Jivan Jine Ki Kala

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Jivan Jine ki Kala" by Ratna Oswal, focusing on the key concepts discussed in the excerpt:

The text, "Jivan Jine ki Kala" (The Art of Living), by Ratna Oswal, emphasizes that true progress in life stems from inner understanding and genuine faith, not merely external accomplishments. The author posits that there are two ways to perceive life: an external perspective and an internal perspective. While the external view focuses on decorating and structuring the outward world, it fails to uncover the true purpose of life. Conversely, the internal perspective, which involves introspection and looking within oneself, forms the strong foundation for life's creation. This inner wisdom, unadorned by pretense, leads to correct understanding and true faith, which is defined as Samyak Darshan.

Key Concepts Explained:

• The Importance of Samyak Darshan: The text highlights the crucial significance of understanding Samyak Darshan. For those engaged in inner spiritual practice, understanding its value is paramount, even if they don't grasp other subjects.
• Life as a Precious Jewel: Life is described as a precious jewel, and the art of living is its skillful utilization. The author laments that humanity has forgotten how to truly live this life, focusing instead on external adornment or making choices that lead to downfall. True living, in this context, is about remembering the value of life and nurturing this inherent treasure.
• The Three Streams of Life: The art of living is built upon three essential streams:
  1. The ability to see (Darshan/Perception): This relates to one's understanding and viewpoint.
  2. The ability to show (Gyan/Knowledge): This refers to sharing one's insights and knowledge.
  3. The ability to endure (Kshama/Patience/Tolerance): This is the capacity to withstand difficulties and remain steadfast. The interplay of these three streams is vital for character building.
• Lord Mahavir's Principles: In the context of modern times, the text suggests that Lord Mahavir's principles, such as Ahimsa (non-violence) and Aparigraha (non-possession), are highly relevant. Adhering to these principles, whether in small or large measures, is considered essential.
• Limitations of External Factors: While education, wealth, and prosperity can be helpful in life, they are not sufficient for true life construction.
• The Modern Predicament: In today's materialistic era, humans have become externally focused. Their time is consumed by daily routines, leaving no room for self-discovery. This leads to increased stress, health problems, financial scarcity, unfulfilled desires, and a disconnect from the reality of life. The dazzling allure of materialism renders people ignorant, despite their education and worldly knowledge, making them incapable of truly living.
• The Mirror of Samyak Darshan: True faith, self-confidence, the disposition to change oneself, and the ability to assess the value of life collectively form the "mirror" of Samyak Darshan. To master the art of living, one must first improve oneself, connect with their life, and engage in self-reflection.
• Self-Assessment Questions: The text provides a series of introspective questions to gauge one's inner state:
  • Is each moment of my life a burden?
  • How far am I from the spirit of participation?
  • How close am I to selfishness?
  • Has false glory made me arrogant?
  • How often do I consume the sweet poison of envy?
  • How many enemies have I made by chasing honor and dishonor?
  • How many families have I broken by criticizing others?
  • Have I judged myself based on others' opinions?
  • Have I squandered the invaluable treasure of life?
  • Have I deprived others of their happiness to make my own life joyful?
• The Significance of Rediscovery: The power of thoughtful introspection, coupled with true faith and self-confidence, instills the resolve to change oneself and re-establish one's true existence. Rediscovering lost treasures, gathering them, and utilizing them in life, much like following the five great vows (Mahavratas) of Jainism, is the essence of Samyak Darshan.
• Elevating Oneself: Samyak Darshan transforms an individual from a human to a higher being, and from a higher being to something even greater. Those who embody this principle are truly deserving of the art of living.
• Prohibition of Night Meals (Ratri bhojan): The text also delves into the Jain prohibition of eating after sunset, classifying the four types of food consumed at night as "abhakshya" (inedible or forbidden). It explains that eating at night leads to the birth of "Tamaskaya" life forms in the food and has numerous other adverse effects, including the destruction of tiny organisms, harm to insects in fuel, and the risk of diseases for the family. This practice is seen as a violation of the principles of non-violence and a deviation from the path of Samyak Darshan.