Prashnottar Rasdhara - Book Summary

This document is a collection of questions and answers related to Jain philosophy and practice, compiled from various respected Jain scholars and spiritual leaders.

Key Information about the Book:

Title: Prashnottar Rasdhara (પ્રશ્નોત્તર રસધારા)
Author(s): Zaverchand Chhaganlal Surwadawala (compiler/editor), Vijayvallabhsuri, Kunvarji Anandji, Dharmvijayji
Publisher: Shree Jain Dharm Prasarak Sabha, Bhavnagar
Purpose: To address and clarify various spiritual, philosophical, and practical queries faced by Jain followers.
Content: The book contains 270 questions and 165 pieces of advice, collected and answered by distinguished Jain figures.
Gift Publication: It was presented as a gift to the subscribers of the "Shree Jain Dharm Prakash" monthly magazine.

Summary of the Content:

The book is structured as a series of question-and-answer sessions covering a wide range of Jain doctrines and everyday ethical conduct. The questions are posed by Zaverchand Chhaganlal Surwadawala, who sought clarification on his doubts, and the answers are provided by:

Acharya Shrimad Vijayvallabhsuriji Maharaj: Answered 71 questions.
Late Shri Kunvarjibhai Anandji: Answered 102 questions.
Upadhyayji Shri Dharmvijayji Maharaj: Answered 16 questions.

The book addresses topics such as:

Spiritual concepts: The nature of Samyak-twva (right faith), the path to liberation, karma, rebirth, and the qualities of Tirthankaras.
Religious practices: Rules for fasting (Pachakhana), rituals like Samayika and Pratikraman, temple etiquette, idol worship, and the significance of various vows.
Daily conduct: Guidance on ethical behavior, interpersonal relationships, dealings with wealth, purity in food and water, and dealing with impurity (Sutak).
Cosmology and Jain universe: Discussions on different realms of existence (heavens and hells), lifespan of celestial beings, and geographical aspects of the Jain universe.
Specific practices and beliefs: Clarifications on the meaning of various terms, the validity of certain customs, and the application of Jain principles in modern life.
Gnanavali (Collection of Knowledge): The book also includes a section of "Sadi Shikhamano" (Simple Advice), comprising 165 points of wisdom and ethical guidelines for everyday life, compiled by Zaverchand Chhaganlal Surwadawala.

The compiler, Zaverchand Chhaganlal Surwadawala, expresses his gratitude to the answering scholars for their profound knowledge and the clarity they provided. He also highlights the importance of seeking answers to spiritual doubts to achieve inner peace and progress on the path to self-realization. The book emphasizes the practical application of Jain teachings in life and aims to foster a deeper understanding and adherence to the principles of Jainism.