Shastra Sandesh Mala Part 04

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shastra Sandesh Mala Part 04" authored by Vinayrakshitvijay, published by Shastra Sandesh Mala. The provided text is the catalog entry and a significant portion of the book's content, detailing its compilation, publication, acknowledgments, and the various Jain philosophical and practical treatises it contains.

Overall Content and Purpose:

The book "Shastra Sandesh Mala Part 04" is part of a larger series aimed at disseminating Jain scriptures and teachings. This particular volume focuses on the works of renowned Jain monks, primarily from the tradition of Upadhyaya Shri Yashovijayganivar. The compilation is dedicated to presenting profound Jain philosophy and practices in a structured and accessible manner. The series aims to preserve and promote the vast literary heritage of Jainism.

Key Aspects and Sections:

1. Compilation and Publication Details:

   • Title: Shastra Sandesh Mala Part 04 (शास्त्र संदेशमाला - 4)
   • Author/Compiler: Po. Mu. Shri Vinayrakshitvijayji (पू. मु. श्री विनयरक्षीतविजयजी म.सा.)
   • Publisher: Shastra Sandesh Mala (शासत्र संदेशमाला)
   • Inspiration: The publication is attributed to the guidance of Po. Panyas Shri Bodhiratna Vijayji M.Sa. (पू. प. श्री बोधिरत्न विजयजी म.सा.) and the compilation is done by Po. Mu. Shri Vinayrakshitvijayji M.Sa. (पू. मु. श्री विनयरक्षीतविजयजी म.सा.).
   • First Edition: Published on Vijaya Dashami, Vikram Samvat 2061 (वि.स. २०६१).
   • Priced: Rs. 40/- (at cost price).
   • Acknowledgments: The book expresses gratitude to various institutions and individuals for their support in accessing source texts and for the publication itself. Special thanks are extended to:
     • Shri Surat Tapgachh Ratnatrayi Aradhak Sangh (श्री सूरत तप्गच्छ रत्नत्रयी आराधक संघ) for financial support from their knowledge fund.
     • Various Jain Upashrayas and Pustakalayas (libraries) in Radhanpur, Patan, Surat, Ahmedabad, and Koba for providing access to ancient manuscripts and texts.
     • The editorial and proofreading team, including Po. Aa. Shri Vijay V Shekhar Surishwarji M.Sa., Po. Mu. Shri Hitrakshitvijayji M.Sa., Po. Mu. Shri Shrutatilak Vijayji M.Sa., Po. Sa. Shri Bhadrajna Shriji M., and Pandit Shri Ratibhai Chimanlal Doshi, for their meticulous work in ensuring accuracy and purity of the text.
     • Printers and typesetters for their technical contributions.
   • Note: The publication of parts 1 to 20 of Shastra Sandesh Mala is funded from a "knowledge fund" (ज्ञानद्रव्य).

2. Content Structure (अनुक्रमणिका - Index): The book contains a collection of 11 distinct works, totaling 3127 shlokas (verses) and covering 288 pages. The included texts are:

   1. Upadesh Rahasya (उपदेशरहस्यम्): Focuses on secret or profound teachings.
   2. Yatilakshana Samucchaya (यतिलक्षणसमुच्चयः): A collection of characteristics and attributes of Jain monks (Yatis).
   3. Samachari (समाचारी): Pertains to the conduct and discipline of ascetics.
   4. Aradhak-Viradhak Chaturbhangi (आराधकविराधकचतुर्भङ्गी): A discussion on the four categories of those who practice and those who transgress religious principles.
   5. Adhyatma Sara (अध्यात्मसारः): The essence of spiritual self-knowledge and experience.
   6. Dvatrimshad Dvatrimshikah (द्वात्रिंशद्वात्रिंशकाः): Likely a collection of 32 verses on 32 topics, related to spiritual matters.
   7. Samadhi Samya Dvatrimshika (समाधिसाम्यद्वात्रिंशिका): Possibly 32 verses on equanimity and concentration in spiritual practice.
   8. Jnana Sara (ज्ञानसारः): The essence of knowledge, likely relating to spiritual or Jain philosophical knowledge.
   9. Adhyatma Upanishad (अध्यात्मोपनिषत्): Upanishads or profound philosophical insights related to the spiritual self.
   10. Pratima Shataka (प्रतिमाशतकम्): A collection of 100 verses, possibly on idols or symbolic representations of spiritual states.
   11. Parishishta-1 (परिशिष्ठ-१): An appendix or supplementary material.

3. Key Philosophical Themes and Content (Selected from the Text): The provided text includes excerpts from several of these works, revealing key Jain teachings:

   • Upadesh Rahasya: Discusses the rarity of human birth, the importance of following the teachings of the Tirthankaras (especially regarding Ahimsa - non-violence), the distinction between scriptural knowledge (Suta) and its application (Artha), the significance of righteous conduct (Achar), and the subtle differences in spiritual practice based on intention (Bhava) versus action (Dravya). It delves into the nature of right faith (Samyakdarshan) and the path to liberation.
   • Yatilakshana Samucchaya: Outlines the seven essential characteristics of a monk, including adherence to scriptural conduct, steadfastness, effort, knowledge of auspiciousness, attachment to the guru's teachings, proper practice, and supreme devotion. It emphasizes the importance of right faith and proper conduct.
   • Samachari: Details the proper conduct and practices for monks, including the ten types of Samayik (equanimity) and the importance of intention and purity in actions. It discusses various aspects of monastic life and the avoidance of transgression.
   • Adhyatma Sara: Highlights the supreme value of Adhyatma (spiritual self-knowledge) over worldly knowledge and possessions. It criticizes ostentatious displays of piety without inner substance and emphasizes that true spiritual attainment comes from understanding the self and its pure nature. It discusses the dangers of attachment and delusion.
   • Jnana Sara: Focuses on the importance of pure knowledge and its role in spiritual liberation. It contrasts right knowledge with ignorance and emphasizes the path of detachment and self-realization.
   • Other Works (Implied): The index suggests a focus on various aspects of Jain practice, philosophy, ethics, and the lives of enlightened beings. Themes like the nature of karma, spiritual practice, the importance of a guru, and the path to liberation are likely covered extensively.

Underlying Philosophy:

The texts collectively advocate for:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): As the supreme religious principle.
• Samyakdarshan, Samyakjnana, Samyakcharitra (Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct): The three jewels of Jainism, leading to liberation.
• Intention (Bhava) over Action (Dravya): While outward actions are important, the inner intention and purity of mind are paramount.
• Detachment (Vairagya) and Non-attachment (Asanga): Crucial for overcoming worldly desires and attachments.
• Self-Control (Sanyama) and Austerity (Tapas): As means to purify the soul and shed karma.
• The Importance of a Guru: For spiritual guidance and correct understanding of scriptures.
• Discernment (Viveka): To differentiate between right and wrong, real and illusory.
• The Ultimate Goal of Moksha (Liberation): The ultimate aim of all spiritual practices.

Overall Significance:

"Shastra Sandesh Mala Part 04" serves as a valuable compilation of essential Jain scriptures, offering deep insights into the spiritual path as taught by the Tirthankaras and elaborated upon by esteemed acharyas like Yashovijayji. It emphasizes the practical application of Jain principles for spiritual progress and ultimate liberation. The book's comprehensive nature and meticulous compilation make it a significant resource for Jain scholars and practitioners.