Gandhi And Jainism

Here's a comprehensive summary of the book "Gandhi & Jainism" by Shugan C. Jain:

This book, "Gandhi & Jainism" by Shugan C. Jain, published by the International School for Jain Studies, explores the profound and multifaceted influence of Jain philosophy and way of life on Mahatma Gandhi's personal development, ethical framework, and political activism. The author meticulously traces Gandhi's journey from his formative years to his role as the "Father of the Nation," highlighting how Jain principles were internalized, adapted, and ultimately manifested in his revolutionary pursuit of truth and nonviolent resistance.

Key Themes and Chapters:

The book is structured into five chapters, supported by appendices that provide foundational knowledge on Jainism and key figures.

• Chapter I: Sprouting the Roots (1869-1888)

  • This chapter delves into Gandhi's childhood in Porbandar and Rajkot, emphasizing the geographical and demographic landscape of Gujarat and Kathiawad, which had a significant Jain presence.
  • It highlights the influence of his deeply religious mother, Putlibai, who displayed strong Jain-like tendencies in her fasting, respect for all life, and hospitality towards Jain monks.
  • The chapter examines early childhood incidents that instilled in Gandhi the values of truthfulness, devotion to parents, and the nascent understanding of Ahimsa and confession (pratikraman).
  • Gandhi's schooling and early experiences with child marriage and the temptation of forbidden habits are presented as crucial stages in his personality development, where he often returned to family values and spiritual principles.
  • The influence of Jainism is seen in his family's practices, the community he belonged to (Modh Bania), and the general religiosity of his upbringing, which predisposed him to concepts like self-effort, Ahimsa, and truth.

• Chapter II: Exploring Routes (1888-1893) - Preparation and Beginning of an Independent Life

  • Gandhi's sojourn in London for law studies is analyzed as a period of experimentation with his inherited values.
  • Despite trying to assimilate into English culture, he rigorously adhered to his vows of vegetarianism and celibacy, laying the groundwork for his principles of self-restraint and conviction.
  • His intellectual engagement with texts like the Bhagavad Gita and his study of various religions, while not leading him to change his faith, deepened his understanding of spiritual paths.
  • Upon returning to India, his professional struggles and community ostracization for overseas travel were overcome through resilience and a commitment to his principles.
  • Crucially, this period marks his significant interaction with Rajchandra Ravjibhai Mehta, a Jain jeweller, who became his spiritual guide and refuge, profoundly impacting his spiritual and philosophical outlook.

• Chapter III: Selection of the Route - Satyagraha (1893-1914)

  • Gandhi's move to South Africa is portrayed as a pivotal moment where his nascent philosophical ideas were tested and honed.
  • The extreme discrimination faced by Indians fueled his determination to fight for justice through "Satya" (Truth) and "Agraha" (insistence), leading to the coining of the term Satyagraha.
  • His experiences with racial injustice and humiliation reinforced his commitment to nonviolent resistance and the principle of Ahimsa.
  • The chapter details his legal work, where he applied the Jain doctrine of Anekantavada (multiplicity of viewpoints) by advocating for arbitration to resolve disputes.
  • His continued correspondence with Rajchandra from South Africa provided solace and clarity on spiritual matters, solidifying his faith in Hinduism while deeply appreciating Jain thought.
  • Gandhi's lifestyle reforms—simple living, vegetarianism, fasting, celibacy, and the establishment of Phoenix Settlement and Tolstoy Farm—are presented as practical applications of Jain principles like Aparigraha (non-possession) and self-discipline.

• Chapter IV: The Last Phase (1914-1948)

  • This chapter covers Gandhi's return to India and his active role in the Indian freedom struggle.
  • He established the Sabarmati Ashram and continued to enforce the eleven vows, drawing heavily on Jain ethical practices.
  • His movements like Champaran, Kheda, and the Ahmedabad Mill Strike demonstrated the efficacy of Satyagraha and Ahimsa on Indian soil.
  • The book analyzes his approach to the Non-Cooperation Movement, Khilafat Movement, Civil Disobedience, and the Quit India Movement, consistently highlighting the Jain underpinnings of his philosophy—truth, non-violence, self-suffering, and a deep commitment to equality and religious harmony.
  • The text emphasizes the significant support received from prominent Jains like Dr. Pranjivan Mehta and the Sarabhai family, who exemplified the Jain way of life and contributed to Gandhi's movements.
  • Gandhi's efforts to combat untouchability and his deep engagement with the concept of Sarvodaya (welfare of all) are presented as social applications of Jain principles.

• Chapter V: Roots and Routes - An Analysis

  • This chapter synthesizes the previous discussions, offering a comparative analysis of Gandhi's philosophy with Jain doctrines.
  • It reiterates the profound influence of Rajchandra as Gandhi's spiritual mentor, shaping his understanding of the soul (Atma), God, Truth, Karma, and the path to liberation (Moksha).
  • Gandhi's interpretation of the Bhagavad Gita as Anasakti Yoga (Gospel of Selfless Action) is meticulously compared with Jain concepts of detachment (Vitaragata) and spiritual activism.
  • The book details the striking parallels between Jain ethics and Gandhi's vows, particularly Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (Truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possession). The author explains how Gandhi adapted these vows for Ashrama life and mass application.
  • The Jain doctrines of Anekantavada and Syadvada are shown to be foundational to Gandhi's understanding of truth, tolerance, and conflict resolution.
  • The chapter explores Gandhi's commitment to Sarvodaya, Swadeshi, fearlessness (Abhaya), religious harmony, and the upliftment of women, linking each to core Jain principles.
  • The author concludes that Gandhi, though not born a Jain, became an exemplary follower of Jain principles through his actions and philosophical depth, embodying the Jain ideal of transforming oneself through ethical conduct and strenuous self-effort.

Appendices:

• Appendix I: Jainism and Jain Way of Life: Provides an overview of Jain philosophy, its core principles (Ahimsa, Anekanta, Aparigraha), the doctrine of Karma, the concept of the soul, the path to Moksha, and the ethical framework of vows.
• Appendix II: Rajchandra Ravjibhai Mehta: Details the life and philosophical contributions of Rajchandra, highlighting his influence on Gandhi through his writings, spiritual guidance, business ethics, and practice of Jainism. It also includes Gandhi's twenty-seven questions to Rajchandra and their replies, showcasing the depth of their spiritual dialogue.

Overall Argument:

The book argues that Jainism provided Gandhi with a robust philosophical and ethical foundation that informed his entire life's work. From his personal conduct to his political strategies, the Jain emphasis on non-violence, truth, detachment, self-control, and the inherent equality of all souls significantly shaped his actions and teachings. The author meticulously connects Gandhi's famous principles and practices to specific Jain doctrines and the life examples of Jain figures like Mahavira and Rajchandra, presenting a compelling case for the deep and enduring impact of Jainism on Mahatma Gandhi. The book highlights that Jainism's adaptability, as seen in the lives of its followers and its philosophical tenets, allowed Gandhi to integrate its teachings into a broader, mass-oriented movement for social and political change.