Jainopanishad

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jainopanishad" by Buddhisagar, based on the provided pages:

Title: Jainopanishad (जैनोपनिषद्) Author: Acharya Buddhisagar Suriji Publisher: Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal Publication Context: This text is presented as the 45th volume in the Shrimad Buddhisagarji Granthamala. It was published in Veer Samvat 2443 (1917 AD) and Vikram Samvat 1973. The book's aim is to promote the progress and prosperity of Jains and Jainism in the world.

Core Purpose and Theme:

The "Jainopanishad" aims to define and elaborate on the qualities and practices that constitute a true Jain. It goes beyond mere identification by birth and emphasizes the internal disposition, actions, and understanding of Jain principles. The text seeks to guide Jains towards spiritual upliftment and the revival of Jainism.

Key Concepts and Definitions of a Jain:

The book systematically defines what it means to be a Jain through various sections, each highlighting a specific characteristic or aspect of Jain identity and practice. These include:

1. Jinasya Upasakah (जिनस्योपासकाः - Worshippers of Jina):

   • True Jains are those who worship Jina, the Tirthankar Parmatma.
   • Jinas are described as omniscient, beyond the three gunas (Sattva, Rajas, Tamas), and thus considered the supreme deities (Mahadeva, Maheshwar, Vishnu, Shankar).
   • The text equates Jinas with various divine names like Krishna, Hari, Buddha, Vishweshwar, Vasudev, and Rama, based on their qualities and actions (destroying sins, bestowing happiness, drawing beings to Dharma).
   • Jains are those who have love and devotion for Jina, practice their teachings (good thoughts and conduct), strive to conquer vices, gain strength over weaknesses, and emulate Jina's virtues.

2. Jinavachanajñah (जिनवचनज्ञाः - Knower of Jina's Words):

   • These are individuals who understand the teachings of Jina as found in the Agamas and Nigamas.
   • They internalize this knowledge, develop a love for truth, and abandon falsehood.
   • Living according to Jina's word, even to the best of one's ability, and accepting Jina's advice is paramount.
   • True knowledge comes from deeply contemplating Jina's words under the guidance of a Guru.

3. Jainadharmasaṃskāradhārakāḥ (जैनधर्मसंस्कारधारकाः - Bearers of Jain Religious Sacraments):

   • Jains are those who observe the sacraments prescribed in Jain scriptures.
   • These sacraments, starting from conception, are crucial for developing Jain qualities.
   • The text emphasizes the role of householder Gurus in performing these sacraments, which lead to the emergence of great Jains.
   • It stresses that even individuals from Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra backgrounds can adopt Jainism by embracing its sacraments.

4. Jinājñāpālakāḥ (जिनाज्ञापालकाः - Observers of Jina's Commands):

   • These are individuals who follow the commands of Jina.
   • Both householders and ascetics must adhere to Jina's commands according to their roles.
   • Acquiring knowledge from Jain Acharyas is essential for understanding and following these commands, as Acharyas are seen as inheritors of Jina's lineage and teachings.
   • Following Jina's commands can lead to the welfare of the world and ultimately liberation.

5. Jainasaṅkhyāvr̥ddhikaraḥ (जैनसंख्यावृद्धिकराः - Propagators of Jain Numbers):

   • True Jains actively work to increase the Jain population through wealth, teaching, support, and knowledge.
   • This involves establishing Gurukuls, creating new Jains through proper sacraments across all four castes, and actively spreading Jain principles.
   • The text laments the decline in Jain numbers from 400 million to 1.3 million over millennia and calls for concerted efforts for growth.
   • It emphasizes seeing no difference between Jina and Jains as a way to increase Jain numbers.

6. Jainadharmaprachārakāḥ (जैनधर्मप्रचारकाः - Propagators of Jain Dharma):

   • These are individuals who spread Jain Dharma throughout the world.
   • Historical figures like Samprati Raja, King Khāravela, King Kumārapāla, and Āchārya Hemachandra are cited as examples of effective propagators.
   • Propagation should be done through strength, knowledge, teaching, and wealth, with the collective effort of the Sangha.
   • The text advocates for integrating the truthful aspects of other religions into Jainism and demonstrating compassion, helpfulness, and friendship to attract others. It highlights the importance of living examples of Jainism.
   • The author questions the sustainability of Jainism if it lacks the vibrancy of the four varnas (castes) and suggests that such practices are necessary for its survival and revival.

7. Jinasāgamavigatmasvādhyāditaparah (जिनागमनिगमस्वाध्यायादितत्पराः - Diligent in Studying Jina's Agamas and Nigamas):

   • Jains must study both the Agamas (scriptures revealed by Tirthankaras) and Nigamas (interpretations and traditions, possibly including texts like Jain Upanishads and Jain Ārryaveda).
   • The preservation and study of both are crucial for the continuity of Jainism, as the loss of one affects the other.
   • Contemplation, remembrance, and deep meditation on these texts are emphasized.

8. Catuvidha Saṅghabhaktikaraḥ (चतुर्विधसङ्घभक्तिकराः - Devoted to the Four-Fold Sangha):

   • The fourfold Sangha (Sadhus, Sadhvis, Shravakas, Shravikas) is considered supreme and worthy of worship, even more so than Tirthankaras.
   • Protecting, nourishing, supporting, and removing obstacles for the Sangha is a form of devotion.
   • Fostering knowledge, right vision, and right conduct within the Sangha and resolving internal disorder are acts of devotion.

9. Devaguru Sevārasikāḥ (देवगुरुसेवा र सिकाः - Enthusiastic in Serving Deities and Gurus):

   • Serving deities (Jina idols) and Gurus can develop one's spiritual potential.
   • Such service leads to purity of faith (Samyaktva) and can inspire others.
   • Serving Gurus is essential for acquiring knowledge, right vision, and conduct, and for receiving their grace, which is equivalent to the grace of the supreme soul.
   • True service involves identifying with the Guru's soul.

10. Catūrvarṇaguṇakarmānusāreṇa Dharmārādhanatatparaḥ (चतुर्वर्णगुणकर्मानुसारेण धर्माराधनतत्पराः - Diligent in Religious Devotion According to the Qualities and Duties of the Four Varnas):

    • This section reiterates the importance of following the prescribed duties of the four varnas.
    • It explains how deviations from these duties led to a decline in Jainism, particularly the loss of martial (Kshatriya) and administrative roles, leaving only mercantile (Vaishya) Jains.
    • The call is to revive adherence to varna-based duties to uphold Jain Dharma.

11. Sādhuvrayatyakārakāḥ (साधुवयात्यकारकाः - Practicers of Ascetic Vows):

    • Ascetics (Sadhus) are the embodiments of Jain Dharma and experience the bliss of liberation.
    • Their importance is immense, and they should not be disrespected.
    • Serving Sadhus leads to the attainment of the Divine and spiritual welfare.
    • The text emphasizes unflinching service to Sadhus, noting that seeing fault in them negates the merit of service.

12. Dharmāchāryājñānusāraprāvartakāḥ (धर्माचार्याज्ञानुसारप्रवर्त्तकाः - Acting According to the Teachings of Jain Dharma Acharyas):

    • The teachings of Acharyas, who are the successors of Tirthankaras, are considered the direct commands of Lord Mahavir.
    • Following their guidance is crucial for religious progress and self-welfare.
    • Acharyas have no self-interest other than the growth of Dharma.

13. Tathāvidha DravyakṣetraKālabhāvena Dharmarakṣakāḥ (तथाविधद्रव्यक्षेत्रकालभावेन धर्मरक्षकाः - Protectors of Dharma According to Appropriate Substance, Place, Time, and Disposition):

    • This highlights the need to protect Jain Dharma using appropriate means, place, time, and attitude.
    • It calls for self-sacrifice and pride in Jainism, remembering the sacrifices of past Acharyas.
    • The text warns that those who abandon Jainism become insignificant and that the survival of Jainism depends on the pride and effort of its followers.

14. Sarvadēśīya Sarvavarṇeṣu Jainadharmaprachārakāḥ (सर्वदेशीय सर्ववर्णेषु जैनधर्मप्रचारकाः - Propagators of Jain Dharma Across All Countries and All Varnas):

    • This expands on the propagation theme, emphasizing that Jain Dharma is for all beings, across all countries and castes.
    • It suggests translating Jain scriptures into all languages and educating people in foreign lands, following the example of figures like Vivekananda and Virchand Gandhi.
    • The text stresses the inclusive and universal nature of Jainism, advocating for a broad and welcoming approach.

15. Āpātkālatāpaddharmakarmabhirmoonnati Sādhakāḥ (आपत्कालत्वापद्धर्मकर्मभि नोन्नतिसाधकाः - Achievers of Progress Through Dharma Actions in Times of Calamity):

    • In critical times, Jains must adopt specific Dharma actions (Āpad-Dharma) to protect and advance Jainism.
    • Examples are drawn from historical figures and events where adaptive strategies were used for survival and revival.
    • This includes making necessary changes in practices according to time and circumstance.

16. Jinaguṇaviśiṣṭasarvadevanāmamantropāsakāḥ (जिनगुणविशिष्ठसर्वदेवनाममंत्रोपासकाः - Devotees of Mantras of All Deities Embodying Jina's Qualities):

    • This section emphasizes the practice of chanting mantras dedicated to deities embodying Jina's qualities.
    • Reciting names like Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva, Hari, etc., when understood as Jina's attributes, purifies the soul.
    • Mantras like the Namaskara Mantra are highlighted for their power to destroy karma and lead to spiritual realization.

17. Vyāvahārikadhārmikasarvaśubhaśaktigrahakāḥ (व्यावहारिकधार्मिकसर्वशुभशक्तिग्राहकाः - Recipients of All Auspicious Practical and Religious Powers):

    • Jains should cultivate both worldly and spiritual powers.
    • This includes acquiring wealth, political power, knowledge, skills, and physical strength, as well as spiritual powers.
    • The decline in Jain numbers is attributed to the loss of these powers and excessive indulgence in worldly pleasures.
    • The text stresses the need to develop all these strengths to uplift the Jain community.

18. Sarvaśaktivighātakāśubha Vicārāchāranivārakāḥ (सर्वशक्तिविघातकाऽशुभविचाराचारनिवारकाः - Preventers of Evil Thoughts and Actions That Hinder All Powers):

    • Jains should eliminate negative thoughts and practices that hinder progress.
    • This includes condemning child marriage, against-nature practices, addictions (alcohol, meat, gambling), and promiscuity.
    • The text also advises against becoming weak or dependent and emphasizes the need for practical skills and knowledge.

19. Dhanasattāvidyābalavīryavantaḥ (धन सत्ताविद्याबलवीर्यवन्तः - Possessors of Wealth, Power, Knowledge, Strength, and Virility):

    • Jains should strive for financial stability, position, knowledge, physical strength, and spiritual vigor.
    • These worldly powers are necessary for self-sufficiency and for the propagation of Dharma.
    • The text compares wealth to a tool and emphasizes the superior importance of knowledge and spiritual strength.

20. Rājya Samāja Kuṭumba Jñāti Saṅghavyavasthā Pravartimantaḥ (राज्य समाजकुटुम्बज्ञातिसंघव्यवस्याप्रवृत्तिमन्तः - Actively Involved in State, Society, Family, Clan, and Sangha Administration):

    • Jains should participate actively in managing state affairs, societal structures, family matters, and the administration of the Jain community.
    • This involvement is seen as a way to ensure peace, prosperity, and the advancement of Jain principles.

21. Jaineṣu Jinavat Pūjyabhāva Dhārakāḥ (जैनेषु जिनवत्पूज्यभावधारकाः - Holding Reverence for Jains as for Jina):

    • Jains should hold deep reverence for fellow Jains, seeing them as embodiments of Jina.
    • Respecting and aiding fellow Jains is seen as a direct service to Jina.
    • The text emphasizes unity and mutual support within the community.

22. Sarva Sāpekṣanayadr̥ṣṭibhiḥ Sarvatattvavicārakāḥ (सर्वसापेक्षनयदृष्टिभिः सर्वतत्त्वविचारकाः - Thinkers of All Truths from a Relative Perspective):

    • Jains should be open-minded, accepting the truths in all religions from a relative perspective.
    • This inclusive approach, characterized by broad-mindedness and compassion, is key to spreading Jainism.
    • Understanding and integrating the valuable aspects of other faiths enriches Jainism.

23. Jainasaṅkhyāddḥacā Jina Vr̥ddhimanyamānāḥ (जैनसंख्याद्धचा जिनवृद्धिमन्मानाः - Believers that the Increase of Jain Numbers Leads to the Increase of Jina's Glory):

    • The growth of the Jain community is seen as directly contributing to the glory and spread of Jina's teachings.
    • Each new Jain is considered a step towards spiritual liberation.

24. Prativarṣamahāsaṅghapūjāvātsalyakārakāḥ (प्रतिवर्षमहासंघपूजावात्सल्यकारकाः - Those Who Perform Annual Worship and Affection towards the Great Sangha):

    • This section highlights the importance of annually honoring and showing affection to the fourfold Sangha.
    • Such devotion is seen as a path to high spiritual attainments, including liberation.

25. Jinadeva GuruGuṇakīrtikaraḥ (जिनदेवगुरुगुणकीर्तिकराः - Praisers of the Virtues of Jina and Guru):

    • Singing the praises of Jina and Gurus purifies the soul and inspires others.
    • Devotion through praise leads to the reduction of karma and attainment of liberation.

26. Yathāśaktisamyaktvapūrvakavratadhārakāḥ (यथाशक्तिसम्यक्त्वपूर्वकव्रतधारकाः - Holders of Vows with Right Faith and According to Their Capacity):

    • Jains should observe vows according to their strength and with right faith.
    • Even observing one vow is beneficial and a step towards spiritual progress.

27. Jangamasthāvaratīrthakā:

    • Jains should venerate both mobile (ascetics) and immobile (holy places) Tirthas.
    • Visiting and honoring ascetics and holy sites annually is recommended.

28. Jainadharmāchāryopadiṣṭadharmakarmaratāḥ (जैनधर्मआचार्योपदिष्टधर्मकर्मरताः - Engaged in Religious Actions as Advised by Jain Dharma Acharyas):

    • Following the specific religious duties and actions prescribed by Jain Acharyas is essential.
    • Doubt and intellectual quibbling are discouraged; instead, faith-based adherence is encouraged.

29. Jainadharmarakṣārtha Sarvopāyaḥ Pravartakāḥ (जैनधर्मरक्षार्थ सर्वोपायैः प्रवर्तकार - Practicing All Means for the Protection of Jain Dharma):

    • This emphasizes the active role of Jains in protecting their religion through various means, especially in the face of opposition.
    • It calls for proactive measures and vigilance to counter criticisms and threats to Jainism.

30. Jainānom Pragatyartham Sarvaśaktiprachārakāḥ (जैनानां प्रगत्यर्थं सर्वशक्तिप्रचारकाः - Propagators of All Strengths for the Progress of Jains):

    • Jains should develop and utilize all their collective strengths for the progress and upliftment of the community.

31. Aikyena Saṅghabalarakṣakāḥ (ऐक्येन संघबलरक्षकाः - Protectors of Sangha Strength Through Unity):

    • Unity is paramount for protecting the strength of the Sangha, despite any differences in sects or groups.
    • Discord within the Sangha is detrimental, and unity is the key to strength and progress.

32. Vartamānakālakṣetrānusāreṇa Jainānāṃ vr̥ddhyartha Rājyaraksopāyavadāp Dharma Kармаभिḥ Karmayōgīnaḥ Vartante (वर्तमानकालक्षेत्रानुसारेण जैनानां वृद्धयर्थ राज्यरक्षोपायवदाप धर्मकर्मभिः कर्मयोगिनः वर्तन्ते):

    • In the current era, Jains must be like active participants (Karmayogis) in worldly affairs, adopting strategies similar to those used for state protection during times of crisis, to ensure the growth and survival of the Jain community.

33. Jainadharmagurukulōdyōtakāḥ (जैनधर्मगुरुकुलोद्योतकाः - Promoters of Jain Dharma Gurukuls):

    • Establishing and supporting Jain Gurukuls for all four types of disciples (householder males, householder females, Sadhvis, Sadhus) is crucial for imparting Jain knowledge and fostering religious pride.

34. Sādharmikārtha Sarvasvārpaṇakārakāḥ (साधर्मिकार्थ सर्वस्वार्पणकारकाः - Those Who Dedicate Everything for Fellow Jains):

    • Jains should be willing to dedicate all their resources and efforts for the welfare and support of their fellow Jains.
    • Mutual support is a fundamental principle for the community's strength.

35. Kṣetrakālānusāreṇa Brāhmaṇa Kṣatriya Vaiśya Śūdra Karma Virājivika Vr̥tti Dhārakāḥ (क्षेत्रकालानुसारेण ब्राह्मणक्षत्रियवैश्यशूद्र कर्मभिराजीविकावृत्तिधारकाः - Those Who Earn Their Livelihood Through the Karmas of Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra According to Place and Time):

    • Jains should earn their livelihood through honest means, respecting the duties associated with their respective societal roles, without resorting to unethical practices.

36. Gṛhasthāgurunāṁ Tyāgi Gurunāṁ ca Yathāyogaṁ Bhaktikārakāḥ (गृहस्थगुरूणां त्यागिगुरूणां च यथायोगं भक्तिकारकाः - Devoted to Householder Gurus and Ascetic Gurus Appropriately):

    • While revering ascetic Gurus as superior, appropriate devotion should also be shown to householder Gurus who perform important rituals and uphold Jain traditions.

37. Deśarājyadharmakarmabhiḥ Pragatikārakāḥ (देशराज्यधर्मकर्मभिः प्रगतिकारकाः - Progress-Makers Through National, State, and Religious Duties):

    • Jains should actively participate in national and state affairs, seeing it as a part of their duty.
    • This involvement, along with religious duties, contributes to both individual and collective progress.

38. Anēkāntabrahmadharmārādhanāḥ (अनेकान्तब्रह्मधर्माराधकाः - Worshippers of Brahma-Dharma and the Principles of Anekanta):

    • Jains should understand and practice the principles of Anekanta (multi-sidedness) and the true nature of the soul (Brahma-Dharma).
    • The soul, being the essence of Jina's virtues, should be realized and its powers harnessed for Jainism's advancement.

39. Dravya Bhāva Vairijayēna Sārthakanāmadhārakāḥ (द्रव्यभाववैरिजयेन सार्थकनामधारकाः - Those Whose Names are Worthy by Conquering Material and Spiritual Enemies):

    • True Jains are those who conquer internal and external enemies, remaining steadfast and courageous.
    • Cowardice and defeat in any endeavor bring shame to the name of Jain.

40. Praśasyavyāvahārika Dhārmikaśakti Sam pannāḥ (प्रशस्यव्यावहारिकधार्मिकशक्तिसम्पन्नाः - Endowed with Praiseworthy Practical and Religious Powers):

    • Jains should possess commendable practical skills (economic, physical, intellectual) and religious powers.
    • These powers are essential for survival, progress, and the propagation of Dharma.

41. Pañcamārakē'nāryadharmibhyo Viśēṣa Vidyāsattādhana Balavīryādi Bhiḥ (पञ्चमारकेऽनार्यधर्मिभ्यो विशेषविद्यासत्ताधनबलवीर्यादिभिः - In the Fifth Era, Superior in Knowledge, Power, Wealth, Strength, etc., than Non-Dharmic People):

    • In the current age of spiritual decline, Jains must be superior in all worldly powers and spiritual strength compared to those who follow unrighteous paths, to ensure their survival and the protection of Dharma.

42. Udāravichāradhārakāḥ (उदारविचारधारकाः - Bearers of Liberal Thoughts):

    • Jains should cultivate liberal and broad-minded thoughts and actions, embracing all aspects of life and religion.
    • Narrow-mindedness has led to the decline of Jainism, and a liberal approach is needed to attract and retain followers and to promote universal well-being.

43. Gāyanīti rīti rakṣā (गायनीतिरीतिरक्षा - Protection of Aryan Ethics and Traditions):

    • Jains are true Aryans and must protect and propagate the ethical principles and traditions associated with Arya-Dharma.
    • These principles are seen as fundamental for soul purification and societal well-being.

44. Svāśrayāyandinaḥ (स्वाश्रयायन्दिः - Self-Reliant):

    • Jains should be self-reliant and industrious, not dependent on others.
    • Self-reliance is crucial for personal strength, community progress, and the ability to serve Dharma effectively.

45. Karmayōgīnaḥ (कर्मयोगिनः - Practitioners of Karma Yoga):

    • Jains should engage in their duties with detachment, devoid of ego, and with a focus on selfless action, like Arjuna under Krishna's guidance.
    • This involves actively performing necessary worldly and spiritual tasks.

46. Adharmanāśakāḥ (अधर्मनाशकाः - Destroyers of Unrighteousness):

    • Jains must actively combat and eradicate unrighteousness, unethical practices, and harmful beliefs that go against Jain principles.
    • This includes fighting against violence, falsehood, theft, addiction, and divisive ideologies.

47. Prashasyarāgādisaṁyutāḥ (प्रशस्यरागादिसंयुताः - Possessing Praiseworthy Affections and Other Virtues):

    • Jains should cultivate positive affections (love, devotion, faith, brotherhood, compassion) and righteous dislikes (dislike for vices).
    • These refined emotions are essential for spiritual growth and for guiding others towards Jainism.

48. Nityanaiṁittika Vyavahāradharmapragaṭiparāyaṇaḥ (नित्यनैमित्तिक व्यवहारधर्मप्रगतिपरायणाः - Dedicated to the Progress of Daily and Occasional Practical Dharma):

    • Jains must be actively engaged in both the daily and occasional practical aspects of Dharma and worldly life.
    • This involves adapting to changing times and developing necessary skills to survive and thrive, while never compromising core religious principles.

49. Svadharmakarma Pravr̥ttiṣu Nirbhayāḥ (स्वधर्मकर्मप्रवृत्तिषु निर्भयाः - Fearless in the Pursuit of One's Own Dharma and Actions):

    • Jains must be fearless in their religious practices and in their efforts to uplift their community and Dharma.
    • Overcoming fear is crucial for self-reliance, courage, and the successful propagation of Jainism.

50. Puruṣārthaparāyaṇāḥ (पुरुषार्थपरायणाः - Devoted to Human Effort/Endeavor):

    • Jains must be diligent and persevering in their efforts, both worldly and spiritual, to achieve their goals.
    • Effort is the key to progress and liberation, and Jains should draw inspiration from historical figures who achieved great things through their endeavors.

Overall Message:

"Jainopanishad" is a comprehensive guide that defines the true essence of being a Jain, not just by birth but by understanding, devotion, practice, and active participation in the propagation and protection of Jain Dharma. It calls for a holistic approach, integrating spiritual discipline with worldly responsibilities and encouraging Jains to be strong, united, knowledgeable, and compassionate in all aspects of life. The book is a call to action for the revival and flourishing of Jainism in the modern world.