Shant Sudharas

The book "Shant Sudharas" is a Jain text compiled and commented upon by Pandit Praveen Chandra Khimji Mota. Originally authored by Punya Mahopadhyay Shri Vinayvijayji Maharaj, the book offers a detailed commentary on the original text.

The core purpose of this book, as indicated by the publisher's note, is to illuminate the profound secrets of Jainism. It achieves this by collecting scattered scriptural verses from various texts related to specific topics and then resolving apparent contradictions to reveal hidden meanings. The publisher, Gitarth Ganga, aims to present these profound truths in an accessible manner, facilitated by the discourses of Pujya Acharya Bhagwant Shrimad Vijay Yugbhushan Surishwarji Maharaj.

The book delves into the concept of "Bhavana" (contemplation/meditation), which is crucial for spiritual progress in Jainism. It explains that simply attaining Jainism is not enough; one needs to understand its deep secrets through knowledge, cultivate unwavering respect for it, and commit firmly to the path of spiritual practice.

"Shant Sudharas" particularly focuses on the Sixteen Bhavanas, which are presented as a means to understand the true nature of the soul and the universe. The book aims to guide individuals through these contemplations so that their minds can detach from the illusionary cycle of worldly existence ("Bhav Prapanch") and turn towards the "Shant Ras" (the essence of peace and equanimity).

The provided text includes the initial chapters, covering:

• Mangalacharan (Invocation): The book begins with prayers and verses that set a spiritual tone and invoke blessings. The introductory verses beautifully describe the perilous cycle of birth and death (Samsara) as a dense, dark forest filled with the five streams of "Ashrav" (influx of karmas), making it difficult for souls to find their way out. The divine words of the Tirthankaras are presented as the guiding light and source of nectar that can lead souls to liberation.
• Anitya Bhavana (Contemplation on Impermanence): This section explores the impermanent nature of the body, life, wealth, relationships, and all worldly phenomena. It uses vivid analogies, such as the fleeting nature of clouds and the illusory magic of a dream, to emphasize that nothing in the material world is permanent. The goal is to detach from worldly attachments by recognizing their transient nature.
• Asharan Bhavana (Contemplation on Helplessness): This part highlights the vulnerability of beings in the cycle of existence. It emphasizes that external powers, wealth, and even relationships offer no true refuge from the consequences of karma and the inevitability of death. The only true refuge lies in the teachings of the Jinas.
• Samsara Bhavana (Contemplation on the Cycle of Existence): This section likely delves into the continuous cycle of birth, death, and rebirth across different realms of existence, illustrating the suffering inherent in this cycle.
• Ekattva Bhavana (Contemplation on Singularity/Oneness): This contemplation likely focuses on the inherent oneness of the soul, emphasizing its distinction from the body, karma, and other external factors.
• Anyatva Bhavana (Contemplation on Otherness/Difference): This section likely focuses on distinguishing the soul from all other karmic and material substances, reinforcing the concept of "Anekantavada" (non-absolutism) in understanding reality.
• Ashuchi Bhavana (Contemplation on Impurity): This contemplation highlights the impure and decaying nature of the physical body, aiming to reduce attachment to it.
• Ashrav Bhavana (Contemplation on the Influx of Karmas): This section would explain the mechanisms by which karmas attach to the soul.
• Samvar Bhavana (Contemplation on the Prevention of Karmas): This part would focus on practices and mental states that prevent the influx of new karmas.
• Nirjara Bhavana (Contemplation on the Shedding of Karmas): This section would detail the methods for expiating existing karmas.
• Dharma Swakhyata Bhavana (Contemplation on the Truly Taught Dharma): This contemplation likely focuses on the righteous path as taught by the Jinas.
• Lok Swarupa Bhavana (Contemplation on the Nature of the Universe): This section would describe the structure and components of the Jain universe.
• Bodhi Durlabh Bhavana (Contemplation on the Rarity of Righteous Knowledge): This highlights the difficulty in attaining true spiritual insight and understanding.
• Maitri Bhavana (Contemplation of Friendliness): This focuses on cultivating universal friendliness and goodwill towards all beings.
• Pramod Bhavana (Contemplation of Joy in Virtue): This involves finding joy in the virtuous deeds of oneself and others.
• Karuna Bhavana (Contemplation of Compassion): This emphasizes developing compassion for all suffering beings.
• Madhyastha Bhavana (Contemplation of Equanimity): This final contemplation focuses on maintaining a balanced and detached state of mind, free from attachment and aversion.

The book, through its detailed "Shabdashah Vivechan" (word-by-word commentary), aims to provide a deep and insightful understanding of these spiritual principles, making them accessible to the readers for their personal growth and spiritual upliftment. The comprehensive list of publications by Gitarth Ganga, including numerous other commentaries by Pandit Pravinchandra Mota, indicates a significant commitment to spreading Jain knowledge.