Dharmanubandhi Vishva Darshan Pustak 03 Sadhu Samsthani Anivaryata Ane Upayogita - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Dharmanubandhi Vishva Darshan Pustak 03 Sadhu Samsthani Anivaryata ane Upayogita" by Nemichandra Muni, based on the provided pages:

This book, the third in the "Dharmanubandhi Vishva Darshan" series, focuses on the Indispensability and Utility of the Sangha (Monastic Community) of Sadhus. It is based on a series of lectures delivered during a camp for monks and nuns in Matunga, Mumbai.

The core argument of the book is that the Sadhu Sangha (monastic order) is essential and useful for the spiritual and societal development of humanity. The text traces the historical and philosophical underpinnings of this concept, highlighting the role of renunciates in shaping Indian culture and spirituality.

Key themes and arguments presented in the text include:

The Historical Need for Renunciation: The book begins by referencing the Mahabharata, where even after victory, the Pandavas and Draupadi sought peace in the Himalayas. This illustrates a recurring theme throughout history where individuals, even after achieving worldly success, seek a higher spiritual path. Throughout various eras, sages and ascetics renounced worldly comforts to pursue spiritual disciplines and guide society.
Evolution of the Ascetic Ideal: The text discusses the evolution from early hermits and sages living in forests to the more structured monastic orders. It argues that the desire for the "best personality" (shreshth vyaktitva) drove humans towards vanaprastha (forest dwelling) and sanyasa (renunciation). The ideal shifted towards engaging in these pursuits at a younger age, breaking free from temporal bonds, and reaching a state where the dormant soul yearns for spiritual realization.
The Renunciation of Worldly Bonds: To achieve the highest personality and spiritual realization, the text emphasizes the need to renounce worldly attachments: women, wealth, and power. The abandonment of family, business, and kingdom is presented as the foundational step for the Sadhu Sangha.
Challenges and Criticisms of the Sadhu Sangha: While acknowledging the indispensable role of the Sadhu Sangha, the book also addresses the criticisms and potential distortions that have arisen over time. It notes that the focus can shift from spiritual practice to the number of followers or material influence, leading to deviations from the original ideals.
The Modern Context and Competing Ideologies: The text places the Sadhu Sangha in the context of modern ideologies like "Pujvad" (often interpreted as capitalism or materialism) and "Samyavad" (communism/socialism). It argues that while these ideologies offer material benefits, they fail to provide spiritual happiness or foster true personality development.
- Pujvad (Materialism/Capitalism): It creates divisions and animosity between individuals. Material happiness cannot bring inner bliss, a lesson history teaches. Furthermore, the constant fear and insecurity generated by such systems, even with extensive security measures, create a state of perpetual apprehension.
- Samyavad (Communism/Socialism): While seemingly focused on collective well-being, it is characterized as a form of collective authoritarianism that suppresses individual freedom. The text points to examples in Russia, Hungary, and China where suppression and violence occurred due to opposing ideologies. It argues that communism's pursuit of collective happiness through dictatorial means is undesirable and does not lead to the development of the highest human personality.
The Sadhu Sangha as a Beacon of Hope: In the face of these ideologies, the Sadhu Sangha is presented as a ray of hope for the free development of humanity. Despite the diminished influence of the Sangha in the current political climate, the text asserts that the human quest for the highest personality will find fulfillment through the monastic path.
The Role of Sadhus in Society: The book argues that sadhus have tirelessly dedicated themselves to providing true guidance, imparting knowledge, teaching the art of living, and fostering culture in society. This utility of the Sadhu Sangha is considered significant.
Criticisms and Misuse: The text acknowledges that the Sadhu Sangha has also been associated with superstitions, harms, selfishness, and injustices, leading to its misuse. However, it suggests that the instances of misuse are fewer than those of proper utilization. The misuse of such a revered institution for personal gain or sustenance is deemed an unforgivable offense in this rational age.
The Need for Awareness and Relevance: The book emphasizes the need to awaken the Sadhu Sangha and present its indispensability and relevance in the modern era. The discussions in the shibirs and the subsequent compilation into this book aim to achieve this.
The Historical Role of Sadhus in India: The text highlights how the consistent presence of sadhus and renunciates has been instrumental in shaping and sustaining Indian culture and society. They are credited with providing moral guidance, upholding ethical principles, and acting as custodians of culture.
The Four Pillars of Jain Monasticism: The book discusses the fourfold structure of the Jain monastic order (Sangha) as essential for its functioning and outreach.
The Importance of Self-Realization and Other-Welfare: The text strongly advocates for the dual purpose of the Sadhu Sangha: achieving self-liberation (atma kalyan) and working for the welfare of others (para kalyan). It cites the example of Tirthankaras like Mahavir, who despite achieving self-realization, dedicated 30 years to guiding and uplifting society.
The Four Types of Individuals in Service: Referencing the Sthananga Sutra, the text categorizes individuals based on their service (vaiyavrittya): those who serve only themselves, those who serve only others, those who serve both, and those who serve neither. The ideal sadhu is presented as one who serves both.
The Need for Active Engagement and Social Reform: The book critiques passive renunciation and argues for the need for sadhus to be actively involved in social reform, combatting societal ills like violence, dishonesty, and injustice. They must raise their voice against societal decay and, if necessary, make sacrifices to awaken public consciousness.
Examples of Active Sadhus: The text provides examples of active sadhus like Muni Santbalji, who actively participated in social welfare, and the historical figures like Muni Harikeshi, Muni Sudarshan, Muni Angulimal, and Lord Mahavir and Buddha, who directly intervened in societal problems to promote righteousness and non-violence.
The Role of Sadhus in Different Spheres: The book details the utility of the Sadhu Sangha in various spheres:
- Religious Sphere: Providing moral guidance and upholding religious principles.
- Social Sphere: Acting as societal custodians, guiding moral conduct, resolving conflicts, and fostering social harmony. The text cites historical examples of Jain acharyas like Hemchandracharya and Ratnaprabhasuri who influenced kings and society towards righteous living.
- Political Sphere: Guiding rulers towards Dharma and justice, and acting as checks and balances against corruption and unrighteousness, even resorting to external alliances when necessary for the protection of the faith. The examples of Kalkacharya and Hemchandracharya are highlighted.
- Economic Sphere: While renouncing personal wealth, sadhus are seen as having a role in guiding ethical economic practices, promoting fair distribution, and combating exploitation. They should not be beholden to the wealthy or powerful.
- Cultural Sphere: Protecting and propagating culture, as exemplified by the patrons of arts and architecture from the Praguat (Poriwal) and Oswal communities, inspired by Jain acharyas.
- Spiritual Sphere: Guiding individuals towards self-realization and liberation, emphasizing the interconnectedness of all souls and the principle of universal love and compassion. The text critiques the narrow, individualistic approach to spirituality and advocates for a broader understanding that includes the welfare of all beings.
The Need for a "Clear Path" (Spasht Marg): The book advocates for a "clear path" that goes beyond mere passive renunciation or limited activism. This path involves active engagement with societal issues, guided by spiritual principles, without compromising core tenets like non-violence and detachment. It necessitates understanding the prevailing socio-political and economic conditions and offering guidance accordingly.
The Importance of Personal Conduct and the Role of the Sangha: The text emphasizes that the utility of the Sadhu Sangha ultimately depends on the conduct of its members. While individual renunciates must maintain strict discipline, the collective strength of the Sangha is crucial for societal impact.
The Challenge of Modernity and Materialism: The book acknowledges the challenges posed by modern materialism and the decreasing reverence for the monastic order. It calls for sadhus to adapt and remain relevant by actively engaging with contemporary issues while upholding their core principles.
The Role of Women in Spiritual and Social Reform: The text recognizes the significant role women can play in spiritual and social reform, citing examples and advocating for their empowerment within the monastic framework.
The Call for a Renewed Commitment: Ultimately, the book is a call to the Sadhu Sangha to re-evaluate its role, shed complacency and sectarianism, embrace clarity of purpose, and actively engage in societal upliftment through the "clear path" of universal love, righteous conduct, and spiritual guidance.

In essence, the book argues for a dynamic and engaged monasticism that actively participates in the moral and spiritual regeneration of society, drawing strength from its core principles while adapting to the changing times. It emphasizes that the true utility of the Sadhu Sangha lies in its ability to inspire, guide, and reform society, not through worldly power or material wealth, but through unwavering spiritual discipline and selfless service.