Pratigya Palan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Pratigya Palan" by Buddhisagar, based on the provided Gujarati text:

Book Title: Pratigya Palan (प्रतिज्ञा पालन) Author: Acharya Shri Buddhisagar Suri (श्री म्द् बुद्धिसगर सूरीजी) Publisher: Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal (अध्यात्मज्ञानप्रसारक म' डळ) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/008639/1

Core Theme: The book "Pratigya Palan" (Adherence to Vows/Promises) by the esteemed Jain Acharya Shri Buddhisagar Suri, with commentary by Shah Nemichand Ghatabhai Master, is a profound exploration of the paramount importance of keeping one's word and adhering to vows and promises. It emphasizes that upholding one's commitments is not just a moral virtue but a fundamental aspect of human existence, spiritual progress, and societal well-being.

Key Arguments and Concepts:

• Foundation of Humanity and Spirituality: The text strongly asserts that keeping promises is essential for claiming humanity and qualifying as a religious person. Without adhering to one's word, one cannot achieve true humanhood or claim to be a follower of dharma.
• Source of Virtues: Pratigya Palan is presented as the very root from which all other virtues grow. It is the most crucial quality to cultivate first.
• Integrity and Self-Worth: Those who do not value their word cannot command respect for themselves in the world. One's commitment to their word directly reflects their self-worth and integrity.
• Universality of the Principle: The principle of keeping promises is vital in all spheres of life – personal conduct, societal interactions, governance, and livelihood.
• Role Models and Examples: The book draws extensively from historical and mythological examples to illustrate the power and significance of Pratigya Palan. Notable figures include:
  • King Vikramaditya and Harishchandra: Their unwavering commitment to their promises, even at great personal cost, is highlighted. The story of Harishchandra's sacrifice to uphold his word is particularly detailed.
  • Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj: His childhood vow to liberate the people from Mughal oppression and his subsequent efforts are presented as an inspiring example of unwavering resolve.
  • Lord Mahavir: His adherence to vows, even in the womb to protect his mother from discomfort, and his promise not to take sanyas during his parents' lifetime, are cited as supreme examples of filial piety and commitment.
  • Lord Rama: His adherence to his father's promise, even at the cost of exile, underscores the sacredness of a vow.
  • Great Kings and Saints: Figures like Gajasukumar, Maitarya, Baparaaval, and Rajsingh are mentioned as those who achieved spiritual progress and liberation through keeping their promises.
  • Historical Figures like Chanakya and Nelson: Their unwavering commitment to their word and duty, even in the face of immense challenges, is emphasized.
  • Valiant Warriors and Saints: The text praises those who uphold their vows even unto death, comparing their resolve to that of the Agadhan Nag (a serpent that does not retract its venom).
• The Power of Courage (Himmat): The commentary stresses that courage, valor, intellect, self-dedication, and self-sacrifice are essential for fulfilling promises. Cowardly individuals, driven by fear and doubt, often fail to keep their commitments.
• The "Chita" (Funeral Pyre) Analogy: Vows are likened to a funeral pyre that purifies the individual, leading to a divine rebirth or elevated state. The suffering endured in fulfilling a vow is comparable to burning in a pyre, leading to spiritual transformation.
• Consequences of Breaking Promises: The text unequivocally states that breaking a promise leads to disgrace, loss of respect, and spiritual downfall. It equates such individuals to "dead" while alive, or even lower than animals. Those who break their word are shunned by society and even celestial beings.
• Trust and Faith: Keeping promises is the bedrock of trust and faith in all relationships and societal dealings. Without it, economic transactions and social harmony crumble.
• Discipline and Self-Control: Adhering to promises instills self-discipline, mental fortitude, and the ability to control one's desires and impulses.
• The Goal of Divinity: Ultimately, the path of keeping promises is presented as a direct route to spiritual attainment and divine realization. The unwavering commitment to a vow is seen as a form of worship that pleases the divine.
• The Nature of Vows: The book encourages making well-considered vows, taking into account one's capacity and the potential consequences. It advises against making rash promises.
• Personal Transformation: The ultimate aim of practicing Pratigya Palan is personal transformation, leading to inner strength, character development, and the ability to serve society.
• The Role of Parents and Gurus: Parents and spiritual teachers are urged to instill the virtue of promise-keeping in children from an early age, serving as exemplary role models.
• The Value of Truth: The text implicitly and explicitly links the adherence to promises with the unwavering pursuit of truth.

Overall Message: "Pratigya Palan" is a powerful call to action, urging readers to internalize the principle of keeping their word. It presents a compelling case for the transformative power of vows and promises, demonstrating how their adherence can lead to personal liberation, societal upliftment, and spiritual enlightenment. The book serves as a timeless guide, reminding individuals that true strength, respect, and divinity are found in the unwavering commitment to one's promises.