Dev Dravyano Upayog Mumbai Jain Yuvak Mahasangh

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text from the book "Dev Dravyano Upayog" published by Prabuddha Jivan in 1948, focusing on Page 1:

The document primarily outlines a significant resolution passed by the Mumbai Jain Yuvak Sangh (Mumbai Jain Youth Federation) on July 13, 1948, concerning the usage of "Dev Dravya" (temple wealth or temple property). This resolution reflects a modernizing and socially conscious approach to religious wealth within the Jain community.

Key points from the resolution on Dev Dravya usage:

• Reaffirmation of Sangh's Policy: The Mumbai Jain Yuvak Sangh fully supports its existing policy regarding Dev Dravya.
• Critique of Current Practices: The resolution criticizes several practices associated with idol worship and temple upkeep:
  • Veiled Beliefs and Superstitions: It states that superstitions and blind faith behind current idol worship should be removed.
  • Ornamentation and Adornment: The practice of decorating idols with elaborate adornments and offerings is deemed inconsistent with the Jain ideals of idol worship and should be universally prohibited.
  • Unnecessary Construction and Decoration: There is a strong call to stop the excessive expenditure on building new temples and on unnecessary ornamentation in existing ones.
  • Redirection of Surplus Funds: Income from temples maintained simply, as well as accumulated funds, should be utilized for public welfare activities.
• Condemnation of Misappropriation: The Sangh declares that it will not accept donations or contributions from individuals or temples where Dev Dravya is not being used for public welfare. It specifically states that if a temple's income is not being managed for public welfare, donations to its fund-raising efforts will not be accepted by the Sangh.
• Exceptions and Enforcement:
  • While the general policy is strict, the Sangh acknowledges that exceptions might be necessary. However, these exceptions should not weaken the core principle of the Dev Dravya policy.
  • If a rule is found to be hindering the overall welfare or progress of the country or society, efforts will be made to seek amendments or even introduce government laws to ensure compliance with the spirit of the Dev Dravya policy.
  • The Sangh is prepared to take action, including pursuing legal measures if necessary, to ensure strict adherence to the Dev Dravya rule.

Context and Background of the Sangh's Evolution:

The document also provides context for how the Mumbai Jain Yuvak Sangh evolved to reach this stance:

• Inclusivity: Initially, the Sangh primarily comprised members of the Shwetambar Murtipujak Jain community. However, about ten years prior to this resolution, its constitution was revised to open its doors to all three sections of the Jain community (Shwetambar Murtipujak, Shwetambar Sthanakvasi, and potentially Digambar, though Sthanakvasi are explicitly mentioned as joining). This led to increased participation from these other sects and also from women.
• Addressing Internal Dynamics: The Sangh implemented membership and election-related limitations in its early years to ensure adequate representation from the Shwetambar Murtipujak section. However, with the increasing participation of Sthanakvasi members and women, and a perceived reduction in internal distinctions, these limitations are now seen as less relevant.
• Electoral Reforms: To facilitate smoother functioning and representation, the Sangh has increased the power of its Executive Committee to co-opt members after elections. Previously, the committee could add three members; this has been increased to five. This aims to ensure a balanced representation of different community sections in leadership.

Dr. Vrajlal Meghani Memorial:

The document also mentions a resolution regarding the Dr. Vrajlal Meghani Memorial:

• Funds of approximately Rs. 2400 were collected for a memorial to Dr. Meghani.
• A portrait of Dr. Meghani was commissioned for the Sangh's office at a cost of Rs. 200.
• The remaining Rs. 2200, along with Rs. 1000 from Shri Manilal Mokamchand Shah for publishing Meghani's stories, and the original amount plus book sale proceeds from a collection titled "Aal Haiya," have been used.
• A further Rs. 300 was added, bringing the total to Rs. 2500.
• This fund will be used to publish stories by Dr. Meghani or to translate suitable works from Indian or Western literature. The Sangh will offer awards to writers and translators for such works, aiming to publish at least five substantial books.
• The Sastu Sahitya Mudranalaya Trust has also been given funds for publishing.

Overall, the page presents a forward-thinking Jain organization in 1948 that is actively engaging with its religious traditions, advocating for the responsible and socially beneficial use of temple wealth, and striving for greater inclusivity and equitable representation within its community.