Dev Dravyani Parampara Rudhi

This comprehensive summary of Bechardas Doshi's work "Dev Dravyani Parampara Rudhi" (The Tradition and Limitations of Dev Dravya) is based on the provided Jain text:

Overview of the Text

"Dev Dravyani Parampara Rudhi" by Bechardas Doshi, published in 1948 by Prabuddha Jivan, is a critical examination of the Jain tradition's practices and beliefs, specifically focusing on the concept of "Dev Dravya" (wealth or property dedicated to a deity). The author argues that many Jain traditions have become detached from their original scriptural basis and are perpetuated merely due to their customary existence. The text strongly advocates for re-evaluating these traditions in light of changing times, social context, and practical utility, emphasizing experience and logic over blind adherence to the past.

Core Arguments and Themes

1. Critique of Blind Adherence to Tradition (Rudhi):

   • The author begins by stating that many Jain traditions are followed simply because they have always been followed, regardless of whether they have scriptural backing or benefit society.
   • He contrasts "lucky" words and concepts that are self-evident and integrated into daily life (like "black market," "bribe," "falsehood," "immorality") with "unlucky" words like "Harijan," "idol," "date," and "Dev Dravya," which often lead to questioning their scriptural origin and meaning.
   • The text criticizes a tendency among some Jains to rigidly adhere to the literal interpretation of scriptures, even when it leads to social disruption and hinders the proper use of accumulated wealth like Dev Dravya.

2. The Nature and Origin of "Dev Dravya":

   • The term "Dev Dravya" is analyzed as a compound of "Dev" (deity) and "Dravya" (wealth/substance).
   • The author points out that in Jain tradition, the revered deities are those free from attachment and aversion (like Tirthankaras). Such liberated beings, by definition, cannot possess or require "Dravya."
   • This leads to the question: if Tirthankaras are detached, why does the concept of "Dev Dravya" exist?

3. Historical Context and the Rise of "Chaityavas":

   • The text delves into the historical development of Jain practices, linking the concept of Dev Dravya to the emergence of "Chaityavas" (monks residing in Chaityas or temples).
   • Initially, Chaityas were likely built as memorials. However, as monks began to reside in them to disseminate religious teachings to the populace, these Chaityas became places of worship and required maintenance.
   • This led to donations from devotees, initially in the form of land, and later cash. The practice of offering ghee for lamps in Chaityas evolved into a means of accumulating cash.
   • The author cites Acharya Haribhadra Suri (around the 8th century AD) as a key figure who criticized the degenerate practices of these Chaityavas.

4. Critique of Degenerate Chaityavas by Acharya Haribhadra Suri:

   • The text extensively quotes Haribhadra Suri's description of Chaityavasis (monks living in Chaityas), highlighting their deviation from ascetic ideals. These monks were described as engaging in worldly activities, accumulating wealth, wearing decorative clothes, singing before women, enjoying luxurious food, and generally acting like worldly figures rather than ascetics.
   • Haribhadra Suri explicitly states that the term "Dev Dravya" is a "kalpit" (invented) concept, created by the followers of deities.
   • He labels these monks not as ascetics but as "pet-fillers" (pitbharae) and "unrestrained" (maryada vagerna).

5. The Meaning and Proper Use of "Dev Dravya" according to Acharya Haribhadra:

   • Acharya Haribhadra defines "Jindravya" (another term for Dev Dravya) as that which promotes "Pravachan" (the teachings of the Jinas).
   • "Pravachan" itself is defined as the collective body of virtues, the community (Sangha), the tradition (Tirth), and the spiritual qualities of the followers.
   • Therefore, Dev Dravya should be used for:
     • The progress and well-being of the Sangha (community).
     • The promotion of knowledge and learning (Vidya).
     • The enhancement of spiritual perception and character (Darshan Guna).
   • The author notes that Haribhadra Suri presented these as interconnected aspects, but modern institutions often focus solely on "Darshan Guna" (idolatry/worship) to the exclusion of Sangha and Vidya.

6. Comparison with Idol Worship (Murti Puja):

   • The author draws a parallel between the tradition of Dev Dravya and Murti Puja (idol worship).
   • He states that the original Jain scriptures (Agamas) lack any explicit affirmative verses for Murti Puja, with only a few scattered stories mentioning celestial beings worshipping idols.
   • He suggests that the practice of Murti Puja, like Dev Dravya, likely entered Jainism due to the influence of the Vedic tradition.
   • He likens an idol to a tool – like a broom for cleaning or a ladder for climbing – that is merely an aid to spiritual practice, not the ultimate goal itself. The current practice, he argues, focuses on decorating the tool rather than using it for its intended purpose.

7. The Call for Reform and Wider Usage:

   • The author urges for a broader interpretation and application of Dev Dravya, aligning with Acharya Haribhadra's teachings.
   • He believes that Dev Dravya should be used for the development of all aspects of the Jain faith – the Sangha, knowledge, and spiritual practice – not just confined to ritualistic worship.
   • He laments that current practices often neglect the Sangha and the propagation of knowledge, focusing solely on outward rituals.
   • He argues that the scriptures do not prohibit the use of Dev Dravya for societal benefit, especially when it aids in the dissemination of knowledge and the strengthening of the community.
   • He concludes with a strong plea to Jain leaders and institutions to reform the tradition of Dev Dravya and Murti Puja, advocating for its extensive use for the progress of the Sangha and the spread of knowledge in the 21st century, lest they be ridiculed by future generations.

Overall Message

"Dev Dravyani Parampara Rudhi" is a powerful call for intellectual and practical reform within Jainism. It challenges the unquestioning acceptance of traditions, emphasizing the need for critical evaluation, historical understanding, and the practical application of religious principles for the betterment of society and the propagation of knowledge. The author relies heavily on the authority of past acharyas like Haribhadra Suri to advocate for a more dynamic and relevant engagement with religious concepts like Dev Dravya.