Nitya Bhavna

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided excerpt from "Nitya Bhavna" by Ajaysagar:

The excerpt from "Nitya Bhavna" by Ajaysagar, presented as a Jain text, emphasizes the profound importance of inner peace, universal welfare, the eradication of flaws, and the cultivation of universal friendliness and self-reliance.

The opening lines are a powerful invocation for universal peace and well-being:

• Peace within and without: The text prays for peace to pervade the entirety of the universe, both internally and externally.
• Mutual welfare: It wishes for all beings, within and without, to be engaged in actions that benefit each other.
• Elimination of flaws: The aspiration is for all defects and impurities, internal and external, to be completely destroyed.
• Universal happiness: The ultimate goal is for all beings in the world, both within and without, to experience happiness, leading to the happiness of the entire world.

This is followed by a core Jain principle of forgiveness and reconciliation, expressed through the Prakrit verses:

• "Khame-mi savva jive, savve jiva khamantu me" (I forgive all beings, may all beings forgive me): This verse highlights the practice of seeking forgiveness from all living beings and also forgiving them. The accompanying commentary explains this as a recognition that holding grudges is detrimental to oneself and that true well-being comes from letting go of animosity. It also suggests self-reflection, questioning if one might be harboring ill-will towards oneself.
• "Mitti me savva bhuesu, veram majjha na kenai" (Friendship with all beings, no enmity with anyone): This verse underscores the principle of universal friendship and the absence of enmity. The commentary emphasizes that ill-will only leads to self-inflicted suffering and that releasing oneself from enmity brings immense relief. It also points out the need for support and affection, suggesting that one should offer friendship and support to others.

The text then shifts to a crucial message of self-reliance and inner strength:

• "Purisa! Tumam cheva tumam mittam, kim bahiyai mittamicchasi?" (O man! You yourself are your friend, why do you seek friends outside?): This powerful statement directly addresses the individual, asserting that the truest and most reliable friend is oneself. It questions the external seeking of friendship, implying that genuine companionship and support should be found within.

Finally, the excerpt concludes with a cautionary note about the power of negative thoughts:

• "Durbhavnayon punyay ko bhi pap banane mein samarth hai." (Negative thoughts are capable of turning even good deeds into sins): This statement highlights the destructive potential of negative emotions and intentions. It suggests that even virtuous actions can be rendered meaningless or even harmful if they are tainted by malice or ill-will.

In essence, "Nitya Bhavna" in this excerpt advocates for a path of spiritual development that begins with cultivating inner peace and universal goodwill, is solidified through the practice of forgiveness and non-enmity, and is ultimately powered by self-reliance and a positive mindset.