Jinvani Special Issue On Samyagdarshan August 1996 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jinvani Special Issue on Samyagdarshan August 1A996," based on the provided pages:

Overall Theme:

This special issue of "Jinvani" magazine, published in August 1996, is dedicated to the concept of Samyagdarshan (Right Faith/Vision) in Jainism. The overarching goal is to elucidate the profound significance of Samyagdarshan in achieving liberation (Moksha) and its impact on individual conduct and societal well-being. The issue features contributions from various Jain scholars, monks, and intellectuals, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of Samyagdarshan.

Key Concepts and Themes:

Definition and Importance of Samyagdarshan:
- Samyagdarshan is presented as the foundational principle of Jainism, the very root of Dharma ('Dasanamulo dhammo'). It is the first step on the path to Moksha, without which true knowledge (Samyagyan) and right conduct (Samyakcharitra) are impossible.
- It is described as having the correct or true vision, understanding reality as it is, rather than through distorted perceptions (Mithyatva).
- Samyagdarshan is characterized by the right understanding and faith in the fundamental principles of Jain philosophy, including the seven or nine tattvas (elements like soul, non-soul, influx, bondage, cessation, liberation, etc.).
- The text emphasizes that Samyagdarshan involves a fundamental shift in perspective, moving from worldly attachments to an understanding of the soul's true, eternal nature.
The Three Jewels (Ratnatraya):
- Samyagdarshan, Samyagyan (Right Knowledge), and Samyakcharitra (Right Conduct) are presented as the "Three Jewels" that constitute the path to Moksha.
- Samyagdarshan is considered the most crucial of the three, as it provides the correct foundation for both knowledge and conduct. Right knowledge without right faith is considered incomplete or even misleading, and right conduct without right vision is merely mechanical.
Distinction between Samyagdarshan and Mithyadarsan:
- Samyagdarshan: Characterized by seeing things as they truly are, with a focus on the eternal soul and detachment from worldly possessions. It leads to peace, equanimity, compassion, and faith in the Jain principles. It involves seeing things with an undistorted, pure inner vision.
- Mithyadarsan (Wrong Vision): Stems from ignorance, delusion, and attachment. It involves mistaking the non-eternal for eternal, the impure for pure, the painful for pleasant, and the non-soul for the soul. It leads to worldly desires, attachment, and suffering. Various forms of Mithyadarsan are discussed, including believing in false deities, wrong philosophies, and harmful practices.
Nischay (Bhartarth) and Vyavahar (Abhartarth) Samyagdarshan:
- The concept is explained from two perspectives: Nischay (Absolute/Real) and Vyavahar (Conventional/Practical).
- Nischay Samyagdarshan: The direct realization or experience of the soul's true nature, the soul perceiving itself in its pure, unadulterated state. It's the ultimate realization of self.
- Vyavahar Samyagdarshan: The practical application and outward expression of the right attitude. This includes faith in the right deities (Arhats), right gurus (pure monks), and right doctrine (Jain Agamas), as well as the correct understanding of tattvas. Vyavahar Samyagdarshan is considered the means to achieve Nischay Samyagdarshan.
The Five Conducts (Lakshanas) of Samyaktva:
- Sham (Equanimity): Controlling passions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed. Maintaining a balanced state of mind in pleasure and pain.
- Samveg (Enthusiasm/Yearning): A strong desire for liberation and a sense of urgency in spiritual practice, coupled with fear of worldly suffering.
- Nirved (Detachment/Dispassion): Developing disinterest in worldly pleasures and possessions, recognizing their impermanence.
- Anukampa (Compassion): Sympathy and kindness towards all living beings, feeling their suffering as one's own and striving to alleviate it.
- Aastikya (Faith): Firm belief in the Soul, the teachings of the Tirthankaras (Jinavachan), the principles of Jain philosophy, and the existence of spiritual truths.
The Eight Limbs (Angas) of Samyagdarshan:
- These are presented as virtues that adorn and strengthen Samyagdarshan:
  - Nihshankita (Undoubtedness): Freedom from doubt about Jain principles and the Tirthankaras.
  - Nihkankshita (Uncovetousness): Freedom from desire for worldly pleasures or external spiritual states.
  - Nirvichikitsa (Disgust-free): Not finding fault with the body, the path, or the spiritual leaders due to external appearances.
  - Amudhadrishti (Unwavering Faith): Not being deluded by false doctrines or worldly attractions.
  - Upabrumhana (Nourishment): Supporting and strengthening one's own and others' faith and practice.
  - Sthirikaraṇa (Stabilization): Remaining steadfast in the path of righteousness, especially during difficult times.
  - Vatsalya (Affection/Benevolence): Love and affection towards fellow practitioners and all living beings.
  - Prabhavana (Spreading the Teachings): Glorifying and propagating the Jain principles through conduct and discourse.
Causes and Obstacles to Samyagdarshan:
- Causes: Right perspective (Samyakdrishti), faith in true principles, virtue, spiritual practice, knowledge, auspicious company (Satsang), and divine grace (Labdhi).
- Obstacles: Wrong view (Mithyatva), passions (Kashayas), attachment (Mamata), ego (Ahamkara), ignorance (Avidya), doubt (Shanka), and lack of faith.
Impact of Samyagdarshan:
- Personal: Leads to inner peace, detachment, clarity of vision, confidence, and ultimately liberation.
- Societal: Fosters compassion, non-violence, truthfulness, integrity, and harmonious coexistence. It promotes ethical conduct and societal well-being.
In-depth Discussions:
- The issue features detailed articles on the philosophical underpinnings of Samyagdarshan, its historical development within Jain literature, comparative analysis with other religions (Buddhism, Vedanta, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Zoroastrianism), and its practical application in daily life.
- Several articles address the subtle differences between various types of Samyagdarshan (Oupshamik, Kshayopshamik, Kshāyik) and the psychological aspects of developing the right perspective.
- The role of the Guru, scriptures, and self-effort in attaining Samyagdarshan is also explored.
- Specific contributions delve into themes like the testing of right perception, the relationship between Samyagdarshan and equanimity (Samabhav), and the importance of faith in achieving spiritual goals.

Dedication:

The issue is dedicated to the Dvishatabdi (Bicentennial) anniversary of Kriyoddharaka Āchārya Shri Ratnachandraji Maharajsaheb, a prominent figure in the Ratnavamshiya saint tradition, celebrating 200 years of his pivotal role in reviving and rectifying Jain practices. The publisher, Samyag Gyan Pracharak Mandal, also acknowledges the inspiration of Āchārya Shri Hastimalji Maharajsaheb in its founding.

Structure of the Issue:

The special issue is divided into three sections:

Section 1: Samyagdarshan - Shastriya Vivechan (Classical Exposition): Focuses on the theoretical and scriptural aspects of Samyagdarshan, its definitions, types, characteristics, and its place within Jain scriptures.
Section 2: Samyagdarshan - Jeevan Vyavahar (Life and Conduct): Explores the practical application of Samyagdarshan in daily life, its influence on ethical behavior, societal interactions, and personal development.
Section 3: Samyagdarshan - Vividh (Miscellaneous): Contains comparative studies with other religions, philosophical discussions, and reflections on the concept of the awakened person, among other topics.

Overall Message:

The "Jinvani" special issue powerfully conveys that Samyagdarshan is not just an abstract philosophical concept but a transformative principle that impacts every facet of life. It is the key to true happiness, peace, and ultimately, liberation. The issue encourages readers to cultivate this essential quality for personal and collective upliftment.