Bharatiya Rajniti Jain Puran Sahitya Sandarbh Me - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bharatiya Rajniti Jain Puran Sahitya Sandarbh Me" (Indian Politics in the Context of Jain Purana Literature) by Sadhvi Dr. Madhu Smitashreeji, published by Durgadevi Nahta Charity Trust.

Overall Purpose and Scope:

The book is a scholarly exploration of the concept and practice of politics as depicted in Jain Purana literature. It aims to establish Jain Purana literature as a significant source for understanding ancient Indian political thought and institutions, often overlooked in mainstream historical and political science studies. The author meticulously analyzes various Jain texts to present a detailed picture of political structures, theories, and practices within the Jain tradition.

Key Themes and Chapters:

The book is structured into eight chapters, each delving into a specific aspect of Jain political thought:

Chapter 1: Ancient Tradition of Political Science in India: This chapter sets the context by tracing the history of political thought in India, mentioning key texts like Kautilya's Arthashastra, Manusmriti, and the Mahabharata, and highlighting the lineage of political discourse. It emphasizes the need to include Jain literature in this historical overview.
Chapter 2: Introduction to Jain Purana Literature: This chapter provides a foundational understanding of what constitutes "Purana" in Jain tradition, distinguishing it from Puranas in Vedic literature. It discusses the structure, content, and classification of Jain Puranas, highlighting their narrative focus on the lives of "Shalaka Purushas" (exemplary figures) and their historical and cultural value.
Chapter 3: Politics in Jain Purana Literature: This is the core chapter where the author begins to analyze the political elements embedded within Jain Puranas. It explores the concept of time (Kalachakra), the evolution of societal organization from the Yugalika stage to the Kulakara system, and the emergence of political structures like the state and the ruler. It details the different types of punishment (Danda Niti) prevalent during the Kulakara period.
Chapter 4: State and Ruler: This chapter examines the concept of the state and the ruler.
- State: It discusses theories of state origin, particularly the emphasis on the social contract theory in Jainism, viewing the state as a human institution arising from mutual agreement, rather than a divine creation (unlike some Vedic interpretations). It also touches upon different types of states and the functions of the state, such as ensuring peace, order, and the overall development of the populace.
- Ruler: It delves into the importance of the king (Raja), his qualities, the concept of Chakravarti (universal ruler), the significance of the fourteen ratnas (celestial jewels) and nine nidhis (treasures) associated with a Chakravarti, and theories of royal succession and origin. It highlights the king's role as a protector and guide for the people.
Chapter 5: Governance System: This chapter focuses on the administrative machinery of the state.
- Council of Ministers (Mantriparishad): It elaborates on the composition, appointment, qualifications, and functions of the council of ministers, emphasizing their crucial role in advising the king and managing state affairs. It highlights the intelligence and strategic acumen required of ministers.
- Treasury (Kosh): It discusses the importance of the treasury, revenue collection (taxes), and measures to enrich the royal coffers.
- Army or Force (Sena/Bal): It details the composition of the army (Chaturangini Sena – infantry, cavalry, elephants, chariots), the importance of military strategy, and the use of various weapons and fortifications.
Chapter 6: Justice System: This chapter analyzes the judicial framework.
- Justice: Nature and Types: It explains the concept of justice, the role of the king as the supreme judge, and the existence of other judicial officers (Dharmadhikari).
- Crime and Punishment: It describes various types of crimes, particularly theft, and the severe punishments meted out. It discusses the evolution of punitive measures from the Kulakara period to the age of kings, including forms of corporal punishment and imprisonment. It also touches upon the administration of justice in cases of disputes.
Chapter 7: Civic and Defensive Arrangements: This chapter focuses on urban planning and security.
- City Planning: It describes the layout of cities, including streets, markets, gates, and residential areas, emphasizing their meticulous planning for both aesthetic appeal and functionality.
- Defensive Systems: It details the fortifications like moats (Parikha), ramparts (Vapra), walls (Prakara), towers (Attalaka), and gates (Gopura) that were crucial for city defense.
Chapter 8: International Relations: This chapter explores the foreign policy and inter-state relationships.
- International Relations in Peacetime: It discusses diplomatic relations, the role of envoys (Duta), their qualities, types, and functions. It also highlights the importance of spies (Char) in gathering intelligence and maintaining internal and external security. It touches upon the relationships between the central ruler and vassal kings (Samanta Shasak).
- International Relations in Wartime: It analyzes the concept of war, its causes, and different types of warfare. It delves into war strategies, including the Mandala theory (a concept of alliances and rivalries between states, similar to Kautilya's Arthashastra) and the Shadgunya policy (the six political measures: Sandhi, Vigraha, Asana, Yana, Samshraya, Dvaidhibhava). It also examines the four means of dealing with an adversary: Sama (conciliation), Dana (gift), Bheda (dissension), and Danda (punishment).

Key Contributions and Perspectives:

Jain Purana Literature as a Political Source: The book argues that Jain Purana literature, often seen primarily through a religious lens, contains rich insights into political structures, ethics, and practices of ancient India.
Emphasis on Social Contract: It highlights the Jain emphasis on the social contract theory for the origin of the state and kingship, contrasting it with the divine origin theories found in some other Indian traditions.
Ethical Foundation of Politics: The text underscores the Jain perspective that politics should be guided by ethical principles, particularly ahimsa (non-violence), even in times of conflict. While acknowledging the necessity of war and punishment, it emphasizes their use as a last resort and with a focus on restorative justice.
Ideal King and Governance: Jain Puranas often portray ideal kings and governance systems, providing models for righteous rule, administrative efficiency, and the well-being of the subjects.
Detailed Analysis of Statecraft: The book provides a granular analysis of various aspects of governance, from the structure of the army and treasury to the intricate details of judicial procedures and diplomatic missions.
Comparison with Other Traditions: While primarily focused on Jain literature, the author occasionally draws parallels and contrasts with Vedic, Buddhist, and other contemporary political thought to contextualize Jain political ideas.

Overall Significance:

"Bharatiya Rajniti Jain Puran Sahitya Sandarbh Me" is a significant contribution to the understanding of ancient Indian political thought, particularly by bringing to light the often-underestimated political dimensions of Jain Purana literature. It demonstrates the sophistication and ethical depth of Jain political philosophy and its relevance to understanding the broader tapestry of Indian governance and societal structures.