श्रावक अपने आप से पूछे
Summary
The text discusses the concept of "kartritva" (accomplishment) as the true language of personality, emphasizing that capability and work efficiency enhance it. It outlines four key qualities for effective accomplishment: peaceful (working with a calm mind), purposeful (self-motivated by objectives), productive (creative in approach and work), and progressive (focused on the distant future). A follower (shravak) possessing these qualities can ascend the steps of success through goal-orientation, commitment to duty, and proper effort. The text quotes Acharya Tulsi, defining a shravak as one with faith in religion, detachment, and truth, along with a natural dedication to activities. It urges the shravak community to self-evaluate their progress, direction, and goals, cautioning against losing sight of objectives amid materialism and modernity. Each shravak should aim to enhance their shravakatva (lay follower status) and become a strong worker to increase the glory of the religious order. The text expresses pride in the shravak community for their selfless contributions to the religious order and institutions, emphasizing self-evaluation of inner strength and emotions to become superior workers. It calls for introspection on personality, work style, thinking, lifestyle, and work efficiency, highlighting the shravak's role in bringing new consciousness and revolution to society. A series of self-reflective questions follows, asking whether the reader performs daily practices like samayik (equanimity practice), yoga, and 20 minutes of religious worship; observes fasting (tivihar or chauvihar) for at least an hour; serves and visits spiritual figures; prioritizes development of the religious order; admits mistakes without unnecessary arguments; remains devoted to deity, guru, and religion; follows the guidance of Acharya Mahashraman; avoids death feasts and feasts on austerities; refrains from tubers and night meals; develops character purity; avoids wasteful spending and maintains frugality; limits items and decoration at weddings and birthdays; refrains from voting for position; acts in accordance with the Terapan
Conclusion
The document’s implications center on a call for self-evaluation and purposeful action among the Shravak community. It emphasizes that true worth is defined not by status but by competence, productivity, and a peaceful, progressive mindset. The repeated refrain of “आत्मालोचन करें” (do self-introspection) urges each individual to assess their alignment with core values—such as discipline, charity, simplicity, and loyalty to the religious order. The outcome sought is a collective elevation: Shravaks are encouraged to move from being ordinary to exemplary, strengthening the community’s moral and organizational foundation. By rejecting materialism, wasteful spending, and ego, and by embracing selfless service and adherence to ethical guidelines, the community can achieve greater cohesion and spiritual growth. Ultimately, the document envisions a renewed, committed Shravak society that upholds tradition while progressing toward higher ideals.