Bhagwan Mahavir Tatha Mansahar Parihar - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bhagwan Mahavir tatha Mansahar Parihar" by Hiralal Duggad, based on the provided pages:

This book, published by Shri Atmanand Jain Sabha, Punjab, is a detailed rebuttal against the accusation that Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar of Jainism and a proponent of Ahimsa (non-violence), consumed meat. The central argument revolves around the interpretation of specific passages in Jain scriptures, particularly the Bhagavati Sutra, which some scholars, like Dharmanand Kosambi, have misinterpreted to suggest Mahavir's meat consumption.

Core Argument and Rebuttal:

The Accusation: The book addresses the claim, notably put forth by Dharmanand Kosambi in his book "Bhagwan Buddha," that Lord Mahavir consumed meat for medicinal purposes. This claim is based on a verse in the Bhagavati Sutra (15th Sataka) which mentions Lord Mahavir asking his disciple, Muni Singh, to fetch something for him from the house of Revati, a laywoman. The problematic phrase is "majjara-kadaye kukkudamsae" ("made with cat" and "chicken meat").
The Rebuttal: The author, Hiralal Duggad, argues that this is a misinterpretation based on a lack of understanding of Jain scriptural language, the nature of medicinal substances, and the strict principles of Ahimsa followed by Jain monks and laypeople.
- Linguistic Ambiguity: Sanskrit and Prakrit languages are rich in words with multiple meanings (anekarthi). Words, especially those formed from compound roots, can have meanings entirely different from their literal components. The interpretation of "kukkudamsae" as "chicken meat" is presented as an anarth (wrong meaning).
- Context is Key: The book emphasizes the importance of considering the context, circumstances, intent, and the speaker/listener's background when interpreting any scripture.
- Re-interpreting the Verse: The book meticulously analyzes the verse, presenting the interpretation supported by ancient Jain scholars and commentators like Acharya Abhaydevsuriji.
  - "Kapot": The word "kapot" or "kapot-sarira" is explained as referring not to a pigeon's body but to a type of medicinal vegetable, specifically kushmanda (ash gourd/pumpkin) or a similar medicinal fruit. The text notes that "kapot" can refer to plants like Pariha, Peetha, or even Lavanga (cloves) when used in a medicinal context.
  - "Majjara-kadaye": This is interpreted not as "made by a cat" but as "prepared with majjara" or "marjara", a specific medicinal herb (possibly related to Lavanga or Vidalika) used to counteract wind or other ailments. The preparation method is described as being "sanskarit" (processed or consecrated).
  - "Kukkudamsae": This is argued to refer to a specific type of medicinal preparation derived from a plant known as kukkuta or madhukukkuti, which is identified as bijora (citron) or a similar citrus fruit. The "meat" (mamsa) part refers to the edible pulp or flesh of the fruit.
- Medicinal Properties: The book extensively quotes Ayurvedic texts to demonstrate that the symptoms Lord Mahavir was experiencing (blood-bile disorder, fever, burning sensation) were aggravated by meat and other non-vegetarian substances. Conversely, preparations from specific plants like kushmanda and bijora (citron) were considered effective remedies.
- Lord Mahavir's Strict Adherence to Ahimsa: The book highlights Lord Mahavir's life as a testament to extreme Ahimsa. Jain monks (nirgranthas) are described as meticulously avoiding harm to even the smallest beings, observing strict vows, and refraining from using anything that involves violence. The text argues that for someone so dedicated to Ahimsa, consuming meat, even for medicine, would be unthinkable.
- Revati's Virtuous Character: Revati is portrayed as a devoted laywoman (shravika) who earned great merit through her virtuous conduct and the donation of pure ( prasuk) medicine. The interpretation of her offering meat would contradict her character and the Jain principles of righteous donation.
- Digambar Perspective: The book notes that even the Digambar sect of Jainism, known for its stricter interpretations, acknowledges the medicinal nature of Revati's offering and praises it as a source of merit.

Key Themes and Supporting Arguments:

The Importance of Ahimsa: The book strongly reiterates that Ahimsa is the cornerstone of Jainism, influencing every aspect of its philosophy and practice. It cites the quotes of prominent figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Radha Vinod Paul praising Jainism for its profound commitment to Ahimsa.
Jain Way of Life: The text details the disciplined lifestyle of Jain monks (shravaka) and lay followers (shravika), emphasizing their strict vegetarianism, avoidance of night-meals, and adherence to twelve vows, including the vow against violence.
Historical Context of Words: The book traces the etymology and evolving meanings of words like "mamsa" (meat), "matsya" (fish), and "amisha" in ancient Indian literature, showing how "mamsa" initially referred to edible parts of plants or even symbolic preparations, and only later predominantly came to mean animal flesh.
Refutation of Kosambi's Claims: The author directly confronts Kosambi's misinterpretations and calls them a "ridiculous attempt" to prove Mahavir and his followers were meat-eaters. The book suggests Kosambi's biased views stemmed from his deep admiration for Buddhism and a desire to elevate Buddha by diminishing Mahavir.
The Role of Commentators: The book highlights that ancient Jain commentators consistently interpreted these controversial passages in a way that upheld the principles of Ahimsa, often attributing botanical or medicinal meanings to the words.
Consequences of Misinterpretation: The book warns that such misinterpretations can lead to doubt and undermine the faith of followers, potentially encouraging a lax approach to Ahimsa.
Call for Correct Understanding: The author aims to provide a clear, evidence-based explanation to correct historical inaccuracies and defend the purity of Jain teachings.

Structure of the Book:

The book is structured into sections that systematically dismantle the accusation:

Introduction to Jain Ethics and Lord Mahavir: Discusses Jain Ahimsa, the conduct of Jain householders (shravaka), monks (nirgrantha), and Lord Mahavir's ascetic life.
Refutation of the Meat-Eating Accusation: This is the main part, analyzing the disputed passages, presenting the views of Jain scholars, and providing etymological and scientific/Ayurvedic evidence.
Conclusion: Summarizes the findings and reiterates the absolute incompatibility of meat consumption with Jain principles.

In essence, "Bhagwan Mahavir tatha Mansahar Parihar" is a scholarly defense of Jain principles, specifically addressing and refuting the false accusation of Lord Mahavir's meat consumption by providing a thorough linguistic, historical, and doctrinal analysis of the relevant scriptural passages.