Dhan Vishe Buddhanu Nirikshan - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Dhan Vishe Buddhanu Nirikshan" by Bechardas Doshi:

This Jain text, "Dhan Vishe Buddhanu Nirikshan" (Observation of Lord Buddha on Wealth), authored by Bechardas Doshi, draws upon Buddhist teachings, specifically from the Anguttara Nikaya, to present a profound perspective on wealth, contrasting the common understanding of material riches with a higher, spiritual form of wealth.

The text recounts an incident where Lord Buddha was residing at Jetavana, the Anathapindika's monastery, in Shravasti. He summoned his Bhikkhus (monks) and declared that they should not feel inferior or destitute. Buddha asserted that the wealth they possessed was far greater than that of wealthy householders. He then elaborated on seven types of wealth that the Bhikkhus possessed:

Shraddha Dhan (Wealth of Faith): This refers to the unwavering faith the Bhikkhus have in the scriptures, the teachings of the Tathagata (Buddha), and their path towards Nirvana. This faith acts as a guiding force, enabling their spiritual journey.
Sheel Dhan (Wealth of Morality/Virtue): This signifies the wealth derived from practicing morality and self-discipline. By adhering to ethical conduct without expecting worldly rewards, they enrich the monastic community (Sangha).
Lajja Dhan (Wealth of Shame/Modesty): This is the wealth of having a sense of shame or modesty regarding unethical actions. This inner quality helps them maintain their adherence to certain practices and uphold their vows.
Dakshinya Dhan (Wealth of Compassion/Kindness/Prudence): This wealth is characterized by acting with prudence and kindness. Even if the immediate fruits of certain actions are not apparent, the Bhikkhus follow the path shown by the Tathagata, who achieved enlightenment through such actions, demonstrating a compassionate and wise approach.
Shrut Dhan (Wealth of Learning/Knowledge): This encompasses the knowledge gained through scriptural study and intellectual pursuit. This wisdom allows them to maintain mindfulness, discipline, and proper conduct in their spiritual practice.
Tyag Dhan (Wealth of Renunciation): This is the wealth acquired through the voluntary renunciation of worldly desires, sensual pleasures, and material possessions. The text highlights that many Bhikkhus were formerly impoverished but renounced their desires and embraced the monastic life for the purification of their minds, thus possessing this significant wealth.
Prajna Dhan (Wealth of Wisdom/Insight): This is the most valuable and special wealth. Wisdom enables Bhikkhus to engage with their spiritual practices with deep interest and make even seemingly mundane rituals meaningful and enjoyable, leading them joyfully towards Nirvana.

Buddha concluded by emphasizing that by possessing these seven types of wealth, the Bhikkhus were, in fact, richer than any materialistically wealthy person. Their wealth not only benefited themselves but also served as a means to bring about the welfare of humanity.

In essence, the text shifts the definition of true wealth from material possessions to inner virtues, knowledge, and spiritual attainments, highlighting the profound richness that lies in the path of renunciation and wisdom as exemplified by Lord Buddha and his disciples.