Dharm Ki Diksha

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text "Dharm Ki Diksha" by Dr. Bhagvatilal Purohit:

Core Argument: True Dharma is Practical and Beneficial to Humanity

The text "Dharm Ki Diksha" (The Direction of Dharma) by Dr. Bhagvatilal Purohit argues that the true essence and purpose of Dharma lie not in ritualistic practices or rigid adherence to tradition, but in its active, practical application for the betterment of society and humanity. Dharma's efficacy is measured by its locopayoga (usefulness to the people) and its ability to guide individuals and society towards righteousness and well-being.

The Role of Sadhus and the Evolution of Rules:

• The Purpose of Sadhus: The text begins by defining Sadhus (religious scholars and preachers) as those dedicated to the welfare of others. Their pursuit of Dharma often leads them to renounce worldly ties, as the demanding task of acquiring and propagating religious knowledge and philosophy cannot be easily accomplished while bound by domestic responsibilities. This renunciation has historically earned them respect in India.
• Preserving and Evolving Knowledge: These religious scholars have historically protected religious scriptures, contemplated religious and philosophical ideas, and created new texts, laying down new paths of knowledge. They also establish rules for conduct, both for ascetics and householders, which are adaptive to the times and circumstances.
• The Danger of Rigid Tradition: However, the author warns that over time, these rules can become ossified into rudhi (tradition/custom). Once a rule becomes a tradition, its relevance and rationality are no longer questioned, leading to blind faith (andhvishwas). Blindly following tradition can lead to pitfalls and mistakes, and the responsibility lies with those who choose to be "blind" despite having the faculty of sight.
• The Courage to Break Tradition: The text emphasizes that breaking away from blind faith and rigid traditions requires immense courage. Those who undertake this task, whether ascetics or householders living virtuous lives within society, are the true Sadhus.

Dharma's Path Towards Societal Relevance:

• Broad Perspective and Societal Orientation: For Dharma to be meaningful, it must be guided by awareness and possess a broad perspective. Its philanthropic currents need to be oriented towards society and the nation, making it more beneficial to the public.
• Beyond Rituals: While prayer and rituals might be symbols of Dharma, they should not become its ultimate goal. If Dharma becomes solely about rituals, it loses its utility to society.
• Action in Times of Peace and Unrest: Dharma should not only guide ethical conduct during peaceful times but also actively promote it during periods of unrest. This requires courage to speak truth to power and to engage with challenging situations.
• Ahimsa as a Path, Not an Idol: The author uses Mahatma Gandhi as an example of someone who embodied true Dharma through his practice of Ahimsa (non-violence). Ahimsa, according to the text, is not an object of worship to be passively revered; it is a path to be actively practiced and lived. Its true value is realized when it is applied during times of need.
• Combating Corruption and Immorality: The text strongly condemns the prevalence of corruption and the hiding of truth, likening it to the sun being covered by a golden vessel. The true path of a Sadhu involves removing this veil. It criticizes the greed that leads to accumulation (parigrahi) and the detrimental effects it has on many.
• Addressing Social Ills: The author calls for specific action against social evils like the dowry system and rape. He argues that if Dharma can divert people from these "hateful paths," then its teachings, scriptures, and sermons are meaningful. Otherwise, they are rendered useless.
• Consequences of Inaction: The text asserts that when societal evils escalate and religious authorities remain silent, it is an implicit acceptance of these wrongs. Society seeks guidance, and true guides must step forward.
• The Power of Intellect and Sacrifice: Those who possess intellect, a spirit of sacrifice, and strong self-power are the ones who can effectively lead and guide. They are the ones who will achieve success.
• Mutual Expectations: Just as Dharma expects certain things from people, people also have expectations from Dharma. Dharma is only truly meaningful when it is genuinely oriented towards public welfare.
• True Dharma: Sat, Shiv, Sundar: Ultimately, the text concludes that true Dharma serves humanity's progress. It is that which is Sat (truth), Shiv (auspicious/good), and Sundar (beautiful). Dharma exists not for itself, but for the elevation of humankind.