Glory Of Jainism

Here's a comprehensive summary of the book "Glory of Jainism" by Kumarpal Desai, based on the provided text:

Book Title: Glory of Jainism Author: Kumarpal Desai Publisher: Shri 108 Jain Tirth Darshan Bhavan Trust Purpose: To highlight the historical, cultural, ethical, and philosophical contributions of Jainism, presenting inspiring life stories of influential figures within the Jain tradition.

Overall Theme:

The book aims to showcase the "Glory of Jainism" by delving into its core principles, historical evolution, and the exemplary lives of individuals who embodied its teachings. It emphasizes the enduring relevance of Jain philosophy and practices in shaping a virtuous and peaceful existence.

Key Aspects Covered:

1. Introduction and Blessings: The book begins with blessings from Acharyashri Vijaychandrodaysuri, highlighting the volume's aim to present life stories of Sadhus, Sadhvis, Shravaks, and Shravikas. It acknowledges the contributions of Dr. Kumarpal Desai (author) and Shri Ashok Shaha (artist) and mentions that the illustrations are based on existing depictions.

2. Foreword: Kumarpal Desai, in his foreword, describes the book as a collection of "gems" from Jain literature, featuring 108 sketches of individuals who brought glory to Jainism. He stresses the importance of understanding the past to shape the future and acknowledges that this volume is a small glimpse into the vast panorama of Jain history. He also touches upon the challenges Jainism faced from invasions and its remarkable preservation of history and values. The foreword also emphasizes the need to view ancient stories within their socio-cultural context.

3. The Value and Heritage of Jain Religion:

   • Ancient Origins and Core Principles: Jainism is presented as one of the world's oldest living religions, originating from the teachings of spiritual victors (Jinas) and Tirthankaras, who guide beings across the ocean of suffering. Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara, is highlighted as a rejuvenator and propagator of this eternal tradition.
   • Key Vows (Mahavratas & Anuvratas): The foundation of Jain ethics lies in five great vows: Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possession). Ahimsa is identified as the "sheet-anchor" of Jainism, encompassing empathy and universal love for all living beings.
   • Anekantavada: The principle of non-onesidedness, which accommodates multiple viewpoints and fosters tolerance, is presented as central to Jain philosophy and a significant contribution to religious thought.
   • Social Contributions: Jainism is credited with promoting equality, self-control, and dignity of labor. It emphasizes the potential divinity of every soul and advocates for a life of purity, simplicity, and selfless service.
   • Status of Women: The book notes that Jainism accords equal status to women, with a significant number of women joining the order of nuns.
   • Economic and Social Philosophy: Principles like Aparigraha are discussed in relation to wealth distribution and reducing the gap between rich and poor. Vegetarianism is highlighted as a significant Jain practice with global relevance.
   • Cultural Impact: Jainism's influence on Indian culture is evident in its literature, sculpture, architecture, and painting, particularly in the development of Prakrit and Sanskrit languages. The Jain Bhandaras played a crucial role in preserving manuscripts.
   • Spiritual Evolution: The book outlines the path of spiritual evolution through various vows, duties for householders, and the rigorous discipline of ascetics.

4. Jain Beliefs and Practices:

   • Nature of Reality (Sat): Reality is characterized by origination, destruction, and persistence, comprising substance and modes.
   • Six Substances (Sad-dravya): Soul (Jiva), Matter (Pudgala), Medium of Motion (Dharma), Medium of Rest (Adharma), Space (Akasha), and Time (Kala).
   • Law of Moral Causation (Karma): Karmic matter veils the soul's true nature, and liberation is achieved by stopping the inflow of new karma (Samvara) and eliminating existing karma (Nirjara) through self-control and austerities.
   • Liberation (Moksha): The ultimate goal is the pure state of infinite knowledge and bliss, attained when the soul is free from karmic matter.
   • Three Jewels (Ratna-traya): Right Faith (Samyag-darshana), Right Knowledge (Samyag-jnana), and Right Conduct (Samyak-charitra) are the means to liberation.
   • Soteriological Reflections: The book lists sixteen reflections beneficial for spiritual progress, including transitoriness, aloneness, impurity of the body, karmic inflow, and universal friendliness.

5. Biographies of Key Figures: The bulk of the book consists of biographical sketches of 108 significant figures in Jain history, categorized as:

   • Munis/Acharyas (Monks/Spiritual Leaders): This section includes prominent figures like Shri Anathi Muni, Shri Prasannachandra Rajarshi, Shri Kalakacharya, Shri Hemchandracharya, and many others, highlighting their penance, scholarship, miracles, and contributions to Jain teachings and institutions.
   • Sadhvis (Nuns): The lives of virtuous and accomplished nuns like Sadhvi Chandanbala, Sadhvi Sunanda, Sadhvi Padmavati, Sadhvi Sushila, and others are presented, demonstrating their spiritual strength, devotion, and adherence to Jain principles, often against societal challenges.
   • Shravaks/Shravikas (Laymen/Laywomen): The book also features lay followers like Kamdev Shravak, Puniya Shravak, Sheth Jagdusha, Vanraj Chavda, Bhamasha, and Anupamadevi, showcasing how lay individuals can lead exemplary lives, contribute to society through philanthropy, uphold righteousness, and exemplify Jain values in their daily lives.

6. Inspirational Examples: Each life story is presented as an inspiration, illustrating various Jain virtues such as:

   • Ahimsa (Non-violence): Demonstrated by kings and ascetics who prioritized compassion for all life.
   • Truthfulness: Exemplified by figures like Bhimji Sanghpati, who adhered to truth even in dire circumstances.
   • Self-Control & Renunciation: Highlighted in the lives of monks and nuns who gave up worldly possessions for spiritual pursuits.
   • Devotion & Faith: Shown by women like Subhadra Shethani and Gangama, whose unwavering faith led to miraculous outcomes or profound societal contributions.
   • Intellect & Scholarship: Remarkable figures like Hemchandracharya and Siddhasen Diwakar showcase the intellectual prowess fostered by Jainism.
   • Philanthropy: Merchants like Sheth Motisha and Jagdusha are celebrated for their immense contributions to society and the preservation of Jain heritage.
   • Purity of Character (Sheel): Figures like Sonal and Bakuladevi exemplify unwavering chastity and integrity, even when tested severely.

7. The Shri 108 Jain Tirthdarshan Bhavan Samavasaran Mahamandir: The book concludes with a description of the Samavasaran Mahamandir, a significant construction that aims to provide a spiritual experience and educational insight into Jainism. It houses representations of 108 Tirthas, idols of Tirthankaras, and biographical depictions of important figures, serving as a physical manifestation of the "Glory of Jainism."

Overall Impact:

"Glory of Jainism" serves as an accessible and engaging introduction to Jainism, offering a rich tapestry of historical narratives and philosophical insights. It aims to inspire readers by showcasing the profound impact of Jain principles on individuals and society throughout history, emphasizing the timeless wisdom and ethical framework that Jainism offers for personal and collective well-being.