Saccha Guru Vyakti Ko Kalyan Marg Se Jodta Hai

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Saccha Guru Vyakti ko Kalyan Marg se Jodta Hai" by Manchandraji Upadhyay, based on the provided pages:

The text, a discourse by Upadhyaypravar Shri Manchandraji M.S., emphasizes that a true guru connects individuals to the path of liberation (Kalyan Marg) through Dharma (righteousness), rather than connecting them to themselves or a specific sect.

The discourse highlights the central role of the guru in Jainism, positioned between God (the founder of Dharma) and Dharma itself. Gurus act as propagators and connectors, bridging the gap and guiding individuals towards Dharma. The text uses the analogy of a doorway lamp (dehi-deepak nyay) to illustrate the guru's intermediary and guiding position.

Key characteristics of a true guru are presented:

• Connecting to Dharma, not the individual guru: A true guru fosters a connection to Dharma, not to their personal self. Connecting to the guru personally leads to an increase in possessiveness (mamata) and fails to lead the disciple onto the right path. A guru who connects individuals to Dharma experiences joy (pramod) in doing so.
• Focus on Dharma-Rag (Attachment to Dharma): The text distinguishes between three types of attachment:
  • Vyakti-rag (Personal attachment): This attachment lasts only as long as the individual guru is present and ceases after their departure.
  • Sampraday-rag (Sectarian attachment): This attachment lasts as long as the sect exists.
  • Dharma-rag (Attachment to Dharma): This attachment is eternal and endures through time. The text cautions against personal attachment to a guru, citing the example of Diwakar Shri Chouthmal Ji Maharaj, whose followers were attached to him personally, leading to their detachment after his passing.
• Eternal nature of Dharma: The discourse stresses that while individuals and sects are impermanent, Dharma is eternal and will always remain. True gurus focus on connecting people to this everlasting principle.
• Tailoring guidance to individuals: A true guru possesses keen insight and can discern the aptitudes and talents of individuals. They connect each person to Dharma according to their capabilities and nurture their potential. This is exemplified by Acharya Bhagwant Pujya Shri Hastimal Ji Maharaj, who guided people of all ages, from children to elders, towards Dharma in ways suitable for them. This included establishing religious schools for children, encouraging samayika (meditation) and study for youth, and emphasizing spiritual practice for the elderly.
• Leading to spiritual progress: A true guru guides individuals step-by-step, from the initial stages of learning mantras to becoming fully initiated practitioners (Panch Mahavrati). The disciple willingly progresses under such guidance. The text acknowledges that even with "saraag sanyam" (controlled attachment), individuals can advance spiritually.
• Selflessness and a vast heart: Unlike some religious leaders who draw followers to themselves, a true guru, like the Maulana in the story, instructs to connect people to God (or Dharma) and not to oneself. Acharya Bhagwant Pujya Shri Hastimal Ji Maharaj is described as having a vast heart and a desire for the progress of the monastic order (Shraman Sangh). Even after leaving the Sangh, his disciples sought his counsel.
• Transforming devotees into enlightened beings: The ultimate aim of a true guru is not just to create devoted followers but to guide them towards becoming enlightened beings (like God). The analogy of the philosopher's stone (Paras) turning iron into gold is used, but the guru's role is even greater, transforming a devotee into a divine being.
• Nurturing future gurus: A true guru also dedicates themselves to preparing and nurturing future spiritual leaders. The text praises Acharya Shri Shobhachand Ji Maharaj for giving the society talented and radiant gurus and highlights Acharya Shri Hastimal Ji Maharaj for similarly grooming successors. The current Acharya Shri (Hirachand Ji M.S.) is commended for his dedicated care of the fourfold community (chaturvidh sangh) and for awakening people through samayika and study.

In essence, the discourse advocates for a selfless, Dharma-centric approach to spiritual guidance, where the guru's sole purpose is to illuminate the path to liberation for all, irrespective of their background, by fostering a deep and enduring connection to the eternal principles of Jainism.