Gayavar Vilas Arthat 32 Sutro Me Murtisiddha - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Gayavar Vilas Arthat 32 Sutro Me Murtisiddha" by Gyansundar:

Book Title: Gayavar Vilas Arthat 32 Sutro Me Murtisiddha (Meaning: Gayavar Vilas or The Siddhi of Idol Worship in 32 Sutras) Author: Muni Gyansundar Publisher: Sukanraj S Porwal (and others) Core Theme: The book is a detailed defense and exposition of the validity and significance of idol worship (Pratima Puja) within Jainism, specifically refuting the arguments of the Sthanakavasi sect. It aims to prove through 32 sutras from various Jain scriptures that idol worship is an integral and sanctioned practice.

Summary of Key Arguments and Content:

Introduction and Purpose:
- Muni Gyansundar states that his previous work, "Pratima Chhattis" (36 Statues), which mentioned idols in 32 sutras, was met with criticism and false accusations from Sthanakavasi monks like Santokchandji and A.P. Jain.
- The author's intention is to provide a clear, scriptural justification for idol worship, addressing the misconceptions and "false arguments" raised by opponents. He believes that those who reject the words of the Tirthankaras and ancient Acharyas will naturally oppose him.
- He emphasizes that a monk's duty is forgiveness, and despite the attacks, he presents this book with benevolent intent.
Rejection of Sthanakavasi Opposition:
- The author directly challenges the Sthanakavasi view that idol worship is erroneous. He points out their hypocrisy, noting that they venerate their Gurus' "Samadhi," "Pagalia" (footprints), or photographs while condemning the worship of Tirthankara idols.
- He highlights that the Sthanakavasi claim that idol worship leads to "Himsa" (violence) is baseless, as no scripture supports this.
- He criticizes their selective adherence to scripture, accusing them of calling themselves "Tera-panthis" (followers of the 13th path) when discussing actions that involve violence (like moving aquatic creatures to a pond for the sake of "Prashasta Yoga" or good results), but then accusing others of "Himsa" when it comes to idol worship.
The Four Nyksepas (Categories of Existence) and Their Vandanikata (Worshipworthiness):
- The book extensively discusses the four Nyksepas as defined in Jain scriptures:
  - Naam Nyksepa (Name): The name of the Tirthankara is considered worshipworthy.
  - Sthapana Nyksepa (Establishment/Idol): This refers to the idol or consecrated image. The author vehemently defends its worshipworthiness, citing numerous scriptural references.
  - Dravya Nyksepa (Substance): This refers to the past and future forms of an entity, such as a Tirthankara in their previous or future lives. This is also considered worshipworthy.
  - Bhava Nyksepa (Disposition/Inner State): This refers to the virtues, accomplishments, and spiritual qualities of a Tirthankara. This is also worshipworthy.
- The author argues that the Sthanakavasis reject Sthapana Nyksepa (idols) but accept other forms of veneration.
Scriptural Evidence for Idol Worship:
- Agamas: The author consistently refers to and quotes from various Agamas (Jain scriptures) like Acharanga Sutra, Sthana Sutra, Samavaya Sutra, Bhagavati Sutra, Jnata Sutra, Upasaka Dasas, Uvavaiya Sutra, Rayapaseniya Sutra, Jivadhamigama, Uttaradhyayana Sutra, Nandi Sutra, Mahānishitha Sutra, Dasavaikalika Sutra, Niryukti, and Prakirnakas.
- Examples from Scriptures:
  - Ardra Kumar: The story of Ardra Kumar gaining Jatismarana Jnana (recollection of past lives) upon seeing an idol of Lord Rishabhadeva is a central piece of evidence.
  - Dronacharya's Idol: Eklavya's archery skills learned from Dronacharya's idol are cited.
  - Chamar Indra's Refuge: Bhagavati Sutra is quoted to show that celestial beings like Chamar Indra can take refuge in Tirthankaras, their idols, or enlightened monks.
  - Janghacharana and Vidyacharana Munis: The text describes these Siddha Munis visiting and worshipping "Chaityas" (which the author interprets as temples/idols) in various divine islands like Nandi-shwar and Rukma-var.
  - Suriyabh Devata: The worship of Tirthankara idols by Suriyabh Devata in his celestial abode is described, including the offering of divine flowers and perfumes.
  - Ambaḍa Shravaka: The text discusses Ambaḍa Shravaka's adherence to worshipping Tirthankara idols while renouncing the worship of other deities and idols.
  - Ananda Shravaka: The author interprets the scriptures related to Ananda Shravaka to mean he worshipped Tirthankara idols.
  - Udai Raja and Queen Prabhavati: The story of Queen Prabhavati making an idol of Lord Mahavir and worshipping it daily is presented as strong evidence.
  - Bharat Chakravarti: The construction of 24 temples with idols by Bharat Chakravarti on Ashtapada is cited.
  - Shreyamsaka Shravaka: His worship of an idol of Lord Mallinatha is mentioned.
  - Gautam Swami: The anecdote of Gautam Swami worshipping the idols of Tirthankaras made by Bharat Chakravarti is shared.
  - Mul Sutras vs. Commentaries (Niryukti, Tikas): A significant portion of the book is dedicated to arguing that commentaries and Niryuktis are essential for understanding the "meaning" of the original sutras and that rejecting them is a form of rejecting the original scriptures. The Sthanakavasi's selective interpretation is challenged by showing that their own practice relies on commentaries.
Critique of Sthanakavasi Practices and Doctrines:
- "Himsa" Allegations: The author refutes the Sthanakavasi claim that idol worship is "Himsa." He argues that all activities, even those of monks, involve some form of Himsa, and the intention and scriptural sanction are key.
- Hypocrisy: He repeatedly highlights the perceived hypocrisy of Sthanakavasi monks in venerating their own leaders' images or samadhis while denouncing Tirthankara idols.
- Misinterpretation of "Chaitya": The author engages in a long debate about the meaning of "Chaitya" in Jain scriptures, arguing strongly that it refers to temples and idols, not just knowledge or monks as some Sthanakavasis interpret it.
- Rejection of Nyksepas: He criticizes the Sthanakavasi rejection of the Sthapana Nyksepa (idol) and other Nyksepas, claiming it leads to the negation of Jain doctrine.
- "Kada-graha" (Obstinacy/Dogmatism): The author accuses the Sthanakavasi (specifically A.P. Jain) of being driven by obstinacy and prejudice rather than scriptural reasoning.
Importance of Idol Worship for Spiritual Attainment:
- The book argues that idol worship, through "Darshan" (seeing the idol), leads to "Samkita" (right faith/conviction) and ultimately to Moksha (liberation).
- It emphasizes that "Samkita" is the foundation for all spiritual practices, including conduct (Charitra).
- The author suggests that by worshipping idols, one connects with the divine presence and principles of the Tirthankaras, which aids in spiritual progress.
Structure and Style:
- The book uses a question-and-answer format, with Muni Gyansundar posing questions to his opponents and then answering them with scriptural evidence.
- It is polemical in tone, directly addressing and refuting the arguments of specific individuals and sects.
- The author expresses frustration with the resistance to his arguments and resorts to strong language at times.
- He includes extensive quotes from scriptures, often followed by his interpretation and rebuttal of opposing views.

Overall Message:

"Gayavar Vilas Arthat 32 Sutro Me Murtisiddha" is a robust and comprehensive defense of idol worship in Jainism. Muni Gyansundar meticulously builds his case by drawing upon a wide array of scriptural sources to demonstrate that worshipping the idols of Tirthankaras is not only permissible but also a vital means for spiritual upliftment and achieving liberation. The book serves as a direct rebuttal to the Sthanakavasi sect's opposition to this practice, aiming to correct what the author considers fundamental misunderstandings and deviations from true Jain doctrine.