JAINISM---12 GEMS FROM UTTARADHYANSUTRA---!!!-- PART--1.

During my last visit to Gurudeo, I could obtain the diary from the devotee, whom I also met previously. I was curious to know the contents of notes from "Uttaradhyanasutra " penned down by him.

The same is being shared herewith in parts. No doubt original book can be more useful + exact. Uttaradhyanasutra is widely respected among Jain as Mahaveer Bhagwan got salvation while delivering 36 chapters of it. Let me share  meaning of selected 12 teachings of Bhagwan.I share one from each chapter to motivate readers for  full book reading at least once in a life time.Not to miss the opportunity.

1.One shall undertake difficult task to press soul to control mind and organs, It can bring happiness in current and next lives-01/15.-Vinay.
2.Monk shall keep silence and do not mind any harsh language against him. He shall also not mind attempt on his life with a deep understanding that body can perish but soul is permanent 02/25 and 02/27.Chapter-Parishah Vijay. Total there are 22 causes to suffer.
3.In current life to get four favors for any living souls is too difficult. They are birth as human, hearing religious literature, faith on Jain religion  maximum efforts in religious activities- chapter----03/01.
Char Batoki Durlabhata.Only fortunate can get all of these four.

4.One may be engaged in Karma or sins for others and self. At the time of maturities of Karmas nobody can share the sufferings-04/4.
Chapter-Jeevan Asanskrit. Karma do not make any slight favor.

5.Religious souls with backing of good deeds and control over organs can have a peaceful and delightful intellectual death- 05/18.
Chapter---Sakam Akam Maran.Sakam means with wish for Moksha.
6.Salvation seekers shall retire from all type of enmity with others. Knowing that pain and sufferings disliked by everybody like own self ,he shall not kill any one.06/07. Chapter Shullak Nirganthiya. 

7.Human life is like principal and life in heaven is like rewards on investment. If both these lives are lost in vain then naturally, one gets term in hell and animal or plants.07/16. Chapter--------- Oarabhiya .
8.Satisfaction of a soul is too difficult. A soul will always remain unsatisfied even after getting complete universe as gift from a powerful king of heaven ( Surendra).-----08/16.Chapter Kapiliya.

9.Who ever have doubts of not reaching destination, build homes for temporary shelter. Monks have full confidence to get salvation with correct combination of knowledge ,faith and character ,hence they do not build  residences-09/16.Chapter Nami Pravajya.
10.Human life is as unstable as drop of water on leaf. Hence Gautam do not waste a micro second of it.10/01.-Dumpannak.

11.As a rising sun gets more glory once it erase darkness a soul finds more glory with self discovery and correct knowledge-11/10.
Chapter Bahushrutpuja.
12.Apparently fast has it's own superiority over caste and other
issues. As a result Harikeshmuni has bright aura to his credit-12/37.
Chapter Harikeshiya.
Please excuse me for any wrong reproduction or translation attempt.
I intend to share one each para from 36 chapters of this holy masterpiece. This Sutra is read in full at each Dipawali to mark respect to Lord Mahaveerswami's Nirwan (salvation/Moksha).

JAI JINENDRA-----------!!!---------- JAI MAHAVEER---------!!!.

JAINISM--COST OF PROVIDING EXCEPTION-------!!!

I attended question and answer session of Gurudeo after a long gap. Moreover the session was near to finish as I have failed to report on time.Still I preferred to stay at venue.One devotee wanted to go for a vow (Pachhkhan) for not eating food after sunset. He requested for it.

As expressed by him, he can drink water up to 11.00 pm but no food after sunset. Gurudeo gave the Pachkkhan, After few seconds ,he again stood up and asked if he can provide exception to this vow. He asked for liberty if he happens to be out of station for some time. 
Gurudeo advised him is very relevant to current situation related to behavior of some monks. I am trying to share it with blog readers.
Gurudeo started the topic." Dear sir, you can take your liberty, once you hear my experience for exception. You may not ask exception

Some 40 years ago ,I attended All India conference of all Monks  (Akhil Bhartiya Sadhu Sambhelan) consisting all sections of Jain.
At that time I was very junior and attended the conference with my Guru. The work of passing various resolutions was in progress. The aim of conference was to frame some common rules by passing resolutions so that it can reduce the disagreement points within the various sections of Jain -Unity was prime concern of conference.

One issue was not to use electrical or electronic devices by monks while delivering lectures. Monks are bound by 5 Mahavrata. Using such equipment goes against the basic principle of non violence. The reason that no such tool can work without energy of different forms. Generating energy can not be without killing of the
living substance.As expected some objected. some agreed. The issue could not get solved. To make the conference success, some senior monks suggested to allow use of only loudspeaker from the  list. It has aim to help more people to understand Jainism.

 My Guru warned against such exception. He argued that we have no capacity to change the way of life prescribed by Bhagwan Shri
Mahaveer. Moreover there is danger of adding various things to list in coming time. The list can be never ending. With such exceptions we are defeating  very basic purpose of "Diksha".
The conference ended. The use was allowed as exception. My Guru never accepted the deviation. Our branch continued not to use any such tools. To hear lecture masses can take care to maintain silence.
 Now you can yourself see the evils of granting such exceptions. It created a easy going ( Shithilichar) approach in some monks .It is a approved sin. It can put hurdles in path of salvation.

Now Monks are using mobile, laptop, appearing on T.V. shows and so many prohibited things are accepted now a days. Accepting lunch boxes at venue and avoiding Gochari can be easily seen.
 Actually there is no force to become a monk. Who ever can follow it strictly, only should go for it. It really painful to cheat devotees when they visualize Mahaveer Bhagwan within you. No need exists for marketing Jain religion because only fortunate people can be a true Jain.The emphasis shall be on quality not quantity.

 No true follower will like to follow religion different from what Mahaveerswami's founded. Devotees have faith on white dress. Hence they fail to question deviations. But it cannot make it as an
authorized act .It amounts to cheating the innocent devotees.
 Now you can decide if you want to provide exceptions" Gurudeo concluded. There was total silence in the room. I looked for reaction from the devotee. All eyes were staring at him in the hall. The said
 devotee refused to go for liberty. The entire gathering was happy. I too liked the principle. Do it fully or Don't do it. Religion cannot be a matter of compromise. One cannot change it as per own comforts.

JAI MAHAVEER-------------- !!!--- JAI JINENDRA------------!!!.

   

JAINISM---MEANING OF LIFE AND FAITH-------------!!!

It was last day of Gurudeo's stay at our town. I made it a point to compulsorily attend it. Here goes the full cover of the lecture.
  "Brothers today I wish to cover life and ways to live it. First ,I will like to hear your feeling about life. He got following 4 answers from  devotees gathered in hall being briefly shared herewith.

1- Sir, life is a rainbow and bed of roses. One requires good fortune to enjoy .We can see handful people gifted with it.
2- Sir, it is just like jail, you may wish but no release. Only endless waiting. When specified time comes, one gets release.
3- Sir, it is same as onion, just pull layer after layer, nothing will be left at end. Looking back one may feel he is back to square one.  
4- Sir, it is a grand dark tunnel, to pass anyhow blindly as Lord wish. Nothing is in one's hand. Only marching and marching.
With a smile Gurudeo took the conversation forward as follow.
"Friends ,very good to hear opinions from you on life based on individual perceptions. In real term life is a journey between two points, starting from birth and ending with death.

What one does between two points, gives meaning to his individual life. Hence there can be numerous meaning of life depending on personal experience either good or bad. One gives up entire wealth in "Give Pledge" mission another one gives up entire domestic life takes "Diksha" and become monk. Both such good actions gives a boost to moral of society and attach new meaning to life.While some criminals may be burden on society.

Life is so complicated, to be closed within definition of few words. The travel is marked with up, down and through tunnels .One has to keep going without complaining. That is the beauty of life. The life mystery is worth living but it needs  solid foundation of Jainism.
Some times tunnels are so long and dark, one gets tired of walking. He is walking blindly, unsure of seeing light. Some inner strength  and faith pushes and motivate him to complete the march smoothly.

 Now in such a complex situation ,let us see what solution Jainism provides to live life. To overcome anxiety and fear generated by the
uncertainty of life, one shall have strong spiritual foundation. There are few major guiding philosophy available to human being. One have to select proper set duly tested for truth and consistency.
 Then only one is better equipped to walk on the road. Just note not to loose modesty while on top and not to lack hope and confidence while passing through downside. More testing time is while facing walk in tunnel. If one has stick of Jainism faith and Karma theory to pass the tunnel in comparative easier ways.

In 30/09 chapter of Bhagwatisutra Mahaveer Bhagwan given four faith available in  this world. They can be summarized as follow.
1) Kriyawadi : It believes in existence of soul and in action as per Jainism. Bhagwan advocated it. All actions must be based on the combination of correct faith and action. They are termed as "Samyagdarshti".It brings the soul earlier on path of salvation.

2) Akriyawadi : It believes in purity of heart only. No importance to good action given. They are plain and simple in their dealings.
3) Adnyanwadi : It believes in ignorance and innocence. Not knowing is better than knowing. They do not engage in arguments.
4) Vinaywadi : It believes in humility and politeness as religion only. Be good to people is the only theory they adopt.
    As a fact there cannot be a smooth road in entirety, everyone one has his share of happiness and sorrows as per Karma's balance. The past cannot be undone. If one happens to follower of Jainism then at least, he can be careful for his new actions and results of it. As a  result while walking on road of life he can avoid eighteen bigger sin.

Secondly he is quite sure that I am getting back what I have offered earlier, It makes him tolerant and cool. The mindset frame offers him quick healing. While this walk if one carries  good virtues like simplicity, honesty, let go attitude and care, there is less fatigue, But if one carries the burden of anger, ego, greed and cheating the travel become more tiresome .Similarly never try to reply the bad
actions of others in same language. You need not to step down from levels of dignity. Mind well, Karma Theory noting all minute details
      Wish you good luck for onward travel "Gurudeo concluded. We left the venue. Of course there is satisfaction in both ears and eyes.

JAI JINENDRA-------!!!----------- JAI MAHAVEER----------!!!.

JAINISM--MANGLIK---THE MOST AUSPICIOUS PRAYER-----!!!

On the way to next destination ,Gurudeo happened to be at a place near to me.Kids education session was being scheduled. I joined the session. Gurudeo explained  meaning"Manglik and way to offer our
respect to Arihant and Siddha Bhagwan by Khmasano.For respecting monk "Tikutto " is being used. This blog aims to cover the session for readers .It can be very useful and it can serve lifelong purpose.

What is being seen in above  images is partial Manglik. One has to add following lines to complete it for full devotional sentiments.

 As a tradition once the Manglik is over by Sadhuji, Sharaks add---
"Agushte Amrit Base, Labdhi Tana Bhandar, Shri Guru
 Guatam samariye, Man Vanchit ( as per mind ) Fal Datar "
"Bhave( true,from heart ) Bhavna Bhaviye, Bhave Dije Daan
,Bhave Dharma Aaradhiye, Bhave Kewaldyan-----------------".

It is believed with tremendous faith that very fortunate people only get the chance to sing this prayer while taking last breath in current life. A true Jain always cherish the feeling to have it at last moment.

Hindi meaning of Manglik is most auspicious. Chattari means four, Uttam means finest, Log means universe, Saranam means surrender and Pawajami means most suitable or correct one or correct choice to offer self surrender. Knowing the meaning can add to feelings of us.

The detailed meaning  of itis being explained herewith for Manglik.
1-In the universe there are four auspicious. They are Arihant, Siddha. Sadhu and religion preached by Kewali Bhagwan.
2-In the universe, there are four finest among all. They are being--- Arihant, Siddha, Sadhu and religion preached by Kewali Bhagwan.
3-In the universe, there are only four places where soul should surrender his existence or take shelter. They are---Arihant Bhagwan. Siddha Bhagwan, Sadhu and religion preached by Kewali Bhagwan.

4--I take surrender of all of these  four greatest deities. Sadhu here referred are monks walking on salvation path exactly as guided by Bhagwan irrespective of branch. It does not means only white clothe wearing monks .Word "Sadhu" used here is in most broader sense.
It covers 3rd and 4th position of Aacharya and Upadhya in Sadhu.

Kewali means soul, near salvation who obtained Kewaldyan and Kewaldarshan. They start educating masses after obtaining correct

knowledge and faith. Their salvation is definite at  thefixed time. 

 Bowing down to all of four is a tool to eliminate lower class birth and getting favorable conditions for walking on path of salvation. It is a best tool for all Bhavi souls to adopt the ways taught for benefit of soul i. e. it gets permanent salvation for soul at top of universe.

There is a tradition in Jain community to chat Manglik while leaving home. Jain monk usually give it to devotees who visit them.
While monks are giving Manglik, Shrawaks needs to say-"Jee" or
"Tahati" at breathing point. Tahati means -it is truth what you say.
Just try Manglik, then one will not need to bow any else where. As a

practice before giving it permission of 4 is taken. Mahaveerswamiki
Aadnyase.Simandharswamijiki Aadnyase,Gurudeoki Aadnyase
Badoki Aadnyase ,Manglik Dene Ki Aadnya se-------------!!!: ".
To offer respect to Arihant, Siddha and Kewali, the prayer used is called Khamasano. For respecting  monk "Mathen Vadami " or

"Thikhutto" ( 3 times bowing down to 3 virtues-knowledge, faith and character).Monk means a bridge which connect Bhagwan Dharma   and devotees. Hence respect to them is must for all Jain devotees.

Prayer must be  followed with proper action, respect and sentiments. For meaning of Khamasano one has to refer "Pratikaman  Sutra". It is indeed very meaningful and vanishes or reduce  our 18 sins.
Hearing or giving this Manglik must be with high and pure inner feelings. It is counted as "Swadhya".Let us learn this simple, divine  
and auspicious Mangalcharan and spread it to the masses. Please just
take care to avoid expectations of miracles happening from it. Myself

generally ends Manglik with remembering3 symbolic names of our Jain Thirthankar and seven monks as a sense of gratitude. As all of them made me to know and learn Jainism being my Gurudeo.

Rubhavaay Nama,Parshwanathay Nama,Mahaveerswamiji Nama. Samarthguru,Chapakguru Prakashguru,Kanchangurunisa Nama. Uttamguru, Nirjanaji and Sarjanaji Nama.(Dyangachha Sampadray).

All of these and more others helped me to walk on salvation path.

Readers can replace these names by their respective Gurudeo .Really without  guidance all of such "Anant Upkari" souls we all could not have known Jainism, it's greatness and it's power to free many souls.

JAI JINENDRA----------!!! --------!!!----JAI MAHAVEER-----!!!.

JAINISM--PREFER DHARMA OVER PUNYA-------!!!

 Friends day 3rd November 2017 marked end of  year's four month's Chaturmas. Here is the coverage of last  useful lecture of Gurudeo. 
 "Brothers, day after tomorrow, we will be leaving this place for next another destination as guided by Mahveerbhagwan after completing four months stay at one place. To avoid deep bondage, this is a very essential duty. As a follower of Bhagwan monks have to follow it.

Three full moon days carry great importance spiritually for all of Jain. They are in brief are as follow. They are worth to be noted.---.
  1-Falgun ( Holi ) Sudhi full moon day (Poornima)-Chaturmas is         being declared on this auspicious day. Generally in March of year.
  2-Aashad Sudhi full moon day-- Chaturmas is being started,
  3-Kartika Sudhi  full moon day--Chaturmas ends.

In all those four months you covered much knowledge of Jainism. Now the coming 8 months is time to implement the learning. Here I share with you the difference between  two major terms. First being Dharma and second one is Punya. Often we mistook the later for the former. Such mistake often leads the task of cleaning soul difficult  and unfinished ,so knowing the difference is most important for all.

 

1-Dharma-The ways adopted  to live life which prevents next birth of soul in worst or bad place is Dharma. (Hindi-Jise dharan karnese Aatma Durgati me Nahi jata, wah Dharma hai.) There is no scope for any sin while doing Dharma. It acts as a floater which prohibits the sinking of soul in deep sea of sins. It is applicable for all living soul

Dharma requires self and soul involvement in  all religious activities.
The only purpose of Dharma is to cut bad Karmas of soul termed as "Nirjara" The components of Dharma are Navkarmantra, Samaik, Pratikaman, Sanwar. Poshad. Pachhkhans .Swadhya,Dhyan and
keeping fast, following non violence and other 11 Vratas, spreading and teaching Jainism and attending monks or Sadhus in Upashray.

If one can become monk after taking Diksha, it is the best option of Dharma. However it is too difficult to follow without determination
Dharma can take the soul to ultimate aim of salvation. It does not require money but self engagement is necessary. The action must be backed by intentions to cut Karmas. Then only it can bring desired effects. Please note Dharma always protects the one who practices it unconditionally and with pure intentions. It makes our faith stronger.

 2-Punya----- Punya is doing good things for others. It can involve charity, donation. serving parents, offering aid to needy one etc..
Punya do not take you to salvation. It can provide only better and favorable circumstances of all types. It is like a ship bringing you to  beach from sea travel, To reach home one has to leave the ship and get down from it. Similarly one has to nullify all Punya before he gets salvation. As a  reward for all good deeds forming Punya one gets birth in heaven or higher class mankind. 

There is a danger in going to heaven without Jainism knowledge. Such souls start enjoying the life at heaven to fullest. As a results more life cycles are being framed. Current knowledge of Jainism  and faith last for next 2/3 births. So Jainism knowledge is a must.
Anyone can get engage in Punya with good intentions, time, efforts,

willingness and money. Thus building temples or hospital without desire for name or fame may fetch Punya but certainly it can not be Dharma. Moreover if any smallest sin is  being committed at such places one has to share the results. Reducing dependency on others to minimum, keeps balance of Punya intact for further carry forward.

 I hope you will definitely note the difference between two. Now please see that you engage yourself in maximum Dharma",Gurudeo concluded. We stood up to offer him respect and left venue.

JAI JINENDRA---------!!!---------- JAI MAHAVEER------------!!!.