Sadbhavna

The book "Sadbhavna" by Acharya Padmasagarsuri, published by Sadvichar Parivar Prakashan, is a profound discourse on the concept of "Sadbhavna" (goodwill, mutual understanding, harmony) in the context of Jain philosophy and its relevance to contemporary global challenges. The text emphasizes the importance of shifting from a self-centered existence to one that is expansive and inclusive, reflecting the teachings of Jain Tirthankaras.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the key themes and arguments presented in the book:

Core Concept of Sadbhavna:

• Beyond Self-Interest: The central idea is that prolonged self-centeredness and living solely for oneself inevitably lead to conflict. True Sadbhavna emerges when one's thoughts and actions extend beyond the individual to encompass the collective and the welfare of all living beings.
• Jain Perspective: The book draws heavily from Jain principles, highlighting how the Tirthankaras, particularly Lord Mahavir, exemplified Sadbhavna. Their teachings, such as "Shivamastu sarva-bhuṭeṣu" (May all living beings be well), represent an all-encompassing vision of welfare, not limited to a specific sect or group.
• Action-Oriented Spirituality: The author stresses that mere thought or intellectual understanding of spiritual concepts is insufficient. True spirituality lies in translating these thoughts into actions, aligning one's behavior with one's beliefs. A religion that remains solely in the realm of thought becomes stagnant and can breed conflict.

Causes of Conflict and Division:

• Neglect of Divine Teachings: The book posits that the current state of global conflict and disharmony is a direct consequence of neglecting and disregarding the wisdom of enlightened beings and their teachings.
• Internal and External Battles: Individuals are depicted as constantly battling not only external forces but also their own inner conflicts, as famously stated by Leo Tolstoy, "The life of man is the field of the battle."
• Ideological Strife: The author points to the ideological conflicts of the present day, such as the clash between communism and individualism, as significant contributors to global instability and the potential for catastrophic destruction.
• Imposing One's Views: A primary source of conflict is the human tendency to impose personal beliefs and ideologies on others, leading to a breakdown in understanding and empathy.

The Power of Jain Principles:

• Anekantavada (Non-absolutism): The Jain principle of Anekantavada is presented as a crucial tool for fostering understanding and resolving conflicts. It encourages looking at issues from multiple perspectives, acknowledging that truth can be relative and multifaceted.
• Ahinsa (Non-violence), Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Self-control), Aparigraha (Non-possession), Satya (Truthfulness), Samyama (Restraint): These fundamental Jain principles are highlighted as the bedrock for building universal harmony.
• Relativity and Accommodation: The author uses the analogy of cows of different colors producing the same white milk to illustrate that different paths or faiths, while outwardly diverse, can lead to the same underlying spiritual truth. The core of dharma, focused on the soul, remains pure, regardless of external labels.

Critique of Modern Society and a Call to Action:

• Loss of Values: The book laments the erosion of traditional values, honesty, and community spirit in modern society. The example of the unattended bank and the honest but ineffective guard illustrates how a focus on superficial security can overlook deeper issues.
• Spiritual Dilapidation: The author observes that even spiritual leaders and institutions have become commercialized, seeking profit and "market" rather than focusing on the true essence of spirituality and selfless service.
• The Need for Unity and Collective Action: The book strongly advocates for the unity of religious leaders and followers, transcending sectarian differences to present a united front against the ideological and cultural onslaught from the West.
• The Role of Sadhus and Saints: Sadhu-sants are identified as guardians of society and culture. The author calls for them to awaken from their complacency, unite, and actively engage in spreading the message of Sadbhavna. A well-organized body of saints, acting with love and compassion, can radiate positive vibrations and bring about societal transformation.
• Consequences of Disunity: The analogy of digits in numbers like 36 and 63 is used to depict how division and conflict create opposing forces, while unity and consensus create synergistic power. The call is to move from division to multiplication through Sadbhavna.

Practical Application and Personal Transformation:

• Inner Transformation: The path to Sadbhavna begins with individual introspection and transformation. Cultivating love, empathy, and a willingness to forgive are essential steps.
• The Power of Love: Love is presented as the ultimate path to the divine and the foundation of Sadbhavna. When individuals embody love, they can touch and transform the hearts of others.
• Living by Example: The author emphasizes the importance of leaders, particularly spiritual ones, living by example. Their actions and sincerity are more impactful than mere words.
• Selfless Service: The book encourages active participation in initiatives that promote the welfare of others, such as supporting the Sadvichar Parivar's various charitable endeavors.

Concluding Message:

The book "Sadbhavna" serves as a powerful call to action, urging individuals and society to embrace the principles of goodwill, understanding, and compassion. It advocates for a return to the core values of humanity, guided by the wisdom of Jain philosophy, to create a peaceful, harmonious, and spiritually enriched world. The author expresses hope that through consistent effort and the collective will of humanity, a future where Sadbhavna prevails is achievable.