Jainism

English Translation of Acharya Pujyapada swami’s Ishtopadesh – Deliberation (vivechana) and Poetic Translation by Acharya shri Vidyasagarji maharaj

Utthanika (Prelude):

Parīṣahādyavijñānādāsravasya nirodhinī jāyate’dhyātmayogena, karmaṇāmāśu nirjarā ॥24॥

Poetic Translation (Padyanuvad )

Yogī jan adhyātma yog se, chetan mein nirbādh rahe,
Mano-yog ko vachan-yog ko, kāy-yog ko sādh rahe.
Parīṣhahōn ko, upasargōn ko, sahte vichalit kab hote?
Karma-nirjarā āstrava-rodhak, sanvar prachalit sab hote ॥24॥

Translation (Romanized):
The yogis, through the practice of spiritual discipline, remain unwavering in consciousness.
They refine the discipline of mind, speech, and body.
Enduring trials (parīṣhahās) and obstacles (upasargas), they never falter.
Through the shedding of karmas (karma-nirjarā), restraint of influx (āsrava-rodhak), and the active practice of self-restraint (sanvar), they progress steadily.

By bearing with equanimity by the power of the soulforce, the trials and hardships consequent on world-renunciation, is accomplished speedlly the destruction of karmas and the stoppage of further inflow thereof !

Note – There are two aspects of the karmic force the dravya and the bhava karmas. Dravya karmas simply mean matter which flows into the soul with every thought and word and deed. Bhava karmas are inner mental states, that is to say feelings, cravings and the like which are the causes that lead to the inflow of matter towards the soul. The bondage of the soul con- sists in the state of embodiment which signifies association with matter. The ascetic aspires to separate his soul completely from the material impu- rities that defile and hold it in bondage. The inflow of matter is termed asrava, and takes place only beacuse of a certain kind of magnetic attrac- tion which the soul develops under the influence of desire. It ceases when the soul becomes desireless completely. The matter existing in combination with the soul also then begins to dissolve and soon becomes separated from it. This is termed nirjara, in the course of which many hardships have to be faced by the aspirant. If these are cheerfully borne, the goal of freedom and bliss is reached speedily, and the soul becomes a pure and perfected God. The destruction of desire, therefore, is the key to the situation, and the acharya points out that those who preserve equanimity of mind in the midst of trails and temptations speedily attain to the Supreme Status by the stoppage of the fresh inflow and the destruction of the existing karmas.

Deliberation (vivechana)

You might have studied the Tattvārtha Sūtra and may recall the aphorism:
“Mārgāchyavananirjarārthaṁ pariṣhoḍhavyāḥ pariṣhaḥḥ” (9/8).
It states that to remain steadfast on the path of liberation and to facilitate the processes of restraint (saṁvara) and elimination (nirjarā), it is essential for a seeker to endure adversities (pariṣahas).

The path of liberation is not adorned with flowers, offering comfort and ease. It is rugged, filled with stones, thorns, and uneven terrain. Adversities arise in every step—whether speaking, walking, sitting, sleeping, or eating. Fame brings adversity; the hunger for recognition brings adversity. Criticism, too, is an adversity. At every moment, we must cultivate equanimity (samta) to endure these trials. Without equanimity, even a slight deviation towards attachment can lead to bondage.

For example, adjusting a radio dial slightly can change the station from Ceylon Radio to Vividh Bharati. Similarly, the slightest shift from equanimity towards attachment disrupts the seeker’s progress.

In the Tattvārtha Sūtra, Ācārya Umāsvāmī emphasizes that among the 22 possible adversities, a seeker might face up to 19 simultaneously (9/17). These adversities must not be endured grudgingly but with a sense of equanimity. Only then can one remain firm on the path; otherwise, even minor setbacks can lead to deviation.

As the saying goes:
“The face of one who perseveres remains radiant.”
Another adage states:
“Where there is effort, the flower of success blooms.”

People desire fame and recognition but often shy away from the hard work required to achieve it. Without effort, success is unattainable.

Sometimes, we see individuals attaining fame or rewards with seemingly little effort. This can be attributed to their past-life efforts, just as a cumulative score in an exam includes previous performances. However, those who procrastinated in the past but worked diligently for the final exam also achieve good results.

The essence is clear: effort, whether made in the past or the present, invariably yields results. One must strive to live a life of diligence.

Effort may sometimes yield modest results and other times great success, depending on its intensity. Thus, it is rightly said:
“No effort ever goes unrewarded.”

Do Not Fear Hard Work

One should never fear hard work. A person who has embarked on the path of liberation (mokṣamārga) must not be afraid of challenges. Ācārya Pūjyapāda Swāmī emphasizes that a seeker on the path of liberation should neither feel elation nor despair while enduring adversities (pariṣahas). He uses the term avijñānāt, implying that adversities must not be felt with emotions of joy or sorrow but must instead be experienced with equanimity (samata).

If a seeker feels even the slightest tinge of elation or despair while enduring adversities, they should immediately regain their composure and prepare to face the next challenge with determination.

The Sāmāyika Pāṭha (a text on equanimity) beautifully explains this concept:

“Samata sarvabhūteṣu, saṁyame śubhābhavanā.
Ārttaraundraparityāgaḥ, taddhi sāmāyikaṁ mataṁ.”

• Always maintain equanimity towards all beings.
• Cultivate virtuous intentions through restraint.
• Renounce afflictive and violent thoughts, as this defines true equanimity.

One must develop the conviction that all outcomes, whether favorable or unfavorable, are the results of one’s own past actions (karma). Repeatedly nurturing this belief reinforces equanimity. While reading the Sāmāyika Pāṭha, these ideas may seem clear, but the real test lies in remembering and applying them in daily life.

The verses from Dvātṛṁśatikā further highlight this idea:

“Svaṁ kṛtaṁ karma yadātmanā purā,
phalaṁ tvadīyaṁ labhate śubhāśubham.
Pareṇa dattaṁ yadi labhyate sphuṭaṁ,
svaṁ kṛtaṁ karma nirarthakaṁ tadā.”

• The results one experiences, whether good or bad, are due to one’s own past deeds.
• If it were possible to receive outcomes due to others’ actions, one’s own deeds would become meaningless.

This verse reinforces personal accountability and underscores the importance of recognizing that every situation is a result of one’s own actions.

Applying Equanimity Like Sītā

Simply reciting such principles is not enough—they must be applied consistently in real-life situations. The story of Sītā exemplifies this perfectly. She not only remembered these teachings during sāmāyika (moments of reflection) but also lived by them in every challenging moment of her life.

When questioned about her hardships, she would say, “What can be done? It is the result of my own karma.” Her ability to remember and apply this belief at every step of her life serves as an ideal example for all seekers.

Making Equanimity a Practice

Practicing such equanimity is no simple task. It requires constant mindfulness and effort. Each step on the path of liberation challenges the seeker to stay unwavering, reminding them that everything they experience is a reflection of their own deeds. By adopting this perspective, one can cultivate equanimity and progress steadily on the path to liberation.

Isthopadesh Gatha – Dwadasa Varshiya Shraman Sanskriti Swadhyaya Pathyakram

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 23 & 24

स्वाध्याय गाथा सं 24 & 25

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Youtube Playlist

इष्टोपदेश Ishtopadesh

गाथा 1 (Gatha 1) | गाथा 2 ( Gatha 2 )| गाथा 3 ( Gatha 3)| गाथा 4 ( Gatha 4) | गाथा 5 ( Gatha 5) | गाथा 6 ( Gatha 6 )| गाथा 7 ( Gatha 7 )| गाथा 8 ( Gatha 8 ) | गाथा 9 ( Gatha 9 ) | गाथा 10 ( Gatha 10)| गाथा 11 ( Gatha 11 )| गाथा 12 ( Gatha 12) | गाथा 13 ( Gatha 13 )| गाथा 14 ( Gatha 14 )| गाथा 15 ( Gatha 15 ) | गाथा 16 ( Gatha 16 )| गाथा 17 ( Gatha 17 )| गाथा 18 ( Gatha 18 )| गाथा 19 ( Gatha 19 )| गाथा 20 ( Gatha 20 )| गाथा 21 ( Gatha 21)| गाथा 22 ( Gatha 22 )| गाथा 23 ( Gatha 23 )| गाथा 24 | | गाथा 25 | गाथा 26 | गाथा 27

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English Translation of Acharya Pujyapada swami’s Ishtopadesh – Deliberation (vivechana) and Poetic Translation by Acharya shri Vidyasagarji maharaj

Utthanika (Prelude):

Here, the disciple asks, “Bhagavan! What is the purpose or benefit of focusing on the soul or worshiping the soul? What fruit will this yield?”

The disciple justifies the question by stating, “The actions of the wise are always undertaken with an understanding of the fruit they yield.”

In response to this inquiry, the Acharya provides an answer.

इष्टोपदेश गाथा 23

अज्ञानोपास्तिरज्ञानं, ज्ञानं ज्ञानिसमाश्रय: ददाति यत्तु यस्यास्ति, सुप्रसिद्धमिदं वच: ॥23॥

ajñānopāstirajñānaṁ, jñānaṁ jñānisamāśrayaḥ
dadāti yattu yasyāsti, suprasiddhamidaṁ vacaḥ ॥23॥

Poetic Translation (Padyanuvad )

Ajñānī kī sharaṇa-gaho to, suno tumheṁ ajñāna mile,
Jñānī-jan kī upāsanā se jñāna mile vardāna phale.
Jiskā swāmī jo hotā hai, pradān usko kartā hai,
Lok nīti yah sunī sabhī ne, pramāṇa virlā kartā hai ॥23॥

Deliberation (vivechana)

An ignorant person, lacking knowledge of the essence of the soul or the nature of inertness, can only impart ignorance to others. Worshipping such an individual leads to ignorance because one can only give what they possess. Conversely, worshipping a knowledgeable person grants knowledge. The principle “dadaati yattu yasyasti”—one gives what one possesses—applies universally. The result of worship aligns with the nature of the one being worshipped. For instance, if we worship the body, we won’t attain knowledge but will instead receive bodily pleasures, sensory indulgences, and movement between different life forms.

In the scriptures, it is stated that beholding a deity can lead to samyak darshan (right faith). However, this is not absolute, as merely seeing a deity does not guarantee the emergence of right faith unless there is true belief and understanding of the divine. Knowing the true nature of the deity is essential. A deity is free from attachments and aversions and devoid of the eighteen flaws. Their image represents detachment (veetarag). Without understanding these aspects, beholding a deity cannot lead to right faith. Thus, the mere act of seeing is not enough to produce samyak darshan, though it can serve as a supportive condition when paired with proper understanding. True darshan of the deity, aligned with their authentic form, contributes to the development of right faith.

For example, viewing an image filled with passion can evoke feelings of attachment, although this is not guaranteed for everyone. Similarly, viewing art can stir different emotions. Such objects serve as a medium or stimulus for emotional responses. Worshipping a knowledgeable person results in gaining knowledge, while worshipping an ignorant person results in perpetuating ignorance. Therefore, one should worship someone whose influence helps the mind steer away from worldly attachments and passions.

One should accept something in the way it has been prescribed because different substances lead to different results based on their intended purpose. For instance, the idea that a doctor cures illness is a formal statement. If a doctor alone could cure all ailments, everyone should recover simply by seeing the doctor, and there would be no need for medication. However, this is not the case. Taking medication is necessary, and it must be done under the doctor’s guidance for it to be effective. Even then, there is no guarantee of recovery.

When medication cures the illness, people credit the doctor, saying the doctor has healed them. However, if the medication fails to work, people often blame both the doctor and the medicine, saying neither was effective. Alternatively, they might admit that their condition was such that it couldn’t be cured or that they didn’t take the medicine as prescribed. These errors, intentional or otherwise, can prevent recovery.

For instance, if someone has a fever of 107°F, even a powerful remedy will not work immediately. The fever must first be reduced to around 102-103°F before the medication can take effect. This illustrates that action should be taken in accordance with factors like substance, place, time, state, and intent. Additionally, consuming medicine with faith is also necessary.

In the context of divine guidance, the trinity of Dev (deity), Guru (spiritual teacher), and Shastra (scripture) serve as supportive agents. Worshipping them with faith yields the benefits of the three jewels (Ratnatraya—right knowledge, right faith, and right conduct). Therefore, devotion and faith are essential.

Worshipping a knowledgeable individual leads to wisdom, while worshipping the ignorant results in ignorance. If someone dismisses these external aids by saying, “The image of Lord Jina is just a stone; what is its significance?” or “Scriptures are just inert objects; what value do they hold?”—such reasoning undermines the benefits these mediums provide. If they had no value, the benefits they bestow would not manifest. Yet, these benefits are evident.

Just as scriptures provide guidance and knowledge, the presence of the revered 1008 Shri Jina Bhagwan also serves as a powerful medium for spiritual gain. When we look at an image, it stirs relevant thoughts in our mind. Similarly, gazing at the idol of Lord Jina invokes thoughts of detachment and serenity (Vitarag). This is a profound benefit.

However, interest and inclination play a pivotal role in deriving such benefits. If one has a genuine interest, the mind can focus wherever one desires; otherwise, it cannot.

“Dadaati yattu yasyasti” — One gives only what they possess; nothing else can be offered. For example, a rose, having fragrance, shares its aroma, while kerosene gives off its own distinct smell. Expecting the rose to emit the scent of kerosene or kerosene to emit the fragrance of a rose is impossible because one can only give what they inherently possess.

Take the example of Eklavya, who crafted a statue of Dronacharya and learned archery from it. Meanwhile, Arjuna received direct instruction from Dronacharya and became a master of archery. This illustrates Eklavya’s focus and dedication. Similarly, if we wish to gain true knowledge, we require unwavering concentration like Eklavya.

Some may argue that Eklavya’s concentration was due to the presence of Dronacharya as a symbol. Today, they might say, there are no such Dronacharyas available. But the Acharyas reply: Why not? We can establish them in idols, just as Eklavya did. Likewise, some may claim that Lord Mahavira is no longer present. However, with faith, dedication, trust, and devotion, the Lord is still accessible to the devoted even today.

Lord Mahavira has been enshrined in idols. If one argues, “This is not the same Lord Mahavira who was present in Samavasarana,” they miss the point. Did the Lord personally hand over Samyagdarshan (right faith) to anyone during his sermons in Samavasarana? Did he deliver it by mail or money order? No, even the living Lord did not do such things. What he did do was give teachings.

Today, even though the Lord enshrined in the idol does not preach, it is still our great fortune that his teachings, preserved in the form of words, continue to exist as scriptures and Agamas. These serve as invaluable resources from which we can derive immense benefit.

The vision of detachment (vitaragata) is an inner perception; it cannot manifest externally. However, if there is an inclination toward detachment, one can observe the external form of detachment even in an idol. Those who perceive detachment in the image of a detached being (vitarag) can protect themselves from the influence of attachment and aversion. Even today, the posture of a vitarag Lord can provide a sign of detachment.

A year consists of 365 days, which pass one by one. Similarly, the days of future years will also slip away, and you might not succeed in utilizing them meaningfully. Despite listening to countless discourses on the soul and even sharing your understanding with others, you remain unchanged. This endless cycle of listening and speaking continues. As the saying goes:

“Listening to scriptures for so long, ears have gone deaf,
Yet the thirst for desires remains unquenched, and life ends in vain.”

What is being conveyed here? “Those who were dark-skinned have turned fair; those who were upright have become crooked; and those who were crooked are now upright.” But wait, Maharaj! How can someone upright become crooked? Earlier, they used to sit straight, but now they cannot sit upright and instead sit crookedly. Isn’t this a physical transformation from uprightness to crookedness? But what about the mental crookedness that has increased beyond measure? The essence of uprightness has been entirely replaced by crookedness due to indulgence in the senses and vices. Now, what kind of treatment is needed for this? It has been an infinite time living with such crookedness, so it feels as though no treatment is necessary. Observe the strangeness of your own mental state. Today, people do not even recognize their ailments as ailments. They fail to acknowledge their suffering and mistake temporary dispositions (vibhav) as their true nature (swabhav). Consequently, they do not feel the need for the treatment offered by teachings and guidance. This is the profound ignorance of worldly beings.

Think! Reflect! Consider the results of all that you have studied so far. What have you gained from it? Assess its impact on your life. Life is invaluable. If you begin to think deeply, even the act of studying may start to feel shallow and unsatisfactory.

In group study sessions, some people arrive early, while others come late. Those who come early leave early, and those who arrive late tend to stay longer. Some even remain seated before the session begins, and some stay after it ends. As for me, I will conduct the study from 2:30 to 3:30. Within this one hour, listen as much as you can. But how much should you listen? How much can you absorb? Whatever knowledge is gained through listening must translate into action. If actions do not align with the knowledge acquired, then that knowledge holds no real value.

When grinding wheat into flour using a millstone, you don’t put in whole grains all at once. For coarse flour (daliya), you add more wheat and rotate the millstone fewer times. For lentil flour, you add even more quantity and turn the millstone even less. Similarly, read less, reflect more. Think deeply and always keep detachment (vitaragata) in mind.

Reflect on whether the work you’ve been doing so far has been rooted in ignorance. It’s like flooding a field of onions with camphor or burning a heap of precious gems to obtain ash for cleaning utensils. Keep such examples in mind and think—if we continue to invest our lives in material pursuits, what greater foolishness can there be? This life is invaluable; no wealth from the three worlds could ever purchase it. Those who understand this material life kick away sensual pursuits, yet we squander our priceless lives chasing them. We trade a priceless diamond for mere grass and mud. What will be the result of such actions? People will only laugh at us.

“Swasamvedanasuvyaktaḥ”—the soul can only be experienced through self-awareness. It cannot be shown or demonstrated. If our awareness even slightly awakens, we can begin to sense the soul’s essence. Through experiences such as “I am here,” “I speak,” “I see,” and “I hear,” one can recognize and trust in the existence of the soul.

A truly wise person does not experience joy in favorable circumstances or sorrow in adverse ones. If they do, they cannot be called wise. A wise individual never gets entangled in the complications of “mine” and “yours.” If one gets caught in attachment, aversion, or the notions of possession and separation, no matter how vast their knowledge, it cannot be called true wisdom. Wisdom does not merely mean knowing external substances but recognizing them as they are and detaching from them, while understanding the self as it truly is. This understanding leads to liberation.

Next, we delve into the discourse on the path of liberation (moksha marg). The root cause of worldly existence is asrava (influx of karmas) and bandha (bondage of karmas). The foundation of liberation lies in samvara (stopping new karmic influx) and nirjara (gradual elimination of previously accumulated karmas). Samvara means preventing new influx, while nirjara refers to the partial removal of past karmic bonds. Thus, anyone embarking on the path of liberation must avoid asrava and bandha and strive, according to their capacity, to practice samvara and nirjara.

Just as a shopkeeper opens their shop while remaining vigilant about avoiding losses and constantly striving for profit, the same applies to the path of liberation. The losses in this path are asrava and bandha, while the profits are samvara and nirjara. A seeker must always remain alert to ensure their “shop” operates successfully. The path to liberation requires consistent vigilance and effort.

Isthopadesh Gatha 23- Dwadasa Varshiya Shraman Sanskriti Swadhyaya Pathyakram

Anvayartha (Literal Interpretation):
(Ajñānopāstiḥ) Worshiping or serving the ignorant
(Ajñānaṁ) results in ignorance
(Dadaati) being given.
(Jñānisamāśrayaḥ) Worshiping or seeking refuge in the wise
(Jñānaṁ) results in knowledge
(Dadaati) being given.
[Because]
(Idam vachaḥ) this saying
(Suprasiddham) is well known:
(Yasya) Whatever one possesses,
(Yattu asti) that very thing
(Dadaati) is what they give.

Bhavartha (Meaning):
Worship of the ignorant leads to ignorance, while seeking the refuge of the wise leads to the attainment of knowledge. The term “ignorant” here refers to those engrossed in worldly attachments, a deluded or false-seeing guru. “Ignorance” signifies delusion, confusion, and doubt. Worshiping such an ignorant person leads to the acquisition of similar delusion and confusion.

The term “wise” refers to those established in their natural self, deeply engrossed in their inner being, and embodied by a true Digambara guru (an ascetic fully immersed in self-realization). By worshiping such a self-realized Digambara guru, one attains the supreme light of knowledge, characterized by discernment between the self and non-self (swa-par viveka). This principle is well known: one can only give what they possess. Thus, one should abandon the worship of the ignorant and instead seek the refuge of the wise.

Uthhanika (Contextual Introduction):
Here, the disciple inquires, “What is the ultimate fruit of being immersed in spirituality and being in the company of the wise?” Specifically, the question seeks to know the result of self-contemplation for a self-centered yogi.

The Acharya responds with Gatha 24 (Verse 24).

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 22 & 23

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 23 & 24

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Youtube Playlist

इष्टोपदेश Ishtopadesh

गाथा 1 (Gatha 1) | गाथा 2 ( Gatha 2 )| गाथा 3 ( Gatha 3)| गाथा 4 ( Gatha 4) | गाथा 5 ( Gatha 5) | गाथा 6 ( Gatha 6 )| गाथा 7 ( Gatha 7 )| गाथा 8 ( Gatha 8 ) | गाथा 9 ( Gatha 9 ) | गाथा 10 ( Gatha 10)| गाथा 11 ( Gatha 11 )| गाथा 12 ( Gatha 12) | गाथा 13 ( Gatha 13 )| गाथा 14 ( Gatha 14 )| गाथा 15 ( Gatha 15 ) | गाथा 16 ( Gatha 16 )| गाथा 17 ( Gatha 17 )| गाथा 18 ( Gatha 18 )| गाथा 19 ( Gatha 19 )| गाथा 20 ( Gatha 20 )| गाथा 21 ( Gatha 21)| गाथा 22 ( Gatha 22 )| गाथा 23 | गाथा 24 | | गाथा 25 | गाथा 26 | गाथा 27

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English Translation of Acharya Pujyapada swami’s Ishtopadesh – Deliberation (vivechana) and Poetic Translation by Acharya shri Vidyasagarji maharaj

Utthanika (Prelude):

Here, the disciple asks, “If such is the nature of the soul, then how should it be worshiped?” On this topic, the teacher responds:

इष्टोपदेश गाथा 22

संयम्य करणग्राममेकाग्रत्वेन चेतस: आत्मानमात्मवान् ध्यायेदात्मनैवात्मनि स्थितम् ॥22॥

Saṃyamya karaṇagrāmamekāgrattvena cetasaḥ
Ātmānamātmavān dhyāyedātmanāivātmani sthitam ॥22॥

Poetic Translation (Padyanuvad )

Capala-svabhāvī sabhī indriyāṁ, inko sanyata prathama karo,
Manoyoga se manamānā man, ko bhī mantrit turata karo.
Apne me sthita ho apne ko, apnepan se āpa tathā,
Dhyāo apne āpa bhala phir, tāpa miṭe santāpa vyathā ॥22॥

Transliteration Meaning:
The restless nature of all the senses, first control them,
With focused intention, immediately discipline the wandering mind.
Be established within yourself, with a sense of self-connection,
Meditate upon your own self, and then the heat of suffering and pain will vanish.

Controlling his senses, with concentrated mind, the knower of the Self should contemplate the self, seated in his own Self, through the Self!

Note – The contemplation of the divinity of the self, that is the soul, is only possible through the soul itself, by turning attention inwards. Now, because the self is seated inwards and the objects of the senses which attract and enthral the mind lie outwards the withdrawal of the mind from the outside, that is to say the controlling of the lustful cravings of the lower nature, is an absolute necessity for the realisation of the glory appertaining to Life. For one cannot serve two masters at one time. The Self and the world are antagonistic in nature. The dominance of the latter means the mancipation and distress of the former. Hence, the wise banish the world completely from their thoughts and attend with one-pointed mind to the glorious Divinity of the Self, seated inside.

Deliberation (vivechana)

When one realizes the essence of the soul (ātma-tattva) and firmly believes, “I can attain true happiness, I can become eternal and immortal,” the question arises: what should one do next? Addressing this doubt, the Acharya states that first and foremost, “saṁyamya karaṇa-grāmam”—one must discipline the senses that constantly run toward external objects of desire.

Discipline of the Senses:
To discipline the senses does not mean simply closing the eyes, wrinkling the nose, shutting the mouth, or plugging the ears with fingers. Rather, it refers to controlling the desires that arise from the senses’ interaction with their objects. This control of desire is what is called saṁyama (restraint), which forms the foundation of spiritual practice (sādhana). Without such practice, no one has ever realized the soul, nor will anyone ever succeed in doing so.

Addressing Bhartrihari, Acharya Shubhachandra Swami explains in the Jñānārṇava Grantha:
Those who cannot control their senses or focus their mind but claim to be meditating on the soul are deceiving themselves through their own thoughts (4/17). Without restraint, attempting self-realization is as futile as trying to break a mountain with one’s head. Think about it—will the mountain break or the head? The head, of course. Similarly, one should remember that external or superficial practices without inner discipline are merely self-delusion.

Focus the Mind:
The Acharya further states, “ekāgratvena cetasaḥ”—concentration of the mind is equally essential. As long as one’s cravings for sensory pleasures, fame, gain, or adoration persist, the mind cannot turn inward. A restless mind cannot achieve stillness or focus on the soul. The coexistence of an outwardly wandering mind and inward meditation is impossible at any time.

Thus, controlling the senses and focusing the mind are prerequisites for true self-realization. Only then can one progress toward the meditation and realization of the soul.

English Translation:

You say, “Maharaj, give us a mantra or suggest a practice that can stabilize our restless mind.” I would like to ask you first: where does your mind wander? Why does it stray so far and wide? Why does it go where you don’t want it to? And why does it keep wandering? Maharaj, we cannot answer this question.

It’s surprising to hear that you don’t even know the workings of your own mind, so how can I tell you? Just as a doctor asks why your head hurts—what did you eat?—and you respond, “I didn’t eat anything,” the doctor might still insist that there must be a reason, as nothing happens without a cause.

Similarly, I ask you: why does your mind wander to certain places and not others? You may say, “It’s my nature.” And if it’s your nature, then it cannot be eliminated—even by a mantra. Then I cannot give you a mantra either because nature cannot be altered by a mantra.

But wait, Maharaj, you are sitting here, and your mind remains stable. How is that possible? Yes, that’s a good question! If restlessness is my nature, then how is your mind stable? This is an important question, and I’m glad you asked it.

Listen: Your mind will go wherever you find interest (rasa). No matter how much effort you make, this will remain true. For example, when a mother tells her son, “Eat this, my child,” he will refuse if he doesn’t feel like eating, even if the food is excellent. But he will eat something he enjoys, even if his mother doesn’t consider it good. If you offer something aligned with his interest, he’ll eat it.

Similarly, if your interest lies in sensory pleasures, your mind will remain engaged in those. In this situation, if you try to focus through a mantra, it won’t work. The only way to focus the mind is to withdraw it from sensory objects. Only then can concentration emerge, creating the foundation for self-meditation (ātma-dhyāna).

Even God cannot divert your mind even slightly if you are unwilling. In fact, God does not interfere with free will, so how can anyone else stabilize your mind? Only you can do that, which is why it is said that no one—not even God—can force your mind to concentrate.

Do you know how small an angle of one degree is? Out of 360 degrees, it’s a minuscule part. Even if God tries, He cannot change even that much for you unless you are willing, because your mind repeatedly goes where your interest lies. The mind doesn’t wander aimlessly; it goes precisely where its interest directs it.

What is the Mind?

The mind is essentially the result of knowledge. It moves toward objects or thoughts that you believe are pleasurable. However, when that belief fades, the mind ceases to be drawn there because it no longer finds joy. Everything people do—eating, listening, singing, going, or coming—is done with attention. No activity occurs without focus. Therefore, there is no need to “learn” or “teach” focus in this world; rather, one must unlearn the conditioned attention.

Who taught you this attention? No one taught it. You brought it with you from infinite past lives. For example, a newborn child instinctively signals its mother for food by crying. Who taught the baby to cry for food immediately after birth? This act stems from habits formed over previous lives, not new learning. Similarly, the ability to focus is ingrained in us from birth.

Just as a child is habituated to eating, we are habituated to attention. Attention constantly flows toward sensory objects, and pleasure is experienced through them. But the moment you awaken the belief that there is no real happiness in sensory objects, your mind begins to withdraw from them. This marks the reduction of harmful attention patterns like ārta dhyāna (sorrowful focus) and raudra dhyāna (angry focus).

When one disciplines oneself away from the indulgence in the five senses, the mind naturally becomes concentrated. While complete concentration may not be achieved initially, over time, it becomes easier to focus whenever you choose. This concentration eliminates obstacles to self-reflection (ātma-chintan).

Concentration means to direct attention toward one principal object. However, if you fixate on sensory objects, how can you anchor your awareness on the soul? If the mind doesn’t settle on the soul, it won’t generate interest in it, because during that time, pleasure is being derived from elsewhere.

If asked, “What type of pleasure do you desire?” you might say, “Maharaj, we want the bliss of self-meditation.” But remember, as long as your interest lies in sensory objects, you cannot simultaneously experience the joy of self-reflection.

For instance, if your mind is preoccupied with checking news on your phone while eating, even the sweetest delicacy, like a rasgulla, will fail to delight you. Similarly, during self-reflection, if your mind strays toward external sensory pleasures, you will not experience the essence of self-realization.

Few Understand True Interest in Self-Realization

Very few people truly understand or feel how much interest they genuinely have in the essence of the soul (ātma-tattva). How much effort are we putting into aligning with this interest? Are we even trying to cultivate focus or concentration? Reflect on this: if there is no consistent effort, how can any achievement be possible? Therefore, we must strive to experience the joy and peace inherent in the soul and adopt the practices that enable such experiences. Without this, self-realization cannot occur.

The yogis, saints, and sages who have experienced the essence of the soul have documented their realizations in scriptures. When we read these scriptures, a desire arises within us to see and know the soul. Spiritual teachers and saints guide us by explaining the essence of the soul and providing knowledge about the practices that lead to its realization.

Why Don’t We Follow the Path of the Sages?
The primary reason is our mindset. We talk more than we act; we express desires but rarely genuinely pursue them. Even accepting this truth about our nature can be challenging. Despite our words, we often fail to internalize these truths. The mind, being restless, finds pleasure in transient, worldly objects. As long as the mind enjoys these sensory pleasures, self-realization remains out of reach, no matter how much one tries.

The Power of Belief and a Fixed Goal
When one firmly believes that there is no lasting happiness in sensory pleasures, the mind naturally begins to withdraw from them. This conviction ensures that the mind no longer gravitates toward external objects. Generally, the eyes don’t wander on their own—it is the mind that flits here and there. Once the mind is disciplined, even if all the pleasures of the world are placed before a person, they will not indulge. If they do see them, it is with detachment:

• “Pashyannapi na pashyati” – Seeing, yet not seeing.
• “Khadannapi na khadati” – Eating, yet not eating.
• “Gachhannapi na gachhati” – Walking, yet not walking.
• “Bruvannapi na bruute” – Speaking, yet not speaking.

This is the state of focused mindfulness and detachment that leads to liberation (moksha-purushartha). Beyond this, there is no other effort required for liberation.

The Power of Consistent Practice

Practice has such transformative power that a state of mind built over years can change in a single moment, or with one focused effort. However, due to the ingrained habits of the past, repeated practice is often necessary. Old tendencies cannot be eliminated in an instant. For example, consider a wall that has been covered with moss. If we whitewash it during the rainy season, the rain not only washes away the lime but also leaves behind dirt and moss. One coat of lime does not make the wall clean and bright. It takes multiple applications—first to remove the moss, then to coat the wall with lime, and finally, repeated applications to ensure it is truly clean and white. Similarly, superficial efforts won’t suffice. True transformation requires repeated, sincere practice until the “moss” of old habits is entirely removed.

Focus During Practice
When practicing, avoid looking at others—what they are doing or how they are doing it. Focus on yourself. Ask, “How am I doing this?” A noticeable change can occur in a single day, provided the effort is genuine and precise. Like taking medicine with faith that it will work, practice must be done with belief and dedication. If the mind ceases to harbor attachment (rāga) or aversion (dveṣa) toward sensory objects, the practice is being applied correctly. Over time, this will reduce mental restlessness and stabilize the mind.

A controlled and focused mind can remain undisturbed even when surrounded by worldly temptations. For instance, if someone observes a vow or fast with a steadfast mind, they recall the sanctity of a temple even while at home. Conversely, if the mind is restless and the fast is observed merely by imitating others, they may think of home even while standing in a temple.

Steadfastness in Faith
A resolute mind is unwavering. For example, when someone told Revati that the 25th Tirthankar had arrived and invited her to see him, she firmly replied, “There are only 24 Tirthankars. All of them have attained liberation. No new Tirthankar can appear now.” Her unwavering faith and clarity exemplify the steadiness required on the path of liberation. Acharya Samantabhadra praised her in the fourth Amūḍhadṛṣṭi (steadfast discernment) section of his teachings, indicating that faith, strength, and determination like Revati’s are essential for progress on the path of liberation.

Influence of Others
It is often said that one melon changes its color by being near another melon. However, this influence is superficial. Gold, for instance, remains gold even if its surface appears white due to mercury. Its inner quality does not change. Similarly, external influences cannot wholly transform an individual unless there is inner alignment and readiness.

The Soul as the Ultimate Observer
Liberation is achieved when the soul observes itself within itself and recognizes itself. This is the only path to self-realization. Whether you begin today, tomorrow, or in the future, this is the inevitable step. Only through personal effort can the essence of the soul be experienced. Without action, realization is impossible.

How to Begin?
If you have the curiosity to know “how to do this,” stay in the company of those who are practicing it. Their guidance and presence will naturally show you the way.

Isthopadesh Gatha 22- Dwadasa Varshiya Shraman Sanskriti Swadhyaya Pathyakram

Literal Meaning (Anvayartha):
The soul (ātman), by restraining the group of senses (karaṇagrāmaṁ), should focus its mind (cetasah) with concentration (ekāgratvena) upon itself (ātmani). Using its own soul (ātmanā eva), it should meditate (dhyāyet) on the soul (ātmanam), contemplating its own essence.

Philosophical Interpretation (Bhāvārtha):
The mind can only focus on one object at a time. When the senses are engaged with external objects, the soul cannot concentrate on itself. Therefore, to meditate on the self, one must withdraw the senses from external objects and focus the mind inwardly on the soul. Contemplating the pure nature of the soul leads to its realization. Through such focused meditation, attachment (rāga), aversion (dveṣa), and other passions are subdued, preventing the formation of new karmic bonds. This process facilitates the cessation (saṁvara) and shedding (nirjarā) of karmas, ultimately leading to their destruction. Thus, one must meditate on one’s own soul, by one’s soul, within one’s soul.

Utthanika (Prelude):
Here, the disciple asks, “O Revered One, what is the purpose or benefit of meditating on or worshiping the soul? What fruit does it yield?” Since thoughtful individuals act with an awareness of the outcomes, the disciple seeks clarity about the result of such a practice. In response, the teacher explains this concept through Gāthā 23.

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 21 & 22

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 22 & 23

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Youtube Playlist

इष्टोपदेश Ishtopadesh

गाथा 1 (Gatha 1) | गाथा 2 ( Gatha 2 )| गाथा 3 ( Gatha 3)| गाथा 4 ( Gatha 4) | गाथा 5 ( Gatha 5) | गाथा 6 ( Gatha 6 )| गाथा 7 ( Gatha 7 )| गाथा 8 ( Gatha 8 ) | गाथा 9 ( Gatha 9 ) | गाथा 10 ( Gatha 10)| गाथा 11 ( Gatha 11 )| गाथा 12 ( Gatha 12) | गाथा 13 ( Gatha 13 )| गाथा 14 ( Gatha 14 )| गाथा 15 ( Gatha 15 ) | गाथा 16 ( Gatha 16 )| गाथा 17 ( Gatha 17 )| गाथा 18 ( Gatha 18 )| गाथा 19 ( Gatha 19 )| गाथा 20 ( Gatha 20 )| गाथा 21 | गाथा 22 | गाथा 23 | गाथा 24 | गाथा 25 | गाथा 26 | गाथा 27

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English Translation of Acharya Pujyapada swami’s Ishtopadesh – Deliberation (vivechana) and Poetic Translation by Acharya shri Vidyasagarji maharaj

Utthanika (Prelude):

Now, the disciple, who develops faith upon understanding the teachings, asks, “What is the nature of the soul you have described as worthy of meditation? What is the true essence of that soul?”

To this, the Acharya responds:

इष्टोपदेश गाथा 21

स्वसंवेदन सुव्यक्तस्तनुमात्रो निरत्यय: अत्यन्तसौख्यवानात्मा, लोकालोकविलोकन: ॥21॥

Svasamvedana suvyaktas tanumātro niratyayaḥ
Atyantasaukhyavān ātmā, lokālokavilokanaḥ ॥21॥

Poetic Translation (Padyanuvad )

Apane-apane sanvedana meṃ, amūrt ho ātam bhātā,
Rahā rahegā trikāl meṃ hai, ataḥ anśvar hai bhrātā!
Tātkālik tan pramāṇ hotā, anant sukh kā nilay rahā,
Lokālok ālokit kartā, sadā lok kā uday rahā ॥21॥

This soul can be adequately known by self-contemplation and is of the size of its body, immortal, of an exceedingly blissful nature and the knower of Loka and Aloka !

Note – In this sloka the acharya has given a brief description of the soul as freed from the bondage of matter. It is, roughly speaking of the size, of its physical body and is indestructible, hence immortal. Knowledge and bliss appertain to it by nature, being but two of its divine attributes. It can be known adequately in self-contemplation, and when established in its natural purity, freed from the corrupting companionship of matter, it is the enjoyer of unbounded joy and the knower of the entirety of things, which consitute what is known as the Lokaloka (Loka= the universe of life and matter+aloka=the infinity of pure space lying beyond the Loka)

Deliberation (vivechana)

Whenever Acharya Maharaj speaks about the soul, a natural question arises: Where is the soul? How can it be seen? Can the soul be perceived with the eyes? No, it cannot be felt by touch either. Nor can it be tasted, for it is not the subject of the sense of taste. It cannot be heard, as the ears only capture sound, and the soul is neither sound nor sound-like. Thus, how can the soul be understood? It seems beyond our grasp.

Acharya Maharaj explains that the soul cannot be comprehended through either the senses or the mind. Yet, does that mean the soul does not exist? No, the soul does exist—we feel its presence. But how can we explain it? While words can describe it, the truth of the soul cannot be shown visually. It can only be perceived with the eyes of faith, as it is not an object to be seen with physical eyes.

Hence, the Acharya says, “Swa-samvedana-suvyaktaḥ”—the soul is realized only through self-awareness. Samvedana means experiencing or feeling. Just as we feel happiness or sorrow, we can also experience our own self. When experiencing happiness or sorrow, one feels, “I am sad” or “I am happy.” These statements are completed with the recognition of “I” and “am.” This awareness of “I” and “am” is an indication of self-awareness, through which we understand that there is a soul within this body. Without the presence of the soul, what is the body called? It is referred to as a corpse or a dead body.

For instance, as long as oil remains in a sesame seed, it is called sesame. Once the oil is extracted, it is merely a husk, devoid of essence. Similarly, when consciousness departs from the body, the body is called a “shava” (corpse). The body becomes inert, lifeless, and unworthy of reverence or touch. After coming into contact with a corpse, it becomes necessary to take a bath. Without bathing, one is not allowed to enter the house. Family members instruct those returning from the cremation ground to bathe first, and they are forbidden from touching dry clothes before doing so.

The implication is that after touching the ashes of a corpse, purification is required. The deceased was once addressed as “our brother” or “our father,” but now he is merely a corpse. Why? Because the soul has left. The same body, once revered, becomes untouchable and undesirable after the soul departs. This indicates that as long as the conscious soul resides within the body, it has value.

So, the discussion was about how the body becomes a shava (corpse). This means that when the soul was present in the body, it was experienced through awareness, a fact that cannot be denied even if it cannot be shown or seen. Yet, everyone feels it; thus, the soul is something that can be experienced. Without it, no one can feel happiness or peace. Who is the one experiencing sensations? Without the soul, even this realization is impossible. Every living being experiences happiness and sorrow, but no one knows who the true experiencer is.

Hence, Acharya says that the soul is the essence capable of self-awareness (swa-samvedana), but we fail to focus our attention on it. That is why one must study it. Acharya Maharaj often used to say, “Don’t read too much, but read repeatedly.”

Who is the one reading? Who is the one listening? Who is the one contemplating after listening? The answer to all these questions lies in the soul. Without it, there would be no activity in the body—not hearing, speaking, eating, drinking, reading, or teaching. The soul is not visible to the eyes; what is visible is matter. The one who sees does so through the eyes, but the seer itself is never visible to the eyes. The soul perceives objects through the five senses but is not itself an object of those senses.

The soul possesses many dimensions of knowing, and the essence that utilizes those dimensions is the soul itself—recognize it. Its existence has been eternal—past, present, and future. Understanding the soul is considered the true outcome of self-study (swadhyaya). Read about it, not just once but many times. Evaluate how much you’ve read and analyze the results. Then share with me how much insight you gained.

It is similar to how a teacher in a classroom asks students whether they have completed their homework. If they haven’t, they’re not allowed to enter the class. The student might plead, “Please let me attend class today. Forgive me this time. From tomorrow, I will definitely do my homework.”

Likewise, a year has 365 days. How many years have passed in practice, yet the soul remains unseen? All attempts to perceive or understand it through the five senses have failed. The mind, influenced by attachment, has also been preoccupied with sensory objects—thinking about them, remembering them, and worrying about them. Thus, the mind, too, has been unsuccessful in knowing the soul.

Apart from these six (five senses and the mind), there is no other means to understand the soul.

From time immemorial, worldly beings have been trapped in the glitter of materialism, remaining deprived of the essence of the soul (atma-tattva). Thus, they claim that there is no such thing as the soul in this world. They argue that if it existed, it would have been known by now. However, this reasoning is flawed. How can something be known, recognized, or experienced when no effort has ever been made to understand or explore it? Just because we have not yet understood or seen it does not mean it does not exist.

Today, research is being conducted on subtle elements. Many subtle phenomena, which cannot be grasped through the senses, are being investigated. Mathematics, computers, machines, and other tools are being used to uncover them, and their results eventually come to light. If the soul could be investigated using machines, it would undoubtedly have been detected by now.

In fact, attempts have been made to observe the soul at the moment of death. Dying individuals have been placed in glass chambers to see if cracks appear in the glass when the soul departs from the body. In some cases, cracks did occur, but scientists attributed this to subtle material factors. Their science recognized only physical elements and failed to detect the conscious, living essence of the soul. As a result, science has attempted to deny the existence of the soul. However, the notion that “what cannot be seen cannot exist” is not a valid conclusion.

Thus, the Acharyas assert that the soul is revealed only through self-awareness (swa-samvedana). When the soul awakens to its consciousness and knowledge, it can experience itself.

Through the sensations of “I exist, I am,” we can understand the essence of the soul and place faith in it. Although the soul is not visible, it is indeed difficult to believe in something that cannot be seen. However, faith is generally placed in things that are not directly visible.

If something is visible but cannot be grasped, there is no need for faith because it is apparent. But when something can be felt or experienced yet remains unseen, its existence is acknowledged through repeated sensations or experiences and the power of belief.

The Acharya says that the soul (atma) is “tanumatrah niratyayah,” meaning it is proportional to the body. The soul permeates the body in accordance with its size, spreading across the extent of the body. The regions of the soul’s influence match the dimensions of the body. One remarkable feature of the soul is that it has never been born, and hence it cannot die. Only that which is born can perish. Anything that has a beginning, such as birth, inevitably has an end.

Such realizations can be directly observed by all. Therefore, since the soul is birthless, it is also deathless. As a result, there is no need for efforts to protect or secure it. However, worldly beings mistakenly identify the body as the soul and dedicate themselves to safeguarding the body, a practice that has been ongoing since time immemorial. This preoccupation with the body often leads to suffering.

The soul neither diminishes nor grows; it remains constant. What purpose, then, does the management of the soul serve, especially when the soul is eternal? Only a believer in the soul’s existence can understand this truth: when there is no end to something, why worry about its preservation? The Acharya further explains that if death is not applicable to the soul, then why fear it?

Fear of death arises because worldly beings equate the death of the body with their own demise. It is essential to understand—who is dying, and who is being born? This is merely a transformation of the body. Death is the abandonment of one body, and birth is the acquisition of another. There is nothing more to it. Hence, the soul is described as niratyayah—eternal, imperishable, and immortal.

As long as the soul resides within the body, it permeates the body in proportion to its size. Upon complete detachment from the body, i.e., when it attains liberation (nirvana), the soul diminishes slightly in extent from its last corporeal form and permanently resides in Siddhalaya (the abode of liberated souls). This is the ultimate nature of the soul.

There is no absolute rule that the soul must always remain embodied. If efforts (purushartha) are made, the soul can separate from the body, just as butter separates from milk during churning. With earnest effort, the soul can detach itself from the physical body.

Only those with firm belief and unwavering faith in the distinction between the body and the soul can succeed in this endeavor. Such individuals remain unaffected by worldly temptations and can achieve success within a short span of time. If appropriate resources are available, even if success is not immediate, they can attain complete liberation in due course.

While the necessary means for complete success may not be available today, the possibility of success in the future, when favorable conditions arise, remains assured.

It is said that there are methods available today through which butter (ghee) can be separated from milk in a very short time. Initially, I found it hard to believe that ghee could be produced so quickly, but now I have come to accept it. There is a method where ghee is extracted directly from raw milk, which is a quick process. The second method involves boiling milk, collecting the cream, and then churning heated cream to extract ghee. The third method involves boiling milk, setting it into curd, churning the curd to extract butter (navneet), and then heating the butter to produce ghee.

Each method takes progressively more time, and there are differences in the taste and aroma of the ghee produced. The ghee extracted directly from raw milk lacks the rich fragrance of traditional ghee. On the other hand, ghee made by boiling milk, setting it into curd, and churning the butter carries an aroma that spreads far and wide. Ghee made using the quick method is not as durable; its texture, taste, and aroma degrade quickly. However, ghee made by boiling milk retains its quality for a long time—its aroma remains intact, and it is flavorful and enduring.

Just as ghee exists inherently in milk and can be separated from it, similarly, the soul (atma) residing in the body contains the inherent potential to become the Supreme Soul (paramatma). Through effort (purushartha), this potential can be realized. While residing in the body, the soul is still independent of it and is eternally existent, for it neither perishes nor is created anew. It is inherently blissful because bliss is its very nature. Even while within the body, this bliss remains concealed, meaning that the soul retains its blissful essence despite being embodied.

The soul also possesses the power of sensation (sensation-shakti), which manifests when the soul engages in conscious application (upayoga). Just as fire hidden beneath ashes becomes visible when the ashes are removed, the full power of the soul—manifesting as omniscience (kevalgyan)—emerges when the karmic coverings are lifted.

However, while residing in the body, the soul is unable to perform complete purushartha (effort). Despite having the capacity to experience bliss and being inherently blissful, the soul remains deprived of that experience due to its limitations.

The soul (atma) is “Lokalokavilokanah,” meaning it possesses the capacity to know and perceive both the visible (lok) and the invisible (alok). Therefore, it is considered to have the nature of both knower and observer (gyata-drasta). Even worldly beings possess the ability to know and see, but they remain restless, yearning to comprehend everything. They strive to explore and understand the world, driven by the desire: “I want to know it all.” This restlessness leads to distress, which in turn causes passions (kashayas). These passions result in karmic bondage, and as those karmas come to fruition, the cycle of worldly existence remains intact, unchanged.

If, instead of succumbing to restlessness, one strives to know oneself with equanimity, one can express the ability to comprehend both lok and alok within a single moment (antarmuhurta). Such effort (purushartha) can only be undertaken in human life.

All those beings are great and blessed who, distancing themselves from all entanglements, endeavor to separate their identity from the body and immerse themselves in the essence of the soul. Such beings are considered near-enlightened (asanna bhavya). They transcend the worldly cycle.

Acharya Gunabhadra Maharaj has said that if someone has lost interest in worldly pleasures but still harbors traces of passions (kashayas), yet remains calm and composed, is filled with a sense of detachment from the world, and has compassion for all living beings, then one can understand that they are nearing liberation from the world.

The signs of being near-enlightened include a lack of interest in worldly pleasures, a thirst for contemplating the essence of existence, and an eagerness to realize the nature of the soul. By observing these signs, one can predict one’s future. Just as one trusts the predictions made by an astrologer, one should trust the words of the scriptures (Jinavani). If such qualities are present within, it signifies that liberation from the world is near, even if the “shore of the worldly ocean” is not visible. These signs serve as indications, much like observing birds circling in the sky suggests the presence of a nearby waterbody.

Similarly, if one develops feelings of indifference or calmness toward sensory pleasures and passions, detachment from worldly existence, and an enthusiasm for understanding the soul’s nature, it indicates that liberation is near.

This capacity of the soul to know lok and alok has been established through the sutra, “Lokalokavilokanah.” Those who deny the very existence of the soul, who do not consider it eternal and immortal, who do not accept it as self-aware, and who regard it merely as a material entity, fail to recognize its true nature. They believe that the soul does not inherently possess bliss.

However, one should trust that the soul’s nature is to comprehend lok and alok. Once this belief is established, the path of practice and effort becomes clear, which will be explained further.

Isthopadesh Gatha – Dwadasa Varshiya Shraman Sanskriti Swadhyaya Pathyakram

Anvayartha (Literal Meaning):
The soul (atma) is clearly manifested and recognized through self-experience (swasamvedan suvyakta). It is coextensive with the body (tanumatra), indestructible (niratyaya), infinitely blissful (atyantasaukhyavan), and capable of perceiving and understanding both the visible (lok) and the invisible (alok).

Bhavartha (Interpretation):
The soul becomes evident through self-perception and self-experience. It is equal to the size of the body, neither smaller nor extending beyond it. The soul is eternal, possessing infinite bliss, and has the capacity to perceive and comprehend both the material (lok) and the immaterial (alok).

In this verse, the Acharya refutes the misconceptions of the skeptics (mithyadrishtis) and describes the true nature of the soul.

• To counter the belief that the soul does not know itself, the phrase “self-manifest through self-awareness” (swasamvedan suvyakta) is used, emphasizing that the soul is realized through its intrinsic knowledge.
• For those who consider the soul either as minute as a banyan seed or as pervasive as the entire cosmos, the text clarifies that the soul is coextensive with the body. It is neither smaller than the body nor external to it.
• To refute the Charvaka philosophy, which claims that the soul is confined to the body and does not transmigrate after death, and the Buddhist view that considers the soul as momentary, the soul is described as niratyaya—eternal from a substantive perspective (dravyarthik nay), though subject to transformations (paryayarthik nay).
• The Sankhya and Yoga schools that deny the soul’s blissful nature are countered with the qualifier atyantasaukhyavan (infinitely blissful).
• To refute the Buddhist philosophy of nairatmavada (denial of the soul), the term “soul” (atma) is explicitly used.
• To counter the Sankhya notion that the soul is merely unconscious awareness and the Yoga belief that the soul is devoid of attributes like intellect and consciousness, the phrase lokalokavilokanah (knowing both lok and alok) is used. It highlights that the soul, even in its worldly state, possesses the potential to know everything and, in its realized state, fully perceives both realms.

Every living being inherently perceives its own soul, but due to delusion (moh), it remains unaware of its true essence and confuses external entities as the self. Hence, it is said that the soul becomes evident through self-experience. The soul’s true knowledge can only be attained through personal realization and not merely by hearing or verbal discourse. Just as the sweetness of sugar can only be known by tasting it and not by hearing or talking about it, the soul’s nature is realized through self-experience.

Utthanika (Prelude):
Here, the disciple asks, “If such a soul exists, how should one worship or realize it?” This raises the question of methods for practicing self-contemplation or self-meditation (atma-dhyan or atma-bhavna). The Acharya responds to this inquiry in Gatha 22.

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 21

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 21 & 22

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इष्टोपदेश Ishtopadesh

गाथा 1 (Gatha 1) | गाथा 2 ( Gatha 2 )| गाथा 3 ( Gatha 3)| गाथा 4 ( Gatha 4) | गाथा 5 ( Gatha 5) | गाथा 6 ( Gatha 6 )| गाथा 7 ( Gatha 7 )| गाथा 8 ( Gatha 8 ) | गाथा 9 ( Gatha 9 ) | गाथा 10 ( Gatha 10)| गाथा 11 ( Gatha 11 )| गाथा 12 ( Gatha 12) | गाथा 13 ( Gatha 13 )| गाथा 14 ( Gatha 14 )| गाथा 15 ( Gatha 15 ) | गाथा 16 ( Gatha 16 )| गाथा 17 ( Gatha 17 )| गाथा 18 ( Gatha 18 )| गाथा 19 ( Gatha 19 )| गाथा 20 ( Gatha 20 )| गाथा 21 | गाथा 22 | गाथा 23 | गाथा 24

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English Translation of Acharya Pujyapada swami’s Ishtopadesh – Deliberation (vivechana) and Poetic Translation by Acharya shri Vidyasagarji maharaj

Utthanika (Prelude):

Whether it pertains to worldly gains or the fruits of the afterlife, the primary cause behind both is meditation (dhyana). The essence lies in the statement: “झाणस्स ण दुल्लहं किंपि” — “Nothing is unattainable through meditation.” In other words, meditation has the potential to yield anything and everything.

In this context, the Acharya reflects deeply and offers guidance on awakening discernment (viveka), emphasizing the pivotal role of meditation in attaining desired outcomes. He prompts the seeker to engage in thoughtful introspection, distinguishing between what is truly valuable and what is superficial.

इष्टोपदेश गाथा 20

इतश्चिन्तामणिर्दिव्य इत: पिण्याकखण्डकम् ध्यानेन चेदुभे लभ्ये क्वाद्रियन्तां विवेकिन: ॥20॥

Itaśchintāmaṇirdivya itaḥ piṇyākakhaṇḍakam
Dhyānena cedu bhe labhye kvādriyantāṁ vivekinaḥ ॥20॥

Poetic Translation (Padyanuvad )

Roman Transliteration:
Ek or to Chintāmaṇi hai, divya rahi, man hartī hai,
Aur dūsarī or kānch kī, maṇikā jag ko chhaltī hai.
Dhyān-sādhanā se ye dono, māno bhrātā! miltī hain,
Ādar kiskā budhjan karte? āṅkhen kis par ṭiktī hain ॥20॥

Meaning:
On one side is the divine Chintāmaṇi, captivating the mind,
On the other side is a glass bead, deceiving the world.
Through the practice of meditation, both can seemingly be attained,
But what do the wise revere? Where do their eyes truly rest?

Explanation:
This verse draws a metaphorical comparison between the Chintāmaṇi, a symbol of ultimate truth and spiritual fulfillment, and a glass bead, representing material illusions and worldly deceptions. Both can appear accessible through meditation, but the wise (budhjan) discern and direct their respect and focus toward the truly valuable—spiritual enlightenment (Chintāmaṇi)—over the trivial and misleading material gains (glass bead).

It urges the seeker to introspect and prioritize the higher, lasting truth over fleeting illusions.

When the divine wish-fulfilling Jewel and a piece of refuse both are obtainable by meditation, which of these will the man of discrimination choose?

Note – The man of discrimination will naturally prefer the soul which is like a divine wish-fulfilling Jewel, capable of conferring the inconceiv- ably great boon – the status and the joy of Divinity to a passing pleasurable form of sense-tickling that is like a worthless piece of khali (a cake of sesamum seeds from which oil has been extracted) and serves only to pro- long and to embitter the bondage of karmas.

Deliberation (vivechana)

On one side lies the Chintāmaṇi gem, radiating divine allure, and on the other, a glass fragment that deceives the world with a semblance of brilliance like that of a diamond. The metaphor suggests that both—Chintāmaṇi (symbolizing spiritual truth) and the glass shard (representing material illusions)—could seemingly be attained through meditation. The question posed by Acharya Pujyapada Swamiji to the wise (vivekinah) is: which one would you choose?

The Acharya prompts introspection, asking, “What would a discerning individual desire?” A truly wise person would naturally strive for the Chintāmaṇi gem, representing ultimate spiritual enlightenment. However, if someone considers themselves wise yet overlooks the value of the Chintāmaṇi, it reflects ignorance. If such a person is categorized as ignorant, they might feel slighted, but the Acharya emphasizes that one should not harbor resentment toward those who point out one’s flaws; instead, one should reflect on the truth.

He further elucidates that one cannot simultaneously be both knowledgeable (gyani) and ignorant (agyani). Every individual falls into one category or the other, and dismissing the true essence of the soul (atmatattva)—akin to the Chintāmaṇi—in favor of the transient body is sheer ignorance.

To illustrate this point, Acharya Kundkund Swami provides a striking analogy in Samayasara. Consider a person who grows onions and another who cultivates camphor trees. To protect the onion crop, the latter cuts down the valuable camphor trees to create a fence. Onions may fetch a modest price, but a single camphor tree holds immense value. Yet, someone unaware of the camphor tree’s worth sacrifices it for the onions’ security. Is this wisdom or ignorance? Clearly, it is profound ignorance.

This analogy underscores the folly of prioritizing the temporary and perishable body over the eternal and invaluable soul. It urges individuals to discern wisely and seek what truly matters: spiritual truth and liberation.

Similarly, consider the example of a man who needed a string. He looked around but couldn’t find one, so he broke his necklace and used the string inside to accomplish his task. Would you call this wisdom? Certainly not—it is sheer foolishness.

Another instance: a man got stuck in a muddy swamp during the rains, with mud up to his knees. Upon reaching home, he needed water to clean himself. He looked around and found no water, but there was a pot of nectar (amrit) nearby. Without hesitation, he used the nectar to wash his feet. Was this right? Absolutely not, because he failed to realize the immense value of the nectar and wasted it on a trivial task.

Similarly, imagine a man sitting near a wall where a crow perched and started cawing loudly. Annoyed by the noise, he wanted to shoo the crow away. Finding no stones or pebbles nearby, he took a precious gem from his pouch and threw it at the crow. The crow flew away, but was his action justified? Clearly, it was not.

Now, try justifying the actions of any one of these individuals. You cannot, because none of their decisions were wise. None acted with discernment (viveka). Their actions were irrational and wasteful.

In the same way, most of our own actions lack proper discernment. Hearing this, even those who possess knowledge of spiritual truths (tattvajnana) are likely to feel a twinge of discomfort. This is the power of heart-piercing words—words that resonate deeply within and compel self-reflection.

For someone with wisdom and learning, even a single word from the Samayasara can touch their heart and provoke transformation. Such a person develops an aversion to sensual pleasures and attachments. However, if a person claims to possess tattvajnana but remains unshaken by worldly desires, it indicates the overwhelming influence of intense karmic fruition (karmoday). When karmic forces are overpowering, even reading scriptures like Samayasara fails to make an impact. Such individuals lose clarity and become disconnected from spiritual knowledge, despite their understanding.

True wisdom lies in being receptive to even subtle guidance, as it is said: “A hint is sufficient for the wise.”

You often say that medicine is not to be consumed in excess. If it is taken in large quantities, it ceases to be a remedy and becomes merely a dose. Such excessive consumption can never cure an illness. Similarly, Acharya Maharaj explains that merely engaging in continuous self-study (swadhyaya) or delivering hours-long sermons will not necessarily ignite the spark of knowledge within. It is not the duration but the quality and intensity of effort that matter. A single hint should be enough to awaken knowledge and detach oneself from sensual desires and passions.

You bring cameras to capture a moment. When the crowd disperses, you press the button. If the flash doesn’t activate the first time, you press the button again until the flash lights up and the photo is taken. Why does this happen? When one attempt fails, you simply try again. Similarly, when listening to Jinvani (the teachings of the Jinas), consider it like pressing the button of the camera—an effort to ignite awareness. However, our inner state often resists transformation. Thoughts like “I am still in the household stage, I can focus on this later” or “I am too busy during the day, I’ll listen at night” arise. At night, fatigue from the day sets in, and one listens half-heartedly, falling asleep mid-discourse. Ultimately, the cycle continues without meaningful change.

Our current state is such that the impact of Jinvani doesn’t penetrate deeply within us. Merely listening to spiritual teachings is not enough; the effort must be repeated, just like pressing the button of a camera again to ensure the image is captured.

On one side lies the Chintamani gem, and on the other, a piece of glass. Both can be attained through contemplation (dhyana), but what should a discerning person choose? Whom will they honor? Acharya Maharaj explains that a wise person will value the diamond—the rare, precious gem. The soul is like a diamond, a divine jewel. Yet, the soul is beyond comparison or analogy because it is unparalleled and incomparable. If you strive to realize the essence of the soul, your ultimate well-being (kalyana) is assured. Without this pursuit, true well-being remains unattainable.

Isthopadesh Gatha – Dwadasa Varshiya Shraman Sanskriti Swadhyaya Pathyakram

Anvayartha (Logical Meaning):
On one side (इतः दिव्य) lies the divine (चिन्तामणिः) Chintamani gem, and on the other side (इतः) is (पिण्याकखण्डकम्) a piece of worthless residue (khali). If both (चेत् उभे) are obtainable (ध्यानेन लभ्ये) through meditation, then (विवेकिनः) a wise person (क्व) on which (आद्रियन्तां) would they bestow respect or value?

Bhavartha (Intended Meaning):
On one side is the revered Chintamani, a gem capable of fulfilling desires and worshipped by celestial beings, and on the other side is a piece of worthless residue (khali), devoid of value and contemptible. If both can be attained through meditation, what should a discerning individual choose to respect?

Meditation (dhyana) is the practice of focusing the mind on one object. It is classified into four types:

1. Artadhyana: Meditation associated with pain or suffering.
2. Raudradhyana: Meditation filled with cruel or harmful thoughts.
3. Dharmadhyana: Meditation focused on virtuous and sacred thoughts.
4. Shukladhyana: The highest state of meditation, achieved through pure and concentrated focus, leading to self-realization.

Among these, Artadhyana and Raudradhyana lead to endless cycles of birth and death in the world. Dharmadhyana helps restrain and shed karma and leads to exalted states like becoming a Tirthankara, Chakravarti, Balabhadra, Vasudeva, or attaining celestial realms like heaven. However, it is through Shukladhyana that one achieves the complete annihilation of karma, liberation from the cycle of birth and death, infinite knowledge, and eternal bliss.

Thus, intelligent men and women should abandon Artadhyana and Raudradhyana and strive to practice Dharmadhyana and Shukladhyana.

Uththanika (Introduction to the Next Verse)
The disciple, whose faith is now being awakened by the teacher’s explanation, asks: “What is the nature of this soul that you have instructed us to meditate upon? What is its true essence?” To this, the Acharya responds with Gatha 21.

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 19 & 20

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इष्टोपदेश Ishtopadesh

गाथा 1 (Gatha 1) | गाथा 2 ( Gatha 2 )| गाथा 3 ( Gatha 3)| गाथा 4 ( Gatha 4) | गाथा 5 ( Gatha 5) | गाथा 6 ( Gatha 6 )| गाथा 7 ( Gatha 7 )| गाथा 8 ( Gatha 8 ) | गाथा 9 ( Gatha 9 ) | गाथा 10 ( Gatha 10)| गाथा 11 ( Gatha 11 )| गाथा 12 ( Gatha 12) | गाथा 13 ( Gatha 13 )| गाथा 14 ( Gatha 14 )| गाथा 15 ( Gatha 15 ) | गाथा 16 ( Gatha 16 )| गाथा 17 ( Gatha 17 )| गाथा 18 ( Gatha 18 )| गाथा 19 ( Gatha 19 )| गाथा 20 ( Gatha 20 ) | गाथा 21 | गाथा 22 | गाथा 23 | गाथा 24

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English Translation of Acharya Pujyapada swami’s Ishtopadesh – Deliberation (vivechana) and Poetic Translation by Acharya shri Vidyasagarji maharaj

Utthanika (Prelude):

Yajjīvasyopakārāya, taddehasyāpakārakam
Yaddehasyopakārāya, tajjīvasyāpakārakam ॥19

Poetic Translation (Padyanuvad )

Tan kā jo upakārak hai vah, chetan kā apakārak hai,
Chetan kā upakārak hai jo tan kā vah apakārak hai.
Sab śāstron kā sār yahī hai chetan kā uddhār karo,
Apakārak se dūr raho tum, tan se kabhī na pyār karo ॥19॥

(Translation in English):
What benefits the body harms the soul,
What uplifts the soul burdens the body whole.
This is the essence of all scriptures profound,
Uplift the soul, let not the body’s ties confound.

Deliberation (vivechana)

What benefits the soul often harms the body, and what nourishes the body does not necessarily serve the soul’s upliftment. When we strengthen the body, the soul tends to weaken. Conversely, focusing on the soul’s enrichment might result in the body becoming frail, which should not be a cause for concern. True nourishment for the soul comes from austerity (tapas), discipline (sanyam), and renunciation (tyag). On the other hand, activities like eating, drinking, sleeping, dressing, and seeking sensory pleasures primarily serve the body.

It is essential to choose wisely: you cannot equally prioritize both. “A robust body results in a diminished soul, while a robust soul may lead to a weaker body.” Those unaware of the soul’s true nature tend to focus only on bodily nourishment.

As Saint Mangat Rai aptly said:
“No matter how much you nurture this body, it retains its inherent flaws, like a cloth that remains soiled no matter how often you wash it.”

The body, despite all care, never ceases to degrade. Its true purpose is to serve as a medium for spiritual practices and self-realization. A wise individual utilizes the body for religious meditation and service. Other endeavors are rooted in ignorance.

The Role of Ignorance and Attachment

Ignorance (agnan) and attachment (moh) are the primary causes of wandering and suffering in the cycle of existence. Through knowledge, one can discern what is beneficial and what is harmful, embrace the former, and distance oneself from the latter. Emotions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed (kashay) further compound ignorance and entangle the soul, leading to karmic consequences.

The idea that “you commit sins, and someone else reaps their fruits” is false. One experiences the results of their own actions. The greatest error is to identify with the body, considering it “mine.” Such attachment to the transient body is a curse that perpetuates worldly existence.

Path to Liberation

The key to liberation lies in realizing the distinction between the self (soul) and the body (non-self). Continuous contemplation on this separation dissolves attachment to the body and its concerns. This realization fosters nirjara (the shedding of karmic bonds).

Even when emotions like attachment and aversion arise, a discerning soul understands that these are not its inherent traits but rather reactions influenced by karmic circumstances. The soul’s true nature is to remain as a knower (gyata) and observer (drashta). Recognizing that anger, ignorance, and worldly entanglements are not one’s intrinsic nature empowers the soul to align with virtuous actions and progress on the path to liberation.

This understanding, rooted in bhed-vigyan (the science of distinguishing the self from the non-self), helps the soul break free from ignorance and karmic cycles, steering it toward eternal peace and self-realization.

The speaker directs the monks (indicating towards ascetics) to reflect on the essence of Ratnatraya (the three jewels of Jainism: Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct) and asks, “How does it feel to pursue Ratnatraya? The science of detachment (Vitarag Vigyan) sounds appealing to hear, but…”

“Ātmahit hetu virāg jñān tei, lakhai āpko kaṣṭa-dān” (Chhahdhala, 2/6)
(The detachment that benefits the soul might initially appear arduous.)

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Ratnatraya and Its Essence

The science of detachment (Vitarag Vigyan) blossoms through Ratnatraya. It is the essence of self-benefit (ātmāhit) and as nourishing to the soul as clarified butter (navneet). Without Ratnatraya, attaining Vitarag Vigyan is impossible. Without discipline (sanyam), self-realization cannot be achieved. Discipline ensures a gradual abandonment of attachments and aversions, leading to a lean body but a strengthened soul. When the soul thrives, many worldly difficulties dissipate naturally, and the soul grows increasingly powerful.

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The Strength of the Soul

A strong soul, akin to a robust military force, commands respect and instills fear in adversaries. Just as a nation with a disciplined army cannot be subdued, a being with spiritual strength remains unconquered across the three realms (heaven, earth, and hell) and three times (past, present, and future). The root of subjugation lies in attachment and aversion (rāga-dvesha), which dissolve with the adoption of Ratnatraya.

When attachments fade, the soul finds peace and deepens its practice of the three jewels. However, beings pursuing Ratnatraya are rare, like counting on one’s fingers. Across the two-and-a-half continents (Adhaidwip), only nine crore ascetics embrace Ratnatraya. The rest, countless in number, are either liberated souls (siddhas) or undisciplined beings (asanyami). Of the five-sensed beings, only a small fraction achieve full discipline (samyam), and this is limited to humans. Even among humans, not all can attain full discipline.

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The Body and the Soul

What benefits the soul may not nourish the body, and vice versa. Therefore, a wise individual does not prioritize the body. For spiritual practice (sadhana), a functional body is necessary, but an excessively nurtured or indulgent one is not. Ascetics treat the body as a worker: it receives sustenance (wages) in exchange for labor, but if it stops working, even that sustenance is denied.

The analogy compares this approach to a private organization, contrasting it with government policies where allowances are given even after retirement. Ascetics, however, do not follow such leniency. Their perspective is rooted in strict discipline and pragmatism, devoid of sentimentality towards the body.

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The detachment from bodily attachments and indulgences is a cornerstone of spiritual progress. The disciplined approach to treating the body as a means to an end, rather than an object of indulgence, leads to the soul’s liberation. In this process, attachment (moha) and ignorance (agnan) must be replaced with wisdom (gyan) and discipline (sanyam). By adhering to the principles of Ratnatraya, one transcends worldly entanglements and moves closer to spiritual emancipation.

A person who possesses Ratnatraya (Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct) is considered suprata (worthy), while one without it is deemed apratra (unworthy). Offering charity to the worthy leads to rewards such as a bhogbhumi (pleasure-filled realm) or even heaven. However, offering charity to the unworthy results in adverse outcomes like kubhogbhumi (a realm of suffering), where beings are unfit for attaining Samyagdarshan (Right Perception).

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The State of the Unworthy in Kubhogbhumi

Texts such as Tiloyapannatti and Trilokasara describe the peculiar physical forms of beings in kubhogbhumi. For instance:

• A body with only one arm and one leg.
• Ears shaped like winnowing baskets, used both as bedding and covers.
• Faces resembling animals such as donkeys, horses, owls, and pigs, or even mirrors.

While the soul is the true vessel of Ratnatraya, its qualities also manifest in the body through disciplined living. This makes the human body a valuable vessel for spiritual practice, though it should not be overly nurtured or indulged.

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The Body as a Tool for Enlightenment

The body is treated as a worker and compensated with sustenance (food as wages) only as long as it remains functional. This analogy compares the body to lamps, candles, or gas burners:

• Fuel (oil or petrol) is provided only as long as they emit light.
• Once they stop functioning, they are discarded as waste.

Similarly, the human body is instrumental in practicing discipline (samyam) and achieving spiritual progress. While other realms and forms of existence do not provide a direct opportunity for liberation, the human body is uniquely suited for this purpose. Thus, Ratnatraya can only be fully realized and practiced in human form.

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Importance of the Human Body

Among all forms of life, the human body is regarded as the most precious, like a diamond compared to glass. This is because:

1. It allows the practice of samyam (self-restraint).
2. It serves as the medium for performing virtuous acts that contribute to karmic annihilation (nirjara).

Devas (heavenly beings) and other life forms, though revered, do not possess the same opportunities for spiritual advancement as humans. Hence, the human body is an invaluable tool for achieving liberation. Proper care of the body for the sake of spiritual practice is prudent, but praying for material comforts or indulgences is futile and unwise.

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A Perspective on Time and Rewards

The value of Ratnatraya is illustrated through an example:
Consider a doctor earning ₹60,000 per month. Breaking it down:

• ₹30,000 in 15 days, ₹15,000 in 7-8 days, ₹7,000 in 4 days.
• ₹3,500 in 2 days, ₹1,750 in 1 day, ₹62 per hour, ₹1.5 per minute, and about 2 paise per second.

This calculation demonstrates how quickly wealth accumulates over time. But when one practices Ratnatraya, the soul earns rewards immeasurably greater than material wealth. According to Jain philosophy:

• Even within a single second, countless sub-units of time exist (samay).
• In each samay, infinite spiritual wealth can be accumulated.

This highlights the unparalleled significance of Ratnatraya in human life, as its practice transcends the material realm and enables infinite spiritual progress.

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The human body is a rare and precious gift, serving as the only vessel through which one can practice Ratnatraya and achieve liberation. While material wealth is finite and measurable, the spiritual wealth gained through disciplined living and karmic annihilation is boundless. Recognizing this, one should use their human existence wisely, focusing on spiritual pursuits and minimizing attachment to physical indulgences.

Unparalleled Rewards in the Department of Lord Mahavira
In the three worlds (Trilok), no rewards or compensation can compare to those received by aligning oneself with the teachings of Lord Mahavira. When an individual becomes a part of Lord Mahavira’s “department,” they receive immense spiritual wealth in every moment (samay).

This reward is available to anyone willing to redirect their mind away from worldly distractions and toward spiritual pursuits. The text humorously asks if any additional “commission” is offered. The answer is profound: all wealth—material and spiritual—belongs to you once you embrace the path of liberation. What more could you ask for?

Unlike worldly companies that might fail, Lord Mahavira’s “company” remains infallible. Whether people join this spiritual path or not, it continues to function flawlessly. The rewards (commission) are not contingent on external success, as there is no commercial transaction involved.

The human body, seen as a rare gift by a Samyagdrishti (a soul with Right Perception), is invaluable. Even the celestial beings (Devas), including the mighty Indras of heaven, yearn for this human form. Why? Because liberation (Moksha) can only be achieved through the human body.

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The Rarity of Human Life
A verse is quoted to emphasize the uniqueness of human existence:
“Even Indra of heaven longs for this human form, for it is the medium to attain liberation.”

Liberation is defined as the realization of the pure soul, pure essence, or the experience of pure knowledge. This state is achieved through the practice of Ratnatraya—Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct—using the human body as a vehicle.

Blessed are those who make this rare body an instrument for attaining Ratnatraya. Even the celestial beings who, despite being far from self-restraint (Samyam), occasionally contemplate the soul beyond the physical body, are considered fortunate.

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The Incomprehensible Bliss of Liberation
The constant event of spiritual transformation is known only to the enlightened souls and to the omniscient Lord Mahavira. Ordinary beings, entangled in worldly matters, cannot comprehend this. The joy and enthusiasm experienced by those who merely discuss the soul is itself indescribable.

If the mere discussion of the soul brings such profound joy, then the state of those who experience Atmanubhuti (self-realization) is beyond imagination and cannot be conceived by intellectual reasoning.

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This passage conveys a profound message: the rewards of spiritual life far surpass any material compensation. The human body is the most valuable tool for spiritual progress, and those who use it for Ratnatraya are truly blessed. Liberation is not about accumulating wealth but about transcending the physical and experiencing the purity of the soul. Recognizing this rarity, one must focus on self-discipline and align with the teachings of Lord Mahavira, making each moment an opportunity for spiritual wealth.

Acharya Kundkundswami on the Role of the Body and Spiritual Practice

Acharya Kundkundswami states in Samaysar (4):
“Navari na sulaho vihattassa”
(“Liberation is not easily attainable for the distracted soul.”)

In another reference from the commentary on Panchastikaya:
“Ajjavi tiyarana suddho”
(“Even today, through the purity of the three jewels (Ratnatraya), the soul can attain liberation.”)

By adhering to the principles of Ratnatraya—Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct—even in this modern age, a seeker can ascend to celestial heights such as becoming an Indra or a Laukantika deity. Such spiritual merit can eventually lead to rebirth as a human, providing the opportunity for liberation (Moksha). This path and its fruits are achievable only through the human form, making it instrumental in spiritual progress.

Thus, the body, when engaged in the pursuit of Ratnatraya, becomes an asset for the soul. Conversely, if this body indulges in sensual pleasures, it hinders spiritual growth, becoming detrimental to the soul’s progress. Acharya Kundkund likens this dynamic to a Kavadiya (a traditional water-carrier):
Just as a Kavadiya carries pots filled with water balanced on their shoulders, the soul carries the burden of Karma in the vessel of the body, wandering endlessly across lifetimes.

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The Eternal Journey of the Soul
The soul has been on this journey, burdened by karmic ties, for countless ages. Reflect, then: who in the three worlds is truly a benefactor of the soul? The answer lies in the Ratnatraya, which acts as the greatest benefactor. Furthermore, the human body, when dedicated to the practice of Ratnatraya, also becomes a helper in the soul’s liberation. This is why the scriptures describe the body as sacred, venerable, and beneficial when aligned with spiritual goals.

Acharya Samantabhadra, in the Ratnakandaka Shravakachara, emphasizes this sentiment:
“Svabhavato’ shuchau kaye ratnatraya pavitrite”
(“Though impure by nature, the body is sanctified by Ratnatraya.”)

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The Tools for Liberation
Acharya Kundkundswami highlights various tools (Upkaran) for liberation in his teachings:

1. Jinalinga: The embodiment of the Tirthankara’s pure form.
2. Guru Vachanam: The words and guidance of the Guru.
3. Vinaya (Humility): Often referred to as the gateway to liberation.
4. Shrutadhyayana (Study of Scriptures): A vital tool for spiritual progress.

These tools, while potentially demanding or taxing for the physical body, are immensely beneficial for the soul. A soul with Samyagdarshan (Right Vision) prioritizes benefiting the soul over the body. It constantly seeks and applies means that uplift the soul, even at the cost of bodily comfort, thereby progressing toward liberation.

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The Dual Role of the Human Body
The human body can serve as both a benefactor (Upkarak) and a detractor (Apkarak) for the soul. When aligned with spiritual discipline, it becomes a priceless instrument for liberation. On the other hand, indulgence in worldly pleasures through the body entangles the soul further in the cycle of birth and death.

Conclusion
We must strive to make this human body a benefactor for the soul. By dedicating it to the practice of Ratnatraya and aligning it with spiritual endeavors, the body becomes a sacred tool for liberation. This effort ensures that the ultimate goal—self-realization and liberation—is achieved.

Isthopadesh Gatha 19 – Dwadasa Varshiya Shraman Sanskriti Swadhyaya Pathyakram

Anvayarth (Literal Meaning):

• (Yat Jīvasya): That which is beneficial to the soul (Upkaraya),
• (Tat Dehasya): Is harmful to the body (Apkarakam),
• And
• (Yat Dehasya Upkaraya): That which is beneficial to the body,
• (Tat Jīvasya Apkarakam): Is harmful to the soul.

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Bhavarth (Interpretation):
The body is inert (jad), material (moortik), and perishable (vinashwar), while the soul is conscious (chetan), formless (amoortik), and eternal (avinashi). These two entities are fundamentally opposed to one another. Consequently:

• Actions that benefit the body, such as indulging it with nourishment, sensual pleasures, or comforts, lead to harm for the soul. Such indulgence results in the soul’s descent into lower states of existence, such as hell or unfortunate rebirths.
• Conversely, actions that uplift and purify the soul—through spiritual practices like meditation (Samayik), self-study (Swadhyay), vows (Vrat), austerities (Tap), and discipline (Sanyam)—result in the eradication of Karma, leading to omniscience (Kevalgyan), infinite bliss (Anant Sukh), and liberation. However, these practices often weaken and exhaust the body.

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Utthanika (Introduction to the Next Verse)
Both worldly success and the ultimate fruits of spiritual progress are primarily determined by Dhyana (meditation). The Acharyas state:
“Jhanassa Na Dullaham Kimpi”
(“Nothing is unattainable through meditation; everything can be achieved through it.”)

However, the Acharyas caution against using meditation to focus on the well-being of the body, as such focus prioritizes the temporary, material aspects of existence over the eternal spiritual essence. Gatha 20

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 17 to 19

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 19 & 20

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इष्टोपदेश Ishtopadesh

गाथा 1 (Gatha 1) | गाथा 2 ( Gatha 2 )| गाथा 3 ( Gatha 3)| गाथा 4 ( Gatha 4) | गाथा 5 ( Gatha 5) | गाथा 6 ( Gatha 6 )| गाथा 7 ( Gatha 7 )| गाथा 8 ( Gatha 8 ) | गाथा 9 ( Gatha 9 ) | गाथा 10 ( Gatha 10)| गाथा 11 ( Gatha 11 )| गाथा 12 ( Gatha 12) | गाथा 13 ( Gatha 13 )| गाथा 14 ( Gatha 14 )| गाथा 15 ( Gatha 15 ) | गाथा 16 ( Gatha 16 )| गाथा 17 ( Gatha 17 )| गाथा 18 ( Gatha 18 )| गाथा 19 | गाथा 20 | गाथा 21 | गाथा 22 | गाथा 23 | गाथा 24

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English Translation of Acharya Pujyapada swami’s Ishtopadesh – Deliberation (vivechana) and Poetic Translation by Acharya shri Vidyasagarji maharaj

Utthanika (Prelude):

The Acharya now continues, saying:

“O soul! Just as you endure countless sufferings to acquire objects for the benefit of the body, pause and reflect on the true nature of this body. What is its essence and character?”

इष्टोपदेश गाथा 18

भवन्ति प्राप्य यत्सङ्गमशुचीनि शुचीन्यपि। स कायः सन्ततापायस्तदर्थं प्रार्थना वृथा ॥18॥

Bhavanti prāpya yatsaṅgamaśucīni śucīnyapi।
Sa kāyaḥ santatāpāyastadarthaṁ prārthanā vṛthā ॥18॥

Poetic Translation (Padyanuvad )

Malayāchala kā chandan chūraṇ, chaman chamelī chāturatā,
Kunda pushpa makaranda sugandhī, gandha-dāra mandāralatā।

Padārtha sab ye tan sangati se, gandha-pūrṇa bhī gande hoṁ,
Sadā ahit kar tan kā yadi tum, rāga karo to, andhe ho॥18॥

By the contact of which even pure objects are rendered impure and which is a constant source of affliction, to seek to provide such a body with the objects of pleasure is vanity!

Note – It is not the nature of the senses to ever attain to anything like a lasting sense of gratification. The source and store-house of impurity, the body may be surrounded by all sorts of luxuries and things that are expected to give one pleasure; but its cravings only increase while the things which it touches become impure for any other purpose

Deliberation (vivechana)

When associated with the body, the inherently pure and enlightened soul begins to experience impurity. The body itself is impure by nature, while the soul, in its true state, is pure, wise, and detached. However, due to the association with karmas and the body, the soul takes on impurity and deviates from its true nature.

The soul’s intrinsic nature is eternal, infinite, and unchanging. In contrast, the external influences (vibhava) it experiences are transient and finite. Because the soul is currently not fully enlightened, it perceives and understands only partial and external realities. As Acharya Kundakunda Swami explains in Samayasara:

“So savva-ṇāṇa-darisi kammaraeṇa ṇiyeṇa vacchaṇṇo।
Saṁsāra-samāvaṇṇo, ṇavi jāṇadi savvado savvaṁ॥ 160॥”

(“The soul, obscured by karma and delusion, is immersed in worldly existence and cannot perceive the entire reality as it is.”)

Acharya emphasizes that the union with the body is the root cause of this plight. People often seek better bodies or material wealth, but this does not lead to the soul’s ultimate benefit. Hence, praying for the body is futile (tadartham prarthana vritha). Instead, one should strive to reduce attachment to the body, let go of passions (kashayas), and focus on self-purification—this is the path to true success in life.

If one remains attached to the body and its desires, life will pass as it began, without meaningful progress. Moreover, worldly beings often make the mistake of becoming agitated or angry at external causes (nimitta), which is a significant weakness of the worldly soul.

Acharya points out that true spiritual progress is tested during adversity. Adversity arises from the fruition of past karmas (karmodaya), and one should not blame external causes for it. Instead, recognize that these karmas are the result of one’s own past actions. While external circumstances act as catalysts, the fruition of karma is internally driven.

Therefore, instead of being disturbed by external causes, focus on understanding and resolving the karmas themselves. Contemplate why these karmas arose, how long their influence will last, and what measures can be taken to neutralize them. This deep introspection and effort to overcome karmas is the path to liberation (mokshamarga).

Isthopadesh Gatha 18- Dwadasa Varshiya Shraman Sanskriti Swadhyaya Pathyakram

Literal Meaning (Anvayarth):

• (Yatsangam): By whose association
• (Prapya): upon obtaining
• (Shuchini api): even pure substances
• (Ashuchini): become impure
• (Bhavanti): such
• (Saha Kaya): that body
• (Santatapaya): is the cause of constant suffering like hunger, etc.
• (Tadarth): therefore, for it
• (Prarthana Vritha): desiring pleasures is futile.

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Interpretation (Bhavarth):
In this world, substances like fruits, flowers, camphor, sandalwood, oil, perfume, milk, and ghee are considered fragrant, sweet, visually pleasing, and pure. However, when these pure, aromatic, and pleasing substances are brought into contact with the body, they turn into impure and repulsive forms such as excrement, urine, blood, or flesh.

Flowers, upon being worn, lose their fragrance and wither. Perfumes, oils, sandalwood paste, and camphor, when applied to the body, mix with sweat and emit an unpleasant odor. Even beautiful clothes, when worn, cannot purify or beautify the body—they too become soiled and unpleasant.

The body, despite being adorned with beautiful and fragrant substances, remains inherently impure and incapable of being truly cleansed or beautified. In fact, it corrupts anything pure that comes into contact with it. Furthermore, the body is transient and perishable. Thus, efforts to beautify or sanctify the body are ultimately futile and meaningless.

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Utthanika (Introduction to the Next Verse)
Yet, the disciple argues: “Bhagavan! If the body is always associated with impurity and cannot be truly benefited by wealth or possessions, then perhaps the soul can benefit from such things, not just through fasting and penance but also through the use of wealth and material objects.”

To this, the Acharya responds, “This is not the case,” and explains further. Gatha 19

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 17 to 19

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इष्टोपदेश Ishtopadesh

गाथा 1 (Gatha 1) | गाथा 2 ( Gatha 2 )| गाथा 3 ( Gatha 3)| गाथा 4 ( Gatha 4) | गाथा 5 ( Gatha 5) | गाथा 6 ( Gatha 6 )| गाथा 7 ( Gatha 7 )| गाथा 8 ( Gatha 8 ) | गाथा 9 ( Gatha 9 ) | गाथा 10 ( Gatha 10)| गाथा 11 ( Gatha 11 )| गाथा 12 ( Gatha 12) | गाथा 13 ( Gatha 13 )| गाथा 14 ( Gatha 14 )| गाथा 15 ( Gatha 15 ) | गाथा 16 ( Gatha 16 )| गाथा 17 | गाथा 18 | गाथा 19 | गाथा 20 | गाथा 21 | गाथा 22 | गाथा 23 | गाथा 24

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English Translation of Acharya Pujyapada swami’s Ishtopadesh – Deliberation (vivechana) and Poetic Translation by Acharya shri Vidyasagarji maharaj

Utthanika (Prelude):

The disciple then raises a question: “O Bhagavan! If accumulating wealth involves significant sin and causes suffering, making it condemnable, how can one enjoy material pleasures and comforts without wealth? Hence, wealth is necessary for such enjoyments, and therefore, it should be considered praiseworthy.”

To this, the Acharya responds: “That is not the case.” The argument that “wealth is praiseworthy because it leads to merit” has already been refuted, and earning wealth with such a mindset is not appropriate. Similarly, the claim that “wealth is a means to enjoy pleasures and comforts” is also incorrect.

If one asks why, the Acharya explains further.

इष्टोपदेश गाथा 17

आरम्भे तापकान् प्राप्तावतृप्तिप्रतिपादकान् । अन्ते सुदुस्त्यजान् कामान् कामं कः सेवते सुधीः ॥17॥

Ārambhe tāpakān prāptāvātṛptipratipādakān।
Ante sudustyajān kāmān kāmaṃ kaḥ sevate sudhīḥ॥17॥

Poetic Translation (Padyanuvad )

Prāpta nahīṃ ho jab tak, tab tak, mahā tāp kar kām-sabhī,
Kintu prāpta ho jāne par to, kabhī tṛpti kā nām nahīṃ।
Anta-anta meṃ to kyā kahanā? Jinkā tajnā saral nahīṃ,
Sudhī rache phir kām-bhog meṃ? Jinkā man ho taral kahīṃ॥17॥

English Translation:
“As long as desires remain unfulfilled, they cause immense suffering.
But even when fulfilled, they never bring satisfaction.
And in the end, they become almost impossible to renounce.
Would a wise person indulge in such desires, whose mind seeks peace?”

What! will any wise man indulge in the pleasures of the senses which cause trouble in their acquisition, enkindle lust and desire at the moment of enjoyment and are very painful at the time of parting? Should a wise man do so, he would not abandon himself to the lustful feeling.

Note – According to the degree of foresight developed by them, men fall into three classes, namely, the short-sighted, the far-sighted and the farthest-sighted. The first class is that of fools, as all will agree. The second is that of men who are worldly wise. They are learned and thoughtful, but only in matters pertaining to the world, and the concerns of the immediate life that comes to an end after some three score years and ten, when their wisdom also perishes. The third class comprises those few but deeply thoughtful souls who have understood the nature of life and know that the soul survives the physical death. They are familiar with the true nature of things and know that there is no rest or peace for the soul outside nirvana. They are the farthest-sighted, for this reason; we may also call them Dharma- sighted, for Dharma signifies the ultimate Truth and the nature of things. Of these Knowers of the true nature of things it is said that they will not indulge in sensual lusts, knowing them to be the causes of suffering and pain, though not appearing to be such to the first or the second classes of men. Should a knower of Truth be found to indulge in the pleasures of the world, he would not abandon himself altogether to resist the forces of Karmic infatuation engendered in the past. The point is this that the knowledge of Truth changes the angle of vision of the wise one who may not be able to resist the temptation but who will detest himself all the time for his failings, where the fool will simply plunge himself head long in the whirling vortex of pleasures and lusts.

Deliberation (vivechana)

Happiness derived from material indulgence (sensual pleasures) cannot be justified if it fails to bring true satisfaction at any stage of life—whether in its beginning, middle, or end. This is because material pleasures inherently lack the essence of real happiness. Their attainment often demands immense physical, mental, and emotional toil, such as through labor-intensive processes like agriculture and other sixfold tasks. These activities cause exhaustion to the body, senses, and mind.

Even after acquiring these pleasures, human desire, like a restless serpent, continues to create turmoil, and satisfaction remains elusive. Instead of contentment, indulgence often leads to frustration and restlessness. Similar to how a fire never gets satiated regardless of the amount of wood fed to it, or how a sea never fills up regardless of how many rivers flow into it, worldly beings cannot find fulfillment through indulgence in pleasures.

The famous poet Bhartṛhari expressed this sentiment in Nītiśataka: “We do not consume pleasures; instead, they consume us.” A wise person may also partake in material pleasures, but without attachment. For instance, if a dish is overly salty, an ignorant person focuses on complaining about its saltiness, analyzing why it turned out so. On the other hand, a wise person calmly acknowledges the taste without getting attached to the negativity of the experience.

The Ideal of Renunciation

As stated, “If worldly pleasures were truly blissful, why would the Tīrthaṅkaras renounce them?” This reflects the spirit of detachment that characterizes great souls. For example, the Tīrthaṅkaras, even in their youthful prime, renounced all worldly pleasures without indulging in them and devoted themselves to self-realization.

Acharya Gunabhadra Swami elaborates in Ātmānushāsana: some individuals viewed material wealth and pleasures as insignificant as blades of grass and willingly relinquished them, gifting them to others. Others regarded worldly pleasures as sources of suffering and abstained from them altogether. Among these, the highest form of renunciation is of those who neither acquired nor engaged with worldly pleasures.

The story of Vajradanta Chakravarti’s sons exemplifies this. Inspired by their father’s renunciation, they chose to follow the same path of detachment, reasoning that indulging in wealth and pleasures already consumed by others was unworthy. They became ascetics along with their father. Bharat Chakravarti, despite engaging in worldly affairs, remained internally detached and pure, enabling him to attain omniscience (kevalajñāna) as soon as he renounced the world. Such detachment is unattainable for the ignorant, who remain deeply attached to material indulgence.

The Detriments of Indulgence

Sensual indulgence and consumption are rooted in unwholesome karma and generate negative mental states. Wealth, which facilitates material indulgence, is thus not praiseworthy. Instead, it should be understood as a source of affliction, leading to unwholesome actions and disturbing the purity of one’s consciousness. Hence, the wise refrain from overvaluing wealth and material pleasures, directing their focus towards spiritual growth and self-realization.

Isthopadesh Gatha 17 – Dwadasa Varshiya Shraman Sanskriti Swadhyaya Pathyakram

Anvayartha (Literal Meaning)

• (Ārambhe) In the beginning,
• (Tāpakān) cause intense suffering,
• (Prāptau) when attained,
• (Atriptipratipādakān) increase cravings,
• (Ante) and in the end,
• (Sudustyajān) are difficult to abandon,
• (Kāmān) sensual pleasures—
• (Kaḥ Sudhīḥ) what wise person,
• (Kāma) willingly,
• (Sevate) indulges in them?

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Bhāvārtha (Interpretative Meaning)
In the pursuit of sensual pleasures such as food, clothing, and relationships, one faces immense hardship through activities like farming, trade, or employment. Once these sensory objects are acquired and consumed, the desires are not satisfied but instead grow stronger, creating an endless cycle of craving. Ultimately, breaking free from these desires becomes exceedingly difficult.

Thus, a wise and self-aware individual approaches such indulgences with detachment and never becomes engrossed in them. They recognize that just as adding fuel to a fire only intensifies its flames, indulging in sensory pleasures only fuels further longing. True peace can only be attained by renouncing such desires.

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Utthānikā (Introduction to the Next Verse)
The Acharya further emphasizes that all indulgences and efforts revolve around the body, which itself is inherently impure. This is elaborated in the next verse—Gāthā 18.

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 13 to 17

Swadhyay Ishtopadesh Gatha 17 to 19

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इष्टोपदेश Ishtopadesh

गाथा 1 (Gatha 1) | गाथा 2 ( Gatha 2 )| गाथा 3 ( Gatha 3)| गाथा 4 ( Gatha 4) | गाथा 5 ( Gatha 5) | गाथा 6 ( Gatha 6 )| गाथा 7 ( Gatha 7 )| गाथा 8 ( Gatha 8 ) | गाथा 9 ( Gatha 9 ) | गाथा 10 ( Gatha 10)| गाथा 11 ( Gatha 11 )| गाथा 12 ( Gatha 12) | गाथा 13 ( Gatha 13 )| गाथा 14 ( Gatha 14 )| गाथा 15 ( Gatha 15 ) | गाथा 16 ( Gatha 16 )| गाथा 17 | गाथा 18 | गाथा 19 | गाथा 20 | गाथा 21 | गाथा 22 | गाथा 23 | गाथा 24

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