I Am The Soul Part 02

This document is a summary of the Jain text "I am The Soul Part 02" by Tarulatabai Mahasati, a rendering of Gujarati discourses based on Srimad Rajachandra's ‘Atmasiddhi Shastra’. The book is published by Shri Gujarati Shwetambar Sthanakwasi Jain Association and co-published with the Research Foundation for Jainology. The summary will focus on the key spiritual and philosophical concepts presented in the text, as derived from the provided pages.

The core message of the book, as evident from the title and the introductory passages, is the affirmation of the self as the soul, distinct from the physical body and other material entities. The text emphasizes the unwavering, ethereal, and stable nature of the soul, which is symbolized by a mountain-like state of being. It speaks of achieving a state of supreme progress, inner strength, and ultimately, the abode of the Siddhas (liberated souls).

The book is an English rendering of originally Gujarati discourses based on Srimad Rajachandra's ‘Atmasiddhi Shastra,’ a seminal Jain work. The author, Dr. Tarulatabai Mahasatiji, is highlighted as an eloquent scholar who has delved deeply into the spiritual literature of saint poets, particularly Srimad Rajachandra.

The "Reflections of The Self" section introduces the Atmasiddhi Shastra as a work of 142 couplets, chosen by Mahasatiji for its profound spiritual and philosophical content. It emphasizes the purity of thought and extraordinary command of language demonstrated by Srimad Rajachandra. A core teaching from the Atmasiddhi Shastra is quoted: "There is the existence of the soul, it is eternal and it is the doer and enjoyer of karmas. There is emancipation and the means to acquire it is Sudharma i.e. right conduct." The text further elaborates on the six characteristics of the soul, the nature of the spiritual seeker (Atmarthi) versus the dogmatic (Matarthi), the path of liberation, and the importance of a noble preceptor.

Volume 2 specifically focuses on couplets 59 to 142 of the Atmasiddhi Shastra. It delves into the six essential characteristics of the soul, elaborating on them and clearing any doubts a disciple might have. The second volume also covers the concept of "Bodhi Bija" (right faith) and the realization of the self, culminating in the description of a self-realized soul. The commentary aims to explain the significance of the Atmasiddhi Shastra from a Jain perspective, analyzing each word and couplet from various viewpoints. The discourses are structured to begin with salutations to the Arhats and Siddhas and conclude with contemplation on the pure soul, reflecting the ultimate aim of all spiritual practices: self-realization.

The "Contents" section provides a roadmap of the book, including reflections on the self, the book's contents, an index, and the reproduced manuscript and Devanagari script of Atmasiddhi Shastra.

The "Contemplation upon the Self" section reiterates the core identity of the soul as "Chetan" (consciousness) and its original form. It distinguishes the soul (chetan, atma) from the inanimate world, including the body, senses, and mind. The text emphasizes that the soul is pure consciousness, distinct from these material components. The activity observed in the body, senses, and mind ceases when the chetan detaches itself. The soul is the source of consciousness, and its true nature is chetana, its natural disposition. The ultimate goal is to stabilize within the Self, forgetting the external world and remaining aloof from inanimate substances, thereby experiencing the bliss of consciousness.

Key themes that emerge throughout the provided text include:

• The Nature of the Soul (Atma): The soul is presented as eternal, pure, conscious (chetan), ageless, endless, indestructible, and the ultimate reality, separate from the body, senses, and mind.
• The Path to Liberation (Moksa): The text emphasizes the importance of the "three gems" (Samyak Darshan, Samyak Jnana, Samyak Charitra) and the devoted pursuit of spiritual practices. It highlights the crucial role of a Sadguru and the necessity of inner contemplation and detachment.
• Karma and Liberation: The discourses explain how karmas bind the soul and the process of their dissolution through virtuous conduct and spiritual practices, leading to liberation.
• Distinguishing the Real from the Illusory: A significant portion of the text focuses on differentiating the true self (atma) from illusions and misconceptions, such as identifying the body or emotions as the self.
• The Importance of Discrimination (Bheda Vijnana): The ability to discriminate between the animate (chetan) and inanimate (jada), between natural and affected dispositions, and between the soul and its attributes is crucial for spiritual progress.
• The Role of the Guru: The text underscores the indispensable role of a Sadguru in guiding the disciple towards self-realization, dispelling doubts, and providing the necessary motivation and knowledge.
• The Nature of Knowledge: The distinction between ordinary, limited knowledge (ajnan) and complete, infinite knowledge (kevaljnana) is explained, emphasizing that true knowledge resides within the self.
• Detachment and Equanimity: The text promotes detachment from worldly desires, passions, and external substances, advocating for a state of equanimity and inner peace.
• Purushartha (Self-Effort): While acknowledging destiny and innate qualities, the book strongly emphasizes the necessity of personal effort and perseverance in the spiritual journey.

The discourses are presented in a dialogue format between a Gurudev and a disciple, addressing various philosophical and spiritual doubts. The book aims to guide the reader towards self-realization by clarifying complex Jain principles in a simple yet profound manner, ultimately leading to the understanding and experience of "I am the Soul."