Updeshmala

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Updeshmala" authored by Jayanandvijay, based on the provided text:

Book Title: Updeshmala Author(s): Jayanandvijay (Editor/Researcher) Publisher: Guru Ramchandra Prakashan Samiti, Bhinmal, Rajasthan Original Author of Updeshmala: Shri Dharmadas Ganivarachit Commentary (Tika) Author: Shri Ramvijayji Translation (Bhashantar) Author: Muni Shri Padamvijayji

Overview:

"Updeshmala" is a significant Jain text attributed to Muni Shri Dharmadas. It is a compilation of sermons, teachings, and ethical guidelines intended for both ascetics (shramans) and lay followers (shravaks). The text emphasizes the importance of spiritual discipline, ethical conduct, detachment from worldly possessions and desires, and the pursuit of liberation (moksha). The provided text is a Hindi translation of the commentary by Shri Ramvijayji, edited by Muni Shri Jayanandvijayji.

Key Themes and Content:

The "Updeshmala," as presented through its commentary and translation, delves into various aspects of Jain philosophy and practice. The summary below highlights the major themes and narrative elements found within the text:

1. Mangaalcharan (Invocation): The text begins with invocations to Lord Mahavir and Lord Rishabhdev, emphasizing their unique qualities and roles in guiding beings towards liberation. It highlights their exemplary tapas (austerity) and forbearance.

2. The Importance of Vinay (Humility and Respect): The text strongly advocates for vinay, particularly the respect shown by disciples to their gurus and by younger ascetics to older ones. It uses examples like Gautam Ganadhar and the disciples of Shri Singiri Acharya to illustrate the significance of humility and obedience in spiritual progress. The text criticizes arrogance and disrespect towards gurus, highlighting its detrimental consequences.

3. The Nature of the Soul and Reality: The text explores the distinction between the body and the soul, emphasizing the transient nature of worldly existence and the ultimate reality of the soul's true nature, which is pure, conscious, and blissful.

4. Ethical Conduct and Moral Virtues: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to elaborating on essential Jain virtues such as:

   • Kshama (Patience/Forbearance): Exemplified by the story of Shri Meghkumar, it highlights the importance of enduring hardships with equanimity.
   • Ahinsa (Non-violence): Underpins all Jain teachings, emphasizing the avoidance of harm to all living beings.
   • Brahmacharya (Celibacy): The text elaborates on the challenges of maintaining Brahmacharya, especially in the face of worldly temptations, and the need for constant vigilance. The story of Shri Sthulibhadra is a prominent example of overcoming such challenges.
   • Aparigraha (Non-possession/Detachment): The text repeatedly stresses the need to detach from worldly possessions, including family, wealth, and even the physical body, as they are transient and sources of suffering. The stories of Shri Jambu Kumar and Shri Shalikumar illustrate this principle.
   • Tapas (Austerity): The text explains various forms of tapas, both internal and external, and their role in purifying the soul and eradicating karma.

5. The Dangers of Maya (Deceit) and Krodha (Anger): The text strongly warns against deceit, hypocrisy, and anger, illustrating how these vices lead to downfall and hinder spiritual progress. The examples of Kronic Raja and the story of the deceptive Tapas are used to highlight these dangers.

6. The Futility of Rituals Without Inner Transformation: The text emphasizes that mere outward rituals or ascetic practices without genuine inner transformation, understanding of scriptures, and righteous intention are futile. This is illustrated through the stories of Puran Tapas and Tamali Tapas, whose austerities were considered ineffective due to lack of proper knowledge and intention.

7. The Importance of Sanyam (Self-Control) and Vivek (Discernment): The text underscores that true spiritual progress comes from controlling the senses and mind, practicing self-discipline, and making wise choices. The story of the turtle is used as an allegory for controlling one's senses and withdrawing from worldly distractions.

8. The Role of Good Company (Satsang): The text highlights the profound impact of association. It contrasts the paths of well-behaved individuals who associate with righteous company (like the righteous parrot) with those who fall prey to bad company (like the parrots in the thief's company). The stories of Shali and Dremak are also presented in this context.

9. Consequences of Karma: The "Updeshmala" consistently reinforces the principle of karma, explaining how actions (good or bad) inevitably lead to corresponding consequences. The narrative of Lord Mahavir's previous births and the suffering experienced due to past karma serves as a powerful illustration.

10. Narrative Style: The "Updeshmala" uses a rich narrative style, employing numerous stories and anecdotes (prasangas) from Jain scriptures and legends. These stories often feature kings, queens, ascetics, and even animals, all illustrating specific moral and spiritual lessons. Prominent stories include those of:

    • Ranasingh: Illustrates the consequences of actions and the importance of righteousness.
    • Chandanbala: Highlights exemplary humility and devotion.
    • Brahmdatt Chakravarti: Demonstrates detachment and the pursuit of true wealth.
    • Prasannachandra Rajarshi: Shows the power of renunciation and detachment.
    • Bahubali: A classic tale of renunciation and overcoming pride.
    • Harikeshbal Muni: Emphasizes the importance of inner purity over external appearance and the consequences of caste pride.
    • Dharmadas Gani's own son: The story within the text that led to the creation of the "Updeshmala" itself, stressing the importance of righteous conduct.
    • Jambuswami: A prime example of overcoming worldly attachments and achieving liberation.
    • Shalikumar: Illustrates the power of devotion and good deeds.
    • Avantisukumar: Demonstrates the spiritual awakening through divine intervention.
    • Drdhaprahari Muni: Highlights the power of forgiveness and forbearance.
    • Keshi Ganadhar and King Pradesh: A significant dialogue showcasing logical reasoning in spiritual discourse and the consequences of philosophical doubt.
    • Dattmuni: An example of a disciple's challenging journey and eventual adherence to the right path.
    • Nandishen Muni: Illustrates the struggle against ingrained karma and the importance of righteous conduct.
    • Kashthakli, Mangu Acharya: Cautionary tales about attachment to worldly comforts and the dangers of pride.
    • Chandravatasak Raja: Emphasizes the importance of spiritual resolve.
    • Dharmadas Gani's teachings on the five heedless activities: Detailing the dangers of self-praise, criticism of others, uncontrolled speech, uncontrolled senses, and passion.

Purpose and Significance:

The "Updeshmala" aims to guide individuals towards spiritual upliftment by providing practical advice and illustrating the principles of Jainism through compelling narratives. It serves as a guide for righteous living, emphasizing the consequences of actions, the path to spiritual purity, and the ultimate goal of liberation. The text serves as a spiritual treatise for spiritual aspirants and a moral compass for lay followers.

Editorial and Translational Notes:

The commentary by Shri Ramvijayji is noted for its detailed elaboration of the stories, making the subject matter engaging and clear for the common reader. The translation by Muni Shri Padamvijayji is praised for its simple and elegant Hindi style, using straightforward language and replacing difficult words with simpler equivalents. The editor, Muni Shri Jayanandvijayji, is recognized for his efforts in compiling and refining this work, making it accessible to a wider audience. The publication also acknowledges numerous financial contributors, highlighting the collaborative effort in bringing this spiritual text to the public.