Shravak Dharm Jagrika Sarth Tatha Deshvirti Jivan

The provided text is a substantial portion of a Jain religious scripture, likely a commentary or guide on the duties and practices of a lay follower (Shravak). The title, as indicated by the pages, is "Shravak Dharm Jagrika Sarth tatha Deshvirti Jivan" (The Essence of Layperson's Dharma Awakening and a Life of Partial Vows), authored by Vijaypadmasuri. The publisher is Jain Granth Prakashak Sabha.

Here's a comprehensive summary in English based on the provided text:

I. Introduction and Dedication (Pages 1-8):

• Title and Author: The book is titled "Shravak Dharm Jagrika Sarth tatha Deshvirti Jivan" and is authored by Vijaypadmasuri, a disciple of Acharya Shri Vijayanemisurishwar.
• Dedication: The book is dedicated to Acharya Shri Vijayanemisurishwar, celebrating his virtues and contributions to Jainism. The author expresses deep gratitude for his guidance and the liberation he has provided to many.
• Sponsorship: The book was financially supported by Seth Dahyabhai Sankalchand Kapadwala of Shahpur, in memory of his daughter Mani. It's also noted as a gift from the working committee of Shri Jain Granth Prakashak Sabha.
• Author's Biography (Vijaypadmasuri): A detailed account of Vijaypadmasuri's life is given, highlighting his birth, renunciation at a young age, his deep study of scriptures, his literary contributions, his powerful preaching that guided many away from wrong paths, and his subsequent appointments as Ganipda, Panyas, and finally Acharya. His dedication to serving the Jain Sangh and Tirthas, and his role in inspiring many to undertake pilgrimes and perform good deeds are emphasized. The author expresses his personal indebtedness to Acharya Vijaypadmasurishwar for granting him initiation and the path of partial vows, considering this book a humble offering.
• Author's Biography (Vijaynemisurishwar): The text also provides a brief biographical sketch of Acharya Shri Vijayanemisurishwar, including his birth, initiation, and progression to high religious positions like Ganipda, Panyas, Upadhyayapad, and Acharya.

II. Preface to the Second Edition (Pages 10-13):

• The preface for the second edition states that the first edition's preface had already explained the purpose and context of "Shravak Dharm Jagrika."
• This preface focuses on the additions and corrections made in the second edition. These include:
  • Correcting errors from the first edition.
  • Clarifying the worship of the Lord's presence and the partial observance of vows.
  • Providing examples for the eight types of worship (Ashtaprakari Puja).
  • Explaining the difference between statues and real divine presence.
  • Citing Sanskrit verses related to pure worship.
  • Explaining the nature of the three states of existence and how to attain kingly states.
  • Including citations from prominent Jain scholars and scriptures like Malayagiri and Shri Prajnapana Sutra.
  • Explaining virtues like "Dakshinyata" (benevolence/generosity) with examples and advising on maintaining fortitude during difficult times.
  • Detailing 35 essential qualities of a follower of the path and suggesting ways to utilize funds for the welfare of the Sangh.
  • Citing the Bhagvati Sutra for understanding charity.
  • Providing instructions on boiling and cooling water, and identifying 32 categories of Anantkay (things with infinite lives).
  • Explaining the nature of virtuous attachment (Sanyamrag) and the soul's connection to it.
  • Illustrating points with the example of Alexander the Great and suggesting duties during Diwali.
  • Describing the eight virtues of an Acharya and the thirteen contemplations taught by the Lord.
  • Narrating the story of Ilaputra.
  • Adding 88 crucial verses (416-503) for nighttime contemplation, including explanations of friendship (Maitri), reasons for decreasing lifespan, types of karma related to lifespan, the story of Gajsukumar Muni, binding lifespan karma, obstacles to lifespan, states of existence and their corresponding colors (Leshya), and the consequences of attachment and detachment.
  • Providing detailed explanations of 8 core questions posed by a father to his son regarding religious practice, including an example of repentance.
  • Clarifying what should be regretted and what should not.
• The preface also briefly touches upon the "Deshvirati Jivan" (partial vows) section, explaining its purpose and urging readers to understand it for their spiritual well-being.

III. Table of Contents (Pages 14-34):

This section is extensive and outlines the various topics covered in the book, organized by verse numbers (Gatha) and page numbers. It demonstrates a structured approach to teaching Jain dharma and practices. Key areas covered include:

• Mangalacharan and Abhidheyadi: Invocation and introduction to the subject matter.
• Jagarika (Awakening): Concepts, types, and methods of spiritual awakening for laypeople.
• Definitions and Behaviors: Defining dharma, identifying those who truly awaken, and the conduct of the righteous.
• Purpose and Benefits of Dharma: The aim and advantages of following dharma.
• The Shravak (Lay Follower): Their duties, responsibilities, and when and how they should engage in spiritual practices.
• Rituals and Practices: Namaskar, remembrance, reflection on substances, Pratikraman (repentance rituals), auspicious thoughts, and the purification and fruits derived from the six essential daily practices (Avashyakas).
• Devotional Practices: Procedures for visiting the temple, bathing, and performing various forms of worship (Dravya Puja, Ashtaprakari Puja). This includes detailed descriptions of how to worship specific parts of the idol (fingers, knees, wrists, shoulders, head, forehead, neck, heart, navel) and the feelings to cultivate during these acts.
• The Significance of Idols and Worship: Justifications for idol worship, refuting criticisms, and the profound impact of devotion.
• Devotion and its Forms: Explaining the nature of Sattvic, Rajasic, and Tamasic devotion.
• Stages of Life and Contemplations: Describing the three stages of life and the associated contemplations.
• Guru and Spiritual Guidance: The importance of a Guru, their qualities, the necessity of guidance, the grace of the Guru, and the influence of their teachings.
• Listening to Divine Teachings (Jinvani): The sweetness, benefits, and the realization of desires through listening to Jain scriptures.
• Examples from Lives of the Pious: Numerous stories and examples of kings, ministers, monks, and laypeople illustrating Jain principles.
• Ethical Conduct and Business Practices: How to trade ethically, the consequences of injustice, and the importance of good company.
• Virtues and Moral Conduct: Discussing virtues like friendship, patience, and righteous behavior.
• Charity and Giving: Various aspects of giving, its fruits, qualities of giving, and warnings against miserliness.
• Ascetic Practices and Offerings: The importance of making offerings to monks, the types of alms, and the purity of offerings.
• Lifestyle and Conduct: Avoiding intoxicants, abstaining from forbidden foods (Abhakshya), proper cooking methods, dietary rules, and the benefits of fasting and charity.
• Daily Routine and Practices: The importance of daily rituals, chanting, and meditation.
• The Path to Liberation: Discussions on restraint, detachment, and the ultimate goal of Moksha.
• Philosophy and Wisdom: Understanding cause and effect, the nature of karma, and the path to spiritual development.
• Moral Teachings and Examples: Numerous stories and parables illustrating Jain ethics, morality, and the path to spiritual progress.
• The Importance of Good Company: The impact of association and the benefits of good friends.
• The Nature of Virtue and Vice: Distinguishing between good and bad actions and their consequences.
• The Role of the Layperson: The specific duties and responsibilities of a Shravak in Jainism.
• The Significance of Vows: Understanding and observing partial vows (Deshvirati).
• Repentance and Self-Reflection: The importance of introspection and seeking forgiveness.
• The Path to Enlightenment: The various steps and practices leading to spiritual liberation.

III. Core Themes and Content (Inferred from Titles and Summaries):

The book appears to be a comprehensive guide for lay Jains, aiming to foster a deeper understanding and practice of their faith. The key themes likely include:

• Dharma Jagran (Spiritual Awakening): Emphasizing the need for lay followers to be spiritually vigilant and aware, not just in worldly matters but also in their religious duties.
• Deshvirati Jivan (Life of Partial Vows): Guiding lay Jains on how to observe the partial vows (Anuvratas) that are fundamental to their practice. This likely involves explaining the principles, benefits, and methods of observing these vows.
• Daily Rituals and Practices: Detailing the essential daily rituals like Pratikraman (repentance), Samayik (meditation/equanimity), Devavandan (worship of Tirthankaras), and Swadhyaya (study of scriptures).
• Worship and Devotion: Explaining the significance of idol worship, the correct procedures, the underlying bhavana (feelings/intentions), and the virtues to be cultivated during worship. It likely covers the Ashtaprakari Puja and the importance of devotion to the Tirthankaras.
• Ethical Living: Highlighting the importance of right conduct in daily life, including honesty, non-violence (Ahimsa), truthfulness, non-stealing, and chastity, particularly in the context of lay life and business.
• The Role of the Guru and Scriptures: Emphasizing the guidance of the Guru and the authority of Jain scriptures (Agamas) for spiritual progress.
• Charity and Good Deeds: Discussing the virtues of giving (Dana), its importance, and the benefits of supporting the Jain community and institutions.
• Renunciation and Spiritual Progress: While focusing on lay life, it likely provides context for the higher spiritual paths of renunciation and liberation.
• Moral Development: Encouraging the cultivation of virtues like compassion, non-violence, contentment, truthfulness, and the avoidance of vices.
• Examples and Stories: The extensive table of contents suggests the use of numerous stories and examples from Jain history and scriptures to illustrate the teachings effectively.

Overall Purpose:

The book aims to provide practical guidance for lay Jains to live a life aligned with their religious principles, foster spiritual growth, cultivate virtuous habits, and ultimately progress towards liberation. It seems to be a foundational text for understanding and practicing "Shravak Dharma" in a comprehensive and accessible manner. The emphasis on "Jagarika" (awakening) suggests a call to active participation and mindful living within the Jain fold. The inclusion of "Deshvirati Jivan" indicates a focus on the practical application of Jain vows and ethics in a layperson's life.