Atit Ki Pramukh Sadhwaiya

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Atit ki Pramukh Sadhwaiya" by Rameshmuni:

The book "Atit ki Pramukh Sadhwaiya" (Prominent Jain Sadhvis of the Past) by Pravartak Shri Ramesh Muni emphasizes the profound significance and effectiveness of Samayik Sadhana (equanimity practice) as the direct and accessible path to liberation (Siddhalaya) and achieving the divine state. It asserts that this path of Sadhana is eternal, intrinsic, and not requiring external validation.

The text highlights that the path of Sadhana, while being the ultimate goal, is not accessible to everyone. It requires a specific qualification and an awakening of the inner self. Only those whose souls have transcended intense passion, who possess a spiritual outlook, and who understand their true nature as souls distinct from matter, can truly engage in this profound practice. Such individuals, detached from worldly desires and the cycle of birth and death, are driven by a strong yearning for liberation.

The book stresses that Sadhana is a universal path, open to all individuals regardless of their caste, creed, gender, age, or social status. Anyone with the right disposition and understanding has the right to follow the path of the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya) leading to liberation. It is the quality of "Bhavya" (potential for liberation) that ultimately leads to Siddhatva (the state of liberation).

A significant portion of the text is dedicated to celebrating the glorious contributions of the Jain female ascetics (Shramanis/Sadhvis) to the spiritual tradition. It portrays the Shramani Sangha as a vital and esteemed part of the four-fold Jain Sangha, contributing immensely to the spread and establishment of truth, non-violence, self-control, purity, equanimity, tolerance, austerity, and renunciation.

The text enumerates the qualities that define a dedicated Sadhvi: unwavering devotion to spiritual practice, victory over hardships and afflictions (Parishaha and Upasarga), self-awareness and the ability to inspire others, excellence in ascetic practices, purity, humility, self-knowledge, diligent study and contemplation, a gentle nature towards all beings, and an unwavering commitment to the Sangha and its discipline.

The book cites several prominent historical examples of Sadhvis:

• Brahmisundari: Daughter of Lord Rishabhdev, she played a crucial role in guiding her brother Bahubali towards liberation, demonstrating the immense spiritual power and efficacy of the Sadhvis. The anecdote of Brahmisundari and Sundari guiding Bahubali Muni away from pride by reminding him of the limitations of meditation while mounted on an elephant is highlighted.
• Rajamati: Her powerful words to Muni Neminath are presented as a guiding force that helped him overcome his desires and return to the path of righteousness.
• The Queens of Emperor Krishna: Numerous queens of Emperor Krishna, along with their daughters-in-law and great-granddaughters, renounced their worldly lives and became devoted Sadhvis, achieving liberation through rigorous penance.
• Chandanbala: A guiding light for the Jain faith, Chandanbala's life, marked by early struggles, is presented as a beacon for the four-fold Sangha. Her wisdom and leadership enabled many royal women and affluent individuals to embrace the ascetic life and achieve spiritual victory. The text also mentions the rigorous Tapa (austerity practices) undertaken by the queens of King Shrenik under Chandanbala's guidance, highlighting their significant contributions to the tradition.
• Devananda: The mother of Lord Mahavir, along with her daughter and sister, embraced Jain initiation and became radiant ascetics, contributing to the esteemed tradition of Jain spiritual practice.

The text emphasizes that the Shramani Sangha has consistently upheld the principles of Jainism and has never deviated from the path laid out by the Tirthankaras. Unlike the Muni Sangha, which has on occasion strayed from the prescribed path and been labelled as "Nihnav" (heretics), the Sadhvi Sangha has remained a more reliable and trustworthy pillar of the faith.

Even though the present-day Shramani Sangha may not be as numerically large and is divided into smaller groups, it is considered a continuation of the lineage initiated by Mahasadhvi Chandanbala. While some adaptations in conduct have occurred over time, the core principles remain intact.

The book concludes by acknowledging the ongoing contributions of Sadhvis in the present day, who are actively involved in education, scholarship, writing, discourse, and promoting virtue. It highlights their dedication to transforming the wicked into virtuous and the addicted into abstinent individuals, and their efforts to abolish animal sacrifices. The text also pays tribute to Mahasati Shri Kanakuvarji and her disciple Shri Champakuvarji, recognizing their long years of dedicated service, spiritual guidance, and contributions to societal upliftment.

In essence, "Atit ki Pramukh Sadhwaiya" is a tribute to the enduring legacy and profound impact of Jain Sadhvis, underscoring their unwavering commitment to spiritual practice and their indispensable role in propagating the Jain teachings throughout history and into the present day. The book reiterates the timeless relevance and power of Samayik Sadhana as the ultimate means to spiritual fulfillment.