Devdravyadisiddhi Aparnam Bechar Hitshiksha - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Devdravyadisiddhi Aparnam Bechar Hitshiksha," based on the provided pages and catalog link:

Book Title: Devdravyadisiddhi Aparnam Bechar Hitshiksha (देवद्रव्यादिसिद्धि अपरनाम बेचरहितशिक्षा)

Authors: Sarupchand Dolatram Shah, Ambalal Jethalal Shah

Publisher: Sha Sarupchand Dolatram Mansa

Core Argument and Purpose:

The book is a strong defense of Jain principles, particularly concerning the concept of Devdravya (देवद्रव्य), which refers to wealth or offerings dedicated to the divine or religious institutions. It directly refutes the views presented by an individual named Bechardas, who, according to the text, was spreading incorrect and harmful ideas about Jainism, especially regarding Devdravya, the validity of ancient scriptures, and the practices of revered Jain acharyas. The book aims to:

Preserve and uphold the sanctity of Devdravya: It argues that Devdravya is a legitimate and ancient concept within Jainism, supported by numerous scriptural references and historical practices.
Counter misinformation and "Tamastaran" (तमस्तरण): The text is largely a response to a critique by Bechardas, who allegedly labeled the practices of revered Jain acharyas and the core tenets of Jainism as "Tamastaran," meaning navigating in darkness or ignorance. The book vehemently rejects this characterization.
Educate the Jain laity: It seeks to provide clear, scripturally-backed explanations to protect the Jain community from the deceptive and harmful views of individuals like Bechardas, whom the authors consider to be misguided or malicious.
Reaffirm the authority of ancient Jain scriptures and acharyas: The book repeatedly cites the works of prominent Jain scholars and monks from various traditions to validate its points, asserting that these are the true interpretations, not the later, misguided ones.

Key Themes and Arguments:

The Universality of Suffering and the Path to Liberation: The book begins by emphasizing the pervasive suffering in the cycle of rebirth (samsara) and highlights the importance of Samyaktva (सम्यक्त्व) (right faith) as the primary means to overcome it. It criticizes mithyatva (false belief) as the root cause of bondage.
The Validity of Devdravya:
- The authors present numerous scriptural proofs from various Jain texts (e.g., Bhaktaprajna Sutra, Rayapraseni Sutra, Vyavahar Bhashya, Nishith Sutra, Bhagavati Sutra, Shorashaka Sutra, Srimad Haribhadrasuri's works, Shrimal Charitra, Tri-shasti-shalaka-purusha-charitra, Shraddh Din Kritya, Karma Grantha, etc.) to demonstrate that the concept of dedicating wealth for religious purposes (Devdravya) has existed since the time of the earliest Tirthankaras (like Munisuvrat Swami and Dharmanath Swami) and is deeply ingrained in Jain tradition.
- They explain that Devdravya is used for the upkeep of temples, idols, scriptures, and the support of the monastic community.
- They address Bechardas' argument that since Tirthankaras are vitaraga (free from passions) they cannot have "property" or "wealth" related to them. The authors counter that Devdravya is not the personal wealth of the Tirthankara but rather offerings made by devotees out of love and devotion, which then are utilized for religious purposes. They draw parallels with how even secular rulers accept offerings.
Refutation of Bechardas' Claims:
- "Tamastaran": Bechardas' assertion that the path followed by revered acharyas and the Jain community is "Tamastaran" is vehemently denied. The authors argue that Bechardas, by rejecting scriptural truths and established practices, is the one who is truly lost in darkness.
- Chaitra (चैत्य) meaning: Bechardas' attempt to redefine "Chaitra" as only a memorial structure for deceased ascetics, rather than religious temples, is debunked with scriptural evidence showing that Chaitras were places of worship for Tirthankaras and were located in cities and villages.
- Murtis (Idols): Bechardas' claims that ancient Murtis were simple, lacked adornments, and that distinctions between Shvetambara and Digambara Murtis were later additions are rejected. The book provides evidence from scriptures and historical texts that ornate Murtis and the practice of adorning them were prevalent from ancient times.
- Rethinking of Practices due to "Vishama Kaal" (विषम काल): Bechardas' argument that certain practices were adopted by monks due to difficult times and to maintain their self-interest is dismissed. The authors argue that while some practices might adapt to changing times, core principles and scriptural mandates remain, and the actions of the great acharyas were guided by genuine devotion and adherence to Dharma, not by self-interest.
- "Kriya Uddhar" (क्रिया उद्धार): Bechardas' attempt to use the term "Kriya Uddhar" (reformation or modification of practices) to justify his deviation from established norms is refuted. The authors explain that Kriya Uddhar refers to a genuine effort to restore righteous conduct within the monastic order, not to abandon fundamental principles.
- Reading of Scriptures by Laity: The text strongly argues that while laypeople can listen to scriptures explained by learned monks (Gitaarth), they are generally not permitted to read and interpret complex scriptures independently, as it can lead to misunderstanding and error, as exemplified by Bechardas himself.
The Role of the Jain Path: The book repeatedly emphasizes that Jain Dharma is characterized by adherence to the teachings of the Tirthankaras, reverence for scriptures, and the guidance of enlightened acharyas. It warns against following the path of those who distort these principles for personal gain or due to ignorance.
Critique of "Jain Patra" (Jain Newspaper): The authors express strong disapproval of the "Jain Patra" newspaper for publishing Bechardas' views without proper scrutiny, thus contributing to the spread of misinformation and damaging the reputation of Jainism.

Structure and Tone:

The book is polemical in nature, directly confronting and refuting Bechardas' arguments point by point. It uses extensive scriptural citations and logical reasoning to build its case. The tone is passionate and protective of Jain traditions, expressing concern for the spiritual well-being of the community and disappointment with those who spread falsehoods. The authors consider themselves to be acting out of a sense of duty and compassion to guide the Jain populace.

In essence, "Devdravyadisiddhi Aparnam Bechar Hitshiksha" is a scholarly and passionate defense of core Jain doctrines, using scriptural authority and logical argumentation to refute a contemporary critique and safeguard the faith from what it perceives as damaging misinformation.