Parmagam Sara

Parmagam Saar (The Essence of Supreme Doctrine) is a compilation of profound spiritual insights and teachings, primarily drawn from the discourses of Pujya Gurudev Shri Kanji Swami. The book, published by Shri Vitraag Sat Sahitya Prasar Tank, Bhavnagar, aims to present 1008 gem-like sayings from Gurudev Kanji Swami's lectures on various Jain scriptures, particularly the Parmagams.

The compilation is a "doshan" or churning of the essence from Gurudev's extensive discourses on revered Jain texts like Parmagams, Samaysar, Pravachan Sar, Paramatma Prakash, and Niyamsar. The selection of these 1008 "jewels of wisdom" has been guided by a broad perspective, considering the principles enunciated in all four Anuyogas (different approaches to Jain doctrine), spiritual tenets, ethical principles, and the diversity of Gurudev's teachings on various subjects. The book is recognized as a historically significant work due to its comprehensive coverage of Gurudev's insightful pronouncements.

Gurudev Kanji Swami's teachings are described as possessing an extraordinary quality. His profound knowledge of scriptures ("Shrut ki Labdhi") allowed him to articulate deep spiritual mysteries in simple yet penetrating language. His discourses were filled with spiritual subtlety, emphasizing the subtle nature of the soul and the methods for its realization. Despite the absence of artificial oratorical techniques, his words had an immense impact, captivating thousands of listeners, both learned and unlearned, Jain and non-Jain, who would flock to Songadh in Saurashtra to hear him. This enduring attraction, spanning many years, is a testament to the power and relevance of his spiritual discourse.

The book highlights the immense gratitude felt towards Gurudev Kanji Swami for illuminating the path of "Sat" (Truth) through his discourses. His words are considered invaluable, capable of breaking the cycle of worldly wandering for those who are weary of it. The publication of Parmagam Saar is motivated by a deep devotion to Gurudev and a desire to spread his teachings about "Sat" throughout the world. The editor expresses deep gratitude to various individuals and foundations for their contributions to making this work available.

The "Parmagam Saar" itself is a treasure trove of spiritual wisdom, covering a vast range of topics related to Jain philosophy and practice. Key themes that emerge from the text include:

• The Nature of the Soul: The soul is consistently described as pure consciousness, self-luminous, and inherently filled with bliss, distinct from the physical body and worldly attachments. The emphasis is on realizing this true, pure, and eternal nature of the soul.
• Nischay (Reality) and Vyavahar (Convention): The text frequently distinguishes between the ultimate spiritual reality (Nishchay) and conventional or worldly interactions (Vyavahar). While Nishchay is the ultimate truth, understanding Vyavahar is seen as a necessary step in the spiritual journey, helping to navigate the world without attachment.
• Discrimination (Bhed Gyan): A recurring theme is the importance of discriminating between the soul (Atma) and non-soul (Pudgal, karma, body, emotions like Raga-Dvesha). This clear understanding is presented as crucial for spiritual progress.
• Detachment and Self-Reliance: The teachings stress the importance of detaching from worldly possessions, relationships, and even external spiritual practices (like rituals or excessive scriptural study without inner realization) to focus on the self. True happiness and liberation come from within, from self-reliance on the soul's own nature.
• The Soul as the True God: The ultimate truth is that the soul itself, in its pure consciousness and bliss, is the true God. Realizing this divine essence within is the goal.
• Importance of Inner Focus: The core message is to turn inwards, away from external distractions and sensory experiences, and to cultivate inner peace and self-awareness.
• The Role of Effort (Purusharth): While the soul's nature is eternal and unchanging, realizing this truth requires diligent and focused effort.
• Critique of Superficial Practices: The teachings often caution against superficial adherence to rituals or external observances without inner spiritual understanding and realization. True religion lies in the inner transformation and realization of the soul's true nature.
• The Path to Liberation: Liberation (Moksha) is attainable through self-realization, achieved by understanding the soul's true nature, discriminating it from all that is not the soul, and unwavering focus on the self.

The text is presented as a collection of profound, often paradoxical, and deeply insightful statements, prompting introspection and guiding the seeker towards the ultimate truth of self-realization. It emphasizes that true spiritual understanding and liberation come from direct inner experience rather than mere intellectual knowledge or external practices.