Anavashyak Digambar Jain Murtipuja

The book "Anavashyak Digambar Jain Murtipuja" (Unnecessary Digambar Jain Idol Worship) by Pushp and Champaklal Jain, published by Kapurchand Ranchoddas Mehta, is a critical examination of idol worship within the Digambar Jain tradition. The central argument of the book, as presented by the translator Vaidya Shastri Manishankar Kalidas Yajnik and authors Pushp and Champaklal Jain, is that idol worship is an unnecessary and unscriptural practice in Jainism, particularly within the Digambar sect.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the book's key points, based on the provided text:

Core Argument: Idol Worship is Unnecessary and Against True Jain Principles.

The book strongly asserts that the true Jain path, as expounded by Lord Mahavir and revered Acharyas like Kundakundacharya, emphasizes spiritual development and self-realization (Atma-upasana), not the worship of inanimate idols. The authors contend that idol worship deviates from the core tenets of Jainism and leads to misconceptions and ultimately hinders spiritual progress.

Key Supporting Arguments and Evidence:

• Critique of Kundakundacharya's Teachings: The book extensively quotes and analyzes the works of Kundakundacharya, particularly his "Asht Pahud" (Eight Compilations). The authors argue that Kundakundacharya, a highly revered Digambar Acharya, never prescribed idol worship in his writings. They highlight his verses that emphasize the importance of Samya-darshan (right faith/perception) as the root of religion and that those devoid of it are not worthy of reverence. The authors interpret Kundakundacharya's definition of "true idols" as embodying the qualities of Darshan, Gyan, Charitra (Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct) and Tapa (asceticism), not stone or metal figures.
• Misinterpretation of "Deva Puja": The book addresses the common practice of interpreting "Deva Puja" (worship of the divine) as idol worship. It clarifies that "Deva Puja" in the context of Jainism refers to the worship of the divine qualities within oneself and the pursuit of spiritual awakening, not the ritualistic adoration of physical idols. The word "Deva" itself is explained as that which illuminates or is radiant, referring to spiritual consciousness.
• Rejection of Idolatrous Practices by Other Digambar Acharyas: The book also references other Digambar texts like "Padmanandi Panchashati" which lists the six duties of a householder, including "Deva Puja." However, it argues that "Deva Puja" in this context also refers to internal devotion and spiritual practice, not external idol worship.
• The Nature of True Devotion: The authors emphasize that true devotion lies in understanding and emulating the virtues of the perfected souls (Arhants and Siddhas), not in worshipping their physical representations. They argue that the qualities of Arhants (46) and Siddhas (8) are absent in stone idols, making them undeserving of worship.
• The Concept of "Pratima": The book delves into the meaning of "Pratima" (image/idol). It presents Kundakundacharya's definition of a "Sthavar Pratima" as the actual Jineshwara (Tirthankaras) present in the Samavasarana (divine assembly) with their 108 auspicious marks and 34 Atishayas (supernatural manifestations). It also defines "Jangam Pratima" as living beings who embody pure conduct and are free from passions. The authors argue that stone idols lack these essential qualities and therefore cannot be considered true Pratimas or worthy of worship.
• Critique of Idol Worship as a Man-Made Ritual: The book labels idol worship as a man-made ritual, influenced by external traditions rather than being an intrinsic part of Jain doctrine. It traces the origins of this practice to the influence of other religions and the self-serving motives of some religious leaders (Bhattarakas) who exploited the system for financial gain.
• The Role of "Nikshenpas" (Categories of Reality): The book discusses the concept of Nikshenpas, particularly Sthapna Nakshep (establishment), which is often used to justify idol worship. However, it argues that Sthapna Nakshep is primarily for worldly purposes and has no relevance in the path to liberation (Moksha Marg).
• The Importance of "Jin Vani" (Teachings of the Tirthankaras): The book strongly advocates for the study and contemplation of Jin Vani (Jain scriptures) as the true means to spiritual upliftment. It argues that the divine pronouncements of the Tirthankaras, preserved in the scriptures, are the true object of devotion and the path to liberation, not inanimate idols.
• Questions and Answers Addressing Common Arguments for Idol Worship: A significant portion of the book (pages 48-173) consists of a question-and-answer session, where numerous questions raised by idol-worshippers are addressed and refuted. These questions cover various aspects like the relationship between the worshipper and the worshipped, the concept of sin and merit in idol worship, the definition of true devotion, the authenticity of miraculous stories associated with idols, the role of priests, and the influence of other religions. The answers consistently reinforce the book's core argument that idol worship is unnecessary and unsupported by true Jain scriptures.
• The Absence of Idol Worship in Early Jainism: The book implies that idol worship was not prevalent in the early stages of Jainism. It criticizes the current practices as deviations from the original teachings and highlights the divergence within the Digambar tradition itself, citing the existence of groups like the Tarunpanth who are non-idol worshippers.
• Emphasis on Inner Purity and Conduct: The book consistently returns to the importance of inner purity, right conduct, knowledge, and faith as the true path to Jainism and liberation. It argues that external rituals like idol worship do not contribute to spiritual purification or the attainment of liberation.

Overall Tone and Purpose:

The book adopts a persuasive and critical tone, aiming to educate and awaken the Jain community, particularly within the Digambar tradition, about what the authors perceive as a departure from their core religious principles. The stated purpose is to guide souls away from what they consider a path of delusion and towards the true spiritual path taught by the Tirthankaras. The translator expresses hope that readers will approach the text with an open mind ("Hans-vritti").

In essence, "Anavashyak Digambar Jain Murtipuja" is a scholarly and passionate argument against idol worship in Digambar Jainism, drawing heavily on scriptural evidence and the teachings of revered Acharyas to advocate for a return to the core spiritual principles of self-realization and the veneration of virtues over physical representations.