Upasna Karo Mukt Bhavo Se - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Upasna karo Mukt Bhavo se" by Navratanmal Surana, in English:

Book Title: Upasna karo Mukt Bhavo se (Worship with Liberated Feelings) Author: Navratanmal Surana, Advocate, Former President, Jain Darshan Samiti

This text emphasizes that true worship (upasna) should be performed with sincere, pure, and courageous intentions, rather than from a place of weakness, fear, or ego.

Key Themes and Arguments:

The Nature of True Worship: The author begins by questioning whether we are deceiving ourselves or others regarding our intentions. He asserts that genuine worship should not stem from weakness, fear, or internal turmoil. Instead, it should be a courageous act born from love, free from negative emotions like worry, anxiety, and darkness. True worship leads to immense joy and strength.
The Futility of Worship with Negative Emotions: The text strongly criticizes worship performed while harboring anger, a lack of generosity in emotions, and an overwhelming sense of possessiveness ("This is mine, that is mine, and what belongs to others should also become mine"). The author states that any amount of worship or spiritual practice is futile if one is consumed by these "flames of greed." He dismisses the desire for personal pleasure and the avoidance of suffering as a selfish form of worship, rooted in deceit and therefore meaningless. The text urges individuals to stop running from themselves, recognize their own worth, and understand that deceit turns even nectar into poison, instilling fear in oneself and others.
The Importance of High Aims and Purity of Mind: During worship, one's focus should always be on higher ideals. All inner flaws must be removed. Worship should be conducted with a calm, pure mind, free from vices. The text advocates for selfless worship for the benefit of others, emphasizing that such worship is never in vain.
The Destructive Nature of Ego: The author highlights ego and the feeling of superiority ("I am superior to all," "No one can match me," "What I say is divine decree," "My fame and prestige are growing daily") as a destructive force. He cites examples like Ravana and Hiranyakashipu, who were powerful worshippers but were destroyed by their ego. True worship requires humility and surrender.
Surrender and Selflessness as True Worship: The path to genuine worship involves becoming simple, expressing inner goodness, and dedicating oneself to the "Supreme Father" with the understanding that "nothing is mine; everything belongs to you." This selfless surrender is defined as true worship.
Focus on the Present and Service: During worship, one should progress forward without looking back at past limitations or future aspirations. The present moment should be embraced and experienced. Life's purpose lies not in receiving service but in being capable of giving service.
Courage and Empathy: The text encourages abandoning fear and embracing bravery, considering the protection of others as the highest duty. It promotes wishing well for all and cultivating a heart full of empathy, free from hatred. One should become courageous enough to readily serve others.
Tolerance as an Ornament and Test of Worship: Tolerance is presented as a valuable ornament that beautifies both the body and mind. It is considered the greatest test of worship, purifying both the physical and mental aspects. Even when someone acts unjustly or speaks ill, one should respond with sympathy, which can lead to their eventual devotion.
Liberated Feelings and Universal Truth: The author concludes by stating that the world is an illusion. Therefore, one should embrace worship with love, ignite faith, and become simple, disciplined, and dedicated with "liberated feelings." This devotion should be so profound that the world itself becomes a reality for the worshipper.

In essence, "Upasna karo Mukt Bhavo se" is a profound call to transform one's inner state before engaging in worship. It advocates for a shift from self-centered desires, ego, and negative emotions to a state of courage, love, empathy, selflessness, and surrender, ultimately leading to true spiritual fulfillment and a meaningful existence.