Laghu Vidyanuwada

The Jain text "Laghu Vidyanuwada" by Lallulal Jain Godha, published by Shri Digamber Jain Kunthu Vijay Granthamala Samiti Jaipur, is a comprehensive treatise on various mystical and esoteric practices within the Jain tradition. The book, compiled and elaborated upon by Param Pujya Shri 108 Ganadharacharya Kunthu Sagarji Maharaj and Param Pujya Shri 105 Ganini Shrayika Vijayamati Mataji, serves as a unique reference for Yantra, Mantra, and Tantra vidya.

Key aspects and content of the book include:

• Compilation and Reverence: The text is presented as a compilation of ancient Jain knowledge, with deep reverence for the lineage of Acharyas and Muniś, particularly highlighting the contributions of Ganadharacharya Kunthu Sagarji Maharaj and Ganini Vijayamati Mataji. The second edition includes a "Vimal Bhasha Teeka" (commentary in Vimal Bhasha) on the Padmavati Stotra, further enriching the text.

• Focus on Yantra, Mantra, and Tantra: The book is explicitly stated to be a singular reference for these mystical arts. It delves into detailed explanations and instructions for various Yantras (geometric diagrams), Mantras (sacred syllables or chants), and Tantras (rituals and practices).

• Content Breakdown: The book is structured into multiple "Khandas" (sections):

  • First Khand (Pages 1-24): Introduces the concept of Yantra, Mantra, and Tantra, detailing their significance and the necessary qualifications for practitioners. It includes auspicious prayers (Mangalacharan), descriptions of the characteristics of mantra practitioners, the process of purification (Sakalikaran), and various mudras (hand gestures) with illustrations. It also covers the concept of Yantra mandalas and their significance.
  • Second Khand (Pages 25-248): Focuses on the power of vowels and consonants, their role in mantra creation, and the classification of mantras. It extensively lists numerous mantras for various purposes such as protection, warding off evil, attracting positive energies, overcoming diseases, and achieving specific goals. The text also provides detailed instructions on how to perform mantra Japa, including specific timings, seating postures, rosaries, and purification rituals.
  • Third Khand (Pages 246-400): Primarily dedicated to the intricate details of Yantra creation and application. It describes the process of inscribing various Yantras, their significance, and the specific benefits derived from them. Examples include Yantras for wealth, prosperity, victory, overcoming obstacles, warding off negative influences, and even those related to specific deities like Padmavati and Chakreshwari. The text emphasizes the importance of proper materials, timings, and rituals for Yantra efficacy.
  • Fourth Khand (Pages 401-688): This section continues the exploration of Yantras, focusing on specific deities and their associated practices. It details Yantras related to the Tirthankaras, their guardian Yakshas and Yakshinis, and the rituals for their invocation and worship. It also includes comprehensive descriptions of various deities like Padmavati, Chakreshwari, and others, along with their mantras and the specific benefits of their worship. The text emphasizes the power of these Yantras and Mantras in bringing about desired outcomes in the lives of the practitioners, ranging from material well-being to spiritual progress.
  • Fifth Khand (Pages 633-688): This concluding section delves into specific practices such as the use of various herbs for healing and overcoming ailments, the properties of gemstones, and alchemical processes (like turning metals into gold). It also includes detailed sections on specific deities like Yakshas and Yakshinis, their forms, associated mantras, and the rituals for their worship and propitiation, along with the benefits of their veneration. The book concludes with a biographical sketch of Ganadharacharya Kunthu Sagarji Maharaj, highlighting his spiritual journey and contributions.

• Emphasis on Vinay and Proper Use: A crucial aspect emphasized throughout the text is the importance of reverence (Vinay) when handling such powerful knowledge. Readers are cautioned against disrespecting the texts and are warned against misuse of the contained powers, stating that such actions would lead to negative consequences for the user.

• Context and Purpose: The text highlights that while these practices are presented, the ultimate goal is to guide individuals towards spiritual upliftment and to use these powers for the greater good, rather than for harmful or selfish purposes. It also acknowledges that some of the practices might be controversial but defends their inclusion based on traditional Jain scriptures and practices.

• Dedication and Blessings: The book is dedicated to the spiritual gurus and contains blessings from prominent Jain Acharyas of the time, underscoring its significance within the Jain community. The compilation and re-publication of this work are seen as a significant contribution to the propagation of Jain literature and spiritual knowledge.

In essence, "Laghu Vidyanuwada" is presented as a rare and valuable compendium of Jain mystical traditions, offering a path for spiritual seekers and those interested in the practical application of ancient wisdom for worldly and spiritual benefit, while strongly emphasizing the need for ethical conduct and proper reverence.