Jagat KalyankarI Jain Dharm

This document is a Punjabi translation of the Hindi book "Jagat Kalyankari Jain Dharm" (World-Benefiting Jain Dharma) by Purushottam Jain and Ravindra Jain, authored by Acharya Vijay Nityananda Suri Ji. The book aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Jainism, its philosophy, history, culture, and key figures.

Here's a breakdown of the content based on the provided pages:

Introduction (Pages 1-3):

• Core Message: Jainism is described as a gentle religion focused on guiding the soul to become divine and making life happy and peaceful through austerity, renunciation, service, morality, and equality. It emphasizes not just renunciation but also discernment in enjoyment and fostering cooperation and goodwill in society.
• Complexity of Jain Philosophy: The author acknowledges that core Jain philosophical concepts like the Six Substances (Shad Dravya), Nine Tattvas, Karma Theory, and Anekantavada (non-absolutism) are profound and not easily understood, but their knowledge is essential for comprehending Jain conduct.
• Importance of Ahimsa and Anekantavada: Ahimsa (non-violence) in action and Anekantavada in thought are identified as the fundamental pillars of Jainism, crucial for individual and universal welfare.
• Historical Context: The author notes a lack of awareness about Jain history, even among Jains, and states the book's intention to provide a historical overview, especially from Lord Mahavir's time to the present century.
• Scope of the Book: While Jain art and culture are important, the author intends to dedicate a separate book to them. This book focuses on summarizing Jain philosophy, karma theory, the six substances, and Anekantavada.
• Translator's Acknowledgement: The book is presented as a translation from Hindi to Punjabi, made possible by the efforts of Purushottam Jain and Ravindra Jain, who have translated over 50 Jain texts. Their work is recognized by prestigious institutions and individuals, including the former President of India, Giani Zail Singh.

Table of Contents (Page 6): The table of contents outlines the topics covered in the book:

1. The Nature of Jain Dharma
2. History of the Jain Tradition
3. Jain Tradition after Lord Mahavir
4. Thought and Conduct Dharma
5. Jain Philosophical Contemplation
6. Jain Culture
7. Sects of Jain Dharma

Chapter 1: The Nature of Jain Dharma (Pages 7-12):

• Definition of Dharma: Dharma is defined as the pure power that upholds good qualities. It has two meanings:
  • The inherent nature of a substance (e.g., the coolness of water, the warmth of fire). The soul's nature is knowledge and bliss.
  • Pure conduct of the soul, such as austerity, service, truth, self-control, compassion, contentment, and simplicity. It is the practice of becoming free from vices.
  • Ultimately, Dharma leads the soul towards excellence and purity.
• Universality of Dharma: The fundamental nature of all religions is the same – purification of the soul. The labels (Jain, Buddhist, Vedic, etc.) are merely to identify the founders or scriptures of the path.
• Meaning of "Jain": The word "Jain" originates from "Jin," meaning one who has conquered their senses, ego, desires, and vices, achieving complete freedom from passions, omniscience, and supreme consciousness. Jins are also called Arihants. Jain Dharma is the path to self-realization taught by these triumphant souls.
• Antiquity of Jain Dharma: Dharma itself is considered eternal (anadi), like the soul and the universe. While specific names and formulations may change over time, the core essence remains. Jain Dharma, in its essence, is primordial. It was propagated by Rishabh Dev as "Man Dharma," then as "Arhat Dharma" by Arishtanemi, and "Nirgranth" or "Jin Dharma" by Parshvanath and Mahavir. Historical research has established Jainism as an independent religion founded by Lord Rishabh Dev, predating many other traditions.
• Evidence of Antiquity: Mentions of Rishabh Dev, Ajitnath, and Arishtanemi are found in the Yajurveda. Historical inscriptions and excavations confirm the worship of Rishabh Dev from ancient times.

Chapter 2: History of the Jain Tradition (Pages 13-27): This extensive section details the history of Jainism through its Tirthankaras and influential Acharyas.

• The Jain Time Cycle: The concept of the Kalachakra (time cycle) with its ascending (Utsarpini) and descending (Avasarpini) phases is explained.
• The First Tirthankara: Lord Rishabh Dev: Born at the end of the third era of the descending cycle, he is considered the first Tirthankara and the founder of human civilization, teaching arts, culture, commerce, politics, and ethics. His son Bharat's name gave India its name. He taught Brahmi script to his daughter Brahmi and mathematics to Sundari.
• Lord Arishtanemi (Nemi Nath): Associated with the era of Lord Krishna, he advocated against animal sacrifice, meat-eating, and alcohol. The story of his renunciation before his wedding due to witnessing the plight of animals is recounted.
• Lord Parshvanath: The 23rd Tirthankara, born about 3000 years ago, preached truth, knowledge, and self-control. The incident of saving the snake (Kamath, who later became Dharanendra) is described, highlighting the principle of non-violence even towards those who cause harm. His teachings influenced people to move away from ritualistic practices causing violence.
• Lord Mahavir: The 24th and last Tirthankara of this era, born in Vaishali. His birth name was Vardhman. He preached the importance of purity in thought and action, emphasizing Anekantavada and Ahimsa. He taught in the common language (Ardha Magadhi Prakrit), making his teachings accessible to all.
  • Establishment of the Four-Fold Sangha: After attaining Keval Gyan (omniscience), he established the four orders of monks (Shraman), nuns (Shramani), male lay disciples (Shravak), and female lay disciples (Shravika).
  • Core Teachings: Purity of thought (Anekant Drishti and Bhavana Shuddhi) and purity of conduct (Ahimsa, Samyam, Tapasya).
• Post-Mahavir Tradition:
  • Arya Sudharma Swami: Successor to Lord Mahavir, who organized his teachings into the Dwadashangi (Twelve Limbs) or Gani Pitaka.
  • Arya Jambu Swami: The last Kevali of this era.
  • Arya Probhva Swami: The first Acharya after Jambu Swami.
  • Acharya Bhadrabahu: Known for his knowledge of the 14 Purvas and his role during a severe famine.
  • Acharya Sthulibhadra: Famous for his asceticism and knowledge of 10 Purvas.
  • King Chandragupta Maurya: Mentioned as a potential Jain follower and disciple of Bhadrabahu.
  • King Samprati: Ashoka's grandson, who significantly contributed to the spread of Jainism.
  • Acharya Kalaka: Known for his role in establishing the Shaka era and confronting King Gardabhilla.
  • Acharya Devarthgami: Credited with compiling the Jain Agamas in written form.
  • Acharya Siddhasen Suri: Renowned scholar who influenced Emperor Vikramaditya.
  • Acharya Manatang Suri: Author of the Bhaktambar Stotra.
  • Acharya Haribhadra Suri: A former Brahmin who became a Jain monk and scholar.
  • Acharya Abhayadev Suri: A great commentator on Jain Agamas.
  • Acharya Jinvallabh Suri: A prominent figure in the Kharatargachha tradition.
  • Acharya Hemachandra Suri: A pivotal figure who made Jainism the state religion of Gujarat during the reign of King Siddharaj and Kumarpal.
  • Acharya Jinchandra Suri (Manidhari): Known for his miracles and influence on Delhi's rulers.
  • Acharya Hirvijaya Suri: A highly influential Acharya who impressed Emperor Akbar, leading to significant reforms promoting non-violence and respect for all religions. Akbar bestowed upon him the title "Jagat Guru."
  • Acharya Vijay Nand Suri (Atmaram Ji Maharaj): A revolutionary figure who re-established the traditional Jain practices, including idol worship, and actively promoted education and social reform in Punjab.
  • Yugpurush Acharya Vijay Vallabh Suri: A visionary saint who spread Jainism across India, advocating for education, women's rights, and national unity. He was a national leader as well as a Jain Acharya.
  • Samtamurti Acharya Vijay Samudra Suri: Influential in promoting Jainism in Gujarat and Punjab, he played a role in stopping the distribution of eggs in schools in Punjab and was honored with the title "Jin Shasan Ratna."
  • Paramupkari Param Mahan Acharya Vijay Indradin Suri: Known for his spiritual aura, renunciation, and efforts in promoting Jainism among the Parmar Kshatriyas, leading to the construction of temples and educational institutions.

Chapter 4: Thought and Conduct (Acharan) Dharma (Pages 45-51):

• Dharma and Self-Realization: Reiteration that Dharma is about cultivating good qualities and the soul's inherent nature of infinite knowledge and bliss. Jainism believes that every soul has the potential to become divine through righteous effort.
• Two Fundamental Principles:
  • Thought (Vichar): The foundation of Dharma. In Jainism, this translates to Anekantavada (non-absolutism/multi-perspectivism).
  • Conduct (Achar): The superstructure built on thought. In Jainism, this is Ahimsa (non-violence).
• Anekantavada Explained: The concept that every object has infinite qualities. Anekantavada is the understanding of these multiple aspects, and Syadvada is the way of expressing them sequentially. It's about recognizing that truth is relative to perspective. Einstein's theory of relativity is cited as a modern parallel. The use of "bhi" (also/too) rather than "hi" (only) in Syadvada is emphasized.
• Ahimsa Explained: The paramount principle is to cause no harm to any living being, not just physically but also through thought and speech. This includes respecting the desire of all beings to live and to avoid causing suffering.
• The Three Pillars of Dharma: Ahimsa, Samyam (self-control), and Tapasya (austerity) are presented as the core components.
  • Samyam: Essential for controlling desires and the mind, it's the foundation for practicing Ahimsa effectively.
  • Tapasya: The root of Dharma, it's the internal fire that burns away karmic impurities. It's not just physical fasting but controlling passions and desires. True Tapasya leads to spiritual peace and strength.
• The Nature of Tapasya: It's about conquering vices and becoming master of one's desires. True Tapasya is performed with a clear mind and not for show.

Chapter 5: Jain Philosophical Contemplation (Pages 52-58):

• The Importance of Tattvas (Essences): Explains that every philosophy is based on fundamental principles. Jainism recognizes Six Substances (Dravyas) and Nine Tattvas.
• The Six Substances (Dravyas):
  1. Jiva (Soul): The conscious entity, capable of knowing and seeing. It has two divisions: worldly (samsari) and liberated (mukta). Worldly souls are further divided into mobile (tras) and immobile (sthavar).
  2. Ajiva (Non-soul): The non-conscious categories.
     • Dharma: The principle of motion, enabling movement without imparting motion itself.
     • Adharma: The principle of rest, enabling beings to stay stationary.
     • Akasha: Space, which accommodates all substances.
     • Pudgala: Matter, which can be formed and transformed, possessing form, taste, smell, and touch.
     • Kala: Time, essential for changes and transformations.
• The Nine Tattvas:
  1. Jiva (Soul)
  2. Ajiva (Non-soul)
  3. Punya (Merit)
  4. Papa (Demerit)
  5. Ashrav (Influx of karma)
  6. Samvar (Stoppage of karma influx)
  7. Nirjara (Shedding of karma)
  8. Bandha (Bondage of karma)
  9. Moksha (Liberation)
• Karma Theory: Explains that the soul is bound by karma (a subtle form of matter) accumulated through actions driven by passions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed. This cycle of karma leads to rebirth and suffering.
  • Definition of Karma: Karma is a specific type of Pudgala that obscures the soul's inherent qualities.
  • Causes of Karma Bandha: Yoga (actions of body, speech, and mind) and Kashaya (passions).
  • Eight Types of Karma: Gyanavarniya, Darshanavarniya, Vedaniya, Mohaniya, Ayushya, Nama, Gotra, and Antaraya. These are categorized into four "Ghati" (destructive) karmas that obscure the soul's essential qualities and four "Aghati" (non-destructive) karmas.
  • The Goal: To destroy all karmas, especially the four Ghati karmas, to attain Moksha and realize the soul's pure, liberated state.

Chapter 6: Jain Culture (Pages 59-62):

• Holistic Approach: Jain culture emphasizes the harmonious integration of the heart and intellect for a meaningful life. It's about sowing seeds of love, compassion, cooperation, goodwill, and tolerance.
• Inclusivity and Universalism: Jain culture has always been open and accommodating, transcending caste, creed, and nationality. The path to Moksha is open to anyone who follows Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct.
• Worship of Virtues: Respect is given to qualities like renunciation, austerity, self-control, and morality, regardless of gender or background.
• Egalitarianism (Samatawad): Belief in equality for all beings, with no room for hatred or prejudice. Birthright does not determine status; actions do.
• Respect for Women: Lord Mahavir elevated the status of women, allowing them to be ordained, a significant societal change. Figures like Chandanbala and Jayanti are highlighted.
• Emphasis on Inner Transformation: Jain culture prioritizes a change of heart over external rituals. Moral and spiritual awakening are key.
• Art and Architecture: Jainism has a rich tradition of art and architecture, with temples like those at Mount Abu being world-renowned examples of craftsmanship.

Chapter 7: Jain Festivals (Pages 63-64):

• Significance of Festivals: Festivals are seen as expressions of culture, history, and faith.
• Key Festivals:
  • Paryushana (Dashalakshan Parva): An eight-day festival of spiritual austerity, self-reflection, penance, and seeking forgiveness. The Digambara tradition celebrates Dashalakshan over ten days.
  • Akshaya Tritiya: Commemorates Lord Rishabh Dev breaking his year-long fast with sugarcane juice.
  • Diwali: Marks Lord Mahavir's Nirvana.
  • Mahavir Jayanti: Celebrates the birth of Lord Mahavir.
  • Parshva Jayanti: Celebrates the birth of Lord Parshvanath.
  • Shashwat Oli Tap: A festival of devotion to the Navapad (nine supreme beings) celebrated twice a year.
• Etiquette (Shishtachar): Emphasizes respect for gurus and elders, devotion to Arihants and Siddhas, daily prayers, visiting temples, and assisting the needy.

Chapter 8: Jain Sects (Pages 65-68):

• Roots of Diversity: While Jainism is fundamentally non-absolutist and harmonious, differences in interpretation and practice led to the formation of various sects.
• Two Main Traditions:
  • Svetambara (White-Clad): Those who wear white garments and follow a tradition that evolved over centuries, with various sub-sects like Tapa Gachha, Achal Gachha, and Kharatargachha.
  • Digambara (Sky-Clad): Those who practice complete renunciation, including the wearing of clothes.
• Emergence of Shvetambara Sub-sects: Discusses the emergence of different Gachhas due to factors like adherence to ancient practices, lifestyle changes, and differing interpretations of scriptures.
• The Sthanakvasi Tradition: A sect that arose in the 15th-16th century, opposing idol worship and following a modified set of scriptures.
• The Terapanth Sect: A sub-sect of Sthanakvasi, founded by Acharya Bhikhanji, known for its strict adherence to principles and leadership by a single Acharya.
• Current Landscape: Provides an estimate of the number of monks and nuns within the different Svetambara and Digambara traditions. The total number of Jain monks and nuns across both traditions is estimated to be over eleven thousand, with a Jain population of over 5 million in India.

In essence, the book "Jagat Kalyankari Jain Dharm" serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding Jainism, from its philosophical underpinnings and historical journey to its cultural practices and internal divisions, all presented with the aim of promoting the welfare of the world.