Tattvabhagana

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Tattvabhagana" (तत्त्वभावना), authored by Mahavir Prasad Jain and published by Bishambardas Mahavir Prasad Jain Saraf. The text is described as a "Vrihad Samayik Path" (वृहद् सामायिक पाठ), meaning a major ritualistic text for equanimity.

The book is presented as a devotional and philosophical guide intended for personal use. It includes an explanatory commentary (Tika), meaning (Anvayarth), and is also accompanied by verses in various meters (Chhanda). The commentary is by Shri Bra. Shital Prasad Ji, and the compilation is by Mahavir Prasad Jain Saraf.

Key Themes and Content:

The text emphasizes the importance of Tattvabhavana (तत्त्वभावना), which translates to contemplation of the true principles or realities of Jainism. It serves as a guide for spiritual practice, particularly focusing on Samayika (सामायिक), a ritual of equanimity and meditation.

Core Philosophical Principles Highlighted:

• The Nature of the Soul: The text delves into the inherent purity and eternal nature of the soul, describing it as a "sea of infinite qualities," a "pure essence," and ultimately identical with the "Parmatma" (Supreme Soul) in its true nature.
• The Path to Liberation (Moksha): Liberation is presented as the ultimate goal, achievable through the practice of the Ratnatraya (रत्नत्रय) – Right Faith (Samyagdarshan), Right Knowledge (Samyagyan), and Right Conduct (Samyagcharitra).
• Detachment and Non-Attachment (Vairagya and Aparigraha): The text stresses the need to detach from worldly possessions, sensory pleasures, and even the body itself, as they are considered impermanent and sources of suffering.
• The Importance of Conduct (Charitra): While Right Knowledge is crucial, it is insufficient without Right Conduct. The text warns against those who claim to have realized the soul but neglect righteous actions.
• Karma and its Eradication: The book explains the workings of karma and how it binds the soul to the cycle of birth and death. The goal is to eradicate karma through diligent practice.
• The Role of Meditation (Dhyana): Meditation is highlighted as the primary means to realize the true nature of the soul and overcome karmic bondage. Various types of meditation are discussed.
• Rejection of External Deities and Idol Worship: The text implicitly suggests that true worship and devotion are directed towards the soul's inner purity and the qualities of liberated beings (Siddhas) rather than external rituals or forms.
• Equanimity (Samata Bhava): Maintaining equanimity in all circumstances – pleasure and pain, friend and foe, gain and loss – is considered essential for spiritual progress.
• The Impermanence of Worldly Life: The text consistently points out the transient nature of the physical body, relationships, wealth, and all worldly possessions, urging the reader not to become attached to them.
• The Significance of Human Birth: The human birth is considered a rare and precious opportunity for spiritual advancement, and it is emphasized that it should not be wasted on futile pursuits.
• The Dangers of Attachment and Desire: The text identifies desire (Trishna) and attachment (Mamta) as the root causes of suffering and rebirth, advocating for their complete eradication.

Structure and Commentary:

The book is structured around verses that are meant to be recited and contemplated. The commentary (Tika) provides in-depth explanations of these verses, clarifying their philosophical and practical implications. The emphasis is on internal realization rather than mere outward ritual.

Key Practices Discussed:

• Samayika: A core practice involving sitting in meditation, reflecting on the true nature of the soul, and practicing equanimity. It includes aspects of repentance for past actions (Pratikraman) and cultivating positive virtues.
• Meditation Techniques: The text details various meditation practices, including Pindastha (body-oriented), Padashtha (letter/mantra-oriented), Rupastha (form-oriented), and Rupatita (formless) meditation. It explains the steps involved, the visualization of cosmic elements, chakras, and divine symbols.
• Mantra Chanting: The recitation of powerful mantras like 'Om,' 'Soham,' and the Navkar Mantra (Panch Parmesthi Namaskar) is discussed as a means to focus the mind and purify the soul.
• Control of the Senses: The text emphasizes the need to control the senses, which are depicted as powerful enemies that lead the soul astray.
• Cultivation of Virtues: The practice of virtues like forgiveness, truthfulness, non-violence, contentment, and detachment is integral to the path.

Author and Publisher:

The author, Mahavir Prasad Jain, is presented as the compiler or editor, working with the original work of Acharya Amitgati. The publisher, Bishamberdas Mahavir Prasad Jain Saraf, has facilitated the dissemination of this important Jain text. The preface mentions that this is the third edition, indicating the book's popularity and continued relevance. The text also acknowledges the contributions of commentators like Shri B. Shital Prasad Ji.

Overall Purpose:

"Tattvabhagana" aims to guide the Jain practitioner towards self-realization and liberation by providing a clear understanding of Jain philosophy and practical methods for spiritual cultivation, with a strong emphasis on introspective meditation and the attainment of equanimity.