Digambaratva Aur Digambar Muni

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Digambaratva Aur Digambar Muni" by Kamtaprasad Jain, based on the provided pages:

Overall Theme:

The book "Digambaratva Aur Digambar Muni" (Nudity and Digambar Ascetics) by Kamtaprasad Jain is an extensive exploration and defense of the Digambara tradition within Jainism, focusing on the concept of digambaratva (state of being sky-clad or nude) and the life and historical significance of Digambar Jain monks. The author argues that digambaratva is the ideal state for humans, a return to nature, and intrinsically linked to spiritual purity, health, and morality. The book traces the presence and influence of Digambar ascetics throughout Indian history, from ancient Vedic times and the pre-Mahavira era, through various empires and kingdoms, into the Islamic and British periods, and even touches upon its perception by modern scholars and in foreign cultures.

Key Arguments and Content:

1. Digambaratva as an Ideal State:

   • The author posits that digambaratva is the natural and ideal state for humans, a concept supported by figures like Adam and Eve in Christian tradition and by the innocence of children.
   • Nudity is presented not as immodesty but as a natural state that promotes health, free from the diseases associated with excessive clothing and artificial living.
   • Digambaratva is deeply connected to sadachar (virtuous conduct). Unlike wearing clothes which can hide sins and hypocrisy, the naked state of a Digambar ascetic leaves no room for pretense, making true virtue essential.
   • The book emphasizes that true digambaratva is not just outward nudity but also inner purity – a naked mind and body, free from passions like rag-dvesh (attachment and aversion).

2. Digambaratva and Dharma:

   • Dharma (righteousness) and digambaratva are presented as inseparable. Digambaratva is the natural state of the soul, and by shedding all possessions and attachments, including clothing, an ascetic can regain their true, pure nature and progress towards liberation (moksha).
   • The text quotes scriptures stating that only a digambar (or one who has shed all possessions) can achieve liberation, and other paths are considered deviations.

3. Historical Tracing of Digambar Ascetics:

   • Ancient Origins (Vedic and Pre-Mahavira): The book claims that digambaratva has ancient roots, tracing it back to Lord Rishabhadeva, the first Tirthankara, who is described as propagating this way of life. The author references Vedic texts like the Rigveda and Upanishads (e.g., Jabala Upanishad, Paramahamsa Upanishad), which mention "vatavasana" (wind-clad) ascetics and "nirgranthas," asserting that these terms refer to Digambar Jain monks. Hindu scriptures like the Srimad Bhagavatam and Vishnu Purana are cited to show Rishabhadeva's description as a paramahamsa and digambar.
   • Lord Mahavira: The book highlights Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara, as a significant figure in the Digambara tradition, emphasizing his ascetic practices and the Digambara teachings he imparted. The influence of Mahavira's teachings on contemporary ascetics, including those from other traditions like the Ajivikas and even potentially influencing Buddhism, is discussed.
   • Nanda Empire: The author points to the Nanda dynasty's patronage of Jainism and the presence of Digambar monks like Jeevasiddhi, who moved freely and preached. The Nanda kings and their ministers are described as Jain sympathizers, with some even becoming Digambar monks themselves.
   • Mauryan Empire: Chandragupta Maurya is presented as a staunch follower of Jainism, influenced by the Digambar acharya Bhadrabahu. He abdicated his throne to become a Digambar ascetic, migrating to South India. Ashoka and his grandson Samprati are also mentioned as having connections with Jainism, with Ashoka issuing edicts protecting Jain ascetics.
   • Foreign Invasions and Rule (Greek, Shaka, Kushan): The text discusses the interaction of Digambar monks with Greek rulers like Alexander the Great and his envoy Onesikritos, who were impressed by their wisdom and asceticism. The presence of Jain ascetics among Indo-Greeks, Shakas, and Kushans, and their influence on these rulers (like Menander becoming a Jain convert), is highlighted.
   • Kharavela of Kalinga: The famous Hathigumpha inscription of King Kharavela is presented as strong evidence of the flourishing of Jainism and the high status of Digambar monks during his reign. Kharavela is portrayed as a devout Jain king who patronized Jain ascetics, built temples and caves for them, and even brought back idols carried away by the Nandas.
   • Gupta and Post-Gupta Periods: Despite the rise of Brahmanism, the book asserts that Jainism and Buddhism continued to be popular, with Digambar monks actively engaged in propagation and scholarship. The presence of Digambar scholars like Siddhasena Divakara in Gupta courts is noted.
   • Harshavardhana and Huien Tsang: The account mentions that during Emperor Harshavardhana's reign, Digambar monks were present and engaged in philosophical debates, even attracting the attention of the Chinese traveler Huien Tsang, who noted their nudity and hair-plucking practices.
   • Medieval Hindu Kingdoms (Rajputs, Paramaras, Cholas, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas): A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the continuous patronage of Digambar monks by various Hindu dynasties across North and South India during the medieval period. Kings like Bhoja, Arjunadev, Jayasimha, Govinda III, Amoghavarsha, and various Chalukya, Rashtrakuta, and Hoysala rulers are described as patrons or followers of Jainism and Digambar ascetics. The influential works of Digambar acharyas like Kundakundacharya, Samantabhadra, Pujyapada, Akalanka, Jinadatta, Jinadatta, and Amitagati are highlighted, underscoring the intellectual and spiritual contributions of these monks.
   • Muslim Rule: The book acknowledges the initial conflict but highlights periods of coexistence and even patronage. It notes that some Sufi dervishes in Islam adopted similar practices of renunciation and nudity, possibly influenced by Jainism. The presence of Digambar monks in the courts of Mughal emperors like Akbar and Aurangzeb is discussed, with some emperors showing respect and even patronizing them. The story of Sarmad, a naked Sufi who faced execution, is also mentioned.
   • British Rule: The author notes that under British rule, religious freedom was generally upheld, allowing Digambar monks to practice and preach. The book mentions prominent monks of the period like Shantisagar, Suryasagar, and others, detailing their travels and disciples. Legal precedents from the British era are cited to support the right of religious processions and practices, arguing that the state should not interfere with the inherent right to practice digambaratva.
   • Modern Scholars and Western Influence: The book concludes by discussing how modern Western scholars, through observation and study, have begun to recognize the health and moral benefits of digambaratva, leading to similar movements in Europe and America. The author expresses hope that this growing appreciation will help revive the ancient ideal of digambaratva in India as well.

4. Digambar Monks in Tamil Literature: The book dedicates a section to the presence of Digambar monks and Jainism in ancient Tamil literature, referencing works like "Manimekalai" and "Tolkappiyam," and discussing the influence of Jain ascetics on the Tamil society and rulers.

5. Archaeological Evidence: Throughout the historical tracing, the author consistently refers to archaeological findings, including inscriptions, sculptures (especially nude figures), temples, and caves, as corroborating evidence for the widespread presence and influence of Digambar monks and Jainism in different regions and periods of India.

6. Synonyms and Qualities of Digambar Munis: A section is dedicated to listing various terms used for Digambar monks in Jain and other scriptures, such as akachha, akinchen, achalak, atithi, anagar, aparigrahi, ahrik, arya, rishi, gani, guru, jinlingi, tapasvi, digambar, nagn, nirgranth, nirakar, panipatr, bhikshuk, mahapravati, muni, yati, yogi, vatvasan, vivasan, samyami, sthavir, sadhu, sannyast, shraman, kshapanak. Their key virtues and practices (e.g., pancha mahavrata, samitis, indriya nirodh, keshlochan, snan virah, bhumi shayan, dana, shukla dhyana) are explained.

Overall Tone and Purpose:

The book is written with a strong conviction in the superiority and timeless relevance of the Digambara way of life. It aims to educate readers about the historical depth and broad influence of Digambar Jain ascetics, countering any potential misunderstandings or criticisms of their practices. The author meticulously compiles historical, literary, and archaeological evidence to support his claims, presenting a detailed narrative of how Digambar monks have shaped and contributed to Indian culture and spirituality for millennia.