Simandhar Swami

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Simandhar Swami" by Dada Bhagwan, based on the provided pages:

Core Message: The Living Tirthankara and the Path to Liberation

The central theme of this book is the profound importance of Shree Simandhar Swami, identified as the current living Tirthankara in the universe. The teachings, primarily conveyed through the spiritual master Gnani Purush Dadashri, emphasize that while past Tirthankaras are revered, ultimate liberation (moksha) is attainable only through connection with the living Tirthankara.

Key Concepts and Teachings:

• Simandhar Swami's Existence and Location:

  • Simandhar Swami is not on Earth but resides in Mahavideh Kshetra, a distinct region in the universe, millions of miles away.
  • Mahavideh Kshetra is described as being in the northeast direction and has a perpetually prevailing Satyuga (Golden Age), unlike Earth's cyclical time periods which currently includes Kaliyug (Age of Darkness).
  • He is a Tirthankara, meaning someone who has achieved perfect knowledge and is a guide for spiritual liberation. He is described as being 1500 feet tall, with an ox as his symbol.
  • He was born to King Shreyans and Queen Satyaki in the city of Pundarikgiri. His lifespan is immense, and he will continue to live for a significant time.

• The Significance of a Living Tirthankara:

  • Dadashri explains the concept of "cash" vs. "future income" regarding spiritual leaders. The living Tirthankara is the "cash" – the most directly beneficial for liberation. Past Tirthankaras, having attained final liberation (Siddha state), are no longer actively guiding towards moksha in the same way.
  • The Navkar Mantra's salutation "Namo Arihantanam" is specifically applicable to the currently living Arihants (Tirthankaras). While past Tirthankaras were Arihants, they have now become Siddhas. Therefore, bowing to them as Arihants is considered incorrect by Dadashri, as their role as Arihants has concluded.

• The Role of Gnani Purush Dadashri:

  • Dadashri, through a profound spiritual experience in 1958, became a Gnani Purush (Awakened One) and the instrument for a new, direct path to Self-Realization called Akram Vignan (un-stepped science).
  • He has established a direct link between spiritual aspirants and Lord Simandhar Swami. This connection is facilitated through specific prayers and obeisances, with "Dada Bhagwan" (the Self within Dadashri) acting as the witness and medium.
  • Dadashri has gifted his spiritual powers (siddhis) to Dr. Niruben Amin to continue his work after his passing.

• The Path to Liberation via Simandhar Swami:

  • Self-Realization (Atma Gnan): The first crucial step is to attain Self-Realization through the Akram Vignan process, which Dadashri imparts in a short period.
  • Connection with Simandhar Swami: After Self-Realization, aspirants are guided to establish a connection with Simandhar Swami through devotion, worship, and reciting specific obeisances.
  • Mahavideh Kshetra Birth: By abiding by the Gnani's instructions (Agnas) and developing inner purity, one is destined to be born in Mahavideh Kshetra.
  • Darshan of Simandhar Swami: Once in Mahavideh Kshetra, direct darshan (seeing with reverence) of Lord Simandhar Swami is the ultimate means to attain final liberation. The book emphasizes that even the thought or image of Simandhar Swami can bring immense benefit.
  • "Dada Bhagwan as my witness": This phrase is critical for establishing the direct connection with Simandhar Swami, as Dada Bhagwan acts as the intermediary, ensuring the prayers and obeisances reach the Lord.

• The Importance of Worship and Devotion:

  • The book advocates for the constant remembrance and worship of Simandhar Swami, through his arati (devotional singing) and obeisance.
  • Building temples dedicated to Simandhar Swami and placing his images in every home is encouraged, as this brings "heaven on earth."
  • Worship of Simandhar Swami is considered a direct pathway to merit karma that leads to liberation. It's highlighted that worshipping the living Tirthankara is more beneficial than worshipping those who have departed.

• Akram Vignan Explained:

  • Akram Vignan is presented as an "elevator path" or a shortcut to Self-Realization, contrasting with the traditional "step-by-step" spiritual paths.
  • The emphasis is on a direct, simple, and immediate approach to spiritual attainment.

• Distinction between A.M. Patel, Gnani Purush, and Dada Bhagwan:

  • A.M. Patel is the physical person.
  • Gnani Purush is the state of being awakened.
  • Dada Bhagwan is the divine consciousness residing within the Gnani, which is fully manifest and the true Lord.

In essence, the book serves as a guide to understanding the significance of Simandhar Swami and how, through the grace of Gnani Purush Dadashri and the principles of Akram Vignan, one can establish a direct connection with the living Tirthankara and ultimately achieve liberation. It encourages devotion, worship, and the pursuit of Self-Realization as the ultimate means to transcend worldly suffering.