Nitya Niyamadi Path

This comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Nitya Niyamadi Path" (Daily Recitations) by Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram aims to provide an understanding of its structure, content, and spiritual significance for personal use only, as per the publisher's guidelines.

I. Book Overview and Publisher Information:

• Title: Nitya Niyamadi Path (ભાવાર્થ સહિત) - Daily Recitations (with Explanations)
• Author: Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram
• Publisher: Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram, Station Agas, Gujarat, India.
• Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/032085/1
• Editions and Printing: The book is in its eighth edition, with 3000 copies printed in VS 2055 (1999 CE). It was first published in VS 2000 (1943 CE). The cost price was Rs. 26, and the sale price was Rs. 8, indicating an effort to make it accessible.
• Content: The text comprises various devotional and philosophical compositions by Shrimad Rajchandra, including "Shri Sadguru Bhakti Rahasya" (Twenty Dohas on Devotion to the True Guru), "Shri Atma Siddhi Shastra" (Treatise on Self-Realization), "Shri Jinendra Panchkalyanak" (The Five Auspicious Events of Jinendra), "Alochna Path" (Confession/Reflection Recitation), and other devotional verses.

II. Foreword and Publisher's Notes (Nivedan & Prakashak na Be Bol):

• Purpose: The book is published for the benefit of spiritual seekers (mumukshu) who recite these daily verses with devotion. Shrimad Rajchandra's writings are noted for their profound spiritual depth, leading to new insights and purification of the soul.
• Commentary: The compilation includes commentary from Pujya Shri Brahmachariji, compiled by Shri Sakarben Premchand Shah, and explanations of "Shri Jinendra Panchkalyanak" and "Alochna Path" by Pujya Ravji bhai J. Desai.
• Objective: The primary goal is for readers to understand the meaning of these recitations, which is intended to inspire a spiritual inclination and foster joyous devotion, leading to contemplation, awakening of new feelings, and ultimately self-realization.
• Gratitude: Special mention is made of Shri Nanjibhai Laghabhai Seth for his donation, supporting the dissemination of spiritual knowledge.

III. Key Compositions and Their Themes:

The book is structured with an index, listing various important Jain compositions with their accompanying explanations. The core of the book comprises the following:

1. Manglacharan (Invocation with Meaning):

   • Theme: Begins with an invocation praising the omniscient Lord, the path of peace, and the compassionate Guru. It emphasizes the transformative power of the Guru's teachings, form, and company, which awaken consciousness, stabilize the mind, and lead to purity and spiritual progress. The verses highlight the Guru as the source of all virtues and the means to attain liberation.

2. Jinayeshvar ni Vani (The Lord Jinendra's Word):

   • Theme: This section, a detailed explanation of a Manglacharan, praises the omniscient Lord's divine word. It describes the word's infinite capacity to impart knowledge for the welfare of all beings, dispel delusion, and lead to liberation. The text asserts that the Lord's word is incomparable and beyond any earthly comparison, its true magnitude known only to the enlightened.

3. Shri Sadguru Bhakti Rahasya (Twenty Dohas on Devotion to the True Guru):

   • Theme: This is a devotional exploration of the multifaceted nature of devotion to the Guru. It begins with confessions of the disciple's limitations and dependence on the Guru's grace. The verses cover the importance of unwavering faith, obedience to the Guru's commands, the longing for the Guru's presence, the recognition of one's own faults, and the transformative power of surrender. It details the journey from external spiritual practices to internal devotion and the realization of the Guru's grace as the key to self-discovery and liberation.

4. Shun Sadhana Baki Rahyu! Kaivalyabij Shun? (What Practices Remain? What is the Seed of Kaivalya?):

   • Theme: This section critically examines various spiritual practices (like Yamas, Niyamas, austerities, renunciation, meditation, and mantra chanting) performed without true spiritual insight or the guidance of a realized Guru. It emphasizes that these practices, when performed without proper understanding and devotion to a true Guru, become mere external rituals and do not lead to the desired liberation. The core message is that only through the Guru's grace and proper guidance can the "seed of Kaivalya" (liberation) be truly understood and cultivated.

5. Kshamapana (The Act of Forgiveness / Seeking Forgiveness):

   • Theme: This is a profound act of self-reflection and repentance. It starts with acknowledging one's own forgetfulness and the resulting spiritual errors. The text delves into the fundamental mistake of identifying with the body and the external world, leading to an endless cycle of birth and death. It emphasizes the need for sincere remorse, the contemplation of the Lord's teachings, the cultivation of virtues like compassion, peace, forgiveness, and purity, and the ultimate reliance on the Lord's mercy for liberation. The verses highlight the self-ignorance that leads to suffering and the need for introspection to break free from it.

6. Chha Pad no Patra (The Letter of Six Principles/Statements):

   • Theme: This section, attributed to Shrimad Rajchandra, elucidates six fundamental principles that form the basis of true spiritual realization (Samydarshan). These principles, explained through a dialogue between a disciple and Guru, are: 1. The Soul Exists, 2. It is Eternal, 3. It is the Creator, 4. It is the Experiencer, 5. There is Liberation, and 6. There is a Path to Liberation. The text emphasizes that understanding and internalizing these six principles, guided by the Guru, leads to the eradication of doubts and the attainment of true spiritual insight.

7. Apurva Avsar (Unprecedented Opportunity):

   • Theme: This section focuses on the rare and precious opportunity of human birth, which is conducive to spiritual liberation. It describes the spiritual qualities and practices necessary to seize this opportunity, such as detachment from worldly desires, control over the senses and mind, unwavering devotion to the Guru, and the cultivation of virtues like equanimity, compassion, and truthfulness. The verses encourage the aspirant to strive for self-realization, transcending all limitations and attachments to attain the ultimate state of liberation.

8. Mool Marg (The Root Path):

   • Theme: This section elucidates the fundamental principles of the Jain path to liberation, as taught by the Jinas. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the true nature of the soul (Atma) as distinct from the body and other worldly elements. The text highlights the core practices of right faith (Samyakdarshan), right knowledge (Samyakgyan), and right conduct (Samyakcharitra) as the essential path. It also stresses the need for Guru's guidance, detachment from ego, and the cultivation of virtues like non-violence, truthfulness, and non-possessiveness.

9. Jinavar Kahe Chhe Gyan Tene (That Which Jinendra Calls Knowledge):

   • Theme: This section, through a poetic dialogue, distinguishes true spiritual knowledge from mere intellectual learning or external rituals. It emphasizes that true knowledge lies in the direct experience and realization of the soul (Atma), as taught by the omniscient Jinas and embodied by realized souls (Gyanis). The verses warn against ego-driven intellectualism and external show, highlighting that genuine spiritual insight arises from right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct, guided by the Guru.

10. Lok Purush Sansthane Kahyo (The Lord's Form is Said to be Human):

    • Theme: This section delves into the philosophical concept of the Lord's form being described as human. It explores the meaning behind this analogy, suggesting it relates to the human form's potential for spiritual realization and the teachings of the Tirthankaras. The text discusses the interconnectedness of the soul and the physical body, the nature of karma, and the path to overcoming suffering. It emphasizes the importance of self-inquiry and seeking clear answers from spiritual masters to resolve existential doubts and attain liberation.

11. Bhakti no Upadesh (Instruction on Devotion):

    • Theme: This section focuses on the essence of devotion to the Jinas. It highlights the qualities of a devotee, such as purity of mind, detachment from worldly desires, steadfastness in spiritual practices, and the cultivation of virtues like compassion and equanimity. The verses emphasize that true devotion leads to the attainment of spiritual powers, the eradication of negative tendencies, and ultimately, liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

12. Bina Nayan Pave Nahi (Without Eyes, One Cannot See):

    • Theme: This section uses the analogy of eyes to emphasize the crucial role of spiritual insight and the Guru's guidance in understanding the true nature of the soul. It stresses that without the "eyes of knowledge" or the Guru's grace, one cannot perceive the soul, which is beyond sensory perception. The verses highlight the importance of seeking and following the Guru's teachings to overcome ignorance and attain self-realization.

13. Amulya Tattva Vichar (Invaluable Contemplation of Principles):

    • Theme: This section contains profound philosophical reflections on the nature of reality, the soul, and the path to liberation. It addresses key questions about the self, suffering, and the means to attain spiritual freedom. The text emphasizes the importance of right contemplation, self-inquiry, and the unwavering pursuit of truth, guided by the wisdom of the enlightened. It outlines the qualities of a true seeker and the ultimate goal of realizing the soul's inherent divine nature.

14. Brahmacharya Vishe Subhashit (Wise Sayings on Celibacy):

    • Theme: This section highlights the significance of celibacy (Brahmacharya) in the spiritual journey. It describes Brahmacharya not just as physical abstinence but as control over the mind, speech, and actions, leading to the purification of the soul and the attainment of higher spiritual states. The verses emphasize the practice of celibacy as a crucial step towards self-mastery and liberation.

15. Atma Siddhi Shastra (Treatise on Self-Realization):

    • Theme: This is a central and extensive part of the book. It systematically explores the nature of the soul (Atma) through six key principles, addressing common misconceptions and doubts. The text establishes the soul's existence, eternality, attributes of being the creator and experiencer, the concept of liberation, and the path to achieve it. It engages in a philosophical dialogue, refuting various viewpoints and guiding the seeker towards direct self-experience and realization. The verses emphasize the Guru's indispensable role in this journey and the importance of unwavering devotion and diligent practice.

16. Jinendra Panchkalyanak (The Five Auspicious Events of Jinendra):

    • Theme: This section elaborates on the five auspicious events in the life of a Tirthankara (Jinendra): Garbhakalyanak (descent into the womb), Janmakalyanak (birth), Tapkalyanak (asceticism), Jnanakalyanak (enlightenment), and Nirvanakalyanak (liberation). Each event is described with rich detail, highlighting the divine glory, the celestial celebrations, and the profound spiritual significance associated with these milestones, ultimately showcasing the Tirthankara's path to omnipotence and universal welfare.

17. Alochana Path (Confession/Reflection Recitation):

    • Theme: This is a devotional recitation for self-reflection and confession of past wrongdoings. It is an act of seeking forgiveness from the Lord Jinendra and all living beings for sins committed knowingly or unknowingly, through mind, speech, or body. The verses express deep remorse, a desire for purification, and a commitment to follow the path of righteousness, guided by the Lord's teachings.

18. Samayik Path (Recitation for Equanimity):

    • Theme: This section focuses on cultivating equanimity and detachment from worldly attachments and aversions. It emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balanced state of mind, free from the influence of passions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed. The verses encourage a contemplative state, where one observes all beings with impartiality and compassion, ultimately leading to inner peace and spiritual liberation.

19. Stavan (Praise/Hymn):

    • Theme: This section comprises various hymns praising the Tirthankaras and the principles of Jainism. These verses express deep reverence for the omniscient Lord, the virtues of the Tirthankaras, and the path of liberation. The hymns invoke blessings for spiritual progress and the attainment of ultimate peace and happiness.

20. Vandana Karma (Salutation/Veneration):

    • Theme: This section is dedicated to the act of veneration and salutation towards the Jinas and the Guru. It expresses profound reverence, gratitude, and surrender to the spiritual guides and the omniscient Lord. The verses highlight the transformative power of such devotion in overcoming obstacles, purifying the self, and progressing towards the ultimate goal of liberation.

21. Sayankalin Devavandan (Evening Devotion):

    • Theme: This section provides verses for evening prayer and reflection. It reiterates the praise of the Guru and the divine principles, emphasizing the importance of remembering the soul's true nature and seeking spiritual guidance. The verses highlight the Guru's role as a source of knowledge, a healer of spiritual ailments, and a guide on the path to liberation.

22. Pratkahkal ni Stuti (Morning Praise):

    • Theme: Similar to the evening devotion, this section offers verses for morning prayer. It focuses on invoking blessings, expressing gratitude, and reaffirming commitment to the spiritual path. The verses emphasize the Guru's role in illuminating the path to self-realization and the eternal bliss of the soul.

III. Spiritual Significance and Overall Message:

The "Nitya Niyamadi Path" serves as a spiritual guide for daily practice in Jainism. It offers a structured approach to devotion, self-reflection, and philosophical understanding. The emphasis throughout the text is on:

• The Primacy of the Guru: The indispensable role of a realized Guru in guiding a seeker towards true knowledge and liberation.
• The Nature of the Soul: Deep contemplation on the soul's distinctness from the body and its eternal, pure, and blissful nature.
• The Path to Liberation: Understanding the spiritual path through right faith, knowledge, and conduct, and the importance of practices like celibacy, equanimity, and devotion.
• Self-Purification: The necessity of introspection, confession of faults, and sincere repentance to cleanse the soul from karmic impurities.
• Spiritual Discipline: The adherence to daily recitations and practices as a means to cultivate discipline, focus the mind, and progress spiritually.

This compilation provides a rich resource for Jains seeking to deepen their understanding and practice of their faith, offering a path towards spiritual refinement and ultimate liberation.