Jivan Shreyaskar Pathmala

Summary of "Jivan Shreyaskar Pathmala"

"Jivan Shreyaskar Pathmala" (Path to a Life of True Well-being) by Kesharben Amrutlal Zaveri, published by Kesharben Amrutlal Zaveri, is a compilation of essential Jain religious texts and teachings aimed at spiritual upliftment and leading a virtuous life. This book, a second edition, was inspired by the desire to make these valuable scriptures accessible to a wider audience, especially the female readership, as indicated by the preface.

Key Themes and Content:

1. The Importance of Swadhyay (Self-Study): The introduction emphasizes that Swadhyay is a simple, beautiful, and accessible path to self-improvement. Reading scriptures, biographies of great souls, and teachings that guide towards self-realization leads to positive changes in thoughts and a peaceful life.
2. Five Limbs of Swadhyay: The book outlines the five essential components of Swadhyay:
   • Vachana: Reading from a guru or by oneself.
   • Prichchhana: Asking questions and clearing doubts with a guru or experienced person.
   • Paravartana: Reflecting on or repeating what has been read.
   • Anupeksha: Meditating on the subject matter.
   • Dharmakatha: Sharing learned knowledge with others through speaking, teaching, discussion, or writing.
3. Compilation of Key Texts: The "Vishay Soochi" (Table of Contents) reveals that the book includes a collection of significant Jain texts, such as:
   • Dashavaikalik Sutra: A foundational scripture detailing the conduct and principles for Jain monks.
   • Sukhavipaka Sutra: Focuses on the results of actions (karma) and their impact on happiness and suffering.
   • Uvavaiya Sutra: Discusses the places of rebirth and the consequences of actions.
   • Moksha Marg: The path to liberation.
   • Uttaradhyayan Sutra: A comprehensive guide to the conduct of ascetics, covering various aspects of Jain philosophy and practice.
   • Nandi Sutra: Deals with the classification of knowledge and the path to omniscience.
   • Anuttaravavaiy Das Sutra: Describes the conduct and liberation of those who attain the highest realms.
   • Dashashrutaskandha: A vast collection of Jain scriptures.
   • Various Stotras and Gathas: Devotional hymns and verses like the Bhaktamara Stotra, Kalyan Mandir Stotra, Ratnakar Panchavimshati, and Pratikraman Gathas, which are used for prayer, meditation, and expressing devotion.
4. Emphasis on Ethical Conduct: The inclusion of texts like the Dashavaikalik Sutra highlights the Jain emphasis on non-violence (ahimsa), self-control (samyama), asceticism (tapas), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-possession (aparigraha) as fundamental principles for spiritual progress.
5. Accessibility and Affordability: Despite the high cost of paper and printing, the book is made available at a nominal price of Rs. 2/- to encourage widespread study.
6. Gratitude and Acknowledgement: The preface expresses gratitude to those who contributed to the publication, including the publication office of the Shvetambar Sthanakvasi Jain Conference for providing revised texts of the Agamas, and individuals involved in proofreading and editing.
7. Call for Correction: Readers are encouraged to point out any errors found, so that they can be rectified in future editions.
8. Spiritual Goal: The ultimate aspiration is that all souls engaged in Swadhyay attain self-welfare and spiritual liberation.

In essence, "Jivan Shreyaskar Pathmala" serves as a valuable resource for Jains seeking to deepen their understanding of their faith, cultivate ethical values, and embark on a path towards spiritual well-being and liberation. It is a practical guide filled with the wisdom of ancient Jain texts, presented in a manner accessible to the common reader.