Diksha Shastranu Rahasya

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Diksha Shastranu Rahasya" (The Secret of the Shastras on Renunciation) by Fatehchand Belani:

Book Title: Diksha Shastranu Rahasya (દીક્ષા-શાસ્ત્રનું રહસ્ય) Author: Fatehchand Belani (ફત્તેહચંદ બેલાની) Publisher: Jain Yuvak Sangh (જૈન યુવક સંઘ)

Overall Purpose and Context:

This book is a critical analysis and refutation of a statement or report made by a "Diksha Samiti" (Renunciation Committee). The author, Fatehchand Belani, feels compelled to write this response due to what he perceives as "against-Shastra" (शास्त्रवि). claims and misleading interpretations presented by the committee, which he believes are causing confusion among the public. He states that while he initially had no intention of writing, a moral obligation arose to shed light on the actual scriptural positions where the committee's interpretations are distorted.

Key Themes and Arguments:

1. Critique of Misinterpretation and Misleading Practices in Renunciation (Diksha):

   • Belani strongly criticizes any form of renunciation that is born out of stubbornness, causes distress to parents or spouses, or is given without proper understanding or through deception. He believes such practices tarnish the teachings of Lord Mahavir.
   • He emphasizes that the path to self-welfare should always be universally accepted and ethical. Those aspiring for self-welfare should be characterized by simplicity, purity, and integrity.
   • He laments the perceived decline of institutions that facilitate renunciation, noting a lack of strong leadership to uplift them. He suggests that constraints on reform proposals are a result of their weakened state, but acknowledges there might be no other path currently.

2. Disagreement with the Committee's Interpretation of Scriptural Principles:

   • Reincarnation and Union with the Divine: The author refutes the committee's assertion that the Jain belief that a soul merges with the divine ("Parmatma-Siddhatma") after the exhaustion of karma is contrary to Jain philosophy. He clarifies that this merging is akin to light merging with light, which is acceptable within the Jain perspective.
   • Social and State Regulation: Belani discusses a quote from Kautilya's Arthashastra regarding penalties for those who take to renunciation without making arrangements for their family's upkeep. He argues that this reflects a historical context where state authority had to regulate unruly conduct, even among ascetics. He asserts that when social or monastic institutions fall into disorder, it becomes the duty of the state to intervene.

3. Historical and Scholarly Debates:

   • Shri Yashvijayji and Shri Satyavijayji: The author defends the historical attribution of certain reform efforts to Shri Yashvijayji, acknowledging Shri Satyavijayji's contributions but highlighting Yashvijayji's significant role and collaboration.
   • Saffron Robes: He questions the assumption that saffron robes are an inherent part of Jain monasticism, suggesting that the common practice of wearing yellow robes might lead to misinterpretations about saffron.

4. Critique of the Committee's Proposed Solutions:

   • Government Intervention and Jain Panch (Council): Belani criticizes the committee's recommendation for the Maharaja Gaekwad to form a Jain council to address laxity in Jain culture. He questions the effectiveness of such a council when those exhibiting laxity are unwilling to accept oversight or adhere to established norms. He also points out the existing government committee, questioning the committee's dissatisfaction with it and highlighting the potential for internal discord among Jains to prevent the formation of a unified council. He believes that a neutral and educated approach is needed for truth-seeking.
   • State Control over Renunciation: The author supports the idea of government regulation for renunciation, viewing it as necessary when the monastic institution's internal mechanisms fail. He sees it as a potentially beneficial intervention for society, monasticism, and religion.

5. The Issue of Child Renunciation (Bal Diksha): This is a significant focus of the book.

   • Unsuitability of Child Renunciation: Belani argues strongly against child renunciation, deeming it unnatural and contrary to Jain scriptural principles for the most part. He states that true renunciation requires maturity, detachment, and a deep understanding of the world and the soul's journey.
   • Misinterpretation of Scriptural Examples: He refutes the idea that age is irrelevant to renunciation and challenges the committee's interpretation of scriptural examples like Gajsukuamala and Aryarakshita. He provides detailed scriptural evidence and scholarly interpretations to show that these examples either do not support child renunciation or were exceptions in extraordinary circumstances.
   • The Importance of Parental Consent: A core argument is the absolute necessity of parental consent for renunciation. He cites scriptures and commentaries that emphasize seeking permission and ensuring the peace of mind of parents and family. He argues that causing distress to parents for the sake of renunciation is an inauspicious and unethical act.
   • Mahatma Gandhi's Views: Belani quotes Mahatma Gandhi to support his stance against hurried or ill-considered renunciation, particularly for young individuals. Gandhi's words emphasize the need for maturity, strong inner conviction, and the potential for bringing shame to the religion if renunciation is undertaken out of cowardice or immaturity.
   • Consequences of Child Renunciation: He warns that forcing children into renunciation is a form of cruelty, akin to imprisonment, and leads to public condemnation. He stresses that while there might be rare exceptions for exceptionally gifted individuals, it is not the norm.

6. The Nature of True Renunciation:

   • Inner Transformation: Belani underscores that renunciation is not merely about adopting outward attire ("vesh"). It requires a deep inner transformation, including detachment from worldly desires, the weakening of passions, and the awakening of philosophical understanding.
   • Consequences of Wrong Renunciation: He highlights that a flawed approach to renunciation can lead to societal conflict and harm the reputation of the monastic order.

7. The True Conduct of Spiritual Leaders:

   • Belani calls for spiritual leaders to guide individuals towards renunciation with clarity and honesty, emphasizing the importance of parental permission and inner readiness.
   • He criticizes the perceived "craze" among some monks for disciples, viewing it as a detrimental influence that leads to societal disharmony.
   • He concludes by urging spiritual institutions to foster self-control, renunciation, and equanimity, working towards the welfare of both themselves and society.

In essence, Fatehchand Belani's "Diksha Shastranu Rahasya" is a rigorous scriptural defense of the proper principles and practices surrounding renunciation in Jainism. He challenges interpretations that he believes undermine these principles, particularly regarding child renunciation and the crucial role of parental consent, advocating for a return to the ethical and well-reasoned path laid down by the ancient scriptures.