Samaysara Part 01

The provided text is the first part of the Jain text "Samaysara," authored by Bhagwandas Mansukhbhai Mehta and published by Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram. The book is a commentary and translation of the ancient Jain text "Samaysara," originally composed by Acharya Kundakund and further elaborated with the "Atmakhyati" commentary by Acharya Amritchandra. Dr. Bhagwandas Mehta has provided a comprehensive "Amrit Jyoti" commentary on the "Atmakhyati."

Here's a breakdown of the content presented:

• Title and Authorship: The book is titled "Samaysara Part 01." The primary author of the original text is Acharya Kundakunda, with the commentary by Acharya Amritchandra. The extensive commentary and translation provided in this volume are by Dr. Bhagwandas Mansukhbhai Mehta.
• Publisher and Catalog: Published by Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram, Agas. A catalog link is provided.
• Content of the Commentary: The commentary by Dr. Bhagwandas Mehta is multifaceted. It includes:
  • A poetic translation of the "Gathas" (verses) of Samaysara.
  • A word-for-word translation of the "Atmakhyati" commentary.
  • A detailed analysis and explanation of the sentiments expressed in the "Atmakhyati" commentary, presented as "Atmabhavana."
  • A commentary on the "Samaysara Kalash" (verses of the Samaysara).
  • Self-composed "Amrit Pad" (nectar-like verses).
  • A comprehensive critique titled "Amrit Jyoti" Maha Bhashya.
• Dedication: The book is dedicated to Param Kripaludev Shrimad Rajchandra.
• Author's Appreciation of Shrimad Rajchandra: The author, Dr. Bhagwandas Mehta, expresses deep reverence for Shrimad Rajchandra, describing him as a living embodiment of the "Samaysara," a direct experiencer of the pure soul, and a guiding light for spiritual seekers. Shrimad Rajchandra's life and teachings are presented as a testament to the practical realization of the "Samaysara."
• Core Jain Principles: The text emphasizes the core Jain principle of focusing solely on the Soul (Atma) – its true nature, its self-realization, and its liberation from worldly attachments and karma. The ultimate aim is the attainment of the pure, liberated soul, which is the essence of "Samaysara."
• Commentary's Approach: The commentary aims to make the profound spiritual teachings of Samaysara and Atmakhyati accessible to readers. It highlights the importance of understanding the essence of the soul's true nature, which is beyond birth, death, and worldly afflictions.
• Structure of the Book: The text mentions a "Granth Yojana aur Granth Sankalana" (Book Plan and Compilation) which outlines a seven-part plan, including the original Gatha (Prakrit), poetic translation, literal translation of Atmakhyati, detailed commentary, and verses. It also details the structure of the commentary on the Kalash verses.
• Key Concepts Elaborated: The summary delves into concepts like:
  • Samaysara: The true nature of the soul, the eternal, unchanging essence of reality.
  • Atma (Soul): The true self, pure consciousness, distinct from the body and other substances.
  • Nischay Naya (Ultimate Truth): The perspective of the soul's intrinsic nature, untouched by karma or external conditions.
  • Vyavahar Naya (Conventional Truth): The perspective of worldly interactions and conventional reality, which serves as a means to understand the ultimate truth.
  • The Path to Liberation: The text emphasizes the path of self-realization through pure knowledge, perception, and conduct (Darsana, Jnana, Charitra) as the means to achieve liberation (Moksha).
  • Rejection of Externalities: It highlights the folly of attachment to external rituals or worldly possessions, emphasizing that true liberation lies in the realization of the soul's intrinsic nature.
  • The Role of Gurus: The importance of a self-realized Guru (Sadguru) is stressed as a guide for spiritual progress.
• Structure of the Commentary: The text explains that the commentary is structured to include the original verses (Gathas) in Prakrit, their literal translation, poetic translations, and detailed philosophical explanations.
• Emphasis on Atma-vichar: The commentary advocates for introspective contemplation of the soul (Atma-vichar) as the primary means to overcome ignorance and attain liberation.
• Quotations and References: The text includes numerous quotations from Jain scriptures and commentaries, as well as from Shrimad Rajchandra's own writings, to support its points.

In essence, this initial part of "Samaysara" by Dr. Bhagwandas Mehta serves as an introductory volume, setting the stage for a deep dive into the Jain philosophy of the soul, its true nature, and the path to its liberation, as expounded by revered Acharyas Kundakunda and Amritchandra, and further elucidated through the author's extensive commentary inspired by Shrimad Rajchandra. It underscores the profound spiritual journey of realizing the soul's inherent purity and divinity.