Updesh Prasad Part 03 - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Updesh Prasad Part 03" by Vishalsensuri, published by Virat Prakashan Mandir. This book is a Gujarati translation and commentary on a larger work. The content is primarily focused on Jain principles, practices, and stories, offering guidance and moral lessons for lay followers (shravaks and shravikas).

Overall Theme:

The book is a collection of sermons, stories, and expositions of Jain philosophy and ethics, intended to guide individuals in their spiritual journey. It emphasizes the importance of adherence to vows, proper conduct, devotion to the Jain Tirthankaras, and the cultivation of virtues like equanimity, non-violence, and charity. The title "Updesh Prasad" (Palace of Teachings) suggests a grand and comprehensive presentation of Jain wisdom.

Key Sections and Themes:

Based on the provided text, particularly the index and chapter titles, here's a breakdown of the key themes and content:

The Nature of Jain Teachings: The introductory sections highlight the importance of "Updesh" (teachings) for dispelling darkness and guiding beings towards welfare. The role of learned scholars (Gitarth Gurus) as authorities in delivering these teachings is emphasized.
The Significance of Vows and Practices: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to explaining and elaborating on various Jain vows (vratas) and practices. This includes:
- Anarthdand Viraman Vrat (Abstinence from Needless Harm): Detailed explanation of the five transgressions (atichars) associated with this vow, emphasizing the avoidance of unnecessary actions and speech that could lead to harm. Stories like that of Shursehn and Mahisehn illustrate the consequences of misusing speech and the importance of mindful conduct. The story of Chitragupta Kumar reinforces the need to abandon needless harm.
- Samayik Vrat (Equanimity/Meditation): This is a central theme, with detailed explanations of its fruits, the five transgressions (atichars), and various aspects like the 32 defects (doshas) to avoid. The story of the old woman and the wealthy merchant highlights the immense spiritual merit of samayik, even more than material donations. The story of Kesari the thief showcases how samayik can lead to liberation.
- Paushadh Vrat (Fasting Observance): The text details the types of paushadh (Paushadh Vrat Bhed), the merits of observing it, and the stories of Mahashatak Shreshthi and Sagar Chandra illustrating its benefits. It also touches upon the specific rituals and procedures for paushadh.
- Deshavkashik Vrat (Abstinence from Needless Travel): This vow involves limiting travel and activities. The stories of Sumitra and Lohjangh illustrate the importance of this vow and the benefits of adhering to it.
- Festivals and Observances (Parva): The book discusses the significance of observing festivals like Ashtahnika (six festivals of eight days each) and the importance of adhering to their specific rituals and observances. The dedication of the book to these practices is evident.
- Jinvani and Namokar Mantra: The text mentions the practice of reciting the Namokar mantra and the significance of knowing and adhering to the teachings of the Tirthankaras.
Ethical Conduct and Virtues: The book consistently emphasizes ethical behavior, including:
- Truthfulness and Honesty: The story of Rinpacharya highlights the importance of truthfulness.
- Charity (Daan): Various forms of charity are discussed, with emphasis on donating to worthy recipients (supatra). The story of Dhanavah illustrates the immense merit of giving even a small offering with pure intention. The importance of selfless giving is highlighted.
- Respect for Gurus and Elders: The text stresses the importance of respecting spiritual teachers and elders, as seen in the stories and the general tone of reverence.
- Non-violence (Ahimsa): The concept of Ahinsa is woven throughout, particularly in the context of avoiding harm (Anarthdand Viraman Vrat) and during festivals like Paryushan. The story of King Hira Suri and Emperor Akbar exemplifies the promotion of non-violence.
The Jain Universe and Spiritual Path: The text implicitly or explicitly touches upon the Jain cosmology and the path to liberation (moksha). The importance of understanding the nature of the soul, karma, and the cycle of birth and death is implied.
Stories and Parables: A significant portion of the book consists of narratives and parables. These stories are used to illustrate Jain principles, the consequences of actions (karma), and the rewards of righteous living. Examples include:
- Stories of kings (Shursehn, Mahisehn, Chandravats, Prithvi Pal, Dushyaant, Sandranand, Shubhankar, Damodara, Shripaal, Samaraaditya, Vikram, Chandragupta, Damodara, Nabhya, Rinpacharya, Dharmapal, Nanda, Shriman, Dhanavah, Sagar Chandra, Nandanikara, Kesari, Lohjangh, Ratan Chud, etc.)
- Stories of merchants (Shankh Shravak, Sagar Shreshthi, Nanda Manikara, Champak Shreshthi, Dhanavaha, Ratan Chud, Jin Das Seth, Rinpacharya, Dhanpal, etc.)
- Stories of Munis and Sadhvis (Dramak Muni, Anantimukta Muni, Chandanbala, Mrigavati, Lakshmana, Rinpacharya, Vipul Vyapaari, etc.)
- Stories related to specific vows and practices (e.g., stories illustrating the merits of Samayik, Paushadh, etc.)
Specific Jain Concepts Explained:
- Six Auxiliaries for Dharma: The text lists five "Dharma Upakaran" (aids for religious practice) which include Sthapnacharya (representation of guru), Muhpatti (mouth cloth), Japmala (rosary), Charvala (a type of cloth), and Katasna (a mat for sitting).
- Four Types of Dhyan: The text mentions four types of Dharma Dhyan: Ajnavichay, Apayavichay, Vipakavichay, and Samsthanavichay.
- The Twelve Vows (Dwadas Vratas): These are elaborated upon from both Nischay (ultimate reality) and Vyavahar (conventional reality) perspectives.
- The Fivefold Conduct: The text refers to the importance of proper conduct in various aspects of life, including eating habits and interaction with others.
- The Six Ashtahnikas: These significant Jain festivals are described, along with their rituals and significance.
- Panch Kalyanaka: The five auspicious events in the life of a Tirthankara (birth, initiation, enlightenment, first sermon, and liberation) are mentioned in the context of birth ceremonies.
- Samvatsar: The concept of the Jain calendar and its significance is touched upon.
- Jal-Sthal Pushpa (Water-Grown Flowers): The text addresses the permissibility of using flowers grown in water for worship, referencing stories like that of Varshaswami and the Jain perspective on such practices.
The Importance of the Jain Museum: The book mentions the establishment and importance of the Vishal Jain Kala Sansthan (Jain Museum) in Palitana, highlighting its role in preserving Jain art, manuscripts, and artifacts. The purpose is to protect these treasures from theft, decay, and misuse, and to educate future generations about their cultural heritage.
The Legacy of Acharya Vijay Vishal-Sen Surishwarji and Panneas Shri Rajeshwar-Rajshekhar Vijayji: The book is attributed to Acharya Bhagwant Shrimad Vijay Vishal-Sen Surishwarji (Shree Virat) and is presented in memory of his disciple, Panneas Shri Rajeshwar Rajshekhar Vijayji, acknowledging his contributions to Jain art and pilgrimage sites.

Publisher and Author Information:

Author: Acharya Bhagwant Shrimad Vijay Vishal-Sen Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb (Shree Virat)
Publisher: Shree Virat Prakashan Mandir
Inspiration/Guidance: Acharya Bhagwant Shree Vishal-Sen Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb (Shree Virat)
Inspirational Speaker/Explainer: Panyas Shri Rajeshwar Rajshekhar Vijayji M.Sa.
Organizers: Balmuni * Shri Dhananjayvijayji M.Sa. Shri Arijayvijayji M.Sa.

Publication Details:

Edition: Fifth Edition (Veer Samvat 2537 / Vikram Samvat 2067 / Nemisambat 58)
Year: 2010 CE
Price: Rs. 200-00 (for the set of parts 1-5, priced at Rs. 900-00 for propagation)
Printer: Bharat Graphics, Ahmedabad

In essence, "Updesh Prasad Part 03" serves as a spiritual guide, offering a rich tapestry of Jain teachings, ethical guidelines, and inspirational stories to its readers, encouraging them to live a life aligned with Jain principles and work towards spiritual liberation.