Bramhacharyana Nava Mulyo - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bramhacharyana Nava Mulyo" (New Values of Brahmacharya), authored by Muni Nemichandra and inspired by Muni Shantbal, published by Mahavir Sahitya Prakashan Mandir. The book argues for a re-evaluation and modernization of the concept of Brahmacharya (celibacy/chastity) in Jainism to make it relevant and practical for contemporary society.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and arguments presented in the book:

Core Argument:

The central thesis is that Brahmacharya, while a foundational principle in Jainism and Indian culture, has often been interpreted too narrowly and negatively, leading to social detachment and an incomplete understanding of its potential. The book advocates for a broader, more inclusive, and positive interpretation of Brahmacharya that embraces "new values" and is applicable to both individual and societal development.

Critique of Traditional/Negative Interpretations:

Exclusivity: Traditional interpretations often made Brahmacharya seem like an esoteric practice only for advanced ascetics, isolating it from householders and general society.
Fear and Negativity: Many religious texts and societal norms have fostered a negative view of women, portraying them as sources of temptation or obstacles to Brahmacharya. This led to avoidance, fear, and a breakdown of healthy male-female interactions.
Lack of Holistic Approach: Focusing solely on physical abstinence without addressing mental discipline, emotional well-being, and societal integration leads to an incomplete and often hypocritical practice.

Proposed "New Values" and Positive Interpretations:

Holistic Brahmacharya: Brahmacharya should be seen not just as physical abstinence but as a broader principle of self-control, discipline, and focused effort towards a higher goal (Brahma - the ultimate truth or universal soul).
Interdependence of Sexes (Parspara Purakta): The book strongly emphasizes the complementary nature of men and women. True societal and spiritual progress ("sarvangi sadhana" - all-encompassing spiritual pursuit) requires the balanced participation and mutual support of both sexes. The Ardhanarishwara concept from Hinduism is cited as an example of this integration.
Vatsalya (Affection/Compassion) as a Core Component: Vatsalya is presented as the root of true Brahmacharya, distinguishing it from "vikar" (passion/degeneration) which stems from inertia. Embracing Vatsalya is crucial for societal progress and individual growth.
Respect for Women (Nari Pratishtha): The book argues for elevating the status and role of women in society and within the spiritual fold. It highlights inherent feminine qualities like memory, intelligence, patience, and forgiveness, which are often undervalued. It suggests that the perceived negative traits in women often arise from a lack of appreciation for their positive qualities and a failure to meet their expectations of virtue in men.
Integrative Approach (Not Isolation): Brahmacharya doesn't necessitate complete isolation from the opposite sex. Instead, it calls for respectful, mindful, and purpose-driven interaction, prioritizing "heart-touch" (hridayasparsh) over "body-touch" (sharirasparsh).
Purposeful Brahmacharya: Brahmacharya should be directed towards a greater purpose – be it personal spiritual growth, societal service, or contributing to the well-being of all living beings. This transforms abstinence from a restrictive act into a powerful force for positive change.
Flexibility and Adaptability (Yug-Drishti): While core Jain principles remain constant, their application needs to adapt to the changing times (Yuga-Drishti). Rigid adherence to outdated rules that hinder progress or create hypocrisy is discouraged.
Taking Calculated Risks (Jokham Khedvu): To achieve genuine social transformation and uphold spiritual ideals in the modern era, spiritual leaders and practitioners must be willing to take calculated risks, engage with society, and overcome the fear of criticism or potential misinterpretation. This includes interactions with women in a way that upholds Brahmacharya while serving a greater purpose.
Focus on Mental Discipline: True Brahmacharya is rooted in mental control and the cultivation of positive thoughts and intentions, not just external restrictions.
Role of Brahmacharis/Sadhvis in Social Reform: The book highlights the essential role of well-trained and guided Brahmacharis (male celibates) and Brahmacharinis (female celibates) in addressing societal issues, uplifting women, and promoting positive values.

Examples and Illustrations:

The book draws on various examples from Jain scriptures and historical figures to support its arguments, including:

Bahubali Muni: His solitary penance was incomplete until guided by the female monks Brahmila and Sundari.
Rishabhadeva: The first Tirthankara, who established the four-fold Jain community (monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen), recognizing the necessity of both men and women for societal spiritual development.
Lord Mahavir: His establishment of the four-fold Sangha, including nuns led by Chandanbala, demonstrated the importance of women in establishing a new society.
Vijay Sheth and Vijay Shethani: An ideal couple who practiced a form of Brahmacharya within married life, emphasizing mutual respect and shared spiritual goals.
Mahakashyap and Bhadra: Their story illustrates a disciplined married life focused on spiritual pursuit.
Mirabai: Her devotion and spiritual path, even after marriage, served as an inspiration.
Mahatma Gandhi and Kasturba: Their unique approach to Brahmacharya within marriage for societal service is cited.
Swami Ramakrishna Paramhansa and Sarada Devi: Their spiritual partnership and mutual support for Brahmacharya practice.
Acharya Haribhadra Suri: His deep respect and learning from the nun Yakshini Mahattara.
Vachaspati Misra and his wife Bhamati: His wife's devotion to his work and the resulting philosophical treatise named after her.
Stoicbhadragiri Muni: His interaction with the prostitute Kasha, leading to her spiritual transformation.
Subhadra Sati: Her exemplary chastity and service to a Jain monk.
Shabari: Her devotion and the upliftment she received from Rishi Matanga.
Jesus Christ: His compassionate interactions with women and his establishment of a spiritual order that included women.
The teachings of the Upanishads: Emphasizing the divinity of both men and women.

Conclusion:

"Bramhacharyana Nava Mulyo" is a call for a progressive and integrated understanding of Brahmacharya within Jainism. It urges a shift from fear-based, restrictive interpretations to one that fosters mutual respect, compassion, and active participation of both men and women in spiritual and societal progress. The book advocates for a Brahmacharya that is not about avoiding women but about engaging with them constructively, drawing strength from their unique qualities, and channeling collective energy towards a higher purpose for the betterment of all.