Shrut Ratna Ratnakar - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shrut Ratna Ratnakar" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Shrut Ratna Ratnakar (Shrut Ratna Ratnakar) Author: Muni Shri Pradyumnavijay Publisher: Syadwad Prakashan Mandir Trust, Mumbai Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/004471/

This publication, "Shrut Ratna Ratnakar," is a collection of significant Jain scriptures, compiled for the purpose of Swadhyaya (self-study and contemplation) by mendicants (sadhus and sadhvis) and devout individuals. The first volume of this collection is presented here.

Core Purpose and Philosophy:

The underlying philosophy emphasized throughout the text is the importance of Swadhyaya and Pravachana (study and discourse). It highlights the transformative power of studying scriptures, stating that the reading and recitation of these texts possess the wonderful ability to remove the "poison of attachment" (moha-vish) from life. The text draws upon the common saying, "Swadhyaya Pravachanabhyam na pramadayitavyam" (One should not be negligent in Swadhyaya and Pravachana), advocating for continuous engagement with spiritual knowledge.

The collection aims to provide a repository of texts that can inspire detachment (vairagya), touch the soul, and offer solace and strength in navigating the complexities of the world. It presents these scriptures as a means to understand the true nature of the soul and attain liberation from worldly suffering.

Contents of the First Volume (Prathamo Bhagah):

The first volume of "Shrut Ratna Ratnakar" is a compilation of ten distinct Prakrit texts, each offering profound spiritual insights. The table of contents includes:

Uttarajjhayana Sutta (Fourth Chapter): Described as rich in wisdom, this chapter is short in words but immense in meaning. It is often memorized and contemplated by followers of the Uttaradhyayanasutra.
Chausarana Payanna: This text is presented as a "guru-key" to remaining perpetually happy. Its verses are melodious and easily pleasing to the ears and mind, often recited three times a day by many aspirants.
Ayur Pacchakkhana Payanna: This text, along with the next, is associated with attaining Samadhi Marana (peaceful death with equanimity). It is noted that different individuals may find resonance with different practices for spiritual advancement.
Bhatta Parinna Payanna: (By Shri Siriyiriyabhada Muni) This section deals with the practice of "Bhatta Parinna" (knowledge of food), which is considered essential for spiritual progress and achieving a peaceful end.
Shri Pancha Sutra: This collection has gained significant popularity in the Jain Sangh in recent decades. Devout followers often recite the first sutra continuously, experiencing transcendental joy through its divine verses.
Upadeshamala: Composed by the virtuous Shri Dharmadasagani, this text, created about 2500 years ago, remains highly effective even in contemporary times. It is credited with awakening the spirit of detachment in many great souls, including Shri Hirsuriji Maharaj. The text was once as widely studied as the Navatattva (Nine Fundamentals) is today, and its revival is considered important.
Dharmaratna Prakaran: Composed by Shri Shantishuriji, this is a beautiful treatise on dharma. It expounds the characteristics of lay followers (shravak) and householders. A significant portion of this text's essence is found in the verses of Upadhyay Shri Yashvijayji Maharaj.
Bhava Bhavana: Authored by the renowned Acharya Shri Hemchandrasuri, this text is described as being so profound that it's impossible to read it without developing aversion towards the cycle of birth and death (bhava-samsara) and a strong inclination towards liberation (shiva-moksha). Its words resonate deeply, leaving a lasting impact on the reader. This is its first publication in its original form.
Vairagya Shataka: The verses in this collection are described as a "treasure trove of detachment." Contemplating the meaning of each verse has led many souls to renounce worldly life and embrace the path of Mahavir Bhagavan. Even a single verse is considered sufficient to inspire detachment in those with light karma.
Mahavir Stavana: This work by the renowned Acharya Shri Abhaydevsurishwarji is written in the Agamic style. It beautifully describes Lord Mahavir in sixteen similes, presented in captivating verse. This is also its first publication.

Key Themes and Messages:

The Impermanence of Life and the World: The text repeatedly emphasizes that life, the body, wealth, and worldly pleasures are transient and ultimately impermanent. The collection draws from scriptures that highlight the futility of attachment to such temporary things.
The Importance of Right Conduct and Knowledge: The scriptures contained within advocate for adherence to Jain principles, including right faith (Samyaktva), right knowledge (Samyak Gyan), and right conduct (Samyak Charitra). The collection presents practices and teachings that lead to spiritual purification.
Detachment and Renunciation: A central theme is the cultivation of detachment from worldly desires and possessions, seeing them as sources of suffering and obstacles to spiritual liberation.
The Path to Liberation: The ultimate goal presented is liberation (moksha) from the cycle of birth and death (samsara). The texts offer guidance on the spiritual practices and philosophical understanding required to achieve this state.
The Power of Swadhyaya: The book is a testament to the importance of consistent study and contemplation of sacred texts as a means of spiritual growth and purification.

Publisher's Note:

The publisher, Syadwad Amrit Prakashan Mandir Trust, expresses joy in releasing this publication, recognizing its utility for the spiritual study of ascetics. They acknowledge the difficulty of accessing and studying these specific chapters scattered across different texts, hence the effort to compile them. The inspiration for this compilation comes from Acharya Shri Vahemdrasuriji Maharaj, and the editing was done by Muni Shri Pradyumnavijayji Maharaj. The publication was made possible through the generous financial support of several individuals and Jain Sanghs.

Overall Significance:

"Shrut Ratna Ratnakar" is presented as a valuable resource for spiritual seekers, offering profound teachings in Prakrit from influential Jain scriptures. Its compilation aims to make these spiritual gems accessible for regular study, contributing to the propagation of Jain philosophy and the spiritual upliftment of individuals. The inclusion of blank pages at the end suggests an invitation for readers to add their own notes or favorite verses.