Jain Dharma Me Aradhana Ka Swaroop

The Jain text "Jain Dharma mein Aradhana ka Swaroop" by Sadhvi Priyadeevyanjana Shreeji, published by Prachya Vidyapith Shajapur, is a comprehensive doctoral dissertation focused on the concept and practice of "Aradhana" (worship or devotion) within Jainism, with a particular emphasis on the influential text "Samveg Rangshala" by Acharya Jinchandrasuri (First). The book delves into a comparative study of Aradhana as expounded in Jain traditions.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects covered in the text:

Core Theme:

The book's central theme revolves around understanding the true nature of Aradhana in Jainism. It meticulously examines how this concept is presented in "Samveg Rangshala" and compares it with other relevant Jain scriptures and traditions. The ultimate goal of Aradhana, as explored, is the attainment of liberation (Moksha) and the peaceful embrace of death (Samadhi-maran).

Key Aspects and Structure:

The dissertation is divided into six chapters, each focusing on a specific facet of Aradhana:

• Chapter 1: Introduction to the Work and its Creator: This chapter provides an overview of "Samveg Rangshala," its purpose, and its author, Acharya Jinchandrasuri. It discusses Jinchandrasuri's lineage within the Kharatargachha tradition, his works, and his likely period of activity. It also highlights the significance of "Samveg Rangshala" as a large and influential text on the subject.

• Chapter 2: The Nature of General Aradhana in Samveg Rangshala (Householder and Monk Dharma): This chapter differentiates between general Aradhana and special Aradhana (Samadhi-maran). It elaborates on the principles of general Aradhana as applicable to both householders (Grasthadharma) and monks (Munidharma). It covers essential concepts like the qualifications for an Aradhak (devotee), the importance of knowledge, the practice of Samyagdarshan (right faith) with its eight Angas (qualities), the practice of Samyagcharitra (right conduct) with its various divisions (like country-limited and universal vows), and the significance of Tapasya (asceticism) with its twelve types (six external and six internal). It also details the qualities expected of householders, such as the abandonment of seven vices, adherence to eight basic vows, and the eleven stages of practice (pratima). For monks, it touches upon the five great vows, five samitis (prudence in activities), three guptis (restraint), ten virtues, and the practice of various austerities.

• Chapter 3: Pre-conditions for Samadhi-maran and the Method of Body-Relinquishment: This chapter delves into the prerequisites for undertaking Samadhi-maran (conscious and peaceful death). It discusses when and why one should opt for Samadhi-maran, the eligibility criteria for such a practice, and various methods to ascertain the proximity of death. It also details the ritualistic procedures for the final rites and body-relinquishment of a monk who has achieved Samadhi-maran.

• Chapter 4: The Method of Aradhana for Samadhi-maran: This chapter focuses on the practical application of Aradhana for achieving Samadhi-maran. It outlines the preparatory practices (Parikarma Vidhi) which include aspects like the qualifications of the Arhat (Tirthankara), the external conduct (linga), the acquisition of knowledge (shiksha), the practice of humility (vinaya), mental discipline (samadhi), control over impulses (manonushasti), regulated wandering (aniyat-vihar), the role of rulers, the importance of one's mental state (parinam), renunciation (tyag), the contemplation of death (maranavibhaktin), the acceptance of death (pandita-maran), the concept of spiritual progression (shreni), the practice of contemplation (bhavana), and the final ritual of fasting unto death (sanlekhana). It further discusses the process of transitioning to another spiritual community (Pargana Sankraman), the search for a suitable preceptor (Niryapak Acharya), the acceptance of the disciple (Kshapak ka Pargan Pravesh), the disciplinary instructions (Anushasti), the renunciation of eighteen sins, the practice of austerities, the twelve Bhavanas (contemplations), the importance of forgiveness (kshamapana), and the acceptance of the four refuges (Arhanta, Siddha, Sadhu, Dharma).

• Chapter 5: Comparative Study of Aradhana-related Narratives: This chapter is a significant part of the work, as it presents and analyzes numerous stories and anecdotes related to Aradhana. The author has collected and briefly described approximately one hundred such narratives from "Samveg Rangshala." The chapter aims to trace the origins of these stories within Jain scriptures (Agamas, commentaries) and other Aradhana-related texts, and to identify their comparative significance. The text highlights the unique feature of "Samveg Rangshala" in elaborating these narratives in detail, which is often just hinted at in other works. It also notes the similarities and differences in these narratives with texts from both Shvetambara and Digambara traditions, such as "Bhagavati Aradhana."

• Chapter 6: Conclusion: This chapter summarizes the findings of the research, reinforcing the importance of Aradhana, particularly Samadhi-maran, in the Jain path to liberation. It reiterates the unique contribution of "Samveg Rangshala" to Jain literature on this topic.

Key Contributions and Significance:

• In-depth Analysis of "Samveg Rangshala": The book provides a detailed and critical examination of this ancient and extensive Jain text, which might not be widely known among all scholars.
• Comparative Study: By comparing the teachings of "Samveg Rangshala" with other Jain scriptures, the author offers a nuanced understanding of the concept of Aradhana and Samadhi-maran across different traditions.
• Narrative Analysis: The extensive collection and brief analysis of narratives related to Aradhana demonstrate their role in conveying spiritual lessons and inspiring devotees.
• Tracing Sources: The attempt to trace the origins of the narratives contributes to the textual criticism and historical understanding of Jain literature.
• Holistic Approach to Jain Practice: The book covers both general Aradhana (daily life practices) and special Aradhana (Samadhi-maran), providing a comprehensive view of Jain spiritual discipline.
• Scholarly Rigor: The dissertation structure, the detailed analysis, and the references to various sources indicate a high degree of scholarly research.

In essence, "Jain Dharma mein Aradhana ka Swaroop" serves as a valuable scholarly resource for understanding the profound and multifaceted concept of Aradhana within Jainism, using the seminal work "Samveg Rangshala" as a primary lens for exploration and comparative analysis.