Akbar Pratibodhak Kaun - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Akbar Pratibodhak Kaun" by Bhushan Shah, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Akbar Pratibodhak Kaun (Who is the Enlightener of Akbar?) Author: Bhushan Shah Publisher: Mission Jainatva Jagaran

Central Question: The book aims to answer the historical question of who truly enlightened Emperor Akbar regarding Jain principles, particularly regarding the promotion of Ahimsa (non-violence) and the prohibition of animal slaughter. This is presented as a response to claims that Acharya Jinchandrasuri was the primary "Akbar Pratibodhak," challenging the established view attributing this role to Acharya Hiravijayasuri.

Author's Motivation: The author felt compelled to undertake this historical investigation due to conflicting claims heard from different Jain sects (Gachhas). Specifically, a statement by a learned Sadhvi of the Khartargachha that Acharya Jinchandrasuri was the "Yugapradhan" who enlightened Akbar and initiated the "Amarí" (prohibition of animal slaughter) led to a questioning of the widely accepted narrative crediting Acharya Hiravijayasuri of the Tapagachha. The author's goal is to present a neutral, evidence-based analysis to resolve this historical dispute and ensure that credit is given where it is due.

Historical Context and Background:

The book begins by emphasizing the importance of understanding the past to illuminate the present and future, acknowledging the contributions of past spiritual leaders.
It outlines the historical backdrop of India, particularly the period of Muslim invasions and the resultant violence, religious persecution, and the imposition of taxes like "Jaziya." This created a societal need for a compassionate and influential spiritual figure.
Emperor Akbar's reign is described. While acknowledging his military prowess and territorial expansion, the text also highlights his violent tendencies, including excessive hunting and cruelty. However, it also notes his inherent quality of "Gunanurag" (appreciation of virtue) and his alleged past life as a monk named Mukund, which seemingly influenced his later interest in spiritual matters.

Key Arguments and Evidence Presented:

The Role of Acharya Hiravijayasuri:
- The book strongly argues that Acharya Hiravijayasuri was the first to significantly influence Akbar.
- Evidence:
  - First Meeting and Influence (VS 1639 / 1583 AD): Acharya Hiravijayasuri met Akbar in Fatehpur Sikri and deeply impressed him with his character and knowledge.
  - Early Edicts: Following this meeting, Akbar released prisoners of war and freed captive birds. He issued an "Amarí" decree for 12 days during the Paryushana festival and abolished the "Jaziya" and other taxes on Jain pilgrimage sites in Gujarat.
  - Sustained Influence: After Hiravijayasuri's departure, his disciples, such as Upadhyay Shantichandra, Bhanuchandra, and Siddhichandra, continued to influence Akbar for over 23 years, obtaining further decrees for the protection of animals.
  - Historical Accounts: The text cites historical accounts from Abul Fazl ("Ain-i-Akbari") and Badauni, prominent historians in Akbar's court, who describe Akbar's gradual abstention from meat on various days and his issuance of prohibitions on animal slaughter, often linking these to the influence of "Jain Teachers" or "Hindus" (interpreted as Jains by the author due to their emphasis on Ahimsa). Vincent Smith is also quoted confirming the Jain influence on Akbar's vegetarianism and prohibition of animal cruelty.
  - Royal Decrees (Firmans): Several "Firmans" (royal decrees) issued by Akbar to Acharya Hiravijayasuri are presented and translated. These decrees confirm the granting of protection to Jain pilgrimage sites (Shatrunjaya, Girnar, etc.), the prohibition of animal slaughter during Paryushana, and the exemption of certain temples from taxes.
  - "Jagadguru" Title: The book provides evidence from various contemporary texts and inscriptions suggesting that Akbar bestowed the title of "Jagadguru" (World Teacher) upon Acharya Hiravijayasuri, indicating a profound level of respect and recognition.
The Role of Acharya Jinchandrasuri:
- The book acknowledges that Acharya Jinchandrasuri, of the Khartargachha, also met Akbar and received royal favor, including the title of "Yugapradhan" (Era Leader) and an "Ashtahnika" (8-day) "Amarí" decree.
- Evidence:
  - Meeting and Title (VS 1648 / 1591 AD): Jinchandrasuri met Akbar in Lahore and was honored with the title "Yugapradhan."
  - "Ashtahnika" Decree: He obtained an 8-day "Amarí" decree for certain regions.
  - Reference in Hiravijayasuri's Decree: One of Akbar's decrees for Jinchandrasuri explicitly mentions that a 12-day "Amarí" during Paryushana had already been granted at the behest of Hiravijayasuri, indicating that Jinchandrasuri's request built upon the earlier foundation.
- Critique of Khartargachha Claims: The author scrutinizes claims made in certain Khartargachha texts, particularly "Yugapradhan Shri Jinchandrasuri" by Agarchand Nahata, suggesting that these texts may selectively present or omit evidence to elevate Jinchandrasuri's role. The author points out that key actions like the six-month "Amarí" and the abolition of "Jaziya" are not attributed to Jinchandrasuri in the primary historical sources.
Chronological Argument: The book emphasizes the timeline, asserting that Acharya Hiravijayasuri's influence preceded and laid the groundwork for subsequent interactions with other Jain acharyas like Jinchandrasuri. The author argues that the extensive and prolonged periods of "Amarí" and other welfare measures were primarily initiated and sustained through Hiravijayasuri's continuous advocacy and the efforts of his disciples.
The Influence on Jahangir and Shah Jahan: The book notes that the influence of Jain acharyas, including disciples of Hiravijayasuri and others, extended to Akbar's successors, Jahangir and Shah Jahan, who also issued decrees promoting compassion and religious tolerance.
Debunking Misinterpretations: The author addresses interpretations of historical events and texts, particularly the claim that Akbar becoming "Jain" was solely due to Jinchandrasuri. He argues, based on the testimony of the Portuguese priest Pinheiro, that this perception of Akbar being a Jain follower likely stemmed more from the sustained influence of Hiravijayasuri and his disciples who were present at the time of Pinheiro's observations.

Conclusion: The book strongly concludes that Acharya Hiravijayasuri was the primary "Akbar Pratibodhak" (Enlightener of Akbar). His teachings and consistent efforts, along with those of his disciples, were instrumental in introducing and fostering principles of Ahimsa and compassion in Akbar's court and policies. While acknowledging the contributions of other Jain acharyas like Jinchandrasuri and Jinshinghsuri, the author asserts that their actions built upon the foundation laid by Hiravijayasuri. The book aims to provide a fact-based historical account to honor the true contributors and dispel misconceptions.

Overall Tone: The author adopts a scholarly and analytical tone, aiming for neutrality and relying heavily on historical documents, decrees, and contemporary accounts. The primary objective is to establish historical accuracy and give due credit to the acharyas who influenced Emperor Akbar.