Gyanchakshu Bhagwan Atma

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Gyanchakshu Bhagwan Atma" (The Lord Soul as the Eye of Knowledge) based on the provided pages:

Overview:

This book is a Hindi translation and compilation of devotional discourses given by the revered Gurudev Shri Kanji Swamiji. These discourses are based on Verse 320 of the "Samaysara," a foundational text of Jain philosophy, specifically focusing on the commentary by Acharya Jayasen. The book aims to elucidate the nature of the soul (Atma) as the all-knowing, non-doer, and non-experiencer consciousness.

Key Figures and Texts:

• Author: The original Gujarati discourses were compiled by Brahmachari Harilal Jain. The Hindi translation and editing were done by Devendraumar Jain.
• Primary Text: "Samaysara" (The Essence of the Time/Self), composed by Bhagavat Kundakundacharya.
• Commentary: The specific commentary used is by Acharya Jayasen on Verse 320 of Samaysara.
• Source of Discourses: Pujya Gurudev Shri Kanji Swamiji.

Core Message and Teachings:

The central theme of the book is the understanding of the soul as the "Lord Soul" (Bhagwan Atma), possessing the inherent nature of "Gyanchakshu" (Eye of Knowledge). This divine eye allows the soul to perceive all things without being affected by them.

1. The Soul as Non-Doer and Non-Experiencer (Akarak & Avedak):

   • The book heavily emphasizes that the soul, by its intrinsic nature, is neither the doer (karta) nor the experiencer (bhokta) of actions or their consequences.
   • This is illustrated through the analogy of the eye: just as the eye sees fire but doesn't burn, or sees objects without performing actions on them, similarly, the soul (knowledge) perceives events like bondage (bandha), liberation (moksha), karmic influx (karmoday), and the cessation of karma (nirjara) without being the doer or experiencer of these phenomena.
   • The soul's nature is pure knowledge and consciousness (Gyan Swaroop). It knows but does not participate in the actions or their results.
   • Even pure knowledge (Kshayik Gyan) is described as non-doer and non-experiencer.

2. The Nature of the Soul:

   • The soul is described as the "Eye of Knowledge" (Gyanchakshu).
   • It is the source of pure, unadulterated consciousness and bliss.
   • It is distinct from the body, mind, speech, karma, and all other external objects and activities.
   • The soul is described as unchanging, eternal, and self-sufficient.

3. Understanding the Path to Liberation (Moksha):

   • True liberation (Moksha) is attained through understanding and realizing the soul's inherent nature as a non-doer, non-experiencer, and pure conscious entity.
   • This realization is achieved through correct perception (Samyak Darshan), correct knowledge (Samyak Gyan), and correct conduct (Samyak Charitra), collectively known as the "Three Jewels" (Ratnatraya).
   • The discourses highlight the importance of internal contemplation and turning one's awareness inwards to realize the true self, rather than focusing on external rituals or actions.
   • The book discusses the "five bhavas" (states or modes of existence) in Jainism:
     • Parinamikbhav (Essential Nature): This is the soul's inherent, eternal nature, which is pure consciousness and bliss. It is described as the true self and the ultimate goal.
     • Aupashamik, Kshayo-pashamik, Kshāyik (Opšamik, Kshayopšamik, Kshāyik Bhavas): These are purified states of the soul achieved through the suppression, partial destruction, and complete destruction of karmic coverings, respectively. These are considered the direct causes of liberation.
     • Audāyikbhav (Resulting from Karma): This refers to the states of the soul influenced by the fruition of karma (e.g., experiencing pleasure or pain). These are considered impure and are the cause of continued transmigration.
   • The path to liberation involves moving away from the influence of Audāyikbhav and cultivating the Oupšamik, Kshāyopšamik, and ultimately, the Kshāyikbhav, which lead to the realization of the eternal, pure Parinamikbhav.

4. The Significance of Gurudev Shri Kanji Swamiji:

   • The book emphasizes Gurudev Kanji Swamiji's immense contribution to the revival and propagation of Digambara Jainism in the current century.
   • He is credited with awakening spiritual consciousness within the Jain community, having himself been born in a Shvetambara tradition and then embracing the Digambara path after a profound spiritual awakening upon encountering the "Samaysara."
   • His continuous discourses for 45 years are credited with ushering in a "Samaysara era" and making this profound spiritual text accessible to the masses.
   • His teachings are considered a source of liberation for countless beings, and his legacy continues through his recorded speeches and published literature.

5. Metaphorical and Analogical Explanations:

   • The book utilizes various analogies, like the eye, to explain subtle spiritual truths, making them more comprehensible.
   • The contrast between the soul's true nature and its perceived state due to ignorance (agyan) is a recurring theme.

Publisher's Note and Editorial Comments:

The publication is a testament to the dedication of Tirathdham Mangalayatan in disseminating spiritual literature. The editorial notes express deep reverence for Gurudev Kanji Swamiji and highlight the profound impact of his teachings on spiritual revival. The publishers express their gratitude to the contributing trusts and individuals.

Conclusion:

"Gyanchakshu Bhagwan Atma" is a profound spiritual text that guides the reader towards understanding the true, untainted nature of the soul. It emphasizes the soul's inherent purity, its non-doer and non-experiencer characteristics, and the path to liberation through self-realization, as expounded by the esteemed Gurudev Shri Kanji Swamiji. The book serves as a beacon for spiritual seekers, encouraging them to turn inwards and experience the divine essence within.