Patrasadupadesh Part 3

This document is a comprehensive summary and description of "Patrasadupadesh Part 3" (Letters of Good Counsel), authored by Acharya Buddhisagar and published by Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal. It is part of a larger collection, the Shri Buddhisagarsuri Granthamala, with this volume being the 108th work.

Here's a breakdown of the key information:

Book Details:

• Title: Patrasadupadesh Part 3 (પત્રસદુપદેશ ભાગ ૩ જો)
• Author: Acharya Buddhisagar (શ્રી બુદ્ધિસાગરસૂરિ)
• Publisher: Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal (અધ્યાત્મજ્ઞાન પ્રસારક મંડળ)
• Publication Year: 1926 (Samvat 1982 Vikram)
• Part of Series: Shri Buddhisagarsuri Granthamala, Granthank 108.
• Price: 0-6-0 (likely in old Indian currency).

Content and Purpose:

The "Nivedan" (Preface) section elaborates on the book's content and its significance:

• Content: The book is a compilation of letters written by Acharya Buddhisagar to his disciples and lay followers (Shravaks) on various occasions.
• Purpose: These letters are considered a treasure trove of spiritual guidance, self-awareness, renunciation, devotion, self-realization, and social reform. They are intended to benefit curious and sincere individuals seeking spiritual knowledge and ethical guidance.
• Previous Volumes: The preface also mentions two previous volumes of "Patrasadupadesh":
  • Part 1 (1904, Granthank 47, approx. 250 pages).
  • Part 2 (1919, Granthank 63, approx. 575 pages).
  • Part 3, the current volume, contains letters written to his principal disciple, Acharya Ajitsagar Suriji, as well as to lay devotees like Shresthi Varchandbhai Kanaj of Manasa and Mohanlal Nagindas Bhankhariya of Mehsana, and others.
• Key Themes within Letters: The letters cover a wide range of spiritual and ethical topics, including:
  • Impermanence of Life and Death: The initial letter discusses the impermanence of worldly life and provides profound warnings and preparations for the impending departure of a father (presumably the Acharya himself or a very close relation), emphasizing facing death fearlessly and even joyfully. This is highlighted as a key teaching for all spiritual seekers, regardless of their faith.
  • Spiritual Strength and Fearlessness: The letters convey spiritual knowledge, peace, renunciation, dharma, adherence to principles, and inner strength in simple language.
  • Tolerance and Inclusivity: The preface notes that letters written to Ajitsagar Suriji even when he was a Sthanakvasi ascetic demonstrate the Acharya's tolerance and appreciation for virtues, attracting even monks from other sects.
  • Guidance for Householders: A letter to Jayantilal Ochhavlal Mehta (a respected scholar and son-in-law of Ranjitram Dadabhai Mehta) illustrates the ideals of a noble householder, showcasing the Acharya's positive regard for those outside the Jain faith.
  • Wisdom and Seriousness: The letters are described as containing profound advice, fragrant with spiritual wisdom, and beneficial to the readers.
  • The Nature of Death: The Acharya's perspective on death is presented as a significant occasion for the wise, akin to a student passing an exam and moving to a higher grade, or changing clothes. Death is seen as a transition, not an end.
  • Letter from a Devotee: A letter from devotees in Kavi to the Acharya is included, not as written by the Acharya, but to showcase the depth of devotion and respect shown by lay followers, serving as an example for others.
• Overall Goal: The collected letters are meant to inspire readers to contemplate, act, and find spiritual guidance.

Author's Background (Implied):

Acharya Buddhisagar is depicted as a highly realized soul, a yogi, a scholar (Shastra-visharad), and a prominent Jain monk who emphasized spiritual discipline and ethical living. His writings are characterized by their simple yet profound language.

Publication Context:

The book was published by Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal, an organization dedicated to spreading spiritual knowledge. The preface expresses gratitude to the Acharya and the organization for making this beneficial work available to the public.

List of Published Works:

The document also includes a list of numerous other works published by Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal under the Shri Buddhisagarsuri Granthamala series, providing a broad overview of the spiritual literature made available by the organization. This list includes various types of religious texts like bhajans, philosophical treatises, biographies, and historical accounts.

In essence, "Patrasadupadesh Part 3" is a collection of invaluable spiritual letters from a revered Jain Acharya, offering profound guidance on living a virtuous and spiritually fulfilling life, with a particular emphasis on understanding and preparing for death with equanimity and inner peace.