Jinpuja Ane Tenu Fal

This Jain text, "Jinpuja ane Tenu Fal" (Worship of the Jinas and Its Fruits), published by Sanmarg Prakashan, is a collection of discourses by the esteemed Acharya Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, compiled and edited by Muni Shri Kirtiyashvijayji Ganivar. The book is part of a series dedicated to the memory of Acharya Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, with the goal of publishing 108 books over five years.

The core theme of the book revolves around the significance and benefits of Jinpuja (worship of the Jinas or Tirthankaras). It emphasizes that true worship is not merely a ritualistic act but a profound expression of devotion stemming from a deep understanding of the Jinas' teachings and their immense contribution to the salvation of all living beings.

Here's a breakdown of the key concepts discussed in the text:

• The Nature of Jinpuja: The text distinguishes between two types of worship: Dravya Puja (worship through material offerings and rituals) and Bhava Puja (worship through inner devotion, adherence to the Jina's teachings, and contemplation of their virtues). While Bhava Puja is considered the highest form, Dravya Puja performed with the right intention is also highly beneficial.

• The Fruits of Jinpuja: The primary fruits of worshipping the Jinas are stated to be:

  • Removal of Obstacles (Upsarga Nash): Difficulties and adversities in life are diminished.
  • Cessation of Troubles (Vighna Chhedan): The vines of obstacles are severed.
  • Mental Peace and Happiness (Man Prasannata): The mind experiences contentment and tranquility. The text stresses that these benefits are not merely automatic but are achieved through sincere devotion and the right mindset.

• The Importance of Intention and Understanding: The book strongly emphasizes that the effectiveness of Dravya Puja depends heavily on the inner bhava (intention or feeling). Without a genuine understanding of the Jinas' teachings and a heartfelt desire for liberation (moksha), even elaborate rituals may not yield the desired results. The text urges readers to move beyond mere ritual and cultivate a deeper connection with the Jinas and their path.

• The Centrality of Jina's Teachings (Jina Agna): The ultimate fruit of worship is seen as adherence to the Jinas' commands and teachings. The text explains that the teachings themselves are salvific, guiding beings out of the cycle of birth and death. The desire to follow these teachings, even in the face of worldly temptations, is a crucial aspect of true worship.

• Renunciation of Worldly Desires: A significant portion of the book focuses on the necessity of detaching oneself from worldly desires (samsara ichha) to truly benefit from worship. The text argues that attachment to sensory pleasures and attachments fuels suffering and obstacles. True happiness and the removal of obstacles come from focusing on the desire for moksha.

• The Role of the Jina's Form (Murti): The text addresses the significance of the Jina's idol or image. It explains that murti puja is not about the material form itself but serves as a visual reminder and a catalyst for cultivating inner devotion, detachment, and the contemplation of the Jina's virtues. The rituals associated with idol worship are designed to purify the worshipper's mind and soul.

• The Path to Liberation: The book reiterates that the path to liberation (moksha) is clearly laid out by the Jinas. True adherence to their teachings, characterized by right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct (Ratnatrayi), is paramount. The text encourages a constant remembrance and contemplation of the Jinas' greatness and the immense debt owed to them for showing the path to freedom from suffering.

• The Foundation of Jainism: The text highlights the fundamental tenets of Jainism, particularly the importance of the four nikshepas (categories of understanding and practice) as the basis of the faith. It cautions against practices that deviate from these core principles.

In essence, "Jinpuja ane Tenu Fal" serves as a guide for Jain devotees to understand the true meaning and purpose of worshipping the Jinas. It encourages a shift from superficial ritualism to a deep, heartfelt devotion rooted in the Jinas' teachings, leading to the removal of obstacles, the attainment of mental peace, and ultimately, the path to liberation. The book is presented as a tribute to the teachings and legacy of Acharya Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj.