Jain Journal 2000 07

Author(s): Jain Bhawan Publication
Publisher: Jain Bhawan Publication

Page 38

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JAIN JOURNAL: Vol-XXXV, No. 1 July 2000
the inclination to study and acquire a thorough knowledge of the contents in sacred books and who also want to follow the religious traditions. Some feel that they can equip themselves by their own effort without seeking help. But in the case of a common man, his spiritual growth is to be supported by the teachings of evolved souls.
To light a candle, we need another burning lamp. God teaches humanity only through such inspiring leaders. These Acharyas and Gurus, get their commands from God and they do not guide merely by their theoretical knowledge but by their austere living, noble conduct and by their strict adherence to tradition. Association with them constantly will guard those who are eager to advance themselves on the path of spirituality from tempting influences.
Extracts from The Hindu, Chennai, July 9, 1997. A period of fasting and prayer
Penance is intrinsic to the spiritual progress of man and in Jainism it is one of the founding principles along with ahimsā (non-violence) and samyama (self-control). According to the Jaina religious tenets even impossible feats can be attained through penance and prayer, and it is indispensable to one who is on the path to self-realisation. Penance besides purifying the individual is good for the entire society when it is undertaken in groups.
The period of Chaturmāsa roughly corresponding to the four monsoon months in India (July-October) is considered sacred to spiritual aspirants. Even monks who do not stay in one place for long and are generally on the move spend this period in a particular place conducive for their spiritual practices. For the Jains this is a period of fasting and prayer under the guidance of the Acharyas of their traditi
In his benedictory address Acharya Sri Rajyesh Suriswarji said, the Bhaktāmara Stotra was specially suited for the purpose of penance and prayer during the Charurmāsa. Composed by Acharya Mānatunga Suriswarji who lived in the seventh century and traditionally revered as an Acharya in the line of the Tirthankaras belonging to the 18th generation after Mahavira, it is a rare work known for its literary beauty composed in the Vasanta-tilaka metre, devotion and efficacy since it embodies mantras.
There is an anecdote according to Prabandha-chintāmani and Jain tradition to highlight the efficacy of reciting this Stotra. Acharya Mānatunga Suriswarji was fettered by 44 chains and placed behind