________________
an organization to coordinate the many projects he was inspiring was inevitable. They envisioned a place which could act as a receiver and transmitter of the message of universal reverence, love, and compassion, a center which could represent not only Jain ideals, but those of positive thinking individuals from many different approaches.
With this in mind, on March 2, 1964, Gurudev and fellow workers founded Divya Gnan Sangh, the Divine Knowledge Society. A space which welcomed both silent meditation and outspoken action, it became known as an other-oriented nucleus, reaching out through talks, publications, and social action to those in need of physical aid as well as to those hungering for spiritual nourishment
In its capacity as a publishing house, the Society acted as a transmitter of Gurudev's universal message by publishing twenty of his books in Gujarati. It arranged for the translation of some of his books into Hindi and into English as well. The first of the English translations was called The Fountain of Inspiration, fifty-two meditative insights, one for each week of the year, springing forth from the young muni in his early years of introspection. Others were: A Rosary of Pearls, To the Citizens of Tomonow, Bondage and Freedom, Lotus Bloom, The Beacon, and Inspiring Anecdotes.
Each successive book reflected the unfolding of a spirit, mellowing and deepening in experience and understanding of this beautiful gift of human life. Like "footprints in the sands of time," these became Gurudev's heartprints on the consciousness of humanity. The invisible reverberations of the printed word are cherished in the hearts of the wise and absorbed into their lives. In this way, they become impervious to time and space, transcending everlastingly.
Gurudev encouraged an open flow of communication at the Society. It became a place for people to hear Gurudev's daily talks and to exchange a variety of personal views on ethics, religion, and philosophy. Many energetic young people were drawn to this friendly atmosphere. They participated in debates, sometimes winning a book or a scholarship for higher learning. Gurudev was glad to help students pursue an interest and continue studies in a particular field. Many of them worked
245
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
