The Current Living Tirthankara Shree Simandhar Swami

This document is a Marathi-language book titled "The Current Living Tirthankara Shree Simandhar Swami," authored by Dada Bhagwan and published by Dada Bhagwan Aradhana Trust. The book is a collection of discourses by Dada Bhagwan, translated from Gujarati, focusing on the spiritual significance and veneration of Lord Simandhar Swami.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the key themes and information presented in the book:

Introduction to Dada Bhagwan and the "Akram" Path:

• The book begins by introducing Dada Bhagwan (Shri Ambalal M. Patel) as a fully enlightened being who experienced self-realization in 1958. He established the "Akram Marg" (the cram-less path), which is described as a "lift route" or shortcut to self-realization, contrasting it with gradual, step-by-step spiritual progress.
• Dada Bhagwan's teachings emphasize that "Dadashri" is the name of the enlightened self within him, while A.M. Patel was the physical form. He taught that "Dadashri" resides in everyone but is fully manifested in him.
• His life exemplified the principle of "religion in business, not business in religion," never taking money from followers and instead using his business profits to support spiritual journeys.
• The book mentions that Dada Bhagwan empowered others, like Dr. Niruben Amin (Niruma) and Deepakbhai Desai, to impart self-knowledge to others, continuing his spiritual mission.

The Significance of Shree Simandhar Swami:

• The central theme of the book is the importance of venerating Lord Simandhar Swami, who is presented as the "current living Tirthankara."
• Distinction from Past Tirthankaras: The book strongly emphasizes the difference between past Tirthankaras (like Lord Rishabhdev and Lord Mahavir) and the current living Tirthankara, Lord Simandhar Swami. While devotional practices towards past Tirthankaras yield spiritual merit and progress in the world, they do not lead to moksha (liberation) in the current era.
• Moksha Through the Current Tirthankara: The primary message is that moksha can only be attained by connecting with the currently living Tirthankara, Lord Simandhar Swami, who resides in the Mahavideh region.
• The "Namo Arihantanam" Mantra: The book clarifies that the "Namo Arihantanam" chant in the Navkar mantra is specifically for those who are currently living Tirthankaras (Arhants). The 24 Tirthankaras of the past have attained Siddhahood and are now addressed as "Siddhas" ("Namo Sidhdhanam"). Therefore, to derive the true benefit of the Navkar mantra, one must direct it towards Lord Simandhar Swami.
• Lord Simandhar Swami's Residence and Nature: Lord Simandhar Swami resides in the Mahavideh region, which is described as being millions of kilometers away in the northeast direction from Bharat Kshetra (the region where India is located). He is a living, embodied Tirthankara, a Vitarag (one free from attachments and aversions), and his discourses (deshna) guide beings towards liberation.
• The "Akram" Connection to Simandhar Swami: Dada Bhagwan acts as a conduit or "phone line" to connect devotees with Lord Simandhar Swami. By remembering and praying to Dada Bhagwan, devotees can convey their prayers and receive the grace of Lord Simandhar Swami, even without physically being in the Mahavideh region. This connection is crucial for attaining moksha.

Practical Guidance and Practices:

• Daily Remembrance: Devotees are encouraged to remember Lord Simandhar Swami daily, ideally during the Brahmamuhurta (4:30 AM to 6:30 AM), as this is considered the most auspicious time.
• Specific Prayers and Greetings: The book provides specific greetings and prayers to be recited, such as: "In the presence of the manifested Dada Bhagwan, I am bowing with great devotion to the living Tirthankara Lord Simandhar Swami, who resides in the Mahavideh region." This prayer is explained as a way to transmit one's devotion to Lord Simandhar Swami through the enlightened medium of Dada Bhagwan.
• Building Temples: The establishment of temples for Lord Simandhar Swami is emphasized as a way to foster devotion and facilitate the spiritual welfare of the world.
• The Importance of a Living Guru: The book stresses that to attain liberation, one needs to connect with a living Tirthankara or a living Gnani Purush (enlightened being). The teachings of Dada Bhagwan provide this direct link.
• "Agnan" (Commandments) and Inner Purity: Following Dada Bhagwan's commands is presented as a way to purify one's inner state, which in turn leads to eligibility for the Mahavideh region.
• The Goal of One Birth Liberation: The ultimate goal promoted is to become "ekavtari" (one who takes only one more birth) and attain liberation by meeting Lord Simandhar Swami.

Lord Simandhar Swami's Biography and Significance:

• The book includes details about Lord Simandhar Swami's life, birth, parents (King Shreyans and Queen Satyaki), and his attainment of kevalgnan (omniscience).
• It explains his divine qualities, such as his immense physical stature and his long lifespan.
• The book highlights that Lord Simandhar Swami, along with other living Tirthankaras in Mahavideh, are continuously guiding souls towards liberation.
• His association with the Bharat Kshetra is emphasized due to his runanubandha (karmic connections).

Core Message on Liberation: The overarching message is that in the current era (the fifth ara), direct liberation from this earthly realm is not possible. However, through devotion and connection with the current living Tirthankara, Lord Simandhar Swami, facilitated by the Gnani Purush Dada Bhagwan, one can achieve liberation. The book encourages consistent remembrance, devotion, and following the guidance of the Gnani Purush to attain this ultimate goal.

In essence, "The Current Living Tirthankara Shree Simandhar Swami" is a guide for Jains on how to achieve spiritual liberation in the present times by focusing their devotion and practices on Lord Simandhar Swami, with Dada Bhagwan serving as the essential intermediary and guide.