Mahavir Parmatmani Pratham Deshna

This Jain text, titled "Mahavir Parmatmani Pratham Deshna" (The First Discourse of Lord Mahavir), is a collection of discourses by Acharya Shri Vijayramchandrasurishwarji Maharaja, inspired by Panpras Pravar Shri Sudhanshuvijayji Ganivar. Edited by Muni Shri Muktipravijayji, the book was published by Sureshchandra Nemchandra Shah.

The primary focus of the book is to expound upon the first discourse delivered by Lord Mahavir, the 24th and final Tirthankara in this era, immediately after attaining Keval Gyana (omniscience). The discourses aim to enlighten readers about:

• The Identity of Lord Mahavir: Who was Lord Mahavir, and what were his qualities?
• His Benevolence for the World: What did Lord Mahavir do, and what did he ordain for the welfare of humanity and the entire universe?
• Correct Understanding of His Teachings: The book emphasizes the importance of understanding Lord Mahavir's true message, especially in contrast to the misinterpretations or self-serving presentations that can sometimes occur on his birth anniversary.

The editor, Muni Muktipravijayji, highlights the significance of this discourse, stating that it provides a concise yet beautiful outline of Lord Mahavir's first sermon. The text delves into the profound teachings of Lord Mahavir, which, though briefly encapsulated in three fundamental principles, led the Ganadharas (chief disciples) to compile the entire Twelve Angas (Dvadashanga) of Jain scripture.

The discourses explain that:

• The Significance of Kalyanak Days: The five auspicious days in a Tirthankara's life (chayavan, birth, initiation, Keval Gyana, and Nirvana) are celebrated because these souls attain Tirthankara status with the sole intention of benefiting the world. Their presence and actions bring solace even to beings in hell.
• The Nature of a Tirthankara's Life: Tirthankaras live exemplary lives, free from any impropriety, from conception to Nirvana. Understanding their lives inspires deep devotion and a desire to follow their teachings. Their lives are unique and serve as a model for others.
• The Path to Spiritual Attainment: To truly understand the glory of a Tirthankara's life, one must develop the inner capacity for devotion. This devotion leads to understanding their commandments and a willingness to dedicate oneself to their implementation.
• The Essence of Lord Mahavir's Teachings: The discourses touch upon Lord Mahavir's teachings, emphasizing that even three simple pronouncements from him were enough for the Ganadharas to grasp the entirety of Jain knowledge. The book aims to make these teachings accessible to the common person.

A significant portion of the text elaborates on the core principles of Jainism, particularly focusing on the concept of Karma and its role in the cycle of birth and death (samsara).

• Samsara as a Dangerous Ocean: The world is depicted as a frightening, vast ocean. However, instead of succumbing to fear, the text encourages understanding the cause of this ocean – Karma.
• Karma as the Root Cause: Just as a seed grows into a tree, Karma is the root cause of samsara. Overcoming Karma is presented as the way to liberation.
• The Importance of Vivek (Discernment): The text stresses the need for Vivek (discernment) to differentiate between right and wrong actions. A person with Vivek, like a palace builder, progresses upwards, while one without it, like a well digger, descends.
• The Five Mahavratas (Great Vows): The discourse then details the five Great Vows (Maha Vratas) essential for spiritual progress:
  • Ahimsa (Non-violence): Not harming any living being, even at the cost of one's own life, and protecting the life of others as one protects their father's life. This includes avoiding even subtle forms of violence.
  • Satya (Truthfulness): Speaking the truth, but with discernment, avoiding harsh truths that could cause harm. The emphasis is on speaking what is beneficial to oneself and others.
  • Asteya (Non-stealing): Not taking what is not given. This also extends to not exploiting the attachment of others to wealth.
  • Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity): Abstaining from sensual pleasures, recognizing the violence inherent in sensual acts. True Brahmacharya leads to self-realization and liberation.
  • Aparigraha (Non-possession): Renouncing excessive attachment to material possessions. Attachment to possessions is seen as a binding force that leads to suffering and lower births.

The book highlights that the complete adherence to these vows is best achieved through the Sadhu (monastic) life. For householders, the practice of these vows is considered Anuvratas (minor vows). The text encourages those who cannot immediately renounce worldly life to strive towards it, even if it means practicing the vows in a more rudimentary form initially.

The discourses also contain "Suvakya" (Wise Sayings) attributed to Acharya Vijayramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, offering further insights into the Jain philosophy of detachment, self-awareness, and the pursuit of liberation. These sayings often contrast worldly attachments and desires with the true path to spiritual growth, emphasizing the importance of identifying with the soul rather than the body and worldly possessions.

In essence, "Mahavir Parmatmani Pratham Deshna" serves as a guide to understanding the foundational teachings of Lord Mahavir, emphasizing the principles of virtuous living, the consequences of Karma, and the ultimate goal of liberation through the rigorous practice of Jain vows and principles.