Prarthana Part 02

This document is the second part of a Jain text titled "Prarthana Part 02" (Prayer Part 02), authored by Niswarth and published by Parmarth Pariwar. The catalog link provided is for JainQQ.org.

The book is a discourse on the "Jay Viiray Namah Sutra" and aims to guide individuals towards the end of the cycle of birth and death (bhav). It elaborates on various "padav" (stages or steps) of this spiritual journey, which are presented as prayers or aspirations.

Here's a summary of the key themes and discussions presented across the pages, drawing from the provided text:

Core Philosophy and Goal:

• Ending the Cycle of Birth and Death (Bhav ka Ant): The overarching goal is to achieve liberation from the cycle of rebirth, a central tenet of Jainism. This is pursued through the understanding and practice of the "Jay Viiray Namah Sutra."
• The Nature of the World (Sansaar ka Kaarmu Swarup): The text emphasizes the transient and often sorrowful nature of worldly existence, illustrated by contrasting events like births and deaths occurring simultaneously. It highlights that material possessions are unreliable and deceptive ("pudgal dhokebaaj").
• The Importance of Prayer (Prarthana): Prayer is presented as a crucial tool for strengthening resolve, cultivating positive intentions, and ultimately achieving spiritual well-being.

Key Concepts and Prayers Discussed (Padav):

The book is structured around various "padav," which represent stages of spiritual progress, each containing prayers or principles:

• Padav 6: Understanding Dev, Guru, Dharma and Avoiding Negativity (Ninda Tyag):

  • Distinguishing Divine, Teacher, and Dharma: The text clarifies the true nature of the Divine, Spiritual Guides (Guru), and Dharma, differentiating them from mere protectors or guards of temples. It emphasizes that true divinity is beyond attachment (raag).
  • The Pitfalls of Criticism (Ninda): A significant portion is dedicated to explaining the origins, nature, and consequences of criticism (ninda). It's linked to envy, greed, pride, and anger. The text stresses that criticizing others, especially spiritual figures, leads to negative karmic consequences and hinders spiritual progress.
  • The Nuance of Criticism: While generally condemning criticism, the text distinguishes between criticizing those who lead people astray (unmarg pravartak) and general fault-finding. The former might necessitate speaking out, while the latter is discouraged.
  • Understanding "Saindhav" and Word Meanings: The importance of understanding context and not relying solely on dictionary definitions is highlighted, using the example of "Saindhav" to explain how the same word can have different meanings based on context (salt vs. horse).
  • Consequences of Bad Speech: The text discusses the negative impact of gossip and slander, including the example of Sita's situation caused by envious co-wives.
  • Distinguishing True Virtue from Superficiality: The discourse touches upon how outward appearances can be misleading and the importance of inner qualities.

• Padav 7: Lordship and the True Meaning of "Gram-Gram Ghar Bandhva"

  • The "Jay Viiray Namah Sutra" Structure: It's explained that the "Jay Viiray Namah Sutra" was initially composed up to the 8th prayer by the Gandharas (chief disciples of Tirthankaras). The subsequent prayers were added by earlier Acharyas to provide further clarification.
  • Interpreting Spiritual Teachings: The need for a Guru's guidance to understand the deeper meanings of scriptures is emphasized, using the analogy of understanding the constitution or medical information.
  • The Importance of Relationships ("Gram-Gram Ghar Bandhva"): This seemingly literal phrase is interpreted as the need to maintain good relationships with everyone, ensuring one feels at home wherever they go, not about building physical houses in every village.
  • The Significance of the 8 Prayers: The first eight prayers are seen as the foundation, and without them, the subsequent prayers hold less significance. The text suggests that the first six prayers deal with "worldly beauty" (laukik saundarya), while the later ones focus on "transcendental beauty" (laukottar saundarya).

• Padav 8: Overcoming Obstacles and the Importance of True Devotion:

  • Obstacles to Spiritual Progress: The text identifies several obstacles to achieving the eight steps of prayer, including a lack of contemplation on the transient nature of the world (bhavanirved), not being simple (pradnyapaniyata), lack of firm resolve (ishtaphal siddhi), not respecting boundaries (lokviruddhachao), ingratitude (gurunjan pooja), selfishness (pararthakaran), and resistance to discipline (suhguru jog).
  • The Role of the Guru: The guru's role in providing "pratibodh" (correction of wrong understanding) and "anushasan" (discipline) is highlighted.
  • Self-Serving Devotion vs. True Devotion: The text critiques superficial devotion that is driven by personal gain or societal pressure, contrasting it with selfless service and genuine spiritual aspiration. The examples of Narsinh Mehta and the story of the 1500 Tapasvin are used to illustrate these points.
  • Distinguishing True Devotion from Imitation: The importance of sincerity and inner conviction is stressed, differentiating true spiritual practice from mere outward show or following trends.

• Padav 9: Guru's Role in Spiritual Progress and Virtuous Conduct:

  • The Guru's Guidance: The text reiterates the importance of a Guru's guidance in understanding the path to liberation. It differentiates between a Guru (who guides towards liberation) and a "Kalyan Mitra" (a well-meaning friend who offers spiritual advice).
  • The Five Pillars of Jainism: The text implicitly emphasizes the importance of adherence to the five great vows (Panch Mahavrat) for those aspiring to be true spiritual guides.
  • The Importance of "Pararthakaran" (Selflessness) and "Log Viruddhachao" (Abstaining from Contrary Actions): These are discussed as crucial for genuine spiritual growth. The text criticizes actions driven by self-interest or societal pressure.
  • The Impact of Role Models: The text emphasizes the importance of following the path of virtuous individuals and learning from their examples, highlighting the story of Dhanna Sarthavah and the dedication of Sita Devi Bald.

• Padav 10: The Path of Selflessness and the True Nature of Spiritual Practice:

  • The Essence of Selflessness (Pararthakaran): The concept of selflessness is explored, highlighting that true generosity is not driven by expectation of return or societal recognition.
  • The True Meaning of Devotion and Sacrifice: The examples of Bhishma Pitamah and Keshavlal Bhatt's wife illustrate the depth of devotion and sacrifice possible for spiritual goals.
  • The Role of the Guru in Guiding Devotion: The text explains that a Guru's guidance is essential to ensure that devotional practices are aligned with the right principles and do not become mere outward displays.
  • The Nature of Spiritual Knowledge: The text discusses how spiritual knowledge is transmitted, with the Guru playing a vital role in discerning the appropriate teachings for each individual's readiness.

• Padav 11: The Guru's Role in Bestowing True Knowledge and Discipline:

  • The Guru's Dual Role: Pratibodh and Anushasan: The text elaborates on how a Guru provides correct understanding ("pratibodh") and maintains discipline ("anushasan").
  • Correcting Misconceptions: The Guru's role in dispelling illusions and correcting wrong beliefs about the world and spiritual practices is highlighted through various examples, including the story of the lovesick youth and the tale of Kamlesh.
  • The Importance of Right Intent and Understanding: The text stresses that spiritual progress depends on the seeker's inner disposition and willingness to learn, as demonstrated by the stories of Chandkoushik, Goshala, and Kamal.
  • The Discerning Nature of a True Guru: A true Guru is depicted as one who understands the individual's spiritual "level" and provides appropriate guidance, whether it be preliminary steps or advanced spiritual knowledge.

Overall Tone and Purpose:

The "Prarthana Part 02" is presented as a devotional and instructional text aimed at guiding the Jain community toward a deeper understanding and practice of their faith. It uses storytelling, analogies, and direct discourse from a spiritual leader to explain complex Jain principles in an accessible manner. The text encourages introspection, ethical conduct, and unwavering devotion to the path of liberation.