Gita Dharmnu Parishilan - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Gita Dharmnu Parishilan" by Sukhlal Sanghavi, focusing on its key arguments and analyses:

Overall Purpose and Context:

The book "Gita Dharmnu Parishilan" (Study of the Gita Dharma) by Sukhlal Sanghavi analyzes the Bhagavad Gita from a sociological perspective, aiming to understand its enduring appeal and the societal relevance of the virtues it expounds. The author begins by questioning why Kaka Kalelkar, a respected scholar, chose to frame certain essential human virtues as "Gita Dharma" by drawing upon the Gita. Sanghavi concludes that the unique and profound appeal of the Gita is the primary reason for this approach.

Key Aspects of the Gita's Appeal (as analyzed by Sanghavi):

Question-Answer Format (Prashnottar Paddhati):
- While many religious texts use a dialogue format, the Gita's approach is distinct. It's not a direct question-and-answer between a disciple and a guru.
- The context of the dialogue—Arjuna posing profound questions about dharma on the battlefield, amidst two opposing armies, with Sri Krishna, the charioteer and key figure, providing extensive answers—creates an unparalleled sense of curiosity and urgency.
- The dramatic setting of war intensifies the listener's and reader's eagerness to know the outcome, making the philosophical discourse highly engaging. Sanghavi notes that this setting makes the Gita's style exceptionally captivating.
Choice of Subject Matter and the Author's Vision:
- The Gita synthesizes major religious and philosophical traditions prevalent in India at the time.
- Its core message, according to Sanghavi, is the concept of Karma Yoga, specifically the renunciation of the fruits of action (Phalechhatyag).
- Indian society was deeply influenced by the pursuit of liberation (Moksha) and the path of renunciation (Nivritti Marg). This led to a disconnect between worldly activities and spiritual aspirations, hindering both effective engagement in life's duties and the realization of Moksha.
- The Gita, through its focus on detached action, clarifies the "life-warfare" (Jivan Yuddha) for those engaged in worldly pursuits. While the concept of detached action wasn't entirely new, the Gita's exposition of it in a comprehensive and profound manner made it highly appealing.
Art of Presentation and Poetry:
- The Gita elaborates on various philosophical schools like Sankhya, Yoga, Bhakti, and Yajna traditions.
- Chapters 10 (Vibhuti Yoga) and 11 (Vishwaroopa Darshan) showcase remarkable poetic skill.
- Although these chapters might seem like digressions from the main question, the author masterfully integrates these themes and artistic expressions with the central theme of renouncing the fruits of action. This skillful integration minimizes any perceived inconsistencies, creating a harmonious whole.

The Gita's Influence and Interpretation:

Sanghavi highlights that the Gita's profound appeal led scholars before Shankaracharya to write commentaries. The vast body of commentaries from Shankaracharya to modern times, across various traditions (Shaiva, Vaishnava, etc.), has further enhanced its appeal.
He also notes the significant contribution of vernacular language commentaries, starting with Dnyaneshwar in the 13th century. He speculates that earlier commentaries might have existed in Dravidian languages.
The Gita gained global attention with European scholars, and figures like Tilak and Aurobindo significantly contributed to its understanding in India.
Mahatma Gandhi's interpretation, rooted in his practical philosophy and experiments with life, further popularized the Gita in Gujarati, leading to extensive commentary and translations.

Kaka Kalelkar's "Gita Dharma" and its Sociological Framework:

Kaka Kalelkar's work, originally in Marathi, is a sociological analysis of the Gita, focusing particularly on the 26 virtues listed in the 16th chapter (Daivi Sampatti).
Sanghavi emphasizes that the book is not merely a commentary but a sociological exploration of these divine virtues and their role in shaping society.

Analysis of Specific Virtues and Concepts:

Sanghavi delves into the sociological implications of various virtues discussed in the book, providing insightful analyses:

Abhaya (Fearlessness): Sanghavi explains that fearlessness, rooted in the concept of immortality, is crucial for societal progress. He contrasts traditional fear-based systems with the need for a fear-free society, arguing that both being fearful and instilling fear in others hinders true development.
Sattva Samshuddhi (Purity of Being): This is presented as the true basis of social organization. Sanghavi argues that purity of heart is directly proportional to the stability of social organization, citing historical examples. He critiques the rise of monastic orders at the expense of family structures, highlighting the detrimental impact on both.
Moksha (Liberation): Sanghavi clarifies that Moksha is not about ceasing to exist but about permanent freedom from vices. It's a means to an end, which is universal well-being (Vishvabheshjya) and the ultimate ideal of social life.
Dhriti (Fortitude/Patience): Sanghavi explains how fortitude enables unity and perseverance in the face of challenges, highlighting its importance for human progress and contrasting it with one-sided leadership styles.
Shama-Dama (Control of Mind and Senses): Sanghavi emphasizes the primacy of social life over physical existence, advocating for the control of bodily desires for the purification of social life. He suggests a dual approach to cultivating Shama and Dama—working on both external behavior and internal disposition.
Yajna, Dana, and Tapas (Sacrifice, Charity, and Austerity): Sanghavi reinterprets these virtues beyond their conventional meanings, especially Tapas. He provides examples from mythology and everyday life to illustrate their broader significance and practical application. He distinguishes between Tapas (effort) and Yajna (service/offering) using a powerful analogy of water in a well. He also clarifies the subtle difference between Dana (charity) and Tyaga (renunciation).
Shaucha (Purity): Sanghavi differentiates between personal and social purity, and physical and mental purity. He stresses that impure thoughts, even if hidden, can affect society, just as pure thoughts can have a positive impact. He underscores the importance of mental purity (Manasika Shaucha).
Alolupta (Non-Greed): He identifies various forms of greed that hinder social interaction, politics, and even dietary practices. He argues against extreme asceticism and advocates for balanced living.
Amanitva and Ati-manitva (Humility and Lack of Excessive Pride): Sanghavi clarifies that the goal is not to be devoid of essential respect but to avoid excessive pride. He uses apt analogies to explain how humility, like water for clay, keeps knowledge supple and adaptable. He also explains that one should not be deterred by others' opinions when striving for collective good.
Prema (Love): Sanghavi posits love as the fundamental element of life, the essence of consciousness, and a pervasive force. He addresses why people sometimes exhibit dislike and argues that understanding and practice can foster universal love. He emphasizes that living and letting live is the ultimate goal of love in society.
Ahimsa (Non-violence): This chapter is presented as particularly comprehensive and impactful. Sanghavi argues that Ahimsa is the practical manifestation of the concept of "Brahman is Atman" or "I am in everyone, everyone is in me." He states that practicing Ahimsa is essential for true realization, and without it, philosophical discussions remain dry. He discusses the interconnectedness of Ahimsa, Brahman, and Atman.
Daya (Compassion): Sanghavi explains that Daya and Ahimsa are two sides of the same coin, both rooted in love. Ahimsa is the negative aspect of love (not causing harm), while Daya is the positive aspect (sharing in others' suffering or happiness).
Satya (Truth): Sanghavi compares truth to a child's inherent connection with its mother, suggesting that truth is integral to existence itself. He uses the analogy of a moving light to illustrate how truth illuminates every aspect of life and conduct. He presents the 13 forms of truth from the Mahabharata as different manifestations of the same core principle.
Chaturvarnya (Four Varnas/Social Stratification): Sanghavi analyzes the concept of Chaturvarnya from historical and social perspectives, acknowledging its presence in the Gita and Hindu texts. He supports the idea of varnas as functional divisions of society but emphasizes that the rigid, hierarchical interpretations and the associated prejudices of caste need to be overcome. He suggests that the "spirit" of the varna system can be infused with new life, allowing for greater social mobility and understanding.
Ashrama Vyavastha (Stages of Life): Sanghavi offers both a historical perspective on the development of the Ashrama system and a critical analysis of its current relevance. He points out how exceptions in traditional rules have weakened the system and how modern circumstances require a re-evaluation and adaptation of these stages. He argues for incorporating dynamism and courage into these stages, particularly for the student (Brahmachari) and renunciate (Sanyasi).
Karma Yoga (Detached Action): Sanghavi elaborates on the origin of this core Gita concept. He explains how the desire for fruits of action leads to dissatisfaction, anger, and conflict. He contrasts the pursuit of inactivity (Nivritti) with the concept of engaged, detached action (Karma Yoga) as a solution to societal friction and individual inertia. He highlights Gandhi's embodiment of this principle.

Conclusion:

"Gita Dharmnu Parishilan" is presented as a profound and practical exploration of the Bhagavad Gita's enduring relevance for contemporary society. Sukhlal Sanghavi, through Kaka Kalelkar's work, aims to demonstrate how the ethical principles and virtues expounded in the Gita are not merely theological doctrines but potent tools for individual and collective well-being, offering valuable insights for both the devout and the social thinker. The book is deemed a comprehensive guide that provides "keys to understanding the Gita."