Pratikraman Sutra Sachitra

The book "Pratikraman Sutra Sachitra" (Illustrated Pratikraman Sutra), authored by Acharya Shrimad Vijay Bhuvan Bhanu Surishwarji Maharaj and published by Divya Darshan Trust, is a Jain text aimed at making the understanding and practice of Jain rituals, particularly Pratikraman, more accessible and engaging through illustrations.

Here's a comprehensive summary based on the provided text:

Core Purpose and Philosophy:

The fundamental premise of the book is that while reciting Jain scriptures and performing rituals like Namokar Jaap, Chaityavandan, and Pratikraman is essential, the human mind is often restless and fails to grasp the profound meaning and cultivate deep devotion. The book posits that illustrations are a powerful tool to overcome this mental distraction. By visualizing the concepts and narratives behind the sutras, the mind becomes engrossed in the imagery, leading to greater focus, emotional engagement, and a deeper spiritual experience.

The Power of Visuals in Religious Practice:

The author emphasizes the potency of visuals, stating that "one picture is worth a hundred words." The text draws parallels with modern-day use of visuals in education (children's textbooks), advertising (attracting customers), and social campaigns (promoting ideas like non-violence and prohibition). It highlights how cinema effectively evokes emotions and leaves a lasting impact, suggesting that similar principles can be applied to religious practices to foster spiritual awareness and devotion. The book argues that in an era dominated by material and sensory imagery, it is crucial to counter this influence with spiritual imagery to cultivate religious sentiments in people.

Pratikraman as a Key Spiritual Practice:

The text explains that Pratikraman, one of the six essential daily duties (Shad Aavashyak), means "turning back from sin" or "repentance for transgressions." It is a crucial practice for purifying the soul and progressing on the path to liberation (Moksha). The book details how each of the six Aavashyaks contributes to this spiritual journey:

• Samayik: Renouncing all sinful activities (Pāp-virati) and cultivating equanimity (Samabhava).
• Chaturvishati-stavan: Praising and praying to the Tirthankaras, which purifies right faith (Samyak-darshan).
• Vandan: Showing respect to the Guru, seeking forgiveness for any unintentional disrespect, and curbing ego and other passions.
• Pratikraman: Condemning, lamenting, and repenting for all sins and transgressions, which destroys past sins and prevents future ones, thereby strengthening right faith and complete renunciation.
• Kayotsarg: Withdrawing all mental, verbal, and physical activities for a fixed period, which aids in spiritual practice and self-realization.
• Pratyakhyan: Resolving to undertake austerities like fasting, thus cultivating the virtue of self-restraint.

Illustrations to Enhance Pratikraman:

The book's unique contribution is its visual approach to these Aavashyaks. It explains how each sutra and its meaning can be visualized:

• Namokar Sutra: When reciting "Namo Arihantanam," one should visualize countless Arihant Lords in Samavsaran, adorned with the eight Mahapratisharyas. Similarly, for "Namo Siddhānam," visualize pure, omniscient, and liberated Siddhas. This visualization is described as a form of Pindastha Dhyana (meditation on concrete forms).
• Logassa Sutra: Visualizing the 24 Tirthankaras illuminating the universe, or specific numbers of Tirthankaras as described in the verses, while reciting.
• Namosthutunam Sutra: Visualizing the Arihants with their eight Mahapratisharyas or their glorious attributes, like walking on golden lotuses.
• Siddhānam Buddhānam Sutra: Picturing the Tirthankaras as "Devānam api Deva" (God of Gods), with celestial beings attending them, or as Siddhas on the Sidhashila.

The author strongly advocates that by bringing these visualized scenes to mind while reciting the sutras, the mind becomes absorbed and filled with devotion, effectively preventing it from wandering.

The Vision and Effort Behind the Book:

The book is the brainchild of Acharya Bhuvan Bhanu Surishwarji Maharaj, who conceived of these illustrations to bring emotional depth to his own rituals. The illustrations were brought to life by artists Uddhavrao, Kailas Sharma, and Shyamsunder Sharma. The text also acknowledges the efforts of various individuals and trusts involved in previous editions and the current computer-generated printing. It highlights the book's contribution to Jain culture and history by making the lives of Tirthankaras and great souls accessible through art.

Impact and Objectives:

The book aims to:

• Revive a deeper understanding and appreciation of Jain rituals.
• Instill spiritual sentiments in children and adults alike.
• Serve as a valuable resource for pathshalas (religious schools) and individuals.
• Make Jain temples and Upashrayas (monasteries/places of religious discourse) more spiritually engaging.
• Preserve and promote Jain culture and history.
• Help in controlling wandering thoughts and facilitating meditation.

Specific Features and Content:

The book includes detailed explanations and illustrations for various sutras, including:

• Namokar Mantra (Navapad)
• Panchindriya Sutra
• Khama Samanam
• Irāyāvahiyam Sutra
• Tassa Uttari Sutra
• Logassa Sutra (Chaturvishati Stava)
• Annath Sutra
• Karemi Bhante Sutra
• Icchākār etc.
• Various Mudras (gestures) used in rituals.
• Detailed explanations of the philosophical significance behind each sutra and ritualistic action.
• Biographies and contributions of prominent Jain Acharyas, particularly highlighting the prolific work of Acharya Bhuvan Bhanu Surishwarji Maharaj in creating visually rich religious literature.

Overall Message:

"Pratikraman Sutra Sachitra" is presented as a vital tool for spiritual upliftment in the modern age. It encourages practitioners to engage with their faith not just through rote recitation but through heartfelt visualization and emotional connection, thereby leading to a more profound and transformative spiritual experience. The book is dedicated to the memory of the Acharya, celebrating his pioneering efforts in bringing art and devotion together for the benefit of the Jain community.