Dharmik Vahivat Vichar

Certainly! Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Dharmik Vahivat Vichar" by Chandrashekharvijayji, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Dharmik Vahivat Vichar (Religious Administration Thoughts) Author: Pandit Chandrashekharvijayji Publisher: Kamal Prakashan Trust Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/009225/1

Overall Summary:

"Dharmik Vahivat Vichar" is a detailed treatise on the proper administration of religious properties and funds within the Jain community, specifically focusing on the Shvetambar Murtipujak tradition. Authored by Pandit Chandrashekharvijayji and edited by Muni Divyavallabhvijayji, with the blessings and revisions of several prominent Acharyas, this book aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of managing Jain religious institutions according to scriptural guidelines.

The book is structured to systematically explain the management of religious assets across fourteen distinct fields (Kshetras). It addresses the principles of financial management, the qualifications required for trustees and administrators, and delves into the specifics of each of the fourteen areas through detailed explanations and a question-and-answer format.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Qualities of Administrators and Trustees: The book begins by outlining the essential virtues and qualifications required for individuals involved in managing religious affairs. These include honesty, adherence to Jain principles, knowledge of scriptures, integrity, charitable nature, purity of conduct, and the guidance of learned monks. It emphasizes the importance of selfless service and warns against greed, corruption, and involvement in unethical practices.

2. The Fourteen Fields (Chaud Kshetras) of Religious Administration: The core of the book is dedicated to detailing the fourteen areas where religious funds and properties are to be managed. These are categorized into:

   • Seven General/Common Fields (Sadhāran Khātā):

     1. Jinpratimā (Idols of Tirthankaras)
     2. Jinmandir (Temples)
     3. Jināgam (Scriptures/Agamas)
     4. Sadhu (Monks)
     5. Sādhvi (Nuns)
     6. Shravak (Lay male followers)
     7. Shravikā (Lay female followers)

   • Seven Auspicious/General Fields (Shubh/Sarva-sādhāraṇ Khātā): 8. Pauṣadhshālā/Upāśray (Monastic residences/Halls for religious observances) 9. Pāṭhshālā (Schools for religious education) 10. Āyambil Khātā (Account for the vow of consuming food prepared with specific grains and water during fasting periods) 11. Kālkrut Khātā (Contributions for specific periods or festivals) 12. Niśhrākrut Khātā (Contributions for specific spiritual guidance or services) 13. Anukampā Khātā (Compassion/Charity for the needy, especially non-Jains) 14. Jivdayā Khātā (Animal welfare/Protection of living beings)

3. Detailed Explanation and Q&A: For each of the fourteen fields, the book provides:

   • Explanation: A description of the nature of the asset and how its funds should be used according to scriptures.
   • Question & Answer Section: A comprehensive list of questions commonly arising in the administration of these fields, with detailed answers based on scriptural interpretations and traditional practices. This section addresses many practical dilemmas faced by religious institutions.

4. Key Principles and Debates:

   • Devdravya (Temple Assets): The book extensively discusses the use of temple funds, including the debate on whether donations for specific rituals (like Swapan Utsav, Anjan Shalaka) are categorized as 'Kalpit Devdravya' and can be used for temple maintenance, salaries of priests, or even construction. It clarifies the scriptural basis for these practices.
   • Distinction between Funds: A significant portion emphasizes the need to maintain strict accounting and segregation of funds between different categories (e.g., Devdravya vs. Sadhāran Khātā). It clarifies that funds from higher categories cannot be diverted to lower ones, but vice-versa might be permissible in emergencies.
   • Trusteeship and Governance: The book outlines the responsibilities and ethical conduct expected of trustees, stressing the importance of scriptural adherence over personal gain or popular opinion. It discusses the drawbacks of elections in temple trusts and suggests alternative methods for trustee selection.
   • Importance of Shravak/Shravika: It highlights the crucial role of lay followers, particularly the wisdom and devotion of Shravikas, in supporting and upholding Jainism.
   • Debates on Practices: The Q&A section tackles contentious issues like the use of temple funds for the well-being of priests, the creation of community halls (Upaśray) for events, the use of temple property, the necessity of pristine Jain idols, the administration of 'Jivdaya' funds, and the financial challenges faced by Jain institutions.
   • Role of the Community: It stresses the collective responsibility of the Jain community in supporting religious institutions, ensuring the proper utilization of funds, and promoting religious education.
   • Modern Challenges: The book also touches upon contemporary issues, such as the impact of modern education on scriptural learning, the need for well-managed educational institutions for children, and the challenges of maintaining religious purity in the face of modern influences.

5. Appendices and References: The book includes appendices with detailed scriptural references, letters from esteemed Acharyas, and discussions on resolutions passed at key Jain conferences (like the 2044 Vikram Samvat Mūni Sammelan). These add significant weight and authority to the presented principles.

In essence, "Dharmik Vahivat Vichar" serves as a vital guide for Jain trusts, temple committees, trustees, and all community members involved in the management of religious wealth. It advocates for transparency, accountability, scriptural adherence, and ethical conduct in administering Jain religious assets to ensure their proper use and the flourishing of Jain Dharma.