Prashnottar Chintamani

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Prashnottar Ratna Chintamani" by Anupchand Malukchand Sheth, based on the provided pages:

Overall Purpose and Nature of the Book:

"Prashnottar Ratna Chintamani" (The Jewel of Question and Answer) is presented as a guide for Jain individuals, particularly those new to the Jain path. Its core purpose is to provide clear and accessible knowledge about Jain principles and practices through a question-and-answer format. The book aims to be a "Parasmani" (a mythical stone that turns base metals into gold), metaphorically transforming ignorance into knowledge and inspiring deeper commitment to the Jain way of life. It functions as a mirror, reflecting the essence of the Dharma. The book has seen significant popularity, indicated by its third edition and previous sales.

Publisher and Context:

The book is published by Shri Jain Gyan Prasarak Mandal, Mumbai. This Mandal's mission is to publish affordable Jain books to spread Jain knowledge. The Mandal has been active for two years and has achieved significant success in publishing both well-known and less-known useful books. They encourage readers to support their work by purchasing books directly.

Key Themes and Content Areas Covered:

The book is structured as a series of questions posed by an inquirer to a knowledgeable authority, covering a vast spectrum of Jain philosophy, theology, ethics, and practices. The summary of the Table of Contents and subsequent question-answer sections reveals the following key themes:

• Theology and Definitions:

  • What it means to be a "Jaini" (follower of Jina).
  • Who is a "Jina" (one who has conquered inner enemies like passion, hatred, anger, etc.).
  • Who are the "Tirthankaras" (those who establish the four-fold Jain community and guide beings across the ocean of existence).
  • The distinction between Tirthankaras and ordinary Keval-Jñānis (those with complete knowledge).
  • The nature of "Siddha" souls (liberated beings).
  • The existence of Tirthankaras in the present time (none in this continent, but in Mahavideh).
  • The role of guardian deities ("Tirthrakshak Devta") and the possibility of reaching them.
  • The reason for considering Tirthankaras as "Devas" (divine beings) due to their purity and auspicious qualities.
  • The approach to deities worshipped by other religions.
  • The concept of "impurity" in other deities' characteristics.

• Scriptural Authority and Guidance:

  • Who wrote the Jain scriptures (Agamas)? (Initially transmitted orally, later written down by Devarddhigani Kshamasramana).
  • Why didn't earlier Acharyas write them? (Due to their renunciation of writing, seen as potentially leading to fault).
  • Who should be considered a "Guru" (one who fears sin, gives truthful advice, and renounces worldly possessions).
  • The limitations of a Guru who lacks virtuous qualities but still offers advice.
  • The importance of listening to scriptures from a Guru.

• Core Jain Principles:

  • What is the essential truth of Dharma? (The qualities of a "Marganusari" - one who follows the path).
  • The nature of "Samyak-darshan" (right perception), distinguishing between "Vyavahar Samyak-darshan" (conventional right perception) and "Nishchay Samyak-darshan" (absolute right perception).
  • The benefits of Vyavahar Samyak-darshan (it leads to Nishchay Samyak-darshan).
  • The correct way to worship the Divine.
  • The benefits of idol worship (perpetuating the memory and qualities of the liberated beings).
  • The proper method and benefits of general Jin-bhakti (devotion to Jina).
  • Addressing the concern of harming living beings in flowers used for worship.
  • The scriptural basis for offering cooked food ("Naivedya") and lamp worship ("Deep Pooja").

• Ethics and Conduct ("Marganusari Gun"):

  • Detailed discussion on virtues like "Nyayavartan" (acting justly in all dealings), "Shistachar" (good conduct), proper marriage alliances, fear of sin, adherence to country customs ("Deshachar"), avoiding slander, choosing good living environments, and the importance of "Satsang" (good company).
  • Emphasis on filial piety and respecting parents.
  • The importance of financial prudence and the proper allocation of income.
  • The principles of spiritual learning and the attainment of knowledge.
  • Dietary discipline and avoiding untimely meals.
  • Balancing Dharma, Artha (wealth), and Kama (desire).
  • Practicing hospitality towards ascetics ("Muni Maharaj").
  • Cherishing the Jain Dharma with affection and avoiding stubbornness.
  • Winning over the six enemies: lust, anger, greed, ego, excessive joy, and pride.
  • The practice of gratitude ("Krutagnata").
  • Control over the five senses.

• Karma Theory:

  • Detailed exposition of the eight types of Karma (Jnānāvaraṇīya, Darshanāvaraṇīya, Mohaniya, Vedanīya, Nāma, Gotra, Āyu, Antarāya) and their respective sub-types and effects.
  • Discussion on the nature of Karma (inert substance) and its interaction with the soul (consciousness).
  • How Karma binds and how liberation from Karma is achieved (through purity and detachment).
  • The distinction between "Shubh Karma" (meritorious karma) and "Ashubh Karma" (demeritorious karma) and the ultimate goal of transcending both.

• Stages of Spiritual Progress ("Guṇasthān"):

  • A description of the fourteen stages of spiritual development, from "Mithyātv" (wrong belief) to "Kshīṇa-mohan" (destruction of delusion) and "Ayogi" (actionless) state.

• Dharma and its Practice:

  • Can Jain Dharma be practiced by others? (The core principles are universally applicable, but the full path is elucidated by Jain teachings).
  • Is it appropriate to be attached to Jainism and hate other religions? (No, attachment and hatred are hindrances; understanding and respect are key).
  • Should one hate unethical individuals? (No, rather address their unethical behavior with compassion and guidance).
  • Do the virtuous actions of those in other religions go to waste? (This is a nuanced theological question addressed within Jain philosophy).
  • The existence and purity of various Jain sects ("Gachch").
  • The presence of deities in the current era.
  • The validity of different scriptural texts and their acceptance by various sects.
  • The process of "Nirjara" (shedding of karma) through austerity (external and internal).
  • The benefits of "Charitra" (conduct) and the importance of knowledge.
  • The significance of following a qualified Guru ("Gīrthārth").
  • The value of undertaking pilgrimages.
  • The practice of "Sāmayik" (equanimity), "Paushadh" (fasting), and other rituals.
  • The role and listening to those who have deviated from strict conduct but can still teach.
  • The process of initiation and the need for parental consent.

• Specific Practices and Rituals:

  • The purpose and timing of "Pratikraman" (confession and atonement).
  • The purification achieved through the six "Avashyakas" (essential duties).
  • The benefits of studying, listening to, or reading scriptures.
  • The tradition of reading "Kalpa Sutra" during "Paryushan."
  • The practice of "Anjan Shalaka" (applying a sacred paste to idols).
  • Reasons for seeing suffering in the righteous and apparent happiness in the unrighteous.
  • The number of lifetimes required for an "Aaradhak Shravak" to attain liberation.
  • The belongings carried by an enlightened being during their travels.
  • The process of conception and fetal development.
  • The reason for "Vāsu-dev" going to hell.
  • The methods of "Pindastha," "Padistha," and "Rūpastha" meditation.
  • The path to achieving "Samadhi" (concentration) in Jainism.
  • Debates on specific practices like offering donations to the unreformed and the implications of "Bhagvati."
  • The significance of "Atma Pradesh" (soul particles).
  • The authority for binding karma in scriptures.
  • The concept of "Devlok" (celestial realms) and the movement of deities.
  • The story of "Tamali Tāpas" and his asceticism.
  • The significance of "Tungiā Nagari" and its inhabitants.
  • The duration of study for those destined for liberation ("Abhavī").
  • The permissibility of additional vows beyond the core ones.
  • The lifespan and spiritual attainment of those in the sixth era.
  • The nature of "Siddhis" (supernatural powers) related to the senses.
  • The practice of "Santhara" (voluntary fasting unto death) by householders.
  • The practice of "Ratri-poshadh" (night fasting) and its rules.
  • The proper use of temple funds and offerings.
  • The understanding of "Sachit" (living with soul), "Achit" (non-living), and "Mishra" (mixed) substances.

• Astrology and Auspicious Times ("Muhurta"):

  • The book includes detailed astrological considerations for auspicious times, including the influence of planets like Jupiter and Venus, the strength of lunar phases, and the avoidance of malefic yogas and planetary positions for religious ceremonies like consecrations and initiations. This section is quite technical, referencing specific astrological texts and calculations.

Methodology and Style:

The book uses a direct question-and-answer format, which makes complex philosophical and ethical concepts digestible. The language appears to be Gujarati, aiming for clarity and edification. The author, Anupchand Malukchand Sheth, demonstrates a deep understanding of Jain scriptures and a commitment to spreading this knowledge. The publisher, Jain Gyan Prasarak Mandal, further emphasizes this commitment to accessibility and education.

Overall Impression:

"Prashnottar Ratna Chintamani" is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand and practice Jainism. It covers a broad range of topics, from fundamental definitions to intricate karmic principles and practical ethical guidelines. The question-and-answer format makes it an approachable text for self-study or group learning, aiming to foster both intellectual understanding and spiritual devotion.