Swanubhutini Pagthare

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Swanubhutini Pagthare" by Yashovijaysuri, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Swanubhutini Pagthare (On the Steps of Self-Experience) Author: Acharya Yashovijaysuri Publisher: Acharya Omkarsuri Aradhana Bhavan, Surat

Overview:

"Swanubhutini Pagthare" is a spiritual discourse by Acharya Yashovijaysuri that delves into the practical aspects of Jain spiritual practice, drawing inspiration from specific verses of the "Shri Simandhar Jin Stavana" (a hymn composed of 125 verses). The book aims to clarify the often-misunderstood concepts of Nischay (ultimate truth/essence) and Vyavahar (conventional truth/practice) for seekers. It emphasizes that true spiritual progress lies in the harmonious balance and progressive movement from Vyavahar towards Nischay, guided by the wisdom of a Sadguru.

Key Themes and Concepts:

1. Nischay and Vyavahar: The Goal and the Path:

   • The book uses the metaphor of a destination (Nischay) and the path (Vyavahar). The ultimate goal is the attainment of one's true form (Swaroop Dash) – a state of pure consciousness, bliss, and Vitaragta (freedom from attachment and aversion).
   • The path (Vyavahar) is essential. Without a path, the destination is unreachable. Vyavahar, understood correctly, is the means to achieve Nischay.
   • The famous verse cited is: "Nishchay-drishti hridaye dhariji, paale je vyavahar; Punyavant te paamsheji, bhavsamudrano paar..." (Holding the ultimate view in the heart, one who practices conventional conduct will cross the ocean of existence).

2. The Role of Desire (Zankhana) and Good Company (Sadguru):

   • The journey begins with a deep longing (Zankhana) to realize one's true nature. This longing intensifies upon glimpses of the pure, egoless state.
   • A Sadguru is crucial for guiding the aspirant on the right path, assessing their current spiritual stage, and prescribing the appropriate practices.

3. Tailoring the Path to the Individual:

   • The book emphasizes that the path is personalized. A Sadguru understands the aspirant's dominant afflictions (like pride, attachment, anger) and guides them accordingly:
     • Pride (Ahankar): The Guru might advise practices leading to the death of ego, such as chanting the 'Panchasutrak'.
     • Attachment (Raag): Devotion to the Divine (Prabhubhava) can be the path. The Guru might say, "Fall in love with God!"
     • Anger (Krodh): Practicing forgiveness is the recommended path.
   • It is explained that attachment to the non-self (Jad) and aversion towards the self (Chetana) are two major offenses of the soul. Correcting this involves indifference to the non-self and friendliness towards the self.

4. The Nature of True Being ("Just Being"):

   • The book explores the concept of "being" or "Hova" (existence) as a state of pure consciousness and bliss, free from activity or doing. This is akin to the Zen concept of "Just sitting and nothing to do."
   • The example of the Zen monastery illustrates that in the innermost sanctum, there is nothing to "do," only "to be."
   • Practices like Neti-Neti (not this, not that) help in shedding identification with the body, mind, and actions, leading to the realization of pure consciousness.

5. The Importance of Discrimination (Bhedgnan):

   • Developing sharp discernment between the self and the non-self is paramount. The text uses the analogy of a dry leaf that goes wherever the wind blows, accepting all states without resistance.
   • The story of the yogi who guided a disciple highlights the Guru's role in imparting this discernment, both externally and internally.

6. The Practice of Sadhana:

   • The text elaborates on various aspects of Sadhana, including:
     • Gnanaachar (Right Knowledge): Deep study and contemplation of scriptures leading to experience.
     • Darshanachar (Right Faith): Unwavering faith in the teachings of the Tirthankaras.
     • Charitraachar (Right Conduct): Adherence to the five Samitis (carefulness) and three Guptis (restraint).
     • Tapachar (Austerities): Both external and internal austerities that purify the mind and body.
     • Meditation and Kayotsarg: Practices to achieve concentration and self-realization.

7. The "Gnatabhava" (Witnessing State):

   • The concept of being a pure witness, observing all activities without attachment or aversion, is a central theme. This state is likened to the calm, stable riverbed while the river flows, or the stillness of the bridge despite the flowing water.
   • The story of Arjuna's focused aim on the bird's eye highlights the power of singular, undiluted focus.

8. The Process of Self-Transformation:

   • The book describes a gradual process of spiritual transformation:
     • Drashtabhava: Being a witness.
     • Gnatabhava: Being a knower.
     • Udasinabhava: Developing indifference or equanimity.
     • Samabhava: Achieving equanimity towards all experiences and beings.
     • Samayik: The state of equanimity and self-absorption, culminating in the realization of one's true, blissful nature.
   • The ultimate goal is the transformation of personality into existence itself – a state of pure, unadulterated being.

9. The Power of Devotion and Surrender:

   • The book emphasizes the role of unwavering faith and surrender to the Divine (Prabhubala) in overcoming obstacles and achieving spiritual victory.
   • Stories illustrate how sincere devotion and surrender attract divine intervention and guidance, like the timely arrival of help for a monk's torn garment.
   • The concept of "Prabhubal" is contrasted with worldly strengths like wealth or power, highlighting its superior efficacy.

10. The Essence of Jain Teachings:

    • The core message revolves around "Atmaram," experiencing the Self, and renouncing attachment to the external world ("par"). This is presented as the essence of Jinavachana (the Tirthankaras' teachings) and the path to liberation.
    • The ultimate aim is to merge with the Divine, like a drop of water merging with the ocean, losing its individual identity while becoming part of the vastness.

Overall Message:

"Swanubhutini Pagthare" serves as a practical guide for spiritual seekers, offering a clear framework for understanding and practicing the path to self-realization within the Jain tradition. It underscores the importance of a qualified Guru, sincere longing, discrimination, equanimity, and unwavering devotion to the Divine's teachings, ultimately leading to the experience of one's true, blissful, and liberated self.