Rushabh Jinraj Muz Aaj Din Aatam Bhalo - Book Summary

This document is a commentary and devotional text related to Jainism, specifically focusing on a hymn (stavan) in praise of Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar.

Here's a comprehensive summary:

Book Title: Rushabh Jinraj Muz Aaj din Aatam Bhalo (O Lord Rishabh, Today is a Very Auspicious Day for Me) Author: Acharya Hemchandrasuri (The commentary is by Acharya Vijay Hemchandrasuri Maharaj, and the original hymn is attributed to Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj) Publisher: Sanghavi Ambalal Ratanchand Jain Dharmik Trust Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/008929/1

Core Content:

The document is primarily the commentary on a nine-verse hymn composed by Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj, with the commentary provided by the esteemed Acharya Shri Vijay Hemchandrasuri Maharaj. The hymn begins with the line "Rushabh Jinraj Muz Aaj din Aatam Bhalo."

Key Themes and Commentary Breakdown:

The Blissful Day: The opening verse and its commentary emphasize the immense joy and auspiciousness of having the darshan (vision) of Lord Rishabhdev. This darshan is described as removing suffering, bestowing happiness, accumulating merit, and eradicating sin. The commentary highlights how even the name "Rishabh" itself is sacred and potent.
Divine Blessings and Metaphors: The hymn uses powerful metaphors to describe the benefits of Lord Rishabhdev's darshan. It compares seeing the Lord to obtaining the wish-fulfilling Kalpavriksha (celestial tree) and receiving a shower of nectar. The Lord's vision is said to dispel the darkness of ignorance (kumati) and usher in true understanding (sumati).
Unwavering Devotion and Reliance: The text expresses absolute devotion and reliance on Lord Rishabhdev. The poet states that he has no other deity and finds ultimate happiness in the Lord's words, which act like an ocean of bliss. This devotion provides freedom from the fear of karma.
The Purity of Devotion: The commentary stresses the sanctity of the body, tongue, and heart that engage in devotion to the Lord. It elaborates on how any act of devotion, even a simple bowing or singing, purifies the individual.
The Power of Devotion Over Moksha (Liberation): In a remarkable expression of devotional fervor, the text suggests that the poet's devotion to the Lord is even more cherished than liberation (Moksha). The intense love for the Lord's devotion is so strong that it's believed to naturally draw liberation, akin to a magnet attracting iron. This theme is further explored with examples of great Jain saints and kings who prioritized devotion.
The Superiority of Lord Rishabhdev: The hymn uses analogies to highlight Lord Rishabhdev's unparalleled greatness compared to other deities or worldly possessions. It compares him to a wish-fulfilling jewel and a celestial tree, emphasizing that abandoning the Lord for anything else would be foolishness equivalent to collecting grass while ignoring precious gems or seeking shade under a thorny bush while a Kalpavriksha is available.
Absolute Faith and Singularity of Devotion: The text unequivocally declares that Lord Rishabhdev is the sole beloved deity. This unwavering faith is presented as a deliberate choice made after deep contemplation, assuring that no other deity will ever be desired.
The Unfathomable Nature of Karma and Lord's Protection: The commentary discusses the immense power of karma in shaping one's destiny. Despite the inherent risks and complexities of karma, the poet finds solace and fearlessness in the Lord's words, which are described as an ocean of bliss. The Lord's teachings provide the strength to overcome the cycle of karma.
The Lord as the Ultimate Refuge: The hymn and commentary portray the Lord as the ultimate savior and rescuer from the ocean of worldly existence (Bhavjaladhi). The Lord is the "patitpavan" (purifier of the fallen) and the "jagat uddharak" (savior of the world).
The Nature of Divine Attributes: The text touches upon the Lord's infinite qualities, his all-pervading presence, his unfathomable power, and his boundless compassion for all beings. The commentary explains that these qualities are so vast that even the most learned cannot fully comprehend or describe them.
The Significance of the Vow and Its Impact: The commentary explains how the Lord's mere presence and teachings lead to the establishment of the Jain Sangha (four-fold community: monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen). This institution is the means for crossing the ocean of suffering.
The Power of Name and Devotion: The text reiterates the potency of chanting the Lord's name and the profound results of devotion, citing numerous examples from Jain scriptures of individuals who achieved great spiritual heights through their devotion.
The Importance of Inner and Outer Devotion: The commentary distinguishes between "dravya bhakti" (devotion through material offerings and temple worship) and "bhava bhakti" (devotion through adherence to principles, self-discipline, and inner contemplation). While both are important, "bhava bhakti" is considered more potent for liberation. The text emphasizes that inner devotion leads to the eradication of inner impurities and the realization of the soul's true nature.
The Heart as the Seat of Devotion: The commentary elaborates on the significance of the heart as the focal point for devotion. Meditating on the Lord or sacred mantras within the heart is described as a powerful practice that purifies the mind, dispels ignorance, and leads to spiritual growth.
The Grandeur of the Lord's Presence: The text vividly describes the majestic presence of Lord Rishabhdev in the Samavsaran (divine assembly), highlighting the eight auspicious symbols (Pratiharyas) and the adoration shown by celestial beings.
The Translator's Humility: The commentary concludes with an expression of humility from the commentator (likely Acharya Hemchandrasuri Maharaj himself, or someone commenting on his work), acknowledging the vastness of the Lord's attributes and the limitations of human understanding. He seeks forgiveness for any errors and prays for the Lord's grace.

Overall Purpose:

The document serves as a devotional guide and commentary aimed at fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Lord Rishabhdev and the principles of Jainism. It encourages readers to engage in sincere devotion, contemplate the Lord's virtues, and strive for spiritual upliftment, ultimately leading to liberation. The commentary makes the profound teachings accessible and inspires a profound sense of reverence and love for the Tirthankar.