Koi Dali Koi Ful (Roman Language Book)

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Koi Dali Koi Ful" (Unknown Branch, Unseen Flower) by Acharya Vatsalyadeepsuri, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Koi Dali Koi Ful (Unknown Branch, Unseen Flower) Author: Acharya Vatsalyadeepsuri Publisher: Gurjar Granthratna Karyalay Language of Publication: Russian (translated from Gujarati) Subject: Stories from Jainism

Overall Theme: The book "Koi Dali Koi Ful" presents a collection of inspirational Jain stories translated into Russian. The primary goal is to introduce the Russian-speaking world to the philosophy, practices, and spiritual depth of Jainism, a religion often unknown in Russia. The title itself, "Unknown Branch, Unseen Flower," metaphorically represents the essence of Jainism's profound but less-known spiritual teachings and the lives of its saints.

Key Content and Themes:

1. Introduction to Jainism: The book serves as an accessible entry point to Jainism, explaining its ancient origins, unique philosophy, and the ultimate goal of soul liberation (Moksha). It highlights core concepts like Ahimsa (non-violence), Moksha, Nirvana, and the cyclical nature of rebirth.

2. The Author's Foreword (Page 6-10):

   • Acharya Vatsalyadeepsuri, a Jain Sadhu (monk), expresses his satisfaction with his spiritual journey and adherence to Jain Dharma.
   • He recounts the serendipitous translation of his book into Russian, initiated by Ms. Ludmila Savelyeva from Moscow, who learned Jainism from him.
   • The translation was later completed by Alexey Smirnov, with the author expressing happiness that this historical event, the first publication of a Jain Sadhu's work in Russian, has come to fruition.
   • He defines Jain stories as narratives about Dharma, philosophy, history, and traditions, noting that Jain influences can be found even in Western literature (e.g., Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice").
   • He expresses his joy in writing these stories with a selfless spirit, aiming to bring eternal bliss to readers.

3. The Translator's Preface (Page 11, 13-21):

   • Alexey Smirnov introduces the book as the first publication in Russia offering an introduction to Jain literature.
   • He emphasizes Jainism as one of India's ancient religions, largely unknown in Russia, hence the title's metaphorical significance.
   • He highlights the value of the author being a "living saint" and the stories being presented "from the first hands."
   • Smirnov delves into the core of Jain philosophy: the soul's struggle against matter (ajiva) to achieve liberation (Moksha) and eternal bliss (Nirvana).
   • He contrasts the Jain pursuit of spiritual liberation with worldly values like wealth, power, and fame, emphasizing ethics, compassion, and self-denial as paramount.
   • He describes the life of Jain ascetics, emphasizing their wandering (sannyasa) and strict adherence to principles like Ahimsa.
   • A detailed, evocative description of a pilgrimage to Shatrunjaya mountain and its temples in Palitana is provided, illustrating the serene and elevated spiritual atmosphere of Jain holy places.
   • Smirnov explains the absolute nature of Ahimsa in Jainism, extending to all living beings, and the ascetic's dedication to minimizing harm.
   • He reflects on the cultural differences between Indian spirituality and Russian historical religious and social shifts, lamenting Russia's loss of spiritual depth while celebrating India's preservation of it.

4. The Publisher's Note (Page 12):

   • The publisher, Gurjar Granthratna Karyalay, expresses pride in publishing this pioneering work for Russia, highlighting their own Jain heritage and India's ancient culture and religion.
   • They commend Acharya Vatsalyadeepsuri as a great Jain saint, scholar, writer, orator, and thinker who has authored over sixty books.

5. The Stories: The book contains 13 stories, each illustrating different aspects of Jain philosophy and the lives of saints and devotees. Some key stories and their themes include:

   • 1. Jertva (Sacrifice): Illustrates detachment from worldly wealth (gold) in favor of inner spiritual wealth and the pursuit of Nirvana. It contrasts the true nature of sacrifice with rituals like Sati.
   • 2. Katha (Narrative): A story about a popular singer-storyteller, highlighting the importance of inner beauty and skill in artistic expression, and the acceptance of loss as a catalyst for growth and learning.
   • 3. Malen'kiy Muni (The Little Muni): The life of a young muni named Manak, who leaves his mother to find his ascetic father and ultimately achieves Nirvana at a young age, underscoring the purity of a child's devotion.
   • 4. Slovno Lotus v Prokhladnoy Vode (Like a Lotus in Cool Water): A story about love, devotion, and spiritual detachment, where a young man named "Balgodatny" (Blessed) and a girl named Rajshri find a deep connection that transcends earthly desires.
   • 5. Zagru, Zagru! (Jagru, Jagru!): The tale of a merchant, Jagru, who, through his piety and foresight, saves his community during a severe famine, demonstrating the rewards of faith and generosity.
   • 6. "Sava-Soma": A story about two merchants, Savachand and Somachand, whose integrity and mutual trust, rooted in Jain principles, lead them to collaborate on a noble project – building a temple – after an act of selfless generosity.
   • 7. Monk-Woodcutter: A narrative about a woodcutter who becomes a monk and faces mockery, highlighting the importance of inner strength and the support of a spiritual leader against societal judgment. It also touches upon the princely rewards for spiritual commitment.
   • 8. Mother of Sin: Explores the concept of greed (kadat) as the root of sin and the path to redemption through self-awareness and repentance.
   • 9. Unknown Branch, Unseen Flower: The titular story, about a dance teacher and a princess whose forbidden love leads them to profound repentance and spiritual devotion, illustrating the power of self-denial.
   • 10. Duty: A merchant named Shripal Seth cleverly fulfills his duty to his king and country by anonymously funding a vital public project, demonstrating the embodiment of selfless service and civic responsibility.
   • 11. Vruchonnaya (The Dedicated One): The story of Rukmini, who dedicates herself to a Jain muni, Vajrakumar, showing her deep spiritual yearning and commitment.
   • 12. Confession: King Aridaman confronts his envy and hatred towards his brother, realizing the emptiness of worldly power gained through conflict and seeking redemption.
   • 13. Great Mother, Great Son: The story of Hemachandra, a renowned Jain scholar and spiritual leader, and his mother Pahini, highlighting the profound bond between a mother's sacrifice and a child's spiritual destiny.

6. Notes and Glossary: The book includes notes and a glossary provided by Alexey Smirnov, explaining Jain terminology, historical context, and Indian cultural practices, further aiding the reader's understanding.

Significance: "Koi Dali Koi Ful" is significant not only for its rich collection of Jain tales but also for bridging cultural and linguistic divides. It represents a conscious effort to share the spiritual wisdom of Jainism with a new audience, promoting understanding and appreciation for this ancient tradition. The book emphasizes the universal values of compassion, self-discipline, spiritual seeking, and the pursuit of truth as central to the human experience, as understood through the lens of Jainism.