Adhik Mas Darpan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Adhik Mas Darpan" by Shantivijayji, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Adhik Mas Darpan (Mirror of the Adhik Mas / Intercalary Month) Author: Shantivijayji (described as Jain Shwetambar Dharmopadeshta, Vidyasagar, Nyayaratna Muni) Publisher: Sarupchand Punamchand Nanavati

Overall Purpose:

The book "Adhik Mas Darpan" is presented as a refutation and clarification of theological and calendrical disputes within the Jain community, primarily in response to perceived challenges and criticisms from Muni Manisagarji of the Khartargachh sect. The author aims to establish the correctness of his views, particularly concerning the determination of the intercalary month (Adhik Mas) and the correct observance of festivals like Paryushan Parva. It also delves into the practices and principles of Jain monasticism, contrasting "Utsarg Marg" (ideal path) with "Apavad Marg" (exceptional path).

Key Themes and Content:

1. The Intercalary Month (Adhik Mas) and Calendar Alignment:

   • The central theme revolves around the necessity of an intercalary month to synchronize the lunar and solar calendars (Chandrasamvatsar and Suryasamvatsar).
   • Shantivijayji asserts that the Adhik Mas is a legitimate part of the Jain calendar system and explains its function in aligning religious observances.
   • He directly challenges the views of Muni Manisagarji, who seems to reject or misinterpret the significance of the Adhik Mas, particularly in relation to festivals like Paryushan.

2. The Public Debate and Scholarly Discourse:

   • The book is structured as a response to a series of public advertisements and communications from Muni Manisagarji, who issued challenges for a scholarly debate (Shastrarth).
   • Shantivijayji meticulously addresses each point raised by Manisagarji, providing scriptural justifications and logical arguments.
   • He emphasizes that any debate or Shastrarth should be conducted under the guidance and with the participation of the entire Jain Sangha (community), not just between individuals or through private correspondence.

3. Monastic Conduct and Principles (Utsarg and Apavad Marg):

   • A significant portion of the book is dedicated to explaining the nine aspects of Utsarg Marg (ideal, stricter path) and Apavad Marg (exceptional, more lenient path) for Jain monks and nuns.
   • Shantivijayji uses scriptural references from texts like Uttaradhyayan Sutra and Dashavaikalik Sutra to illustrate these principles.
   • He discusses practices such as:
     • The necessity of self-reliance during journeys (Vihar) versus accepting assistance.
     • The acceptable duration of stay in a place for studying scriptures versus the ideal of continuous movement.
     • Dwelling in forests or caves versus residing in villages for safety and self-restraint.
     • The timing of begging for alms (gochari) as prescribed by the Utsarg Marg versus the practicalities of current times.
     • Eating once a day versus the necessity of multiple meals due to changing times.
     • The concept of "Yoga Upadhan" (observing specific vows or rituals).
     • The ethics of admitting disciples to monastic life.
     • The qualities expected of Acharyas and Upadhyayas.
     • The adherence to the Panchamahavrata (five great vows) by all monastics, regardless of their title (Yati, Muni, Sadhu, etc.).
   • He argues that while Apavad Marg might be adopted due to changing times or physical limitations, it should not be misconstrued as the ideal path.

4. Critique of Specific Doctrines and Practices:

   • Six Kalyāṇikas: Shantivijayji refutes the notion of six Kalyāṇikas (auspicious events) for Tirthankar Mahavir Swami, citing scriptural evidence that primarily supports five. He questions the interpretation of certain texts by Khartargachh scholars.
   • Paryushan Parva Observance: The debate touches upon the timing of Paryushan Parva, with different sects having differing opinions on which of the two Adhik months should be considered for festivals.
   • Ritualistic Practices: The book addresses the practice of eating "Prasad" or offerings designated for gurus, emphasizing that such offerings are Guru-dravya and should not be consumed by the disciples, contrary to some practices involving "Dadaji" (venerated ancestors or gurus) of the Khartargachh.
   • Kāyotsarga: He questions why the Khartargachh sect performs Kāyotsarga (a form of meditation) in the name of their gurus like Jinadatta Suri and Jinkushal Suri, when other, arguably more significant, past acharyas are not similarly honored.
   • Dress Code: The author defends the practice of wearing colored clothes by Jain monks (like his own white attire), citing scriptural basis from Nishihtasutra and Anuyogadwara Sutra, and asserts that the adherence to Panchamahavrata is more crucial than the color of the garments.

5. Personal Encounters and Challenges:

   • The text details encounters between Shantivijayji and Muni Manisagarji, including meetings in Dadar and Walkeshwar, where discussions and challenges for debate took place.
   • Shantivijayji expresses his readiness to engage in debate but insists on the proper procedure involving the community.

6. Use of Scriptural Evidence:

   • A recurring theme is Shantivijayji's reliance on specific verses and commentaries from Jain Agamas and other authoritative texts to support his arguments.
   • He repeatedly calls upon his opponent to provide scriptural evidence for their claims.

Structure and Style:

The book is written in an argumentative and defensive style, as it directly addresses the claims made by Muni Manisagarji. It is organized in response to numbered "advertisements" or points raised by Manisagarji, followed by Shantivijayji's detailed counter-arguments and scriptural references. The author aims for clarity and uses straightforward language, often directly challenging the logic and scriptural basis of his opponent's views.

Overall Message:

"Adhik Mas Darpan" is a strong defense of the author's understanding of Jain calendars, monastic principles, and religious observances. It highlights the importance of adhering to scriptural injunctions, engaging in scholarly debate through proper channels, and understanding the distinction between the ideal and practical paths in Jainism. The book serves as a guide for the Jain community to critically examine these issues and uphold the true spirit of Jain philosophy.