FOREWORD

Teacher original: "Āchārya," a title for a high-ranking monk and spiritual preceptor who leads a community of practitioners. Umāsvāmī’s Aphorisms on the Nature of Reality original: "Tattvārthsūtra," the foundational text of Jain philosophy. with Hindi and English literature translation is of great value to every human being. Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct These are the "Three Jewels" (Ratnatraya) which form the path to liberation in Jainism. shall give us true and everlasting happiness. “Live and let others live” should be our motto. The true character of our soul is to help one another. Imparting knowledge to others leads to the influx of virtuous deeds original: "karmas." In Jainism, karma is a physical substance that attaches to the soul; "virtuous" or "punya" karma results from good actions.. Humility and modesty determine high status. One should make efforts to give up anger, greed, pride and fearfulness. Violence leads to calamity in this life and thereafter. Charity is the giving of one’s wealth to another for mutual benefit. Giving up external and internal attachments shall liberate our soul.

All my blessings to this great work, which is deep in thought and simple in expression.

Kundkund Bhāratī A prominent Jain cultural and research institution in New Delhi, named after the 1st-century philosopher-monk Āchārya Kundakunda.
New Delhi
2nd January, 2011

Teacher Vidyanand original: "Āchārya Vidyanand," a highly revered 20th-21st century Digambara Jain monk known for his scholarship.
Teacher 108 The number 108 is a sacred title for an Āchārya, representing the 108 qualities or attributes they are expected to uphold.
Vidyanandji
King of Monks original: "Muniraj," a title of respect for a Jain monk.