Prem Prvarutti

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Prem Pravrutti" by Charitravijayji, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Prem Pravrutti (Love and Activity) Author: Muni Maharaj Shri Charitravijayji Publisher: Shree Mahavir Jain Charitra Ratnashram, Songadh (Kathiawad) Published: Samvat 1993 (1937 CE) Price: Rs. 7-0-0 (initial print), Rs. 9-1-4-0 (reprint)

Overall Theme:

"Prem Pravrutti" explores the profound relationship between love (Prem) and action (Pravrutti), particularly in the context of spiritual liberation (Moksha) according to Jain philosophy. The book argues that true love is a powerful force that can lead to liberation and that understanding the nature of love and appropriate action is crucial for spiritual progress. It distinguishes between various forms of love, advocating for a pure, selfless love that transcends worldly attachments and leads to ultimate spiritual realization.

Key Concepts and Arguments:

1. The Nature of Love (Prem):

   • Love is described as an inner, radiant light, a spiritual union of two souls.
   • It is not based on imagination or external desires but arises naturally and is priceless.
   • Love is free, independent, and possesses its own authority.
   • It is inherently simple, generous, and self-surrendering.
   • The text emphasizes that the value of love surpasses mere wisdom or worldly possessions.
   • Love's path is mysterious and understood only through inner vision, not mere logic or debate.

2. The Nature of Activity (Pravrutti):

   • All activity stems from a cause or need, whether it's physiological (hunger, thirst, rest) or sensory.
   • The text questions why humans are drawn to worldly pleasures and sensory activities but often neglect the pursuit of liberation (Mumukshutva).
   • It contrasts basic human needs (eating, sleeping, fear, procreation) with the higher aspiration for spiritual knowledge, suggesting that humans are not merely animals if they possess discretion (Vivek).

3. The Role of Discretion (Vivek):

   • Discretion is a defining human quality. While it exists potentially in all, its manifestation and application make individuals distinct.
   • True success in human life is identifying the soul (Atma) beyond the physical body.

4. The Decline of Spiritual Aspirations:

   • The author laments the decline of spiritual fervor in the current era due to the influence of time and external factors.
   • Faith, right belief (Samyakattva), devotion, and piety are often reduced to mere words, lacking deep concentration and conviction.
   • This apathy is observed across various institutions and particularly noted among some Jain followers who perform religious rituals (Pratikraman, Puja, Navkarsi) without genuine mental engagement.

5. The Cause of Lack of Focus in Devotion:

   • The primary reason for the lack of mental focus in spiritual practices is the absence of the same intensity of love and attachment towards spiritual goals as is felt for worldly pleasures (family, wealth, etc.).
   • When love for the spiritual does not match the intensity of worldly love, there's an imbalance, affecting mental well-being and spiritual progress.

6. Love as the Path to Liberation (Prem se Mukti):

   • The book posits that love is the key instrument for achieving liberation.
   • It draws upon Jain and non-Jain scriptures, as well as the views of ancient and modern scholars, to support this argument.
   • The ultimate goal for all living beings is liberation, and Mumukshutva is presented as a natural human state.
   • Bondage is considered a state caused by delusion (Moh).
   • Liberation is the pinnacle of evolution, leading to eternal peace.

7. The Universality and Power of Love:

   • While there are numerous paths to liberation, love is accessible to all and is the ultimate culmination.
   • The text illustrates the pervasive nature of love through examples:
     • Affection for offspring in animals.
     • Worship of parents by children.
     • Devotion of disciples to gurus.
     • Intense love between lovers.
     • Devotion of subjects to rulers.
     • Loyalty of servants to masters.
     • The concept of God in various religions is ultimately rooted in love.
   • All yogis, devotees, scholars, renunciates, and worldly individuals are driven by love for their respective pursuits.

8. Distinguishing True Love from Infatuation:

   • The author elaborates on the nature of love and distinguishes it from worldly desires and passions.
   • Vicarious Love (Vikrit Prem): This refers to love based on physical senses, sensory pleasures, and worldly desires. It is ultimately disappointing and leads to suffering and further entanglement in the cycle of birth and death. This is contrasted with the pure love of the soul.
   • Artificial Love (Krutrim Prem): This is a superficial or forced affection, often seen in superficial relationships or transactions, lacking genuine feeling.
   • Ideal Love (Adarsh Prem): This includes selfless marital love (Dampatya Prem) and profound spiritual love. It is characterized by devotion, single-mindedness, and transcendence of personal desires. Examples like Neminath and Rajul, Ram and Sita are cited.
   • Pure Love (Shuddh Satvik Prem): This is the highest form of love, described as divine love or devotion to God, leading to liberation. It is selfless, desireless, and all-encompassing.

9. Love in the Context of Jain Philosophy:

   • The text emphasizes that even worldly love, when pure and selfless, can be a stepping stone to spiritual love.
   • The concept of the soul's innate love for its true nature (Swabhav) is central.
   • The ultimate goal is to redirect this innate love from external objects and sensory experiences towards the soul and the ultimate reality.
   • The fourfold Bhavanas (Maitri, Pramod, Karuna, Madhyastha) are seen as expressions of love and compassion.

10. The Danger of Misinterpreting Renunciation:

    • The book criticizes the misinterpretation of renunciation (Tyag) as mere inactivity or idleness.
    • True renunciation is the detachment from worldly desires and the redirection of love towards the soul.
    • Blind adherence to rituals without inner transformation is discouraged.

11. The Synthesis of East and West:

    • The author discusses the influence of Western thought (materialism, science) on Eastern spiritual traditions.
    • While acknowledging the advancements of Western science, the text advocates for a balance between material progress and spiritual well-being.
    • It suggests that the true essence of Eastern philosophy lies in its spiritual insights and its ability to foster inner peace and contentment.

12. Pravrutti and Nivritti (Activity and Inactivity):

    • The text delves into the concepts of activity and inactivity, arguing that true liberation lies not in mere cessation of outward action but in the inner transformation of motivations and attachments.
    • Selfless action performed with detachment (Karma Yoga) is seen as a path to liberation.
    • The ultimate goal is to perform all actions with a pure heart, free from attachment and ego, leading to a state of inner peace and equanimity.

In essence, "Prem Pravrutti" is a philosophical discourse that aims to guide readers towards understanding and cultivating a pure, selfless love that can ultimately lead to spiritual liberation. It emphasizes that love, when directed towards the soul and the divine, becomes the most potent force for achieving ultimate freedom.