Vaani Vyavahar Ma

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vaani Vyavahar Ma" by Dada Bhagwan, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Vaani Vyavahar Ma (Speech in Practice/Behavior) Author: Dada Bhagwan Publisher: Dada Bhagwan Foundation

Core Philosophy and Teachings:

The central theme of "Vaani Vyavahar Ma" revolves around the practical application of spiritual wisdom in everyday speech and behavior, as expounded by Param Pujya Dada Bhagwan. The book emphasizes that true spiritual understanding leads to a change in one's speech, making it beneficial, truthful, and free from causing harm or discord. Dada Bhagwan's teachings are characterized by their scientific approach, clarity, and focus on self-realization and liberation.

Key Concepts and Principles:

• The Nature of Speech (Vaani):

  • Speech as a "Tape Recorder": Dada Bhagwan explains that speech is essentially like a tape recorder. It's pre-recorded based on past actions and tendencies, or "vyavasthit" (a scientific, self-operating universal law). What is spoken is a manifestation of one's inner state, karma, and tendencies.
  • Speech is not Self-Originated: The words that come out are not entirely self-generated in the moment but are a result of accumulated karma and inner programming. Understanding this helps in not taking things personally.
  • The Impact of Speech: Words have immense power and can cause deep, lasting wounds ("chhaatiye gha" – wounds on the chest) or bring solace. Harsh words are detrimental, while gentle and truthful speech is beneficial.
  • "Vyavahar" (Behavior/Practice): The title itself highlights the importance of applying these principles in daily life, not just as theoretical knowledge.

• Understanding and Managing Speech:

  • Identifying Wrong Speech: The book categorizes harmful speech into various forms like harshness, lies, gossip, criticism, sarcasm, and disrespectful language. It explains the scientific reasons and consequences behind such speech.
  • The Science of Speech: Dada Bhagwan delves into the "scientific explanation" of words and their impact. He explains how spoken words create vibrations that affect both the speaker and the listener, impacting physical and mental well-being.
  • "Pratikraman" (Repentance/Self-Correction): This is a cornerstone practice taught by Dada Bhagwan. When one realizes they have spoken incorrectly or caused harm through speech, pratikraman is the tool to neutralize the negative karma associated with it. It's a process of seeking forgiveness and resolving the error within oneself.
  • "Samabhaav" (Equanimity): Maintaining equanimity amidst all kinds of speech (sweet or harsh) is crucial. The goal is to remain unaffected by what others say or how they say it.
  • "Pratikraman" as a Solution: For any misuse of speech, pratikraman is repeatedly emphasized as the way to correct the error, prevent future negative consequences, and purify oneself.

• Relationships and Speech:

  • Husband-Wife and Parent-Child Dynamics: The book provides practical guidance on how speech affects these vital relationships. It stresses the importance of sweet, understanding, and non-judgmental communication between spouses and parents and children.
  • Avoiding "Dakhlu" (Interference/Conflict): Dada Bhagwan advises against unnecessary interference or creating conflict through speech. The principle is to let things unfold naturally ("vyavasthit").
  • The "Thermometer" Analogy: Children's behavior is presented as a "thermometer" reflecting the parents' own inner state and past actions. Their misbehavior is an indication of the parents' shortcomings, urging self-reflection rather than criticism.

• The Nature of the Self and the World:

  • "Who Am I?": The teachings consistently point towards the discovery of the true Self (the Soul), distinct from the body, mind, and speech. The body, speech, and mind are seen as "that which is mine" ("my body," "my speech"), while the Self is "I am."
  • "The World is the Puzzle Itself": This statement reflects the understanding that the world and its complexities are the very mechanisms through which we can understand spiritual principles and ultimately find liberation.
  • God is Not the Creator: Dada Bhagwan clarifies that God (the absolute Self) does not create the world. The world operates according to scientific, circumstantial evidence and laws ("vyavasthit"). God resides within every living being.
  • "Naimittik Karta" (Instrumental Doer): No one is an independent doer. Everyone acts as an instrument in the unfolding of karma and circumstances.

• The Path to Liberation (Moksha):

  • "Akram Vignani" (The Science of the "Non-Sequence"): Dada Bhagwan's path is described as "Akram," a direct and effortless way to self-realization. It's a shortcut or a "lift" compared to the step-by-step spiritual progression (kram).
  • "Gyan Vidhi" (The Ritual of Knowledge): This is a specific process by which Dada Bhagwan imparts self-knowledge and enables others to experience the Self in just a few hours.
  • The Ultimate Goal: The ultimate goal is to achieve liberation (Moksha) by realizing the true Self and breaking free from the cycle of birth and death, which is facilitated by understanding and applying these teachings.

Key Quotes and Phrases:

• "Vaani, Vyavahar Ma" (Speech in Practice/Behavior)
• "Banyu e j nyay!" (What has happened is justice!)
• "Bhogve teni bhul!" (Whoever experiences it is at fault!)
• "God has not created this world at all."
• "Our speech emerges after touching consciousness, it is direct Saraswati."
• "The world is the puzzle itself."
• "Anek avataroni tapasyā no fal" (The result of penance for many lifetimes)

Structure and Presentation:

The book appears to be a compilation of Dada Bhagwan's discourses, presented in a question-and-answer format. The content is divided into chapters addressing specific aspects of speech and its practical implications in daily life. The language is Gujarati, translated into English for the context of this summary.

Overall Message:

"Vaani Vyavahar Ma" is a practical guide to transforming one's speech and behavior through spiritual wisdom. It emphasizes self-awareness, responsibility for one's words, the use of pratikraman for correction, and the ultimate aim of self-realization and liberation. By understanding the scientific principles behind speech and its impact, individuals can navigate life's complexities with equanimity, harmony, and spiritual progress.