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Song to Truth

By Clare Rosenfield

Vol. 14 · No. 1July - 1979pp. 1–8English
Inner Spiritual Awakening

Summary

This poetic hymn invites seekers to walk hand in hand with truth, likening it to a steadfast tree that offers peace and shade and pours the sweet nectar of knowledge. Inspired by twelve talks on the ancient bhavanas (reflections) of Jainism, the poem extols the virtues of right faith, knowledge and conduct. It encourages contemplation of impermanence (anitya), the distinction between the real and the unreal, and the oneness of all life. By practising equanimity, detaching from ego and embracing truth, the soul transcends the wheel of samsara and awakens to its own divine source. The poet calls for surrender of pride, rejoicing in the rarity of human birth and praising the Arihantas and Siddhas. Ultimately, truth is portrayed as the radiant light within all beings whose full realisation brings unflinching fearlessness and bliss.

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Conclusion

The poem transforms Jain philosophical reflections into a devotional message. It teaches that contemplations on impermanence, oneness and the distinction between self and non‑self free one from samsara. By abandoning ego, cultivating non‑attachment and abiding in truth, the seeker realises the radiant light within and attains enduring peace.

Key passages

Chosen by AI from the article's text. Each one is checked word for word against the text before it is shown.

  • “Walk hand in hand with truth, O souls ! Walk hand in hand with truth,”
  • “And this shall be thy sarana, Thine own abode, thy home, Whence emanates eternally The flow of blessed life.”

Discussed in this article

People

  • Sri Chitrabhanu

Texts & works

Dynasties, sects & groups

  • Arihante
  • Siddhanum
  • Sahu

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