Suyam Me Aausam

This book, "Suyam Me Aausam" (સુયં મે આઉસં!), is a collection of Jinavachanas (જિનવચનો), meaning the sacred sayings of the Jinas (victorious ones), compiled and edited by Jitendra B. Shah. Published by Shrutratnakar in Ahmedabad in 2009, it is a significant work for understanding Jain teachings.

The title itself, "Suyam Me Aausam," translates to "Thus I Have Heard" (or "Thus I Heard from You, O Life-Giving One!"). This phrase signifies the authentic transmission of teachings, emphasizing that the knowledge presented is directly from the divine sources, passed down through a lineage of enlightened beings.

The book is divided into four sections, each offering a distinct perspective on Jain philosophy and practice:

Section 1: Charitra Khand (ચારિત્રખંડ - Conduct Section) This section focuses on the conduct and life stories of ancient Jain practitioners. It delves into the challenges faced by ascetics, including the difficulties of the spiritual path, adversities, austerities, and obstacles. Despite these hardships, the narratives highlight how these individuals, without getting entangled in worldly attachments and delusions, achieved spiritual liberation through strong renunciation. These life stories are presented as guidance for contemporary practitioners.

Section 2: Katha Khand (કથાખંડ - Story Section) This section compiles illustrative stories told by Lord Mahavir Swami. These religious narratives, drawn primarily from the Gnata-dharma-katha Agama, are concise yet profound. They are designed to strengthen a seeker's resolve on the spiritual path.

Section 3: Upadesh Khand (ઉપદેશખંડ - Precept Section) This part is dedicated to collected precepts and teachings. It likely includes wisdom and guidance for ethical living and spiritual progress.

Section 4: Siddhant Khand (સિદ્ધાંતખંડ - Principle Section) This section deals with the core principles of Jainism. It presents dialogues between Lord Mahavir and His chief disciple, Gautam Swami, where Gautam poses questions and Mahavir provides answers. These discussions are described as highly engaging and illuminate the fundamental doctrines of Jainism for understanding.

Key Highlights and Themes:

• Authenticity of Teachings: The title and introductory remarks emphasize the direct, unadulterated transmission of the Jinas' words.
• Agamas as Source: The book draws heavily from the Agamas (scriptures), particularly highlighting the Bhagavati Sutra (the fifth Anga Agama) for selections in the Charitra Khand.
• Focus on Conduct and Principles: The four sections indicate a comprehensive approach, covering ethical conduct, illustrative stories, general precepts, and foundational principles.
• Guidance for Spiritual Practice: The ultimate aim of the collected teachings is to aid individuals in understanding Dharma and achieving self-liberation (Atma-kalyan).
• Historical and Philosophical Depth: The book aims to preserve and disseminate the rich spiritual heritage of Jainism, providing insights into the lives of early practitioners and the philosophical underpinnings of the faith.

In essence, "Suyam Me Aausam" is a compilation designed to provide spiritual seekers with the essential wisdom of Jainism, offering guidance through the exemplary lives of saints, insightful stories, practical precepts, and the fundamental principles of the faith.