Tap Ane Tapasvi - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Tap ane Tapasvi" in English, based on the provided pages:

The book "Tap ane Tapasvi" (Asceticism and the Ascetic) published by Divya Darshan Karyalay, under the Shree Yashovijayji Jain Granthamala, is dedicated to the glory of asceticism (tapas) and narrates the life story of an ardent practitioner of the "Aayambil Vardhaman Tap" for 100 cycles. The book is graced with the blessings and introductions of prominent Jain Acharyas.

The Centrality and Importance of Tapas (Asceticism) in Jainism:

The text emphasizes that tapas is an indispensable component of Jain Dharma. Without it, the true nature of religion remains incomplete. This is highlighted by the Jain saying: "Dhammo mangalamukkien, ahimsa saṃjama tava" (Ahimsa, restraint, and tapas are the greatest auspiciousness). Tapas is also recognized as a significant element within the framework of four pillars of dharma (Daan, Sheel, Tapa, Bhavana) and the Panchaacharas (five supreme conduct codes).

Nava Padji: Even in the worship of the Nava Padji (nine supreme beings), tapas holds an esteemed position.
Yati Dharma: The practice of tapas is a shining aspect when considering the two types of monastic vows (yati dharma).
Shravaka Dharma: The six daily duties of a householder (Shravaka) also include tapas.
Twenty-One Stages: In the attainment of the twenty-one stages that lead to the Tirthankar lineage, tapas plays a crucial role.
Fruits of Human Birth: Jain scriptures identify eight core principles that constitute the fruits of human birth, with tapas being one of them.
Acharya Hemchandracharya's View: The great scholar Acharya Hemchandracharya considers tapas as the ultimate fruit of human life, especially for its role in shedding karma from the transient physical body.

The Unfathomable Power of Tapas:

The profound significance of tapas stems from its ability to eradicate karma accumulated over countless lifetimes. The text uses analogies to illustrate this:

Just as fire separates impurities from gold and a swan separates water from milk, tapas purifies the soul from karmic impurities.
It is stated that through tapas, one can overcome obstacles, subdue desires and senses, attain great spiritual powers (Riddhis), destroy accumulated karma, and ultimately achieve liberation (Moksha).
Upaadhyaya Shri Yashovijayji's verses further glorify tapas as a source of immense spiritual attainment, prosperity, and the key to the path of liberation.

The Transformative Power of Tapas:

Tapas is depicted as having the power to:

Make the unstable stable.
Straighten the crooked.
Make the unattainable attainable.
Achieve even difficult tasks with ease.
Bring happiness in the world.

Defining Tapas (Asceticism):

While various religions define tapas differently, Jainism provides a precise definition:

"Rasrudhiramansamedosthimajjashukanyanen tapyante. Karmāṇi chāśubhānītyastapo nāma niruṭam."
This means tapas is that which burns (purifies) the seven vital elements of the body (rasa, rudhira, mānsa, meda, asthi, majjā, śukra) and also purifies inauspicious karma. In essence, tapas is any practice that purifies the body and mind.

The True Purpose of Tapas:

Jain scholars emphasize that tapas should be undertaken not for worldly pleasures (this life or the next), nor for fame or praise, but solely for the purpose of karmic annihilation (nirjara). Those who perform tapas for worldly gains (puja, wealth, fame) are considered dull-witted, and their tapas only results in the emaciation of the body without yielding true fruit.

The Measure of Tapas:

The scriptures advise undertaking tapas to a degree that:

Prevents the mind from entertaining inauspicious thoughts (kashayas or intense attachment/aversion).
Does not cause impairment to the senses.
Does not hinder daily religious practices and duties.
Keeps the mind and senses under control.

Types of Tapas:

Jainism classifies tapas into two main categories: Bahya Tapas (External Asceticism) and Abhyantara Tapas (Internal Asceticism), both of which are essential for holistic purification.

Bahya Tapas (Six Types):

Anashan (Fasting): Abstaining from food, including practices like Upavas (full day fast), Ayambil (eating once a day with minimal ingredients), and Ekashana (eating one meal). The text cites Lord Mahavir's extensive fasting as an example.
Udrikā (Eating Less): Consuming less food than one's capacity to keep the stomach partially empty, promoting alertness and reducing lethargy.
Vrittisankshēpa (Restricting Food Intake): Limiting the variety and quantity of food, even when desirable options are available, which cultivates patience and aids in tapas.
Rasatyāga (Renouncing Flavors): Abstaining from specific tempting or stimulating foods and drinks, particularly the ten major categories (honey, liquor, butter, meat, milk, yogurt, ghee, oil, jaggery/sugar, and certain liquids). The text specifically condemns meat and liquor as absolutely forbidden due to the lives they contain and their nature. Renouncing refined tastes is encouraged.
Kayaklesh (Afflicting the Body): Enduring physical hardship, such as performing difficult postures (asanas like Virasana, Padmasana), rigorous walking (vihar), or head-shaving (loch), for the purpose of karma shedding.
Sanlinata (Concealment/Withdrawal): Maintaining strict control over the body, speech, and mind, avoiding sensual stimulation, and dwelling in secluded, pure places.

Abhyantara Tapas (Six Types):

Prayashchitt (Atonement): Performing penances and expiations for committed sins under the guidance of a Guru.
Vinay (Humility/Respect): Showing reverence towards the path of liberation, including respect for the right faith (Darshan), knowledge (Gyan), conduct (Charitra), and tapas itself.
Vaiyavrutya (Service): Rendering selfless service to ten categories of deserving individuals, including Acharyas, Upadhyayas, scholars, ascetics, the sick, new monks, and the Sangha.
Swadhyaya (Self-Study): The study and recitation of scriptures, encompassing reading, questioning, recitation, contemplation, and religious discourse.
Dhyana (Meditation): Concentrating the mind on positive thoughts and spiritual contemplation. It is divided into Dharma Dhyana (meditation on dharma) and Shukla Dhyana (pure meditation), both aimed at preventing mental wandering.
Utsarga/Vyutsarga (Renunciation): The abandonment of worldly possessions, attachments, and negative tendencies, including renouncing company, possessions, and even the body (in terms of attachment), as well as renouncing anger, worldly existence, and karma.

The Superiority of Ayambil:

While all forms of tapas are beneficial, Ayambil is highlighted for its special significance and profound effects. The text recounts instances where the proper observance of Ayambil led to great merits, averted calamities, cured diseases, and brought immense worldly prosperity. On the spiritual front, it aided in attaining omniscience.

Vardhaman Ayambil Tap:

The book specifically focuses on the Vardhaman Ayambil Tap, where the practice of Ayambil is progressively increased. The most revered example is that of King Chandrarajrishi, who attained omniscience after completing 108 cycles of this tap. The text details how he, in his past lives, performed extensive Ayambil fasts.

The Life of Dattubhai:

A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the biography of Shri Dattubhai, a devoted follower of the Vardhaman Ayambil Tap.

Early Life: Dattubhai, born in 1897 (Vikram Samvat 1954), had a relatively comfortable upbringing but faced early tragedy with the loss of his mother. His aunt played a crucial role in his upbringing.
Initial Indifference: In his youth, Dattubhai was not particularly religious, indulged in non-vegetarian food and night meals, and rarely visited Jain temples.
Spiritual Awakening: His life underwent a dramatic transformation after coming into contact with the teachings of Acharya Shri Vijayramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj. His attendance at the Acharya's discourses and a personal encounter led to a profound shift in his devotion towards the Jinas, Guru, and Dharma.
Dedication to Tapas: Under the guidance of Acharya Shri Vijayramchandrasurishwarji and Panñyas Shri Bhadraṅkarvijayji, Dattubhai wholeheartedly embraced rigorous ascetic practices.
Notable Practices: He undertook extensive fasting, including consecutive fasts, several Upadhans (a month-long religious observance), and consistently practiced Ayambil. He completed 100 cycles of the Vardhaman Ayambil Tap, a feat that took many years and involved immense physical and mental fortitude.
Overcoming Challenges: Dattubhai faced physical ailments and personal tragedies, including the passing of his wife, Champaben. Despite these adversities, he maintained his spiritual discipline with unwavering faith and determination. His wife, Champaben, was also a devoted practitioner, performing many austerities alongside him.
Devotion and Sacrifice: He demonstrated immense devotion, including spending a significant amount of money for the consecration of a Jain temple and contributing generously to religious causes.
Legacy: Dattubhai's son, Chakravarti, has also embraced the path of tapas, following in his father's footsteps. The book encourages readers to draw inspiration from Dattubhai's exemplary life to further the cause of asceticism and spread its message.

In essence, "Tap ane Tapasvi" is a profound exploration of the significance of tapas in Jainism, advocating for its practice as the path to spiritual liberation. It uses the inspiring life of Shri Dattubhai as a testament to the transformative power of rigorous asceticism and unwavering devotion.