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1-44
I am the Soul layman. No wonder, the compilations of her discourses were well-received by one and all.
With a view to reach a wider cross-section of the society, this publication, g 3 , is now being presented in English.
While going through the pages of this translation it is essential to note that a modest effort has been made to retain the flavour of the original language and the style of the orator. Preference has been given to getting the essence across in simple, prevalent terms. Words, which are specific to the tenets, indeed technical, in Sanskrit/Gujarati/Hindi languages, while being presented in the Roman script, have been italicised. An effort is now on to compile them into a glossary of sorts with a reverse reference.
It is obvious that a second reading, with the knowledge of the equivalent terms, will enable a better understanding of the message of 'Atmasiddhi Shastra' as conveyed in the discourses of Mahasatiji.
Another point to be noted is that, this translation takes off from an original Gujarati. As such several expressions and references would carry a typical Gujarati flavour. Moreover, there would be repeated references to scriptures and saints and such - all those would, unless specified refer to the Jain order.
Srimad Rajachandraji, before he came to be looked upon as a spiritual teacher, lived a life like any other layman. He used to be called Raychand, bhai being a suffix of respect. As will be evident from the early pages of the main text, Srimad was born with the imprint of accrued knowledge from previous births. He was a sage of the spiritual path, whose journey had been interrupted, in an earlier life-span.
From the age seven, he had been able to perceive his goal and inculcate the necessary austerity in his life. Owing to his ascetic nature, there were several laymen who took him as the
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