Dev Dravya

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on the concept of "Dev Dravya":

The article "Dev Dravya" by Manu Doshi, published in the Jain Darshan journal, explores the meaning and historical development of the concept of Dev Dravya within Jainism, particularly focusing on its application to temple funds.

Key Points:

• Definition and Confusion: Dev Dravya generally refers to funds specifically earmarked for temple construction and maintenance. However, its precise definition and the rules surrounding its usage have been a source of confusion and debate.
• Historical Origins and Evolution:
  • The original Jain scriptures (Ang Sutras) do not explicitly mention Dev Dravya.
  • The concept likely emerged later, possibly around the 3rd century CE, coinciding with the rise of idol worship and the establishment of Jain temples.
  • In the Shwetambar sect, Chaityaväsis (monks residing in temples) initially managed temple property. Over time, some Yatis (renegade monks) within this group began using temple wealth for personal comfort, potentially leading to stricter interpretations of Dev Dravya.
  • The Karmagranth, composed by Devendrasuri (13th century), mentions "Dev Dravya Haran" (misappropriation of temple wealth) as a cause for Darshanamoham (perception-deluding Karma). The article suggests Devendrasuri did not object to using Dev Dravya for other "wholesome purposes."
  • The Digambar tradition, as evidenced by Jain Laxanävali, does not appear to have the strict concept of Dev Dravya, with Bhattacharyas using temple wealth at their discretion. Sthanakvasis, not believing in idol worship, have no concept of temple wealth.
  • The strict interpretation of Dev Dravya being solely for temple construction/renovation seems to be largely a Shwetambar Moorti poojak tradition, particularly within the Tap Gachchha.
• The Role of Gheeboli and the Strict Interpretation:
  • The practice of Gheeboli (bidding for ritual performance based on quantity of ghee) emerged to boost temple income, possibly during the Mughal period.
  • Around this time, a new interpretation of the Karmagranth verse arose, holding that using Dev Dravya for any other purpose (even religious) would attract extremely long-lasting Mohaniya (deluding) Karma (up to 7000 trillion Sagaropams). This was potentially to ensure temple funds were not diverted.
• Modern Challenges and Debate:
  • Today, there is a surplus of temples, and Dev Dravya (including all income from Gheeboli) accumulates heavily in many pilgrimage sites. This wealth is often inaccessible for other crucial community needs like education or social welfare due to the strict interpretation.
  • The article argues that the severe karmic penalty is associated with misappropriation, not necessarily with using the funds for other "wholesome purposes."
  • There is a strong tradition, but a lack of clear canonical sanctity for the strictest interpretation of Dev Dravya.
  • The article references a debate where Acharya Vallabhsuri suggested income from rituals related to pre-enlightenment stages of the Tirthankaras should not be considered Dev Dravya. This view is not universally accepted.
  • The author poses the question of how Jain Societies in America should approach this, noting that while newcomers from India object to the flexible use of funds, the changing times and places necessitate a re-evaluation.
• Practical Implications:
  • The accumulation of unutilized Dev Dravya poses a risk of governmental takeover (as cited with Kesariäji).
  • The article suggests that income from rituals associated with the pre-Kaivalya (pre-enlightenment) stages of the Tirthankaras (e.g., Mother's dreams, Snatra Pooja) should not be considered Dev Dravya.

In essence, the article traces the historical context of Dev Dravya, highlighting its likely later emergence and the development of a strict interpretation that has led to the accumulation of significant temple funds, while also questioning its absolute canonical basis for all circumstances and suggesting the need for a more flexible and practical approach in contemporary times.