YJA Convention 2002 07 NJ Fifth

Author(s): Young Jains of America (YJA)
Publisher: Young Jains of America YJA USA

Page 30

Atma Siddi: Self-Realization
Ashik Shah
Atma Siddhi is one of the most well known works What do you think are supposed acts of religion by Shrimad Rajchandra (1867-1901 A.D.) in
which might not lead to Moksha? just over 140 verses, Shrimadji manages to explain
How would you characterise someone who is a in considerable detail the key aspects of Jain
True Seeker? philosophy, as well as the path to Moksha.
Do you think you possess any of these qualities? Composed in a single sitting of ninety minutes, Atma
What is the benefit of having such qualities? Siddhi remains one of the most influential and
What moves you about the following six insights, inspiring poems in the Jain tradition, having an
known as Chha Pad? impact on Mahatma Gandhi, as well as on many religious movements in the modern era.
1) The soul exists
2) It is eternal It is the expression by a Self-Realised Saint of the 3) It is the creator or doer of deeds or Karma modern era, of a compassionate desire to see all 4) It experiences the fruits of these deeds or Karma Souls attain true happiness. We will follow the 5) There is freedom (Moksha) from Karma scheme of Atma Siddhi, but will consider the key 6) There is a path to Moksha issues which it addresses.
What are the chief causes of Karma, whose Who are you?
removal will cause Moksha? What is your true nature?
• How many type of Karma are there? What is the ultimate cause of pain and Which is the chief culprit, the ringleader? How suffering?
does one conquer anger and the other passions? What is the ultimate source of happiness?
Is this path sectarian or dogmatic? How do you practice your religion?
What characteristics must we possess to move Do you like the rituals?
forward spiritually? Would you say you were spiritual?
How will a True Guru's guidance impact us? I Which inner qualities are you trying to cultivate? How would you recognise a True Guru?
notes:
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