Right Understanding To Help Others

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Right Understanding To Help Others" by Dada Bhagwan, based on the provided pages:

The book "Right Understanding To Help Others" is a German translation of the teachings of Gnani Purush Dadashri (Dada Bhagwan), compiled from his discussions with seekers. The core message emphasizes the profound importance of self-realization and how helping others is intrinsically linked to achieving spiritual progress and ultimate liberation.

Key Concepts and Teachings:

• The Purpose of Human Life: The fundamental purpose of human life is to serve others and to achieve self-realization (Atma Gnan). While for Indians, this includes achieving liberation (Moksha), for everyone, the primary aim is to be of service to others through one's mind, speech, and actions.
• Serving Others as the Path to Happiness: The book asserts that true and everlasting happiness comes from making others happy. By using one's mind, speech, and body for the benefit of others, one will naturally receive all that is needed in life. Conversely, causing unhappiness to others leads to unhappiness for oneself.
• The Nature of True Service:
  • Selflessness and Lack of Ego: Genuine service is performed without any expectation of reward, recognition, or personal benefit. The underlying intention is key, not the external action. An ego of "I am serving" creates bondage. True service is done without the "me-ness" or "mine-ness" of being the doer.
  • Absence of Judgment: When helping others, one should not judge their receptiveness or unresponsiveness. The focus should be on offering service, not on whether it is accepted or understood by the recipient. The analogy of a mango tree is used: it offers its fruit without concern for the recipient's attitude.
  • Inner Intention (Bhaav) over External Action: The inner intention to help is more crucial than the outward act of giving. Even if one cannot give materially, maintaining a helpful disposition and intention is paramount.
• The Science Behind Helping Others:
  • Merit Karma (Punya): Helping others with the right intention generates merit karma, which leads to worldly happiness and well-being in this life and future lives. This merit karma acts as a friend. Conversely, harming others creates demerit karma, acting as an enemy.
  • Natural Law: The law of nature rewards those who serve. Just as trees give their fruits and develop, humans also progress by giving to others. The natural world takes care of those who contribute to its well-being.
  • Worldly Wealth as a Byproduct: The book posits that when one's primary focus is spiritual progress and serving others, worldly prosperity (money, comfort) naturally becomes a byproduct. Conversely, making money the primary goal hinders spiritual growth.
• The Role of the Gnani Purush:
  • Akram Vignan: Dada Bhagwan introduced "Akram Vignan," a direct, step-less path to self-realization, often facilitated through a 48-minute process called Gnan Vidhi.
  • Transmission of Knowledge: Self-realization and the knowledge of the Self (Atma Gnan) can only be attained by meeting and receiving knowledge from a living Gnani Purush. Just as a lit candle can light another, a realized soul can impart this knowledge.
  • Guidance for True Service: Gnani Purush Dadashri guides individuals on how to serve selflessly and understand the deeper science behind such actions.
• Differentiating Types of Service:
  • Social Service (Samaaj Seva): This is considered a worldly obligation or social duty, which can vary depending on the society. It is a step towards Dharma but not the ultimate goal.
  • Service of the Self (Atma Seva): This is the highest form of religion, where one realizes their true Self (the Pure Soul) and lives in alignment with it. This ultimately leads to liberation.
  • Dada Bhagwan's Role: Dada Bhagwan considers His primary production (purpose) to be the liberation of the world. As a result, He continuously receives all necessary worldly provisions as byproducts. He encourages individuals to serve others by living according to His teachings, particularly by not hurting any living being and by aiming for the realization of the Self.
• The Importance of Parents and Gurus: Serving parents is highlighted as a fundamental moral duty and a direct way to experience peace and well-being. Neglecting parents leads to unhappiness. Serving a Guru (a spiritual master) can lead to liberation.
• The Nature of Ego: Ego is identified as a primary obstacle. While good intentions and service are commendable, the ego of being the "doer" creates bondage. The advice is to acknowledge the ego's presence and seek forgiveness, rather than trying to eliminate it forcefully. The ultimate goal is the dissolution of the ego.
• Practical Guidance: The book offers practical advice, such as repeating certain mantras, maintaining a pleasant nature, and not harboring negative intentions or desires. It emphasizes that understanding and implementing these principles leads to a life of harmony, peace, and eventually, spiritual freedom.

In essence, "Right Understanding To Help Others" teaches that the path to true happiness and liberation lies in selfless service, understanding the underlying spiritual science, and seeking guidance from a Gnani Purush. By shifting one's focus from self-interest to the well-being of others, individuals can not only attain worldly comforts but also progress towards the ultimate goal of self-realization and spiritual freedom.