Rays Of Dharma

"Rays of Dharma" by Pujyashree Chitrabhanuji, translated by Manubhai Doshi, and published by Divine Knowledge Society, is a profound exploration of Jain philosophy aimed at guiding readers towards a truly religious and fulfilling life. The book, originally based on Acharya Shri Devendrasuriji's "Dharmaratna Prakaran," outlines 21 essential attributes for spiritual growth and self-realization.

The book emphasizes the importance of inner qualities over outward appearances, advocating for a life of sincerity, humility, and compassion. It dissects the essence of human life, highlighting the transient nature of worldly possessions and pleasures, and urging readers to focus on the eternal truths of the soul.

Key Themes and Attributes Discussed:

• Humbleness and Reverence: The book begins by stressing the necessity of humbleness, not just externally, but from within. It advocates for respecting elders, gurus, and all beings, recognizing that true wisdom arises from a humble and receptive mind.
• Serenity and Discretion: Maintaining composure and exercising thoughtful judgment are presented as crucial for navigating life's challenges. The importance of thinking before speaking and acting, and of filtering words through discernment, is highlighted.
• Well-built Body and Competent Mind: A healthy body and a sharp mind are seen as essential tools for spiritual pursuit. The book encourages self-reliance and maintaining physical and mental well-being through balanced living and mindful practices.
• Agreeable Disposition and Harmony: Cultivating a disposition of kindness, forgiveness, and amity is presented as a path to inner peace and positive relationships. Harmony in thoughts, words, and actions is emphasized for a fulfilling life.
• Popularity and Good Character: True popularity is shown to stem from inner virtues like honesty, generosity, and good character, rather than external factors like wealth or power. The book stresses the importance of living with integrity and contributing positively to society.
• Kindness and Compassion: The essence of religion is described as compassion, which involves not only external acts of helping others but also an internal inclination to alleviate suffering. True compassion requires discretion to distinguish between right and wrong actions.
• Fear of Sin and Overcoming Sin: The book distinguishes between fearlessness and a reckless disregard for ethics. It explains that a true religious person possesses a natural hesitation to commit sin, which stems from an awakened conscience and a desire for self-purification.
• Harmony and Straightforwardness: Living a life free from cunningness, deception, and hypocrisy is crucial. The book advocates for consistency between one's thoughts, speech, and actions, promoting a transparent and integrated life.
• Test for Being Truly Religious: The book suggests that true religiosity is tested by one's ability to remain pure-hearted, selfless, and truthful, even in the face of criticism or the desire for praise.
• Courteous and Sympathetic Attitude: Developing a genuine concern for the well-being of others, extending help without expectation, and showing empathy are presented as fundamental to humanism and spiritual progress.
• Donation with Sense of Dedication: True donation is characterized by selfless giving with pleasure and a sense of dedication, rather than for recognition or material gain.
• Feeling Ashamed and Virtuous Environment: Cultivating a sense of shame for wrongdoings and surrounding oneself with wholesome environments and virtuous company are vital for maintaining purity of character.
• Two Streams of Compassion: The book differentiates between external compassion (material help) and internal compassion (spiritual guidance), stressing the importance of both for holistic well-being.
• Universal Compassion and Open Mind: True compassion extends to all living beings, transcending self-interest and embracing empathy for all. An open and unprejudiced mind is essential for evaluating situations and people without bias.
• Following the Old Ones and Discretion at Depth: Learning from the experience of the wise and old, and exercising discretion in all actions are crucial for spiritual progress. The book emphasizes that true wisdom lies in internal transformation, not merely external rituals.
• Wholesome Leanings and Practicing them: Cultivating virtuous tendencies and living a life that children can emulate is essential. The book highlights that true happiness comes from contentment and selfless service, not material wealth.
• Foresightedness and Objective Approach: Thinking of consequences, acting without attachment to results, and maintaining equanimity in all circumstances are vital for spiritual growth.
• Adoration of Virtues and Regard for Virtues: Appreciating and trying to cultivate the positive attributes of others, while being objective about their flaws, leads to personal growth and a harmonious society.
• Wholesome and Virtuous Talks: Engaging in conversations that are inspiring, harmless, and conducive to moral upliftment is key to fostering a positive environment.
• Integrated Life and Wholesome Leanings: Living a life free from hypocrisy and compartmentalization, where thoughts, words, and actions are aligned, is essential for true fulfillment.
• Humbleness and Sense of Gratitude: Humbleness is the foundation for all virtues, while gratitude is the recognition of the blessings and help received from others. Both are crucial for spiritual advancement.

Ultimately, "Rays of Dharma" offers a comprehensive guide to living a meaningful life rooted in Jain principles. It encourages readers to embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation, leading to inner peace, spiritual enlightenment, and the ultimate goal of liberation.