Samadhi Shatak Part 04 - Book Summary

This document is "Samadhi Shatak Part 04" by Acharya Yashovijaysuri. The book is part of the Acharya Shri Omkarsuri Gyanmandir Granthavali series. It is published by Gurubhakt.

The book is a collection of discourses or reflections, likely based on Jain philosophical principles, focusing on achieving inner peace and spiritual realization (Samadhi). The content is structured into chapters or sections, each with a verse from a scriptural source ("Aadhar Sutra") and a subsequent explanation or commentary.

Here's a breakdown of the themes covered in the provided pages, based on the section titles and content:

Page 6 (Verse 77): Discusses the nature of the soul, stating that it is beyond gender, caste, or scriptures, referencing the fifteen types of siddhas (liberated souls).
Page 9 (Verse 77 continued): Introduces the concept of "Prabhunu Surakshachakra" (The Lord's Protective Cycle). It reflects on the idea that divine presence or grace seems to withdraw when the devotee takes personal control of their spiritual efforts, comparing it to a child losing parental support when they start walking independently. It emphasizes that devotion and surrender are key to experiencing this divine protection, which counters attachment and worldly desires.
Page 15 (Verse 78): Explains the distinction between the body and the soul, stating that those who understand this difference do not identify the soul with the body.
Page 16 (Verse 78 continued): Discusses the "Aatmadrashta Sadhak" (The Self-Perceiving Seeker). It highlights the profound joy of being immersed in knowledge and the realization of detachment from all non-self elements, including the body. It uses the analogy of listening to a neighbor's burning house to illustrate the detachment of a true seeker.
Page 17: Distinguishes between "Savikalp Samadhi" (Samadhi with mental modifications) and "Nirvikalp Samadhi" (Samadhi without modifications), emphasizing the latter as pure self-contemplation.
Page 20 (Verse 79): Contrasts the illusionary nature of dreams and mental afflictions (vikalta) from a conventional perspective ("vyavahar naya") with the ultimate reality from an absolute perspective ("nishchay naya"). It suggests that true freedom from delusion comes only with the eradication of inner impurities (ragadi dosha).
Page 21 (Verse 79 continued): Introduces "Constant Sleep" (Conscious Sleep) through a story of a farmer. It defines "dream" as the manifestation of unfulfilled desires. It quotes Buddha's refusal to initiate someone who dreams, implying that deep, undisturbed sleep indicates progress in spiritual practice.
Page 23: Elaborates on "Conscious Sleep," describing it as a state where the subconscious mind remains aware even during sleep. This is achieved by integrating awareness into waking, dreaming, and sleeping states.
Page 27 (Verse 80): Contrasts the state of an "external-self" (bahir-aatma) engrossed in worldly pursuits and scriptural study without inner transformation, with the "experienced seeker" (anubhavi) who, through deep practice, attains liberation even while in the midst of worldly interactions or sleep.
Page 28 (Verse 80 continued): Discusses "Munitva: Kshana Kshana Ni Jagruti" (Monkhood: Moment-to-Moment Awareness). It uses the example of a disciple who woke up early but spent the time criticizing others, only to be corrected by his Guru. The Guru emphasizes that true wakefulness is not just about waking up early but about engaging in positive introspection and avoiding criticism.
Page 31: Continues the theme of awareness with the story of Princess Prabhanjana, who attained Kevalgyan (omniscience) through her detachment and focus on spiritual practice, even amidst worldly distractions.
Page 34 (Verse 81): Questions the purpose of mere intellectual study if inner mental fluctuations (vikalpa) are not controlled, using the analogy of a bull in an oil-press that moves but goes nowhere.
Page 35 (Verse 81 continued): Discusses "Jnana Dwara Swarupsthiti" (Attaining Self-State through Knowledge). It uses the anecdote of Namdev, Jnandev, and Muktabai visiting Gora Kumbhar to illustrate that true spiritual attainment is not about outward show but about inner transformation. It emphasizes that true knowledge leads to introversion and self-realization.
Page 36 (Verse 82): Explains that where one's intellect is steady, there one's interest and mind will reside. If the intellect is focused on the soul, then self-interest will naturally follow.
Page 37 (Verse 82 continued): Introduces the concept of "'Bahar Jaivu Kai Chhe J Nai!'" (There is nothing like 'outside'!). It quotes from a devotional hymn and discusses the importance of seeking one's true existence (Being) and the bliss derived from it. It highlights detachment from the external world as one progresses towards inner realization.
Page 41 (Verse 83): States that by serving the Supreme Soul, the devoted soul attains its form, just as a wick near a flame becomes fiery.
Page 42 (Verse 83 continued): Explores "Jivanta Deepna Sannidhya Ma" (In the Vicinity of a Living Lamp). It reflects on devotional prayers, asking the Divine for the ability to worship and the necessary qualifications for spiritual progress. It emphasizes the role of a Guru in guiding one towards the Divine.
Page 47 (Verse 84): Explains that by stabilizing oneself within the soul, one attains the state of the Supreme Soul, akin to how fire is generated within wood through friction.
Page 49 (Verse 84 continued): Discusses "Potanu Potani Bhitar Sthir Thavu" (Becoming Stable Within Oneself). It emphasizes the essence of spiritual practice: remaining stable in the soul and not being swayed by external states. It uses anecdotes from Zen stories and Einstein's life to illustrate the importance of unwavering focus on the self.
Page 54 (Verse 85): States that contemplating the transcendent, wordless Supreme state leads to effortless inner radiance and liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
Page 55 (Verse 85 continued): Delves into "Swaroop Sthitini Jhalak" (A Glimpse of Self-State). It discusses the transformation of desires into spiritual study and the profound bliss derived from such introspection. It highlights the concept of "Urjikarana" (uplifting of tendencies) as a way to manage desires, leading to inner peace and self-realization.
Page 67 (Verse 86): Declares that the enlightened have no suffering, as they naturally attain liberation. Their experience of bliss and light leads to universal well-being.
Page 68 (Verse 86 continued): Explores "Virahasaktinu Mahakavya" (The Epic of Separation-Attachment). It uses the example of Mirabai's devotional fervor and her longing for the Divine, where even tears become a form of communication. It emphasizes that true devotion is characterized by an intense desire for the Divine, leading to ultimate union.
Page 74 (Verse 87): States that just as there is no sorrow when a dream's pleasures vanish, similarly, the enlightened remain undisturbed by the impermanence of the physical body.
Page 75 (Verse 87 continued): Discusses "Jnaani Purushni Jagruti" (The Awareness of an Enlightened Person). It uses the story of a thief who, after listening to a spiritual discourse, becomes a monk. This highlights the transformative power of spiritual teachings and the sudden realization of true wealth (knowledge and self-awareness) over material possessions.
Page 77: Continues the discussion on awareness, drawing a parallel between the illusory nature of dreams and the conventional understanding of waking life. It suggests that true wakefulness is a state of inner awareness, free from the illusions of the external world.
Page 79: Explains the necessity of "Abhyas" (practice) and "Nairantarya" (continuity) in spiritual discipline, referencing Patanjali's Yoga Sutras. It emphasizes that consistent and dedicated practice, even in the face of physical hardship, leads to proficiency and spiritual progress.
Page 81 (Verse 89): Asserts that the knowledge of those who are strengthened by experiencing hardships ("Dukh-Bhavit Gyaani") does not falter. Like a diamond or gold that endures fire, their spiritual practice remains steadfast.
Page 82 (Verse 89 continued): Discusses "Sadhana Ni Abhyastata Na Tran Charan" (Three Stages of Practice's Acquired Habit). It uses examples of musicians like Dr. Pablo and Ustad Ahmed, who despite physical limitations, could perform due to years of dedicated practice. It highlights the three principles of practice: long-term commitment, continuity, and devotion with respect.
Page 86: Concludes the discussion on practice, stating that when practice becomes ingrained, it is not lost even in times of suffering.
Page 87 (Verse 90): Encourages enduring hardship in accordance with one's capacity, as this strengthens knowledge and righteous conduct, leading to inner joy.
Page 94 (Verse 90 continued): Explores "Sarvasvikar Ni Sadhana" (The Practice of Total Acceptance). It uses the anecdote of a disciple who felt his Guru hadn't taught him anything, only to realize later that the Guru's simple acceptance of his service was the true teaching. It emphasizes accepting both joy and sorrow with equanimity.
Page 97 (Verse 91): Compares the enlightened to warriors in battle who are unfazed by arrows, finding joy in pleasing the Divine and engaging in spiritual battle without counting suffering.
Page 98 (Verse 91 continued): Discusses "'Aisa Hi Rang De Ki...'" (Color Me With Such a Hue...). It reflects on the desire to please the Divine, using the examples of Rabia and Mirabai, whose intense devotion and surrender led to divine union. It suggests that true devotion involves eradicating the ego.
Page 103 (Verse 92): Contrasts a merchant who finds pleasure in the hardships of business for the sake of profit with a muni (ascetic) who considers the difficulties of spiritual practice as a means to attain true happiness.
Page 104 (Verse 92 continued): Presents "'Surat Nirat Ko Deevalo Joyo...'" (Saw the Lamp of Inner Vision...). It highlights the practice of constant remembrance of the Divine, using metaphors of a lamp fueled by sincere devotion. It stresses that true spiritual practice is characterized by intense focus and unwavering remembrance of the Divine.
Page 107: Continues the theme of devotion, emphasizing that the actions performed out of love for the Divine, even if simple, become significant and lead to spiritual progress.
Page 109 (Verse 93): States that action (Kriya) is practice, and knowledge (Jnana) that leads to the absence of karmic bondage is the result. The enlightened embrace both, and those who neglect one aspect are considered blind.
Page 110 (Verse 93 continued): Introduces "Vismay: Yog nu Pravesh Dwar" (Wonder: The Gateway to Yoga). It defines Yoga as any practice that leads towards self-realization and liberation. It emphasizes the role of wonder and awe in experiencing the Divine.
Page 112: Elaborates on wonder as the gateway to Yoga, citing examples from Jain scriptures and the devotional experience of saints. It highlights the feeling of awe and the realization of the Divine's greatness as crucial steps in spiritual growth.
Page 115 (Verse 94): Discusses three types of Yoga: "Ichha Yoga" (Yoga of Desire), "Shastra Yoga" (Scriptural Yoga), and "Samarthya Yoga" (Yoga of Potency/Capability). Ichha Yoga involves fulfilling desires through practice, Shastra Yoga adheres to scriptural guidelines, and Samarthya Yoga transcends scriptural limitations through advanced realization.
Page 118 (Verse 95): Further explains Shastra Yoga as adhering to scriptural injunctions with due diligence, and Samarthya Yoga as transcending scriptural practices through advanced spiritual realization and power.
Page 120 (Verse 95 continued): Focuses on "Tame Chho Jyotirmay" (You are Radiant). It discusses the concept of Dharma as a state of being free from attachments and the realization of one's true, luminous self. It emphasizes that true Jainism lies in seeing the soul beyond external forms and practices.
Page 123 (Verse 96): Explains "Jain Kaho Kyun Hove?" (How does one become Jain?). It describes a Jain as someone who bathes in the waters of equanimity, washes away karmic impurities, and realizes their pure, true self. It emphasizes the importance of understanding and living by the principles of Anekantavada (multi-faceted reality).
Page 128 (Verse 96 continued): Continues the discussion on Jain principles, stressing the importance of understanding different perspectives (nayas) and maintaining equanimity, leading to the realization of true Jainism and avoiding false practices.
Page 131 (Verse 98): Contrasts the argumentative nature of those who cling to their own perspectives ("nayavadi") with the enlightened person who, through equanimity and understanding of relative truths, remains undisturbed by conflicts.
Page 136 (Verse 98 continued): Discusses "Udasinbhav Ma Mahalan Ni Kshano" (Moments of Dwelling in Equanimity). It describes a seeker who, having found inner bliss, is not drawn to external pursuits. Equanimity is presented as a state of being above attachment and aversion, leading to unwavering inner peace.
Page 141 (Verse 99): Further emphasizes equanimity, stating that observing conflicts between opposing viewpoints without personal involvement is not a source of suffering, while actively engaging in them or being driven by external influences leads to unhappiness.
Page 142 (Verse 99 continued): Continues the theme of equanimity and inner peace, contrasting it with the suffering caused by attachment to external things and opinions.
Page 147 (Verse 100): Explains that equanimity is the fruit of knowledge and leads to tasting the essence of equanimity. It advises against being engrossed in external perceptions and to instead cultivate inner virtues.
Page 152 (Verse 101): States that equanimity is the fruit of knowledge, while attachment to the external world is delusion. It encourages embracing virtue and developing wisdom.
Page 153: Continues the theme of equanimity and self-realization, contrasting the fleeting nature of external attachments with the enduring bliss of the inner self.
Page 155: Discusses the profound inner joy and peace that arises from equanimity and the realization of one's true nature.
Page 157 (Verse 102): Concludes by stating that this "Samadhi Shatak," compiled in the "Dhodhak" meter, contains profound thoughts on achieving Samadhi. It urges scholars to internalize this wisdom, treating it as a garland of precious spiritual insights.
Page 158 (Verse 103): Describes the monk as an "Indra" (king) riding a chariot of knowledge, wielding the scepter of conduct, dwelling in the garden of natural samadhi, and reveling in profound equanimity with the Divine Mother (equanimity itself).
Page 164 (Verse 103 continued): Elaborates on the qualities of a monk, describing them as "Urdhvareta" (one whose vital energy is directed upwards), a master of the "Unmani Bhav" (state beyond mental fluctuations), an experienced guide, and a yogi of knowledge.
Page 171 (Verse 104): States that Acharya Yashovijay has composed this "Dhodhak Shatak" (collection of 100 verses) and whoever internalizes its essence will attain well-being.
Page 172 (Verse 104 continued): Discusses "Tab Dekhe Nij Roop" (Then One Sees One's True Form). It explains that through equanimity, the limitations of external desires and emotional fluctuations are overcome, leading to the direct perception of one's true self. It references the "Ashtanga Yoga" (eight-limbed yoga) and how equanimity and knowledge condense these practices.
Page 174: The preface ("Swadhyaya Ni Kshano Ni Arpar") by Yashovijaysuri recounts the inspiration and process behind writing the commentary on "Samadhi Shatak." He shares personal reflections on the profound impact of the verses, the importance of inner experience over mere intellectual understanding, and his feeling of being a conduit for divine inspiration.
Page 179: Appendix 1 ("Swadhyaya Ni Kshano Ni Arpar") is a continuation of the preface, reflecting on the spiritual journey and the guidance received from the "Samadhi Shatak."
Page 179 onwards: Appendix 2 ("Samari Bhagwati Bharati...") contains a collection of verses from the "Samadhi Shatak" itself, likely serving as a summary or key takeaways. These verses reiterate themes of self-knowledge, detachment from the material world, the importance of equanimity, and the path to liberation.

In essence, "Samadhi Shatak Part 04" is a guide to achieving spiritual equanimity and self-realization by focusing on inner awareness, detachment from external influences, and consistent, devoted spiritual practice, all illuminated by the wisdom of Jain scriptures and the insights of Acharya Yashovijaysuri.