and possessing infinite knowledge, perception, power, and bliss. The obstruction of these qualities by karma is what leads to the soul's bondage in the empirical world.
• The Importance of Proper Conduct: The book stresses the necessity of abandoning sinful activities and cultivating virtuous ones, highlighting the role of practices like charity, vows, austerities, and contemplation in spiritual progress. It also differentiates between genuine spiritual pursuit and mere ritualism or hypocrisy.
• Biographical Section: A significant portion of the book includes a detailed biographical account of Sadhviji Shri Mrugendrashriji Maharaj, a prominent Jain nun. This section covers her birth, upbringing, renunciation, spiritual journey, and contributions to the Jain tradition. It illustrates the Jain principles through her life example. This biographical section seems to be a key element of the book's presentation, serving as a practical exposition of the philosophical concepts.

Overall Message:

The book aims to elucidate the Jain perspective on truth and reality through the lens of Syadvada. It advocates for a balanced approach that acknowledges multiple viewpoints and understands the conditional nature of reality. By understanding these principles and following the path outlined by the Tirthankaras, particularly Lord Mahavir, individuals can overcome the bondage of karma and achieve liberation. The life of Sadhviji Shri Mrugendrashriji serves as an inspiration and a testament to the efficacy of these Jain teachings.