Jain Dharmachi Olakh - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Dharmachi Olakh" (Introduction to Jainism) by Dr. Sau. Vijaya Gosavi, published by Sumeru Prakashan, Mumbai.

The book aims to provide a simple, concise, and accessible introduction to the core principles and philosophy of Jainism. It covers a wide range of topics, from fundamental concepts to historical context and modern relevance.

Key Themes and Content:

The Essence of Jainism: The book emphasizes that being a Jain is not just about birth into a Jain family, but about understanding and practicing Jain principles. It highlights Jain philosophy as profound, scientific, precise, subtle, and ultimately leading to the welfare of the soul and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
The Quest for Happiness: It addresses the universal human search for happiness, explaining that external things are transient and cannot provide lasting joy. True, eternal happiness is found within the soul.
The Importance of Self-Discovery: The author stresses that the truth is the soul itself, residing within our bodies. The emphasis is on self-exploration and discovering one's true nature, echoing Lord Mahavir's teaching: "Appana Sacchesejja" (Seek truth yourself).
Core Jain Elements:
- Namokar Mantra: The book dedicates significant space to the Namokar Mantra (Namo Arihantanam, Namo Siddhanam, Namo Ayariyanam, Namo Vaujjhayanam, Namo Loye Savva Sadhunam), describing it as the essence of Jainism, immensely powerful, and the root of all mantras. It explains the significance of each of the five Parameshtis (Arihants, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus) and how the mantra is a salutation to virtues rather than specific individuals.
- Jain Flag (Jain Dhwaj): The significance of the Jain flag is explained, including its history, symbolism, and the meaning of its five colors representing the Pancha Mahavratas (five great vows) and the Pancha Parameshtis. The current five-colored flag, researched by Muni 108 Shri Vidyanandji, is contrasted with the earlier saffron triangular flag.
- Dharmachakra (Wheel of Dharma): The Dharmachakra is presented as a symbol of the Tirthankaras and Jain principles, with its spokes representing the Angas of Jain scriptures or the Tirthankaras themselves. It conveys messages of universal welfare, timely rains, absence of disease, and adherence to the ten virtues.
The Four Anuyogas (Sections of Jain Literature): The book systematically explains the four main branches of Jain literature:
1. Prathmanuyoga: Focuses on stories of great individuals, the cycles of the universe, and the fruits of good and bad deeds to engage listeners in Dharma.
2. Charananuyoga: Deals with conduct, the rules of monastic life (munis and aryikas), the strictures on food and drink, the process of purification (pratikraman), and the rigorous adherence to vows and ethical conduct. It details the 22 types of hardships (parishahas) that ascetics endure.
3. Karananuyoga: Explains the nature of soul, karma, the structure of the universe (Triloka), the stages of spiritual progress (Gunasthana), the cause and effect of karma, and the realms of heaven and hell. It provides detailed scientific and mathematical descriptions.
4. Dravyanuyoga: Considered the most important, this section delves into the nature of reality, substances (dravyas), their qualities (gunas), and the principles of soul, non-soul, karma theory, and philosophical perspectives (nay-nikshep). It discusses profound metaphysical concepts.
The Jain Cosmology (Lok): The book describes the Jain understanding of the universe as being composed of six fundamental substances (Sad Dravyas): Jiva (soul), Pudgal (matter), Dharma (medium of motion), Adharma (medium of rest), Akash (space), and Kala (time). It explains that the universe is eternal and uncreated, shaped like a standing man. The universe is divided into three parts: Adholoka (lower world), Madhyaloka (middle world), and Urdhvaloka (upper world), with descriptions of hellish beings, humans, and celestial beings, respectively. The concept of Siddhashila at the top where liberated souls reside is also mentioned.
Six Periods of Time (Shatkala): The cyclical nature of time, divided into Avasharpini (descending cycle) and Utsarpini (ascending cycle), each with six phases (Sukshama-Sukshama, Sukshama, Sukshama-Dukhama, Dukhama-Sukshama, Dukhama, Dukhama-Dukhama) is explained, detailing the changes in human lifespan, physical form, and societal conditions through these cycles.
Karma and Its Causes: The book elaborates on the Jain theory of karma, stating that karma is not an external force but a consequence of our own actions and passions (kashayas). It details the eight types of karmas (Jnana-avarana, Darshana-avarana, Mohaniya, Antaraya, Vedaniya, Ayushya, Nama, Gotra) and their numerous sub-categories. The causes of karma bondage are identified as Mithyatva (wrong faith), Avirati (non-restraint), Pramada (negligence), Kashaya (passions), and Yoga (activity of mind, speech, and body). The concept of karma printing itself on the soul like a film is used to explain its inexorable nature until its effects are experienced.
The Soul (Atma): The book emphasizes the soul as the true self, distinct from the body. It explains the journey of the soul through different life forms (8.4 million species) due to ignorance and attachment. The three stages of spiritual evolution are described as Bahiratma (external soul), Antaratma (inner soul), and Paramatma (supreme soul/liberated soul). The concept of the soul's eternal nature, despite undergoing transformations, is highlighted.
The Path of a Layperson (Shravak Dharma): The role and duties of a Shravak (lay follower) are discussed, emphasizing that the path of a householder is a strong foundation for spiritual progress. It outlines the importance of right faith, understanding the seven tattvas, and the gradual progression through eleven stages (Pratimas) towards monastic life. The text also details aspects like bhakshya-abhakshya (what can and cannot be eaten) and the six daily duties (Shatkarma) of a Jain householder: Deva Puja (worship of the omniscient), Guru Upasana (service to virtuous monks), Swadhyay (self-study), Samyam (restraint), Tap (austerities), and Dan (charity).
Knowledge (Gyan) and Its Importance: The book extols knowledge as the supreme purifier and the means to overcome ignorance and achieve liberation. It describes the eight types of knowledge (five valid - Mati, Shruta, Avadhi, Manahparyaya, Kevala, and three invalid - Kuti, Krushrut, Kuavdhi) and the process of acquiring knowledge through different means and perspectives (Nayas).
Right Faith (Samyakdarshan): Right faith is presented as the foundational step towards spiritual liberation, the first step on the ladder of the three jewels (Ratnatraya). It involves firm conviction in the Tirthankaras, their teachings (Agamas), and the virtuous ascetics, while discarding wrong beliefs and practices. The eight qualities of a true believer (Nihshankit, Nihkankshit, Nirvichikitsa, Amudhadrishti, Upaguhan, Sthitikarana, Vatsalya, and Prabhavana) are explained.
Meditation (Dhyana): Meditation is highlighted as a crucial tool for self-realization, detachment from the body, and achieving inner peace. Different perspectives on meditation from Jainism and other traditions are discussed. The four types of meditation (Art, Raudra, Dharma, and Shukla) are explained, with Shukla Dhyana being the highest form leading to liberation.
Stages of Spiritual Progress (Gunasthana): The 14 Gunasthanas, representing the progressive purification of the soul, are detailed, from the initial stage of ignorance (Mithyatva) to the ultimate state of liberation (Ayog Kevali). This section illustrates the spiritual journey of the soul.
Paths of Investigation (Margana): The book outlines the 14 Marganas, which are ways or areas where the nature and condition of the soul can be investigated. These include the path of destination (Gati), senses (Indriya), body (Kaya), mental and physical activities (Yoga), passions (Kashaya), knowledge (Gyan), restraint (Sanyam), perception (Darshan), disposition (Leshya), potentiality for liberation (Bhavyatva), right faith (Samyaktva), sentience (Sanjnitva), and nourishment (Ahara).
Jain History and Literature: A brief overview of Jain history, mentioning the 24 Tirthankaras and prominent historical figures who embraced Jainism, is provided. The vastness and ancientness of Jain literature across various languages, including its philosophical, ethical, and literary richness, are celebrated.
Modern Science and Jainism: The book asserts that modern science has its roots in Jain scriptures. It highlights the Jain understanding of atomism, reincarnation, and the intricate principles of karma and cosmology as being consistent with scientific inquiry. The book argues that Jain philosophy is not based on blind faith but on verifiable truths.

Overall Purpose:

"Jain Dharmachi Olakh" serves as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the fundamental principles of Jainism in a clear and organized manner. It bridges the gap between complex philosophical concepts and the general reader, making Jain teachings accessible and relatable for spiritual growth and worldly understanding. The author's intention is to guide the reader towards self-discovery and the ultimate goal of liberation.