Jain Siddhant Pravesh Ratnamala 07

This document is the seventh installment in the "Jain Siddhant Pravesh Ratnamala" series, published by the Digambar Jain Mumukshu Mandal, Dehradun. The title translates to "A Garland of Jewels for Entry into Jain Principles, Part 7." It is presented as a collection of spiritual texts and devotional literature for personal and private educational use.

The book aims to guide individuals towards self-realization and spiritual upliftment through the principles of Jainism. It emphasizes the core tenets of Jain philosophy, the path to liberation, and devotional practices.

Key Themes and Content Highlights:

• Core Jain Philosophy (Page 2): The foundational principles of Jainism are presented, stating that the universe consists of infinite souls (Jiva), infinitely many substances (Pudgala), and singular entities of Dharma, Adharma, and Akash, along with an innumerable quantity of time (Kala). Each substance possesses infinite qualities, and within each quality, there is a simultaneous origination (Utpad), cessation (Vyay), and permanence (Dhruva) of its states (Paryaya). The distinction between the self (Sva - the soul) and the non-self (Para - matter) is highlighted. The self is described as an immaterial collection of regions, possessing knowledge and other qualities, eternal, and its true essence. The non-self is material, composed of matter, devoid of soul-like qualities, and subject to change.

• The Nature of Reality (Page 3): The text asserts that all substances are independent, co-exist within their own limits, and undergo transformation without external influence. Any attempt to alter or control another substance is considered false perception (Mithya Darshan). The essence of reality is defined as that which is endowed with origination, cessation, and permanence. The concept of "Permanency with a Change" is central, emphasizing that no substance is ever destroyed; it only changes its form.

• The Great Sin of Ignorance (Page 4): A devotional hymn (Bhajan) titled "Mithyatva Hi Mahapap Hai" (Ignorance is the Greatest Sin) is presented. It powerfully describes ignorance (Mithyatva) as the root of all sins and the cause of immense suffering in the world. It leads to the non-comprehension of the true nature of reality, even when encountering divine teachings. This state traps beings in cycles of suffering, mistaking the non-self for the self. Overcoming this ignorance is presented as the ultimate goal for followers of the Jain path.

• Invocations and Devotional Texts (Pages 6-43): The book contains a rich collection of devotional prayers, hymns, and texts for various rituals and meditations:

  • Deva Stuti (Page 6-10): Praises to the Jinas (Tirthankaras) as embodiments of liberation, victory over enemies (internal passions), and the dispellers of delusion.
  • Deva-Shastra-Guru Stuti (Page 10-12): Salutations to the divine beings (Jinas), sacred scriptures (Agamas), and virtuous preceptors (Gurus) as the guides on the path to liberation.
  • Deva Darshan Path (Page 12-13): Prayers recited during the vision of the divine images, seeking spiritual merit and the eradication of suffering.
  • Aradhana Path (Page 13-14): A prayer expressing the soul's desire for virtuous qualities, liberation, and adherence to Jain principles.
  • Vinaya Path (Page 14-16): A path of humility and reverence, acknowledging the Jinas as the ultimate refuge and source of true happiness.
  • Atma Gyan Ki Gatha (Page 16-20): A narrative or song about self-knowledge, emphasizing the soul's inherent divinity and the illusion of worldly attachments.
  • Atma-Stavan (Page 20-22): A self-praise or ode to the soul, recognizing its inherent infinite powers and divine nature.
  • Nitya Puja Sangrah (Page 23-25): A collection of daily worship rituals.
  • Various Pujas (Page 25-37): Detailed pujas (worship ceremonies) are provided for:
    • Deva, Shastra, Guru
    • Deva, Shastra, Guru, and the Tirthankaras residing in Videha, and infinite Siddha souls (Page 26-32)
    • Pancha Parameshti (Arhat, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu) (Page 33-36)
    • Lord Shantinath (Page 36-37)
    • Complete Argh (offering) (Page 39-40)
  • Shanti Path (Page 40-41): A prayer for peace and well-being.
  • Visarjan Path (Page 41-42): A prayer for the ceremonial conclusion of worship.
  • Atma Sambodhan (Page 42-43): Self-reflection and exhortation.
  • Jin Vani Mata Ki Stuti (Page 43): Praise to the divine speech of the Jinas.

• Discourse on True Happiness (Page 43-53): This section features a Q&A format exploring fundamental Jain concepts:

  • The Soul's Capabilities: The soul is pure consciousness, a knower and seer, and cannot perform actions beyond its inherent nature.
  • Samsara and Moksha: The cycle of worldly existence (Samsara) arises from directing consciousness towards external objects, while liberation (Moksha) is achieved by focusing consciousness inward on the pure soul.
  • The Purpose of Scriptures: Scriptures guide the soul to redirect its attention from the external to the internal, away from delusion and towards self-realization.
  • Distinction between Worldly and Liberated Souls: Both are knowers and seers, but worldly souls are engrossed in external states (mithya-drushti), while liberated souls are focused on their pure, inherent nature (samya-drushti).
  • Bondage and Liberation: Bondage stems from attachment to external objects and passions, while liberation comes from attachment to the true self.
  • The Universe (Vishwa): Defined by the collection of souls, matter, Dharma, Adharma, Akash, and Kala, all operating independently and undergoing constant change within their inherent qualities and states.
  • The Nature of Happiness: True happiness lies in the absence of agitation and the deep understanding of one's true nature.
  • The Supreme Beings: The Pancha Parameshti are considered supreme, with the soul itself being the ultimate, unconditioned God.
  • The Path to Moksha: The unified practice of Right Faith (Samyak Darshan), Right Knowledge (Samyak Gyan), and Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra).
  • Self and Non-Self: The soul is immaterial, eternal, and a possessor of consciousness, while the body and material objects are temporary and external.
  • The Greatest Sin: Ignorance (Mithyatva) is identified as the root of all evil.
  • Types of Ignorance: Unoriginated (Agrhita) and originated (Grahita) ignorance are discussed.
  • The Seven Tattvas: Their nature and importance in understanding the path to liberation are explained, emphasizing the soul as the primary object of refuge.
  • The Nature of the Soul: Described as consciousness, knowledge, and perception, distinct from the physical body and other substances.
  • Misconceptions about the Self: Explaining how ignorance leads to mistaking the body and its experiences for the self.
  • The Nature of Non-Soul (Ajiva): Anything devoid of consciousness.
  • Misconceptions about Non-Self: Mistaking the body's states for one's own.
  • Asrava (Influx of Karma): The generation of impure passions.
  • Bandha (Bondage): The fixation of karmic particles.
  • Samvara (Cessation of Karma): Preventing the influx of new karma.
  • Nirjara (Shedding of Karma): The expulsion of accumulated karma.
  • Moksha (Liberation): The complete cessation of karma and attainment of the soul's pure state.
  • The Cause of Suffering: Attachment to external objects and passions.
  • The Importance of Right Perspective: The crucial role of correct understanding in achieving liberation.
  • The Practice of Jainism: Emphasizing internal transformation over mere ritualistic actions.

• The Twelve Reflections (Page 55-56): This section elaborates on the twelve reflections (Anupreksha) that aid in spiritual progress: Non-permanence (Anitya), Helplessness (Asharan), Samsara (cycle of birth and death), Solitude (Ekattva), Otherness (Anyattva), Impurity (Ashuchi), Influx of Karma (Asrava), Cessation of Karma (Samvara), Shedding of Karma (Nirjara), The Universe (Loka), Rarity of Enlightenment (Bodhi Durlabha), and Religion (Dharma).

• Samayika Path (Page 56-57): A meditation or equanimity prayer by Acharya Amit gati, focusing on equanimity towards all beings, detachment from worldly desires, and steadfastness in the path of liberation.

• Invaluable Principles (Page 58-61): Further philosophical insights and verses are presented, including selections from "Yogasara" by Shrimad Yogindradeva, emphasizing self-realization, detachment from the body, and the pursuit of the soul's true nature.

• The Mirror of Samsara (Page 79-82): A detailed allegory illustrating the cycle of birth, death, and suffering in the worldly realm, highlighting the illusory nature of worldly pursuits and the consequences of attachment. It uses the metaphor of a traveler lost in a dense forest, facing various dangers and distractions, representing the soul's journey through Samsara.

• Biographical Sketches and Parables (Various Pages): The book includes numerous stories, parables, and biographical accounts of virtuous individuals, saints, and Tirthankaras, illustrating the practical application of Jain principles and the paths to spiritual attainment. These include the life story of Lord Mahavir (Page 104-109), the importance of the "Pap ka Baap" (Ignorance) (Page 113-114), and parables like the "Foolish Servant who Wasted All Four Stages of Life" (Page 83-86).

• Bhajans and Keertans (Numerous Pages): A significant portion of the book is dedicated to devotional songs and hymns (Bhajans and Keertans) that express devotion, praise the Jinas, and articulate the essence of Jain teachings in a lyrical and accessible manner. These songs often reflect on the transient nature of life, the suffering of Samsara, the glory of the Jinas, and the path to liberation.

• The Importance of Samyak Darshan (Page 91-96): Special emphasis is placed on the cultivation of Samyak Darshan (Right Faith), considered the foundational step for spiritual progress. Various texts explain its significance, the obstacles to its attainment, and the attributes of those who possess it.

• The Ten Virtues (Page 97-103): A detailed explanation of the ten cardinal virtues of Jainism (Uttam Kshama - Forgiveness, Uttam Maradava - Humility, Uttam Arjava - Simplicity, Uttam Shaucha - Purity, Uttam Satya - Truthfulness, Uttam Samyama - Restraint, Uttam Tapa - Austerity, Uttam Tyaga - Renunciation, Uttam Akinchanya - Non-possessiveness, Uttam Brahmacharya - Celibacy). Each virtue is illustrated with examples of great souls who embodied them.

• The Importance of Self-Realization (Page 109-112): The texts highlight the ease with which one can realize their true self, despite the perceived difficulties, emphasizing the power of self-enquiry and the guidance of the scriptures and saints.

• The Six Dhala of Kavi Budhjan: This is a significant portion of the book, containing the six chapters (Dhala) of this well-known Jain poetic work. Each Dhala systematically explains aspects of Jain philosophy, including:

  • Dhala 1: Grief of Samsara: Describing the suffering inherent in the cycle of birth and death.
  • Dhala 2: The Nature of Samsara: Further elaborating on the suffering and illusions of worldly existence.
  • Dhala 3: The Qualities of Samyak Darshan: Detailing the virtues and characteristics of Right Faith.
  • Dhala 4: The Virtues of Samyak Darshan: Expanding on the qualities of Right Faith and the avoidance of vices.
  • Dhala 5: The Twelve Vows of a Shravaka: Explaining the ethical commitments of lay followers.
  • Dhala 6: The Path of a Muni, Kevala Gyan, and Moksha: Describing the ultimate stages of spiritual practice leading to liberation.

Overall Purpose:

"Jain Siddhant Pravesh Ratnamala 07" serves as a comprehensive spiritual guide for Jain adherents, particularly those seeking a deeper understanding of their faith. It provides a blend of philosophical exposition, devotional literature, and practical guidance for spiritual growth, encouraging the reader to cultivate detachment, self-knowledge, and adherence to the virtuous path leading to ultimate liberation. The emphasis on the soul's inherent divinity and its journey through Samsara, guided by the teachings of the Jinas, is a recurring theme throughout the text.