Jain Tattvagyan Saral Bhasha Ma

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Tattvagyan Saral Bhasha ma" by Chandrashekharvijay, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Jain Tattvagyan Saral Bhasha ma (Jain Philosophy in Simple Language) Author: Pt. Chandrashekharvijayji Publisher: Kamal Prakashan Trust, Ahmedabad

Overall Purpose: This book aims to explain the fundamental principles of Jain philosophy and spiritual science in a simple, accessible language. It is structured around the four "Anuyogas" (narrative expositions) of Jain literature: Dravyanuyoga, Charan Karananuyoga, Ganitanuyoga, and Dharmakathaanuyoga. The author emphasizes Dravyanuyoga, which deals with the nature of reality and the six fundamental substances (Dravyas) of the universe, as the most crucial for spiritual progress and karmic liberation.

Key Concepts and Structure:

The book is organized to present Jain Tattvagyan (philosophy) in a step-by-step manner, often supported by illustrative diagrams (Chitrapat).

Part 1: Introduction to Jain Philosophy (Anuyogas and Substances)

• Four Anuyogas: The book begins by explaining the four traditional classifications of Jain scriptures:
  • Dravyanuyoga: Focuses on the six fundamental substances (Dravyas) that constitute reality: Jiva (soul), Pudgal (matter), Dharmastikay (medium of motion), Adharmastikay (medium of rest), Akashaastikay (space), and Kaal (time). Dravyas are defined as collections of qualities and attributes that exist perpetually. Of these, only Jiva is conscious; the other five are inert.
  • Charan Karananuyoga: Deals with the conduct and practices of ascetics (Sadhus) and lay followers, outlining virtues and rules of living.
  • Ganitanuyoga: Concerns the mathematical and quantitative aspects of Jain cosmology and philosophy.
  • Dharmakathaanuyoga: Involves religious narratives and stories that illustrate Jain principles.
• Dravyanuyoga's Importance: Dravyanuyoga is highlighted as the most significant Anuyoga because it provides the foundational knowledge of the six substances. Understanding these substances is essential for karma-kshaya (annihilation of karmas) and deeper spiritual understanding. Without this foundation, other Anuyogas may fall short in their karmic efficacy.
• Analogy of Iron: The author uses the analogy of iron for Dravyanuyoga – essential for shaping other metals (like gold or silver) which represent other Anuyogas.

Part 2: Core Principles and Illuminations (Chapters/Sections)

The book then delves into specific topics, many of which are presented with illustrative charts and diagrams:

1. Shriman Mahavir Dev - The Savior: The book honors Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara, acknowledging his role in revealing the Jain path and the extensive knowledge of the Anuyogas. The author expresses gratitude and personal connection to Mahavir.
2. Lord Mahavir's Teachings Verified by Science: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to demonstrating how Lord Mahavir's teachings, delivered thousands of years ago, are being validated by modern science. This is presented as a testament to his omniscience. Examples include:
   • The composition of water from Hydrogen and Oxygen, as stated by Mahavir.
   • The existence of life (Jivas) in earth, water, fire, air, and plants, a concept predating modern scientific discoveries.
   • The detailed classification of living beings and their sensory capacities, aligning with scientific observation.
   • The concept of karma and reincarnation, supported by modern research on past-life regression.
   • The understanding of karma's impact on one's destiny, the cyclical nature of birth and death, and the principles of cause and effect.
   • The influence of celestial bodies (like the moon) on biological processes.
   • The concept of the soul (Atma) as distinct from the body and its eternal nature.
   • The scientific basis for principles like non-violence (Ahimsa), vegetarianism (avoiding night-root vegetables), and ethical conduct.
   • The principles of relativity and the concept of infinite substances (Anekantavada), as expounded by Mahavir, are also touched upon as being conceptually similar to modern scientific ideas.
   • The author draws parallels with figures like Jagdish Chandra Bose and Pythagoras to support Mahavir's scientific insights.
3. The Existence and Nature of the Soul (Atma):
   • Atma exists: The book asserts that the soul (Atma) is a distinct, conscious entity separate from the body. Its existence is proven through inference and direct experience of consciousness ("I" consciousness).
   • Atma is Eternal (Nitya): The soul is neither born nor does it die; it is eternal, existing from beginningless time to endless time. The perceived "death" is merely the separation of the soul from the body.
   • Atma as the Doer (Karta) and Experiencer (Bhokta) of Karma: The soul is the agent that performs actions (karmas) and the one that experiences their consequences. Karma is not a punishment from an external force but a natural consequence of one's own actions. The book explains the process of karma binding, including the four types of bondage (Prakriti, Sthiti, Ras, Pradesh) and the formation of karmic matter (Karmic Vargana).
   • The Two Forms of Atma: Jiva and Shiva: The soul in bondage, affected by karmas, is called Jiva. The liberated soul, free from all karmas, is called Shiva or Siddha.
   • The Three Guptis (Restraints): The book emphasizes the importance of controlling mind, speech, and body to achieve spiritual progress.
   • The "Three Anadis" (Beginningless Principles): The soul, the universe, and the soul-karma relationship are all beginningless.
4. Karma and its Effects:
   • The book explains that karmas are subtle particles that attach to the soul, influencing its experiences.
   • It details how various actions, thoughts, and intentions lead to the binding of different types of karmas.
   • The author discusses the concept of "Anubandh" (tendency or ingrained habit formed through repeated actions) as a key factor in how karmic effects manifest.
   • The book highlights the danger of intense "Ras" (flavor or intensity) in karmic binding, especially in negative actions, which can lead to severe consequences (like lower birth states).
   • It explains the concept of "Abadhakaal" (period before karma ripens) as a crucial time for spiritual effort to modify or neutralize karmas.
5. Moksha (Liberation) and its Means:
   • Moksha Exists: The ultimate goal of Jainism is Moksha, the complete liberation of the soul from all karmic bondage.
   • Moksha is Attainable: The book clarifies that Moksha is achievable through dedicated spiritual practice.
   • The Means: Sarvavirati (Complete Renunciation/Austerity): The path to Moksha is through Sarvavirati, which involves the strict adherence to the vows of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession, cultivated through right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct (Ratnatraya).
   • The Nature of Moksha: Moksha is described as a state of infinite bliss, consciousness, and power, free from birth, death, old age, and suffering. It is a state of pure, unadulterated soul.
6. The Soul's Development (Vikas Krama) and the Fourteen Guņasṭhānas (Stages of Spiritual Evolution):
   • The book illustrates the soul's journey through various stages of spiritual development, starting from the most basic, unmanifested state (Nigoda) in the Dravyanuyoga context, progressing through different forms of existence (one-sensed, two-sensed, etc., up to five-sensed beings), and eventually reaching human birth, spiritual practice, and ultimately liberation.
   • The Fourteen Guņasṭhānas are presented as a detailed roadmap of the soul's spiritual journey, from the lowest state of utter ignorance and delusion (Mithyatva) to the highest state of absolute omniscience and liberation (Siddhahood). The diagrams show the progression, the obstacles encountered, and the stages of overcoming them. The author breaks down each Guņasṭhāna, explaining its characteristics, the types of karmas involved, and the associated spiritual qualities or shortcomings.
7. The Eight Karmas (Ashtakarma):
   • The book systematically details the eight types of karmas: Jñānāvaraṇiya (knowledge-obscuring), Darshanāvaraṇiya (perception-obscuring), Vedaniya (feeling-producing), Mohaniya (delusion-producing), Āyuṣya (lifespan-determining), Nāma (body-determining), Gotra (status-determining), and Antarāya (obstacle-creating).
   • Each karma is explained in terms of its nature, its effects on the soul, and the specific actions or thoughts that lead to its binding. The author uses analogies to clarify the workings of karma.
   • The profound danger of Mohaniya karma, especially Mithyātva Mohaniya (illusionary delusion), is emphasized as the root cause of spiritual downfall and the primary obstacle to achieving right faith (Samyakdarshan).
8. The Fourteen Rajlokas (Realms of Existence):
   • The book describes the Jain cosmology, the structure of the universe divided into Lokakasha (occupied space) and Alokakasha (unoccupied space).
   • Lokakasha is further divided into three realms: Urdhva Lok (upper world), Madhyaloka (middle world), and Adho Lok (lower world).
   • The text explains the various levels of heavens (Devlokas), hells (Narakas), and the realms inhabited by plant-bodied beings (Nigoda), one-sensed beings, and higher-sensed beings, including humans and Tiryanchas (animals).
   • The author emphasizes that the Loka (universe) is eternal and not created by any external deity.
9. The Two and a Half Continents (Adhai Dwipa):
   • This section focuses on the geographical structure of the universe relevant to human existence, specifically the Adhai Dwipa, which is the region where humans reside and can attain liberation.
   • It describes the Jambudvipa, Dhatkikhand, and Pushkarvar islands, along with the oceans separating them, and the central Mount Meru. The concept of karma-bhumi (land of action) where spiritual progress is possible is explained in relation to these regions.
10. The Cycle of Time (Kaalchakra):
    • The book details the Jain concept of time as cyclical, divided into Utsarpini (ascending cycle of time) and Avasarpini (descending cycle of time).
    • Each cycle is further divided into six "Aras" (periods), each with progressively diminishing spiritual and physical characteristics for humans in Avasarpini, and increasing characteristics in Utsarpini. The current era is identified as the fifth Ara of Avasarpini, characterized by increasing sorrow and diminishing spiritual qualities.
11. The Process of Granthished (Untying Karmic Knots):
    • This section delves into the intricate mechanism of how karmas bind the soul and how they are gradually released. It explains concepts like Yataapravrittikaran, Apoorva Karan, and Anivrittikaran as stages in the process of weakening and severing karmic bondage.
    • The author uses analogies to explain these subtle processes, emphasizing the importance of correct understanding and practice for spiritual liberation.
12. The Nature of God (Ishwar Ktvvichar):
    • The book addresses the Jain perspective on God. Jains do not believe in a creator God. Instead, the highest spiritual beings are the Arihants and Siddhas (liberated souls), who have achieved perfection through their own efforts.
    • The author clarifies that while Jains revere these perfected souls as Gods, they do not attribute the creation or governance of the universe to them. The universe is seen as eternal and self-governing through the laws of karma and the inherent nature of substances.

Author's Perspective and Emphasis:

• Practicality and Simplicity: Pt. Chandrashekharvijayji's primary goal is to make complex philosophical concepts understandable to the common person, especially youth. He uses simple language, relatable examples, and avoids overly technical jargon.
• Personal Experience: The author often refers to his spiritual lineage and the teachings of his Guru, Mahamahopadhyay Shri Vijay Prem Surishwarji Maharaj, indicating a deep personal connection to the subject matter.
• Validation of Jain Teachings: A strong theme throughout the book is the attempt to align Jain principles with scientific understanding, presenting Jainism as a timeless and universally true philosophy.
• Emphasis on Self-Effort: The book consistently reinforces the Jain doctrine of self-reliance in spiritual progress. Liberation is not a gift but a result of one's own diligent efforts in following the path.
• Importance of Pure Conduct: The author stresses that true spiritual progress comes not just from intellectual understanding but from the rigorous practice of virtuous conduct (Charitra).

Target Audience:

The book is intended for Jain followers, students of Jain philosophy, and anyone seeking to understand the core tenets of Jainism in a straightforward manner. The author specifically mentions that the book is designed to be a valuable resource for spiritual leaders (Shramanas) and participants in religious camps.

Overall Message:

"Jain Tattvagyan Saral Bhasha ma" is a comprehensive guide to Jain philosophy that seeks to demystify its intricate doctrines. It emphasizes the soul's eternal nature, the workings of karma, the path to liberation through virtuous conduct, and the profound wisdom of Lord Mahavir, which is presented as being validated by the very laws of the universe. The book serves as both an educational tool and an inspiration for spiritual seekers.