Arihant - Book Summary | JainGPT

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Arihant (Swaroop-/Sadhana-/Aradhana)" by Sadhvi Dr. Divyaprabhaji:

Book Overview:

"Arihant: Swaroop-/Sadhana-/Aradhana" (Arihant: Form-/Practice-/Worship) is a scholarly work by Sadhvi Dr. Divyaprabhaji, dedicated to the profound concept of the Arihant in Jainism. The book is based on her PhD thesis submitted to Vikram University, Ujjain, in 1981. Published in 1992, it delves into the multifaceted nature of the Arihant, encompassing their true form, the practices undertaken to attain this state, and the methods of worship. The book aims to illuminate the path to achieving the Arihant state, presenting ancient Jain teachings through a contemporary, often scientific, lens.

Core Theme and Structure:

The central theme of the book is the comprehensive understanding and realization of the Arihant. It is structured into three main sections with nine chapters, exploring the subject from various angles:

Section 1: Arihant-Shabd Darshan (Arihant-Word Philosophy): This section critically examines the word "Arihant" itself, its etymology, various interpretations across ancient Jain and non-Jain literature, and its philosophical significance in Indian thought, particularly in contrast to the concept of God in other Indian philosophical schools. It establishes the antiquity and deep meaning of the term.
Section 2: Sambandh-Darshan (Arihant Aur Hum - Arihant and Us): This section focuses on the practical relevance of the Arihant in daily life and their connection to the practitioner. It explores the "need for Arihants from a scientific perspective," analyzing Jain practices like walking (Irya Samiti), eating (Eshana Samiti), circumambulation (Pradakshina), postures like Kayotsarg, the concept of the halo (Aabhamandal), and the overcoming of emotions (Kashaya Vijay). It highlights how these ancient Jain principles have scientific underpinnings that promote well-being and spiritual development. It also discusses the connection between mantras and consciousness, the process of Aradhana (worship/devotion), and the journey from being a devotee to becoming an Arihant.
Section 3: Swaroop-Darshan (Arihant's True Form): This section provides a detailed, sequential description of the Arihant's existence and key life events, referred to as "Kalyanakas." It covers:
- Chyavan Kalyanak: The descent of the soul from the divine realm to the mother's womb, the auspicious dreams of the mother, and the celestial celebrations.
- Janma Kalyanak: The birth of the Arihant, marked by divine phenomena, ceremonial bathing by celestial beings, and the auspicious presence of divine attributes.
- Pravajya Kalyanak: The renunciation of worldly life, the acceptance of asceticism, the attainment of pure mental knowledge (Manahparyav Gnan), and the rigorous spiritual practices and austerities undertaken.
- Kevalgyan Kalyanak: The attainment of omniscience, the establishment of the Samavsaran (divine assembly), the delivery of sermons, and the formation of the four-fold Jain community (Sangh).
- Nirvana Kalyanak: The final liberation from all karmic bondage, the attainment of the Siddha state, and the celestial celebrations marking this ultimate achievement.

Key Concepts and Arguments:

The Meaning of Arihant: The book meticulously dissects the word "Arihant," deriving its meaning from the root "Arh" signifying "worthy" and "to be worshipped." It is not merely a title but a state of being achieved through intense spiritual discipline and the eradication of all impure qualities. The term is seen as encompassing Tirthankar, Jin, Kevali, Bhagwan, Vitrag, and Purushottam.
Scientific Basis of Jain Practices: A significant contribution of the book is its attempt to scientifically explain Jain practices. For instance, the principles of Irya Samiti (mindful walking) are linked to proper posture, balance, and minimizing harm to life. The practice of eating slowly and chewing thoroughly is explained through the digestive process and the role of saliva. Concepts like Pradakshina (circumambulation) and Kayotsarg (standing meditation) are analyzed for their potential physical and psychological benefits, relating them to energy circulation, body alignment, and mental focus. The idea of an "Aura" (Aabhamandal) and its scientific basis is also touched upon.
The Path to Arihantship: The book emphasizes that becoming an Arihant is not instantaneous but a result of dedicated practice across many lifetimes. It highlights the importance of Samyak Darshan (right faith), followed by rigorous spiritual practices (Rishabdev's twenty places, or the sixteen causes described in Digambara traditions) aimed at karmic purification. The concept of "Bhavya" (souls capable of liberation) and "Tathabhutva" (specific qualities for becoming a Tirthankar) is discussed.
The Role of Aradhana (Worship): The book clarifies that Aradhana is not about pleasing an external deity but about self-transformation. Through devotion and meditation on the Arihant's qualities, the practitioner awakens their own inherent spiritual potential. The power of mantras is explained through their vibrational significance, particularly the "Arihant" mantra.
Nava Tattvas and Six Dravyas: The foundational Jain principles of nine Tattvas (realities) and six Dravyas (substances) are presented as the framework for understanding the universe and one's place within it. The complex interplay between Soul (Jiva) and Matter (Pudgala) and their karmic bondage is explained as the basis of worldly existence, with liberation (Moksha) being the ultimate goal achieved by overcoming these bonds.
The Arihant's Virtues: The book details the 18 primary defects (doshas) that an Arihant is free from, such as anger, pride, delusion, greed, attachment, aversion, fear, etc. It also lists the 12 auspicious qualities (Guna) and the 34 specific perfections (Atishayas) that characterize an Arihant, including the Eight Great Auspicious Signs (Ashta Mahapratiharyas).
Samavsaran: The divine assembly where Arihants deliver their sermons is described in detail, including its multi-layered structure, the celestial beings who construct it, the seating arrangements for various beings, and the special features like divine trees, lotuses, and the palpable presence of peace and auspiciousness.
The Triputi (Tripadi): The concept of "Trikadi" or "Tripadi" is discussed as the fundamental discourse of the Arihant, which forms the basis of the twelve Angas of Jain scripture. This triputi is explained as a response to fundamental questions about existence, change, and permanence, leading to the understanding of the soul's nature.

Overall Message:

"Arihant" is presented not just as a revered figure but as the ultimate ideal and attainable goal for every soul. The book emphasizes that the path to Arihantship is open to all, requiring persistent effort, self-discipline, and devotion. By understanding the Arihant's form, emulating their practices, and engaging in sincere worship, individuals can embark on their own spiritual journey towards purification, self-realization, and ultimate liberation. The book encourages a blend of philosophical understanding, scientific inquiry, and spiritual devotion to grasp the profound significance of the Arihant in Jainism.