Jain Tattva Darshan Part 07

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Tattva Darshan Part 07" by Vardhaman Jain Mandal Chennai, based on the provided pages:

This document is the seventh part of a series titled "Jain Tattva Darshan" (The Vision of Jain Principles), published by Vardhaman Jain Mandal Chennai. It appears to be a curriculum designed for children and young people to learn about Jain principles and practices. The core philosophy of Jainism, "Ahimsa Paramo Dharmaḥ" (Non-violence is the supreme religion), is highlighted on the very first page.

Key Themes and Sections:

1. Homage and Dedication:

   • The book begins with salutations to Shri Chandraprabh Swami, the eighth Tirthankar.
   • It is dedicated to the memory of Pandit Bhushan Pandit Varya Shri Kunvarjibhai Dosi (1913-2005), a prominent scholar and spiritual guide who spread Jain knowledge in Chennai for 45 years. His contributions in various fields like Tattva Gyan, Jyotish, Sanskrit, and Grammar are acknowledged, along with his role in numerous consecrations and his influence in guiding many towards a monastic life.

2. The Purpose of "Sanskar Vatika" (Culture Garden):

   • The "Sanskar Vatika" initiative was started by Vardhaman Jain Mandal Chennai in 2006 with the aim of imparting Jain knowledge and instilling faith in children.
   • It emphasizes that true knowledge is what awakens discernment, teaching one what to do, what not to do, what to speak, what not to speak, what to think, what not to think, what to leave, and what not to leave. This is the knowledge of "Hea, Hea, Upadeya" (what to avoid, what to cherish, what to accept).
   • Children are likened to blotting paper, readily absorbing the values and teachings instilled by parents and teachers.
   • The curriculum (Parts 1 to 9) aims to impart foundational knowledge, conceptual understanding, and Tattva Gyan (philosophical knowledge) to children and youth, fostering respect for Jainism and its practices.

3. Importance of Jain Education:

   • The text stresses that simply memorizing scriptures is insufficient; understanding the meaning, secrets, and practical application of sutras is crucial to developing interest in religious activities.
   • This educational endeavor has expanded globally, reaching corners of the world.
   • The teachers are dedicated individuals who sincerely impart this knowledge.

4. Guidance and Support:

   • The publication of these courses has received guidance and blessings from various Jain Acharyas and Munis, whose names are listed, including P.P. Nyas Sri AjaySagarji M.S. and others.
   • The Mandal expresses gratitude to all who have contributed to the printing of these books, including Acharyas, Munis, teachers, beneficiaries, and knowledge seekers.

5. Content Overview (as indicated by the Table of Contents and sample pages):

   • Tirthankar Parichay: Introduction to the Tirthankaras (pages 9-10).
   • Poetry Collection (Kavya Sangrah): Includes prayers, praises (Prabhustuti), and devotional hymns (Chaityavandan, Stavana, Stuti) dedicated to Tirthankaras like Shri Neminath and Shri Parshvanath (pages 10-13).
   • Jain Puja Vidhi: Detailed step-by-step guide on performing Jain worship, including bathing rituals, wearing puja clothes, the method of preparing and offering materials like sandalwood, rice (Akshat), flowers, etc. It emphasizes purity, reverence, and adherence to Jain codes of conduct during worship (pages 14-21). This section is particularly extensive, covering various aspects of temple rituals.
   • Knowledge (Gyan):
     • Holi is Sin's Bag: Discourages the celebration of Holi, highlighting the severe violence (himsa) involved and the resulting karmic penalties (pages 24-25).
     • Diwali Turned into Holi: Critiques the misuse of Diwali for fireworks, emphasizing the violence against all forms of life (panch-kaya jiva), harm to health, financial wastage, and negative karmic consequences (pages 25-28).
     • Insult of Lakshmi and Saraswati: Discusses how fireworks with images of deities are disrespectful and how pollution from crackers harms health and the environment (pages 28-29).
   • Navapad: Explains the significance of the five sacred syllables of the Navkar Mantra, focusing on the concept of "Dharma" (righteousness) and the importance of "Vinaya" (humility) in overcoming ego. It details the benefits of chanting the Navkar mantra for purification and spiritual progress (pages 29-34).
   • Nad-Ghosh: Short slogans and affirmations related to Jain principles like Ahimsa, leading a disciplined life, and praising Jainism (page 35).
   • Mere Guru: The importance of respecting and serving Gurus, including the proper way to invite them for "Gochari" (alms rounds) and the benefits of "Supatra Dan" (giving alms to worthy recipients) through the story of Shalimallu and his spiritual upliftment (pages 35-38).
   • Dincharya (Daily Routine): Outlines the "Nine Ornaments of Chaturmas" (Vows and observances during the rainy season), including Samayik, Pratikraman, Paushadh, Parmatma Puja, Snatra Puja, Vilepan Puja, Brahmacharya, Dan, and Tapascharaya (pages 39-41).
   • Bhojan Vivek (Dietary Discernment): Offers detailed advice on avoiding certain foods and products, highlighting concerns about non-vegetarian ingredients (eggs, animal rennet, bone powder) in toothpaste, chocolates, biscuits, and cold drinks. It also discusses the importance of choosing pure and ethical food sources and avoiding processed or adulterated items (pages 41-48). The text strongly advocates for boiled water and explains the Jain perspective on it.
   • Mata-Pita Ka Upakar (The Boon of Parents): Emphasizes filial piety, respect, and service towards parents, citing examples of great souls who honored their parents' wishes (pages 49-52).
   • Jivdaya - Jayana (Compassion for Living Beings): Explains the Jain principle of Ahimsa (non-violence) and the importance of "Jayana" (careful protection of all life forms). It details the classification of living beings (Jiva) into different categories (ekendriya, beindriya, etc.) and their various forms, along with the concept of "Prayapti" (stages of development) (pages 53-59). It also discusses identifying and protecting against microscopic life forms like "Nigod" and "Phulan" (mold/fungus).
   • Vinay - Vivek (Humility and Discernment): Discusses the sanctity of "Devdravya" (property dedicated to Jain temples) and the severe consequences of misappropriating it. It highlights the importance of honesty and righteousness in all dealings, especially concerning religious contributions (pages 60-61).
   • Samyag Gyan (Right Knowledge): Delves into the concept of Karma, explaining the causes and consequences of bonding different types of karmas (Jnana-avaraniya, Darshana-avaraniya, Vedaniya, Ayushya, Mohaniya, Antaraya, Nama, and Gotra). It details the "Leshyas" (subtle states of the soul influencing one's demeanor and actions) and their impact on behavior, using the examples of a Jambu tree and thieves to illustrate the different Leshyas (pages 63-71). It also explains the 42 types of meritorious karmas (Punya) and the 82 types of demeritorious karmas (Paap), along with the 12 vows of a Jain layman (Shravak) and the 35 qualities of a righteous householder (Marganusari) (pages 71-82).
   • Jain Geography: Critiques the scientific understanding of the moon and celestial bodies, presenting an alternative perspective based on Jain cosmology. It questions the authenticity of the moon landing and discusses the nature of sunlight and moonlight from a Jain viewpoint (pages 84-91).
   • Sutras and Methods: Lists various Jain sutras and methodologies related to rituals and practices (pages 92-93).
   • Stories: Includes moral stories to illustrate Jain principles:
     • Surya and Chandra: The story of two princes, one favored and the other unjustly treated, highlighting the consequences of parental bias and the transformative power of embracing Ahimsa (pages 93-95).
     • Raja Hans: The tale of a righteous king who upholds truth even in difficult situations, showcasing the benefits of integrity and the power of divine intervention (pages 95-101).
     • Bhavi Tirthankar Gwale Devpal ki Katha: The story of Devpal, a cowherd who, through devotion to Lord Adinath's idol, becomes a king and eventually binds the Tirthankar karma. It also touches upon the karmic consequences of actions (pages 101-105).
     • Mahan Singh ki Katha: Illustrates the steadfastness in religious vows and the power of Pratikraman (repentance rituals), even under duress, showcasing the integrity of a devoted follower (pages 106-108).
   • Question and Answer Section: Includes exercises for students to test their understanding of the material covered in the book (pages 109-114).
   • General Knowledge: A word search puzzle related to Jain pilgrimage sites (page 112).
   • Diagrams: Visual representations of the classification of living beings (Jiva) and their various forms (pages 114-119).
   • Conclusion: A final message emphasizing the benefits of attending religious schools for moral and spiritual development, calling children "precious wealth of the community" (page 119).

In essence, "Jain Tattva Darshan Part 07" is a comprehensive educational resource designed to systematically teach young Jains about their faith, from foundational prayers and rituals to the deeper philosophical concepts of karma, leshyas, and ethical conduct, all through engaging stories and detailed explanations.