Moksh Tamari Hathelima - Book Summary

The Jain text "Moksh Tamari Hathelima" (Moksha in Your Hands) by Yashovijaysuri, published by Omkarsuri Gyanmandir Surat, is a profound exploration of the path to liberation (Moksha) in Jainism. The book emphasizes that the key to achieving Moksha lies within the practitioner's own hands, guided by the principles of the Namaskar Mahamantra and a disciplined spiritual practice.

The core of the book revolves around the Panchasutra, particularly its foundational principles that mature the soul's potential for liberation (tathabhavyatva). These principles are presented as a Trigadi (three-step process):

Chatuh Sharan Gamana (Taking Refuge in the Fourfold Path): This involves seeking refuge in the Arihants (liberated souls who have conquered passions), Siddhas (fully liberated souls), Sadhus (monks and nuns), and the Dharma (the teachings of the Tirthankaras). This act of seeking refuge is not merely a ritual but a deep surrender to the divine principles and guides. The text highlights that true refuge is sought by those who feel helpless without the grace of the divine and the guidance of a Guru. It contrasts the surrender to God with the difficulty in fully surrendering to a Guru, emphasizing that pride and intellect can be major obstacles. The example of Mrigavatiji and Chandana-ji illustrates the importance of complete surrender to the Guru, even when facing reprimands.
Dushkrit Garha (Condemnation of Wrongdoings): This step involves acknowledging and regretting past sinful actions, both from previous lives and the current one. The author explains that by confronting the chain of one's misdeeds, the ego (ahamkara) loses its ground. This self-reflection is a powerful tool for weakening the "I" and consequently reducing attachment and aversion (raag and dwesh).
Sukrut Anumodana (Rejoicing in Virtuous Deeds): This involves appreciating and celebrating the good deeds of others, not just one's own. The text argues that by focusing on the virtuous actions of others, the ego shrinks, and one's perspective broadens beyond personal accomplishments. It encourages seeing the divine manifest in the good deeds of others, whether through their words or actions.

The book further elaborates on these principles through the "Sadhana ki Saptapadi" (Seven Steps of Spiritual Practice):

Prashant-Gambhira (Calm and Serious Mind): The foundation of sadhana is a peaceful and serious mind, free from the disturbances of worldly desires. This is illustrated through stories of monks who remained undisturbed even when faced with severe physical harm or challenging circumstances.
Savadyog Virati (Abstinence from Sinful Actions): This emphasizes refraining from harmful actions, speech, and thoughts. The goal is to turn away from actions that lead to negative karma and instead focus on pure intentions and actions.
Panchavidh Achar Janaga (Knowledge of the Fivefold Conduct): This refers to the profound understanding and practice of the fivefold conduct in Jainism: Jnana (knowledge), Darshana (perception), Charitra (conduct), Tapas (austerity), and Virya (effort/energy). The text delves into each of these, highlighting the importance of seeing all beings with equanimity and detachment.
Paropakara Nirati (Dedication to the Welfare of Others): This step emphasizes selfless service and compassion for all beings. This altruistic service is described as "ekantik paropkar" – a path that leads to liberation, often requiring the spiritual attainment of the giver.
Padma-a-Nidarshana (Lotus-like Detachment): Just as a lotus grows in mud but remains unstained, a sadhak lives in the world but remains detached from worldly attachments and actions. This detachment is crucial for maintaining purity of mind and spirit.
Dhyana-Adhyayana Sangata (Absorption in Meditation and Study): This involves deep engagement in meditation and the study of scriptures. Meditation purifies the mind, while study provides the wisdom to navigate the spiritual path.
Vishuddha-manava (Purified States of Being): The culmination of these practices is a state of purified consciousness, where all negative states of mind like anger, ego, and desires are eradicated, leading to a state of inner peace and bliss.

The book also explores the depth of prayer ("Prarthana ka Gehrai"), emphasizing that true prayer is not just a spoken request but a heartfelt yearning that transforms the seeker. It highlights the grace of God and the Guru, suggesting that the seeker only needs to take one step, and the divine will encompass them.

A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the importance of the Guru ("Guru Bahumano"). It explains that true reverence for the Guru leads to the presence of the Supreme Guru (Paramguru), which in turn guarantees liberation. The author uses compelling stories, like that of Ekalavya and his devotion to Guru Drona, to illustrate the transformative power of Guru-bhakti. This devotion leads to the dissolution of the ego, paving the way for divine grace and spiritual advancement.

The book concludes by reinforcing the idea that liberation is not an external entity to be sought but an internal state to be realized. The path involves understanding the true nature of the self ("Na Hum Manasa, Na Hum Shabda...") as distinct from the body, mind, and external circumstances. The emphasis is on self-realization, understanding oneself as pure consciousness, free from all worldly attachments and distinctions.

In essence, "Moksh Tamari Hathelima" is a practical guide that aims to equip the reader with the spiritual tools and mindset necessary to achieve liberation, emphasizing that the journey begins with sincere surrender, self-reflection, rejoicing in virtue, and unwavering devotion to the Guru and the divine path.