Mitra Dvantrinshika - Book Summary

This document is the Gujarati text of Mitra Dvantrinshika, a Jain scripture authored by Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj. It is a commentary (vivechan) by Panditvaray Shri Pravinchandra Khimji Mota, published by Gitarth Ganga.

Here's a comprehensive summary in English based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Mitra Dvantrinshika (મિત્રાદ્વાત્રિશિકી) Author of the original text: Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj (ઉપાધ્યાય શ્રી યશોવિજયજી મહારાજા) Commentator (Vivechak): Panditvaray Shri Pravinchandra Khimji Mota (પંડિતવર્ય શ્રી પ્રવીણચંદ્ર ખીમજી મોતા) Publisher: Gitarth Ganga (ગીતાર્થ ગંગા) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/004681/1

Overall Purpose and Context:

The publication is part of the "Gangotri Granthamala" by Gitarth Ganga, which aims to bring out the profound meanings and secrets of Jain scriptures composed by great past acharyas like Haribhadrasuri and Yashovijayji. This particular commentary is on the "Mitra Dvantrinshika," which is the 21st treatise within Yashovijayji Maharaj's larger work, the Dvatrinshad Dvatrinshika. The Dvatrinshad Dvatrinshika itself is a monumental work of 5050 verses, elaborating on 32 different subjects, and is considered a masterpiece.

Significance of Mitra Dvantrinshika:

Part of a larger philosophical framework: The Mitra Dvantrinshika is a section within Yashovijayji's Dvatrinshad Dvatrinshika, which systematically explores various philosophical concepts related to Jain Yoga and spiritual progress.
Focus on Yoga and Spiritual Stages: The Dvatrinshad Dvatrinshika, and specifically the section on the eight "Drishtis" (perspectives or stages of spiritual vision), which includes Mitra Drishti, delves into the progressive development of a soul on the path to liberation.
Influence of Haribhadrasuri: Upadhyay Yashovijayji Maharaj had immense respect and devotion for Acharya Haribhadrasuri. In this work, he has compiled and elaborated on the teachings from Haribhadrasuri's important works like Yogashatak, Yogavimshika, Yogadrishtisamuccaya, and Yogabindu. The Mitra Dvantrinshika, in particular, draws heavily from Yogadrishtisamuccaya.
Elaboration on "Mitra Drishti": The Mitra Dvantrinshika specifically details the "Mitra Drishti" (Friendly Vision), which is the initial stage where a soul begins to turn towards the path of Yoga. This stage is characterized by a budding interest in spiritual qualities and a reduction in the intensity of delusion (mithyatva).

Key Concepts and Themes within the Commentary (Based on the provided pages):

The commentary meticulously breaks down the philosophical and practical aspects of the Mitra Drishti, covering the following:

Introduction to Mitra Drishti: It explains that the journey on the path of Yoga begins with Mitra Drishti. Before this, the soul is in darkness regarding self-welfare. Even intelligent beings in human or divine births struggle to comprehend the true nature of the world and the blissful state of liberation. However, souls with some reduction in karmic impurities approach the path of Yoga, starting with Mitra Drishti.
Characteristics of Mitra Drishti:
- Limited Insight (Alpa Bodh): The spiritual understanding at this stage is described as meager, like a spark from dry grass, providing some direction.
- Emergence of Yama: The first limb of Yoga, Yama (which includes principles like non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession), begins to manifest.
- Absence of Regret (Akheda) in Devotional Activities: The Yogi does not feel regret or weariness when performing duties related to deities or spiritual guides. Instead, they feel joy and satisfaction for having the opportunity.
- Absence of Aversion (Advesha) towards Others: Even when observing those who are misguided or worship wrongly (non-deities), the Yogi does not feel hatred but rather compassion.
The Yama (Yogic Disciplines):
- Five Great Vows (Mahavrata): The commentary details the five Yamas: Ahimsa (non-violence), Sunrita (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy/control of senses), and Akinchanyata (non-possession).
- Unrestricted Nature (Sarvabhauma Mahavrata): These Yamas, when practiced without limitations of place, time, or specific situations (e.g., not harming any being, in any place, at any time, in any circumstance), become Mahavratas (great vows) applicable across all mental states. The commentary contrasts this with Anuvratas (minor vows) which have limitations.
- Yama as a Limb of Yoga: The text explains how Yamas are considered a limb of Yoga. They act as counter-agents to vices (vitarkas) like anger, greed, and delusion, which obstruct spiritual progress. By mastering Yamas, the path of Yoga becomes easier.
- The 27 Vitarkas: It categorizes the obstacles to Yoga into 27 types, stemming from anger, greed, and delusion, and manifesting as 'Krita' (done by oneself), 'Anumita' (instigated by others), and 'Karita' (caused by others), each with mild, medium, and intense degrees.
- The Fruit of Yama Practice: The practice of Yama, when perfected, leads to benefits such as the renunciation of animosity, the fruit of unperformed actions (due to the power of truth), acquisition of divine gems (due to non-stealing), immense vitality (due to celibacy), and knowledge of past lives (due to non-possession).
The Seed of Yoga (Yogabija):
- Acquiring Yogabija: Souls in Mitra Drishti, especially when guided by a spiritual teacher (Sadguru), acquire the "seeds of Yoga" as taught in Jain scriptures.
- Purity of Yogabija: The purity of these seeds is crucial. Pure seeds of Yoga are free from attachment to worldly desires (like food, praise, or worldly/otherworldly gains). Unalloyed devotion and contemplation towards Jinas (Tirthankaras) and spiritual guides are key.
- The Role of "Bhava Malam" (Karmic Impurities): The presence of intense karmic impurities (like anger, greed, delusion) prevents the acquisition of pure Yoga seeds. Just as a severely ill person cannot focus on remedies, or a blind person cannot see a gem, a soul burdened by strong karmic afflictions cannot truly benefit from spiritual practices. Conversely, reduced impurities (Bhava Malam) facilitate the absorption and practice of Yoga seeds.
- Stages of Spiritual Progress: The text discusses the soul's progress through stages like "Charam Yatha Pravrittikaran" (the final phase of right-action) and its proximity to "Apurva Karana" (unprecedented actions leading to liberation). The purity of Yoga seeds acquired at these stages determines the soul's spiritual advancement.
- Characteristics of Pure Yogabija: Pure Yoga seeds are described as:
  - Focus on Jinas: Pure mental contemplation, praise, and prostration towards Jinas (Tirthankaras).
  - Focus on Spiritual Guides: Pure contemplation, praise, and prostration towards virtuous spiritual guides (Acharyas, Upadhyayas, etc.).
  - Detachment: Freedom from attachment to worldly outcomes, praise, or even the perceived fruits of spiritual practices.
  - Selfless Service (Vayavrutti): Performing service to spiritual guides with pure intention, without seeking personal gain or praise.
  - Study and Contemplation: Writing, studying, reflecting upon, and meditating on sacred scriptures.
  - Devotion and Enthusiasm: Practicing these with sincere devotion and enthusiasm.
  - Freedom from Obstacles: The acquisition of pure Yoga seeds is facilitated by the absence of obstacles (pratibandha) like worldly desires or attachments. This purity arises from the soul's state in the final stages of its worldly existence and the ripening of its potential for liberation.
The Importance of Sadguru (Good Spiritual Guide):
- Catalyst for Progress: The text emphasizes that the guidance of a Sadguru is essential for the soul in Mitra Drishti to acquire and benefit from Yoga seeds. Without a Sadguru, attempts to practice Yoga may lead to mere "gunaabhas" (imitation of virtues) or even spiritual decline, especially if associated with "akalyaana mitra" (unfavorable companions).
- Analogy of the Crystal: The analogy of a crystal absorbing the color of a nearby flower is used to illustrate how the disciple's mind is influenced by the presence of virtuous or unvirtuous companions.
- Analogy of Essential Elements: Just as nectar is essential in medicinal herbs, and the wish-fulfilling tree is essential in a forest, the company of virtuous beings (Sadguru) is paramount for spiritual growth.
The Nature of "Avanchak" (Unwavering) Qualities:
- The text describes "Avanchak" qualities as manifestations of subtle spiritual progress, such as the ability to recognize virtue in others, engage in appropriate devotional practices, and understand teachings without being misled. These are linked to a state of reduced karmic burden.
- The "Avanchak Triad" (Yoga, Kriya, and Phala) refers to the unwavering nature of the disciple's engagement in spiritual practices with a Sadguru.

Commentator's Perspective:

Panditvaray Shri Pravinchandra Khimji Mota, in his commentary, strives to explain the text logically and clearly, drawing upon various principles of Jain philosophy. He expresses humility and seeks forgiveness for any unintentional errors in his interpretation, acknowledging the vastness and depth of the scriptures.

Overall Message:

The Mitra Dvantrinshika, as explained by the commentator, provides an insightful look into the initial stages of spiritual discipline within Jainism. It highlights the gradual awakening of a soul towards Yoga, the importance of ethical conduct (Yamas), the subtle influence of companions on spiritual progress, and the crucial role of pure intentions and the guidance of a virtuous teacher in acquiring the seeds of true liberation. The commentary emphasizes that these initial steps, though seemingly small, are vital for laying the foundation for ultimate spiritual realization.