Maro Sohamano Dharm Sachitra

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Maro Sohamano Dharm Sachitra" (My Beloved Dharma: Illustrated), authored by Harishbhadravijay and published by Navjivan Granthmala.

The book is a richly illustrated exposition of Jain Dharma, focusing on its core tenets and the path to spiritual liberation. It aims to make the profound principles of Jainism accessible to a general audience through simple language and engaging visuals.

Key Themes and Content:

The book is structured into several sections, each delving into different aspects of Jain philosophy and practice:

• Introduction and Publisher Information (Pages 1-5):

  • The initial pages introduce the book, its author (Pujya Muniraj Shri Harishbhadra Vijayji M.), editors (Pandit Hareshbhai, Pandit Pankajbhai, Pandit Dinesh) and publisher (Navjivan Granthmala, Mumbai).
  • It lists various sponsors and patrons who supported the publication, highlighting the community effort behind spreading Jain literature.
  • A catalog of previously published books by the publisher is also provided, showcasing a commitment to Jain knowledge dissemination.

• The Blessed Human Birth (Page 6):

  • The text begins with an expression of gratitude for the rare human birth in Jambudvipa, emphasizing the availability of divine guidance, scriptures, and righteous principles as a sign of great fortune and past merits. It acknowledges the current era (Pancham Aara) as devoid of Tirthankaras but still a fertile ground for spiritual progress.

• The Four Pillars of Dharma (Pages 7-8):

  • The author reflects on the teachings of the Tirthankaras, particularly Lord Mahavir. The core principles of Jain Dharma are presented as:
    • Dan (Charity/Giving): Emphasizing giving fearlessness, knowledge, and reducing attachment to possessions.
    • Sheel (Conduct/Chastity): Highlighting the path of chastity and self-restraint to avoid suffering in lower realms and attain spiritual purity.
    • Tap (Austerity/Penance): Explaining the importance of austerity with equanimity to burn off karmas and purify the soul, likening the soul to a clear crystal.
    • Bhav (Inner Attitude/Devotion): Underlining the significance of inner feeling and devotion, stating that true attainment comes from sincere inner disposition, regardless of external means. This is presented as the medicine for overcoming the cycle of birth and death.

• Transformation through Dharma (Page 8):

  • The author expresses a personal transformation from a misguided individual to one striving for righteousness, attributing this change to the influence of "Maro Sohamano Dharm" (My Beloved Dharma). The book is presented as a compilation of the teachings of Lord Mahavir, simplified for the curious seeker.

• The Profound Wisdom of Dharma (Page 8):

  • The author acknowledges the depth of Dharma and the difficulty of fully grasping and internalizing its principles, even over lifetimes. They humbly admit any shortcomings in conveying the essence due to limitations of language and intellect.

• The Journey from Ignorance to Knowledge (Pages 22-46):

  • This section likely details the teachings and life of Lord Mahavir, starting with his enlightenment (Kevalgyan) and his subsequent preaching.
  • Preamble to Dharma Deshna: The preparation for Lord Mahavir's discourse, including the divine assembly (Samavsaran) constructed by celestial beings, is described.
  • The First Discourse and its Challenges: The text mentions the initial discourse at Juhikagram which was not fully grasped by the audience, highlighting the concept of "Achhera" (unforeseen events) in the continuum of time.
  • The Establishment of the Four-Fold Sangha: The book likely narrates the establishment of the monastic order, nuns, laymen, and laywomen, marking a significant milestone in the propagation of Dharma.
  • Key Events in Lord Mahavir's Life: The text elaborates on significant events such as the renunciation, the acquisition of Kevalgyan, the establishment of the Sangha, and the discipleship of prominent figures like Indrabhuti Gautam and other scholars.
  • The Twelve Vows of a Lay Follower: The summary likely includes an explanation of the twelve vows (Dwadasvrat) that lay followers undertake for spiritual progress.
  • The Wisdom of the Tirthankaras: The profound teachings delivered by Lord Mahavir and other Tirthankaras are presented, emphasizing the path to liberation through right faith, knowledge, and conduct.
  • The Sixfold Path of Jainism (Pages 53-54): The text touches upon the concept of the six categories of existence and the principles of Karma.
  • The Nature of the Soul and Karma (Pages 54-62): A detailed discussion on the soul (Jiva), its transmigration through various life forms, the binding nature of Karma, and the process of its shedding (Nirjara) is likely present.
  • The Six Vows and their Protection: The text may elaborate on the protection of vows through proper conduct and the avoidance of their transgression.
  • The Significance of Tapasya and Dharma (Pages 62-76): The importance of Tapasya (austerities) and its various forms, as well as the essence of Dharma, is discussed.

• The Fourfold Dharma: Dan, Sheel, Tap, Bhav (Pages 79-157):

  • This section forms the core of the book, elaborating on the four fundamental pillars of Jain Dharma with scriptural references, stories, and illustrative verses (Sajhays, Svaashit, Kulak).
  • Dan (Charity): Discusses various types of charity, the importance of giving to deserving recipients (Supatra), the merits of different forms of donation, and the qualities of a good donor, along with cautionary tales of misusing or withholding charity.
  • Sheel (Chastity/Right Conduct): Highlights the paramount importance of chastity and self-control, illustrating its power through the lives of great souls. It explains the vow of chastity and its benefits, emphasizing its role in spiritual progress and well-being. The text likely delves into the different levels of chastity and the virtues associated with it.
  • Tap (Austerity): Explains the concept of Tapasya, its outward (Bahya) and inward (Abhyantar) forms, and its role in purifying the soul and burning karmas. Various examples of ascetics and their practices are likely provided. The text emphasizes that Tapasya should be performed with equanimity and the right inner attitude.
  • Bhav (Inner Attitude/Devotion): Stresses the crucial role of sincere inner feelings, devotion, and right intention in all religious practices. It explains how pure Bhav can transform actions and lead to spiritual attainment, even with minimal external rituals. The importance of equanimity and detachment is likely underscored.

• Concluding Remarks and Study Questions (Pages 163-171):

  • The book concludes with a summary of the teachings, encouraging readers to embrace Dharma for their well-being in this life and the next, and to strive for liberation.
  • A set of study questions is provided, designed to help readers engage with the content and deepen their understanding of Jain principles.

Illustrations:

The phrase "Sachitra" (Illustrated) in the title indicates that the book is richly illustrated. These visuals would likely depict:

• Scenes from the lives of Tirthankaras and other spiritual figures.
• Illustrations of Jain cosmology, heavens, hells, and the structure of the universe.
• Visual representations of Dharma principles, such as charity, chastity, and austerity.
• Symbolic imagery relevant to Jain philosophy.

Overall Message:

"Maro Sohamano Dharm Sachitra" serves as a guide to living a virtuous and spiritually fulfilling life according to Jain principles. It emphasizes that true Dharma is not just about external rituals but about cultivating inner purity, self-discipline, and devotion. The book aims to inspire readers to embrace the path of righteousness, reduce the accumulation of karma, and ultimately achieve liberation (Moksha).