Shastra Sandesh Mala Part 14

This document is the 14th part of the "Shastra Sandesh Mala" series, compiled by Muni Shri Vinayrakshit Vijayji, a disciple of Pujya Nyas Shri Bodhiratna Vijayji Maharaj, who was a disciple of Pujya Acharya Bhagwan Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj. The publisher is Shastra Sandesh Mala.

The book is titled "Antim Aradhana Granthah, Bhag-14" and it contains a collection of various Jain texts focused on the final spiritual practices and teachings of the Tirthankaras.

Key aspects and themes highlighted in the text:

• Author and Publisher: The primary author is Vinayrakshit Vijay, published by Shastra Sandesh Mala. The compilation and inspiration are credited to Pujya Nyas Shri Bodhiratna Vijayji and Pujya Acharya Shri Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji.
• Compilation and Content: The book is a compilation of over 400 different texts, amounting to approximately 70,000 verses, presented in a new format. It includes works by various authors, with a significant portion dedicated to the poetic literature of Pujya Acharya Shri Haribhadrasurishwarji Maharaj and Pujya Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj. The remaining thirteen books in the series are subject-wise compilations of works by different authors.
• Focus on Final Practices (Antim Aradhana): The title "Antim Aradhana Granthah" strongly suggests that the content revolves around the final stages of spiritual practice, likely focusing on concepts like Sallekhana (controlled fasting and renunciation before death), spiritual preparation for the end of life, and the attainment of ultimate liberation (Moksha).
• Spiritual Guidance: The text includes quotes from revered Jain monks like Acharya Shri Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji, emphasizing the importance of focusing one's mind on spiritual pursuits rather than worldly matters. It stresses that religion is for the soul's upliftment, not for external praise or recognition.
• Emphasis on Purity and Accuracy: Special attention has been paid to purification and accuracy in the publication, with verification and correction provided by Pujya Muni Shri Hitrakshit Vijayji, Pujya Acharya Shri Yogatilaksurishwarji, Pujya Muni Shri Shrutitilak Vijayji, and Pujya Sadhvi Shri Bhadragna Shri Ji. Pandit Ratibhai Chimanlal Doshi is also acknowledged for checking the entire matter of the 20 parts of Shastra Sandesh Mala.
• Acknowledgements: The publication is made possible through the inspiration and financial support of various individuals and organizations, including the sisters of Shri Goda Jain Sangh, whose contribution from their pratikraman knowledge offering is gratefully acknowledged. Gratitude is also extended to the libraries and institutions that provided access to the original texts and manuscripts.
• Detailed Index: The book includes a comprehensive index (Anukramanika) listing numerous texts, starting with "Aarahanapadaaga" (Pages 932-161) and including various works on "Jivanushasanam," "SamvegAmrita Paddhati," "Samveg Rang Mala," and "Atmanushasanam," among others. The total number of verses is 3661, and the total pages are 320 (plus 8 introductory/supplementary pages).
• Specific Content (Aarahanapadaaga): The initial pages (10-20) provide a glimpse into the content, specifically detailing the practices related to Sallekhana (voluntary fasting and renunciation). It discusses different types of Sallekhana, the importance of mental purity (Adhyavasan Vishuddhi), the control of passions (Kashayas), and the role of gurus and monks in guiding the practitioner. It elaborates on the various stages of the process, the external and internal aspects, and the meticulous care required. The text also goes into detail about the repentant confession (Pratikraman) of sins and transgressions.

In essence, "Shastra Sandesh Mala Part 14: Antim Aradhana Granthah" is a profound Jain text offering detailed spiritual guidance, particularly on the final practices and ethical conduct necessary for spiritual liberation, emphasizing purity, adherence to scriptures, and the importance of a pure mind and sincere devotion.