Bhagavana Mahavir Adhunik Sandarbh Me - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bhagavan Mahavir Adhunik Sandarbh Me" (Lord Mahavir in Modern Context), edited by Dr. Narendra Bhanavat, based on the provided information.

Book Title: Bhagavana Mahavir Adhunik Sandarbh Me (Lord Mahavir in Modern Context) Author(s): Narendra Bhanavat (Editor) Publisher: Motilal Banarasidas Publication Year: 1974

This book is a collection of essays and discussions published in commemoration of the 2500th Nirvana Mahotsava of Lord Mahavir. It aims to present Lord Mahavir's philosophy and teachings in a modern context, highlighting their relevance to contemporary issues across various aspects of life.

Overall Theme:

The central theme of the book is to demonstrate the enduring relevance of Lord Mahavir's philosophy and teachings in the modern world. Despite the passage of 2500 years, his principles of non-violence (Ahimsa), non-possession (Aparigraha), and non-absolutism/multi-faceted approach (Anekanta/Syadvada) are presented as solutions to the complex problems faced by humanity today. The book argues that Mahavir's teachings are not merely historical relics but offer practical guidance for personal, social, economic, political, philosophical, scientific, psychological, and cultural advancements.

Structure and Content:

The book is divided into nine sections, each focusing on a different facet of Lord Mahavir's life, philosophy, and their modern applicability. The collection features contributions from various scholars and spiritual leaders of the time.

Key Sections and Their Contributions:

Section 1: Life, Personality, and Teachings (Jeevan, Vyaktitva aur Vichar)

Presents the historical context of Lord Mahavir's birth, highlighting the prevalent social and religious conditions of India at that time, marked by violence, superstition, caste discrimination, and the degradation of Dharma into mere ritualism.
Details Mahavir's revolutionary approach to religious and social reforms, challenging existing norms and emphasizing inner purity, self-control, and the equality of all beings regardless of caste, creed, or gender.
Explains Mahavir's core principles: Ahimsa (non-violence), Aparigraha (non-possession), and Anekanta (non-absolutism/multi-faceted view), and their philosophical underpinnings.
Highlights Mahavir's five names (Vardhaman, Sanmati, Vir, Mahavir, Ativir) and their symbolic meanings, connecting them to the progressive journey of a spiritual seeker.
Dr. S. Radhakrishnan emphasizes Mahavir's role as a conqueror of the self, not empires, and his teachings on Sammyagdarshan, Sammyagjnan, and Sammyakcharitra (Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct) as the path to self-realization.
Acharya Rajneesh (Osho) discusses Mahavir's non-sectarian and relativistic (Syadvada) perspective as a revolutionary approach to truth, contrasting it with rigid, dogmatic views. He stresses Mahavir's non-possessive attitude and the emphasis on self-discipline and mindfulness.
Acharya Hazariprasad Dwivedi focuses on Mahavir's exemplary character and self-control (tapasya) as the foundation of leadership and the power of Ahimsa, Adroh, and Maitri (non-violence, non-enmity, and friendliness).
Shri Madhukar Muni describes Mahavir as a provider of the path to salvation, emphasizing his soul-centric (Atma-ashrit) Dharma rather than ritualism. He highlights Mahavir's emphasis on Purusharth (self-effort) and the idea that every soul has the potential to become divine.
Shri Agarchand Nahata discusses Mahavir's timeless messages, emphasizing the need for mutual respect, self-reliance, and living harmoniously with all beings. He highlights the concept of self-responsibility for one's actions and destiny.

Section 2: Social Context (Samajik Sandarbh)

Examines Samata (equality) as Mahavir's core philosophy, applicable in modern contexts, and its role in addressing social and economic disparities.
Discusses Mahavir's emphasis on family values, the role of women in society, and the concept of an ideal family.
Highlights Mahavir's teachings on preventing immorality and the role of his teachings in education, for teachers and students alike.
Explores how Mahavir's ideology can contribute to new social structures.
Acharya Shri Nanalaalji Maharaj discusses the evolution of Samata-darshan (philosophy of equality) and its relevance today, emphasizing the need for both conceptual and practical equality.
Pandit Sukhlal Sanghvi highlights Mahavir's magnanimous legacy, including his emphasis on treating all beings equally and his comprehensive approach to life.
Dr. Bhagchand Jain draws parallels between Mahavir and Mahatma Gandhi, noting Mahavir as a key inspiration for Gandhi's philosophy, particularly regarding Sarvodaya (welfare of all).
Dr. Kusum Lata Jain delves into Mahavir's concept of an ideal family, emphasizing character as its cornerstone.
Dr. Kundanlal Jain analyzes the role of Mahavir's teachings in combating immorality and promoting ethical conduct.
Prof. Kamalkumar Jain discusses Mahavir's vision of education, teachers, and students, advocating for a holistic approach to learning.
Vimala Mehta reflects on Mahavir's progressive views on women's rights and their social status, noting his revolutionary stance in elevating their position.
Shri Virghilal Sethi shares his thoughts on how Mahavir's ideas can contribute to new social structures, emphasizing the principle of sharing and equitable distribution.

Section 3: Economic Context (Arthik Sandarbh)

Explores the parallels between socialist economics and Mahavir's philosophy, particularly his emphasis on non-possession (Aparigraha) and its implications for wealth distribution.
Discusses how to overcome economic, mental, and spiritual poverty through Mahavir's teachings.
Highlights the dignity of labor (Shram-bhav) in Mahavir's teachings.
Shri Shantikumar Mehta connects Mahavir's concept of Aparigraha to modern socialist economic systems, advocating for reduced accumulation and equitable distribution.
Shri Ranjit Singh Koomat addresses the interconnectedness of economic, mental, and spiritual poverty and how to alleviate them.
Shri Shreechand Surana 'Saras' emphasizes the importance of dignity of labor in Mahavir's philosophy.

Section 4: Political Context (Rajnitik Sandarbh)

Examines Mahavir's perspective on a welfare state and its alignment with his life philosophy.
Discusses Mahavir's ideas in the context of peaceful coexistence and their role in its development.
Connects Mahavir's Anekanta viewpoint to the principle of non-alignment.
Explores Mahavir's message for world peace and what current leadership can learn from him.
Highlights the revolutionary spirit of Mahavir and the inspiration it offers to today's revolutionaries.
Dr. Mahendra Sagar Prachandiya links Mahavir's life vision to the concept of a welfare state.
Shri Harishchandra Dak discusses Mahavir's ideas on peaceful coexistence and their relevance in the evolution of international relations.
Dr. Subhash Mishra draws parallels between Mahavir's Anekanta viewpoint and the principles of non-alignment.
Dr. Shanta Bhanavat focuses on Mahavir's message for world peace.
Shri Saubhagyamal Jain reflects on what current leadership can learn from Mahavir.
Shri Mithalal Muradiya discusses the revolutionary aspect of Mahavir's teachings for contemporary reformers.

Section 5: Philosophical Context (Dharshanik Sandarbh)

Focuses on developing inner potential (Beej-shakti), as advocated by Mahavir.
Explores the possibilities for human personality development through Mahavir's perspective.
Discusses Mahavir's view on the true meaning of freedom.
Highlights Mahavir's teachings on personnel freedom and the guidance provided by his message.
Examines the relevance of Mahavir's philosophy in relation to modern philosophical concepts.
Emphasizes the possibility of establishing human values through spiritual science.
Compares Mahavir and Gandhi in the context of Ahimsa.
Acharya Shri Hastimalji M.S. encourages the development of inner potential.
Dr. Chhabinath Tripathi discusses the possibilities for human personality development.
Muni Shri Nathmal clarifies the true meaning of freedom according to Mahavir.
Dr. Devendra Kumar Jain highlights the role of Mahavir's teachings in providing direction and guidance.
Pandit Shrutidev Shastri connects Mahavir's philosophy with modern philosophical ideas.
Shri Devkumar Jain emphasizes spiritual science for establishing human values.
Shri Yashpal Jain compares the dimensions of Ahimsa as presented by Mahavir and Gandhi.

Section 6: Scientific Context (Vaigyanik Sandarbh)

Explores the relationship between Jain philosophy and scientific outlook.
Examines modern science and Jain concepts of matter.
Addresses human problems arising from scientific and technological development and Mahavir's perspective.
Muni Shri Sushilkumar discusses the Jain perspective and scientific outlook.
Dr. Virendra Singh analyzes modern science and Jain notions of matter.
Dr. Ramamurti Tripathi addresses human problems stemming from scientific and technological advancement.

Section 7: Psychological Context (Manovigyanik Sandarbh)

Identifies Mahavir's teachings that remain relevant today.
Presents Mahavir's philosophy from a psychological perspective.
Explores Mahavir's statements on happiness and its location.
Discusses Mahavir's advice for mental health.
Addresses the problem of utilizing leisure time and Mahavir's perspective.
Shri Umesh Muni 'Anu' focuses on Mahavir's timeless wisdom.
Shri Kanhaiyalal Lodha presents Mahavir's philosophy from a psychological viewpoint.
Dr. Hukumchand Bharill discusses Mahavir's insights on happiness and its true nature.
Shri Yagyadatt Akshay highlights Mahavir's advice for mental well-being.
Shri Mahavir Kothiya addresses the issue of utilizing leisure time.

Section 8: Cultural Context (Sanskritik Sandarbh)

Analyzes Mahavir's message in the context of modern circumstances.
Discusses modern times and Lord Mahavir.
Explores the significance of Mahavir's philosophy in current contexts.
Highlights the relevance of Lord Mahavir today.
Poses the question of Mahavir's relevance in today's context.
Considers what the youth can learn from Mahavir.
Discusses folk culture and Lord Mahavir.
Examines Mahavir's perspective on the question of languages.
Dr. Mahavir Saran Jain discusses Mahavir's message in modern circumstances.
Pandit Dalsukh Malvania reflects on modern times and Lord Mahavir.
Dr. Narendra Bhanavat explores the significance of Mahavir's philosophy today.
Dr. Prem Suman Jain analyzes the role of Mahavir's teachings in changing contexts.
Dr. Vishwambarnath Upadhyay highlights the relevance of Lord Mahavir.
Shri Bhanwermal Singhvi questions Mahavir's relevance today.
Shri Chandanmal 'Chand' discusses what youth can learn from Mahavir.
Shri Shreechand Jain explores the connection between folk culture and Lord Mahavir.
Shri Mahdayal Jain presents Mahavir's viewpoint on languages.

Section 9: Discussion (Paricharcha)

A concluding section featuring a discussion among scholars on the motivational power and significance of the values established by Lord Mahavir.
The discussion addresses questions about the values established by Mahavir, their applicability today, and their relevance in various fields.
Acharya Shri Nanalaalji M.S., Shri Rishabhdas Ranka, Shri Ganpatichandra Bhandari, Dr. Kasturchand Kasliwal, Shri Jaykumar Jalaj, Dr. Indraraj Vaid, Dr. Chain Singh Vurla, Dr. Ramgopal Sharma, Dr. Narendra Kumar Singhi, and Dr. Narpat Chand Singhavi participated in this discussion.

Key Themes and Takeaways:

Universality and Timelessness: Mahavir's teachings transcend time, place, and societal structures, offering solutions to perennial human problems.
Holistic Approach: His philosophy encompasses all aspects of life – personal ethics, social harmony, economic justice, political stability, and spiritual liberation.
Inner Transformation: The core of Mahavir's message lies in self-discipline, control of desires, and the purification of the soul as the path to true happiness and liberation.
Ahimsa as a Way of Life: Non-violence is not just the absence of physical violence but extends to thoughts, words, and actions, promoting universal love and compassion.
Equality and Social Justice: Mahavir challenged caste discrimination, gender inequality, and the exploitation of the weak, advocating for a society based on equality and justice.
Anekanta and Syadvada: His multi-faceted approach to truth encourages tolerance, understanding, and peaceful dialogue in a world often divided by rigid viewpoints.
Aparigraha for Economic Harmony: The principle of non-possession and limited accumulation is presented as a solution to economic disparities and greed.
The Power of Self-Effort: Mahavir empowered individuals by emphasizing self-reliance and the potential within each soul to achieve liberation through personal effort.
Relevance to Modern Challenges: The book consistently draws connections between Mahavir's ancient wisdom and modern issues like environmentalism, conflict resolution, and psychological well-being.

In essence, "Bhagavan Mahavir Adhunik Sandarbh Me" serves as a comprehensive compilation showcasing Lord Mahavir as a profound thinker and revolutionary whose teachings remain vitally important for guiding humanity towards a more peaceful, just, and spiritually fulfilling existence.