Yadi Chuk Gaye To

"Yadi Chuk Gaye To" (If We Missed) is a Jain text compiled by Shrimati Shanti Devi Jain and edited by Shri Mahavir Prasad Jain. The book draws from the principles, maxims, and ethical sayings found in the works of Adhyatma Ratnakar Pandit Ratanchand Bharill, specifically his "Harivansh Katha" and "Shalaka Purush Bhag Ek" (Part One) and "Bhag Do" (Part Two). The publisher is Pandit Todarmal Smarak Trust, Jaipur.

The book is presented as a collection of wisdom aimed at guiding individuals toward happiness and spiritual well-being. The core message revolves around the preciousness of human life and the immense loss incurred if opportunities for spiritual growth and self-realization are missed.

Key Themes and Contents:

• The Value of Human Life: The book repeatedly emphasizes the rarity and preciousness of the human birth, which offers the unique opportunity for liberation from the cycle of birth and death. Missing this chance is portrayed as an unfathomable loss.
• The Danger of Procrastination and Complacency: The title itself, "Yadi Chuk Gaye To" (If We Missed), serves as a constant reminder to seize the present moment and not to delay in pursuing spiritual goals. It warns against the complacency that can lead to missing out on the true purpose of life.
• Critique of Ignorance and Ego: The text critiques the human tendency to cling to ignorance, ego, and misguided beliefs. It highlights how these qualities prevent individuals from recognizing their true nature and the path to liberation. The analogy of "Deth Dahya" (a term used for foolishness) from Gujarat is used to illustrate this point.
• The Importance of Right Understanding and Action: The book stresses the need for genuine understanding of spiritual principles, rather than blindly following traditions or popular opinions. It advocates for critical thinking and self-reflection in matters of faith.
• Lessons from the Lives of Great Souls: Drawing from Jain scriptures, particularly the "Harivansh Katha" and "Shalaka Purush" narratives, the book presents the lives and teachings of significant figures. These stories often illustrate the consequences of mistakes, the rewards of virtue, and the path to spiritual attainment. Examples include the struggles and eventual enlightenment of figures like Lord Mahavir, the life lessons from Krishna and Balarama, and the stories of various individuals who achieved spiritual liberation or faced dire consequences due to their actions.
• Philosophical and Doctrinal Exposition: The text delves into various Jain philosophical concepts:
  • The Nature of Reality: It discusses the Jain understanding of the universe as governed by six independent substances (dravyas) that are eternal and self-operating, not created by any deity.
  • The Path to Liberation (Moksha): The central aim is liberation, achieved through the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya) – Right Faith (Samyak Darshan), Right Knowledge (Samyak Gyan), and Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra).
  • Karma Theory: The workings of karma and its influence on the soul's journey through different lifetimes are explained.
  • The Soul (Jiva): The nature of the soul as an eternal, conscious entity, distinct from the body, is elaborated upon.
  • The Four Spiritual Stages: The concepts of Bahiratama (external soul), Antaratma (internal soul), and Paramatma (supreme soul) are discussed.
  • Ahimsa (Non-violence): The principles of Ahimsa are thoroughly explained, covering various types of violence and the importance of abstaining from harm in thought, word, and deed.
  • The Importance of the Scriptures: The revered status of Jain scriptures (Jinavani) and the need for their study is highlighted.
  • The Role of True Gurus: The significance of following true, enlightened spiritual guides is emphasized.
  • The Nature of Attention and Meditation: The text distinguishes between mundane distractions and true spiritual meditation (Dharma Dhyan and Shukla Dhyan), which leads to self-realization.
  • Ethical Conduct (Acharan): Various ethical principles for lay followers (Shravakas) and ascetics (Munis) are discussed, including the importance of vows, austerities, and avoiding worldly attachments.
• Practical Guidance for Daily Life: Beyond philosophical discourse, the book offers practical advice for living a virtuous life, emphasizing ethical behavior, detachment from worldly possessions, and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge. It touches upon social issues and provides guidance on family relationships and societal conduct.
• The Meaning of True Devotion: The book clarifies that true devotion lies in understanding and emulating the virtues of the liberated souls (Arhats and Siddhas), rather than mere ritualistic worship or seeking worldly favors from deities.

The book is a comprehensive guide for Jain followers, urging them to actively engage in spiritual practices and self-improvement to avoid missing the golden opportunity of human existence. It aims to inspire readers to live a life of purpose, detachment, and ultimately, to achieve liberation.