Payanna Sangraha Bhashantar

This document is a Gujarati translation of a Jain text titled "Payanna Sangraha" (Pannā Sangraha). The title itself translates to "Collection of Principles" or "Collection of Essentials." The book is presented as a compilation of important Jain principles and practices, particularly those related to spiritual practice and the attainment of liberation.

Here's a breakdown of the content based on the provided pages:

Overall Purpose:

The primary purpose of this collection, as stated on page 4, is to provide guidance for "Antim Aradhana" (final worship or ultimate spiritual practice), especially for those nearing the end of their lives. It aims to offer spiritual solace and support for the transition towards liberation (moksha).

Key Sections and Their Content:

The table of contents on page 7 indicates the following key texts are included:

1. Bhakta Parignya Payanno (ભક્ત-પરિજ્ઞા પયગ્નો): This section, starting on page 8, appears to be a significant portion of the text. The title suggests it deals with "Devotion and Understanding" or "Devoted Understanding." It elaborates on:

   • The Importance of Jainism: Emphasizing the rarity of human birth and the teachings of the Jinas (Tirthankaras).
   • The Nature of Happiness: Contrasting temporary worldly pleasures with the eternal bliss of liberation.
   • The Path to Liberation: Highlighting the importance of following the Jinas' teachings, which include knowledge, perception, conduct, and penance.
   • Types of Death (Maran): Discussing different forms of death, including those achieved through diligent practice (e.g., Bhakta Parignya maran, Igini maran, Padapagam maran).
   • The Process of Accepting Death: Detailing the practices and ethical considerations involved in facing death with equanimity and spiritual focus.
   • Ethical Conduct: Discussions on right belief (Samyaktva), right knowledge, right conduct, and the importance of overcoming negative emotions and attachments.
   • The Power of Devotion: Emphasizing the significance of devotion to the Jinas and the principles of Jainism.

2. Chausaran Payanno (ચઉશરણ પયગ્નો): This section, starting on page 58, focuses on the "Fourfold Refuge" or "Fourfold Shelter" in Jainism. These are the four entities that provide ultimate refuge and guidance:

   • Arhanta (અરિહંત): The enlightened beings who have conquered all passions and attained liberation.
   • Siddha (સિદ્ધ): The liberated souls residing in the highest heaven.
   • Sadhu (સાધુ): The ascetics who follow the path of liberation.
   • Dharma (ધર્મ): The true principles and teachings of Jainism.
   • The text elaborates on the virtues and significance of each of these refuges and encourages taking refuge in them for spiritual progress and liberation.

3. Mahapachchakkhan Patro (મહાપચ્ચક્ખાણ પત્રો): Beginning on page 77, this section deals with "Great Vows" or "Great Renunciations." This likely refers to the vows undertaken by ascetics (monks and nuns) and potentially the principles of renunciation for householders. It includes:

   • Confession and Repentance: The practice of confessing past wrongdoings and seeking forgiveness.
   • Renunciation of Attachments: Letting go of worldly possessions, relationships, and desires.
   • The Five Great Vows (Pancha Mahavratas): A detailed discussion on the principles of non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), celibacy/chastity (brahmacharya), and non-possession/non-attachment (aparigraha).
   • Spiritual Discipline: The importance of meditation, self-control, and righteous conduct.

4. Maran Sanjhad Payanno (મરણ સમાધિ પયગ્નો): This section, starting on page 117, focuses on "Death with Equanimity" or "Peaceful Death." It guides the practitioner on how to face death with calmness, spiritual awareness, and without regret. This likely involves reflecting on the impermanence of life, the nature of the soul, and the path to liberation, reinforcing the themes of the earlier sections.

5. Paryant Aradhana (પર્યંત આરાધના): Beginning on page 130, this refers to the "Ultimate Practice" or "Practice at the End (of life)." This section likely provides specific practices, meditations, and prayers for those in their final stages of life or those who are dedicated to ultimate spiritual pursuits. It emphasizes:

   • Spiritual Preparedness: Cultivating detachment and focusing on the soul's true nature.
   • Practices for Final Stages: Guidance on meditation, chanting, and ethical conduct to ensure a peaceful and spiritually beneficial end.

6. Paramanand Pachchishi (પરમાનંદ પચીસી): Starting on page 150, this section is titled "Twenty-five Verses on Supreme Bliss." It delves into the nature of the soul's inherent bliss, which is described as supreme, eternal, and free from suffering and worldly attachments. This section likely offers philosophical insights into the blissful state of the soul in its liberated form.

Key Themes and Concepts:

• Impermanence of Life: A recurring theme is the transient nature of worldly existence and the importance of preparing for the hereafter.
• The Soul (Atman): Emphasis on the eternal, unchanging, and blissful nature of the soul.
• Liberation (Moksha): The ultimate goal of Jain spiritual practice, achieved through right faith, knowledge, and conduct.
• Renunciation: The shedding of attachments to worldly pleasures, possessions, and relationships.
• Ahimsa (Non-violence): A foundational principle woven throughout the text, extending to all living beings.
• Devotion and Practice: The importance of sincere devotion, diligent practice, and adherence to the teachings of the Tirthankaras.
• The Role of the Guru: The guidance and wisdom of a spiritual teacher are highlighted as crucial for spiritual progress.

Publisher and Author:

• Publisher: Shri Harshpushpamrut Jain Granthmala (श्री हर्षपुष्यामृत जैन ग्रन्थमाला)
• Author: Pujya Acharya Shri Vijayjinendrasuri Maharaj (पू. आ. श्री विजयज्रिेंद्रसूरी म. ). Page 2 mentions his lineage and the support from Shri Bhakti Mandal, London.

Overall Tone and Significance:

The text is presented with reverence and a deep spiritual intent. It serves as a guide for spiritual discipline, ethical living, and ultimately, for achieving liberation. The language used, being a translation, aims to convey the profound teachings of Jainism in a way that is accessible and beneficial for practitioners. The inclusion of both foundational principles and specific practices for the end of life suggests a comprehensive approach to spiritual preparation.