Jain Darshan Aur Sanskruti Parishad - Book Summary

This comprehensive summary is based on the provided text, which appears to be the proceedings of the first convention of the Jain Darshan aur Sanskruti Parishad (Jain Philosophy and Culture Council) held in Bikaner on October 25-28, 1964. The text details the various sessions, speeches, research papers presented, and resolutions passed.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects:

1. Inauguration and Opening Session (October 25, 1964):

Venue: Anavat Pandhal, in front of the railway station, Bikaner.
Presided by: Acharya Shri Tulsi, with blessings and invocation.
Key Highlights:
- Mangal geet (auspicious songs) were sung.
- Sanskrit stotra recitation.
- Welcome speech by Shri Mohanlal Banthia (the convenor), emphasizing the simplicity and accessibility of Jain philosophy if understood correctly.
- Compilation of good wishes from 25 locations by Shri Mohanlal Banthia.
- Address by Shri Bagaanlal Shastri.
- Detailed and appreciated discourse on the philosophical history of Jains by Dr. Nathmal Tata, Director of Nalanda and Vaishali Vidyapeeths.
- Philosophical discourse by Munishri Nagaraj.
- Acharya Shri Tulsi's Speech:
  - Connected the convention with the 15th annual celebration of the Anuvrat movement, highlighting the relationship between self-control in life and the philosophical exploration of sustaining that self-control.
  - Addressed the misconception that philosophy is not for the common people, attributing it to the complexity it has been made, and stressed the need for simplification.
  - Emphasized that "Darshan" (philosophy) means "Drishti" (vision) and that success in any field requires a specific vision.
  - Discussed the concept of "Shedanvadia" (six stages/perceptions) in vision, highlighting the infinite variations in individual perspectives.
  - Quoted Jain Tirthankaras: "First, look within yourself."
  - Explained that understanding oneself is understanding everything.
  - Delved into the Jain concept of the soul (Atma), its two forms (Dravya and Bhava), the seven Bhava Atmas, and the possibility of other forms of soul as expounded by Acharya Mishri Swami.
  - Discussed the states of bondage and liberation, referencing Ashrav and Samvar.
  - Addressed the immortality and mortality of the soul, stating that from an "anekantic" (multi-faceted) perspective, everything in the universe is immortal and mortal. Explained this through the concept of "Gunsthans" (stages of spiritual development), where death doesn't occur in certain stages (12th, 13th, 3rd).
  - Stressed that all philosophical concepts ultimately aim at liberation (Bandhanmukt).
  - Defined true religion as that which elevates one from worldly entanglements and brings closer to Moksha, considering it beyond sects and denominations.
  - Expressed hope that the four-day program would simplify profound topics like philosophy and religion and stimulate intellectual curiosity.
- Vote of thanks by the convenor, Shri Banthia ji.
Afternoon Session (Intra-session):
- Venue: Lal Kothdi.
- Key Highlights:
  - Three research papers were read:
    1. "Prakrit Literature" by Dr. Satranjan Banerjee, Ph.D.
    2. "'Apabhramsa Literature'" by Shri Devendra Kumar Jain, Shastri.
    3. "A Comparative Study of Shraman Culture" by Munishri Dulichand 'Dinkar'.
  - Question-and-answer sessions followed each paper.
- Acharya Shri Tulsi's Remarks:
  - Acknowledged the vastness of research and the need for more research papers.
  - Expressed regret that a strong, unified platform for Jains to voice their opinions does not yet exist.
  - Called for collective effort to bring forth hidden secrets of Jain culture, art, history, and language.
- Vote of thanks by the convenor.
Night Session (Intra-session):
- Venue: Lal Kothdi Pandhal.
- Key Highlights:
  - "Culture Ke Bhut" (Ghosts of Culture) by Shri Indrachandji Shastri (published with the report).
  - "Jainism in Rajasthan" by Shri Gajan, highlighting the spread of Jainism in Rajasthan from the 8th century, the influence of Acharyas like Haribhadra and Hemchandra, the presence of artistic temples and literature, and the historical prevalence of Jainism even during Lord Mahavir's time. Mentioned inscriptions at Badli and artistic artifacts at Mathura, Udaipur, and other sites.
  - Suggested Chandragupta's adherence to Jainism after the Mauryan period and Ashok's supposed propagation of Jainism. Mentioned the influence of Greek people on Jainism in Western India and the significant promotion during the time of Jayasimha and Kumarapala, making Jaisalmer a Jain stronghold.
  - Q&A session.

2. Second Day's Proceedings (October 26, 1964):

Morning Session:
- Venue: Lal Kothdi.
- Key Highlights:
  - Invocation by Acharya Shri and song by Munishri Dulichandji.
  - Three research papers were presented:
    1. "Integration of Maya" by Shri Ramchandraji Jain, Advocate.
    2. "Contribution of Jain Philosophy to Non-Jain Justice" by Shri Anantlal Kar.
    3. "Reality of Soul and Matter (English)" by Munishri Mahendrakumar 'Dwitiya'.
  - Q&A sessions were held.
  - Audience showed enthusiasm and participated devoutly.
Afternoon Session:
- Key Highlights:
  - Three research papers were presented:
    1. "Essence of Shraman Culture" by Shri L. K. Bharatiya.
    2. "Trees fulfilling life's needs" by Sadhvi Shri Kanakprabha.
    3. "Influence of Shraman Culture on Upanishads" by Munishri Nathmalji (read by Shri Mohanlal Banthia).
  - Q&A sessions were conducted.
  - Appreciation for Munishri Nathmalji's well-presented paper, which provided new historical evidence.
  - Appreciation for Sadhvi Shri's research on trees fulfilling needs.
Night Session:
- Key Highlights:
  - "Navya Shraman Vichardhara" (New Shraman Ideology) by Shri K.C. Jain, discussing the ancient origins of Jainism, possibly predating Parshvanath, and refuting claims of it being a branch of Buddhism, citing Dr. Jacobi's research proving Jainism's antiquity.
  - Mentioned the discovery of advanced civilization in Mohanjo-daro, Harappa, etc., 4500 years ago, and the subsequent decline and reappearance of scripts and civilizations.
  - Called for scholars to excavate and reveal new facts.
  - Shri Ramchandra Jain, Advocate, presented his views on "Navya Shraman Vichardhara," stating that historical re-evaluation reveals revolutionary facts and that 6000 years ago, humans were free, developed, civilized, scientific, inspired by "Samayak Antarkiyani," believed in Ahimsa and truth, and their societal structures were based on these. He contrasted this with later systems like tribalism, feudalism, capitalism, imperialism, and communism, stating that materialism is nearing its end. He called for renewed research into "Navya Shramanvada" to guide humanity towards freedom, happiness, and peace.
  - Acharya Shri Tulsi's Remarks:
    - Expressed happiness at scholars' support for research and acknowledged the pioneering comparative research in Jainism.
    - Stated that the research has far-reaching implications and that societal inertia would be a loss if not supported.
    - Emphasized the need for societal support for scholars.

3. Third Day's Proceedings (October 27, 1964):

Morning Session:
- Venue: Gangashehar (Bikaner), at the residence of Shri Ishwarichandji Chopra.
- Key Highlights:
  - Invocation by Acharya Shri and song by Soni Shri Dulichandji.
  - Three research papers read:
    1. "Integration of Maya" by Shri Ramchandraji Jain, Advocate.
    2. "Contribution of Jain Philosophy to Non-Jain Justice" by Shri Anantlal Kar.
    3. "Reality of Soul & Matter (English)" by Munishri Mahendrakumar 'Dwitiya'.
  - Q&A sessions were conducted.
  - Audience showed enthusiasm in a peaceful atmosphere.
- Afternoon Session:
  - Key Highlights:
    - Three research papers read:
      1. "Essence of Shraman Culture" by Shri L.K. Bharatiya.
      2. "Trees fulfilling life's needs" by Sadhvi Shri Kanakprabha.
      3. "Influence of Shraman Culture on Upanishads" by Munishri Nathmalji (read by Shri Mohanlal Banthia).
    - Q&A sessions were held.
    - Appreciation for Munishri Nathmalji's paper, highlighting new historical evidence and scholarly language.
    - Appreciation for Sadhvi Shri's research on trees and nature's gifts.
- Night Session:
  - Key Highlights:
    - "Navya Shraman Vichardhara" (New Shraman Ideology) by Shri K.C. Jain, discussing the early research in India identifying Jainism as a branch of Buddhism, and later research proving its antiquity over Buddhism, citing Dr. Jacobi.
    - Mentioned Vedic beliefs that might suggest Jain culture predates Parshvanath, possibly linking the middle period to Puranic times.
    - Emphasized international research and university studies on Jainism.
    - Noted the ancient civilization (4500 years ago) in Mohenjodaro, Harappa, etc., and the subsequent disappearance of scripts and civilization.
    - Urged scholars to discover new facts through excavation.
    - Shri Ramchandra Jain, Advocate, spoke on "Navya Shraman Vichardhara," presenting historical evidence of a revolutionary nature, stating that 6000 years ago, humans were independent, cultured, and skilled in arts and sciences, inspired by "Samayak Antarkiyani," believing in Ahimsa and truth, which formed the basis of their socio-political systems. He contrasted this with later systems and the current state of materialism. He called for research into "Navya Shramanvada" to show humanity the path to freedom, happiness, and peace.
    - Acharya Shri Tulsi's Remarks:
      - Recognized the long-standing intellectual pursuit of Jain scholars and the positive impact of research.
      - Stressed the need for societal support for scholarly work, warning that a society that doesn't support its scholars suffers.

4. Fourth Day's Proceedings (October 28, 1964):

Morning Session:
- Venue: Gangashehar.
- Key Highlights:
  - Research papers presented:
    1. "Vyutsarg: The Central Point of Jain Sadhana" by Shri Inderchandraji Shastri.
    2. "Tirukkural (Tamil Veda): A Jain Creation" by Munishri Nagarajji.
  - Shri Ramchandraji Jain presented his English book "The Most Ancient Aryan Society" to Acharya Shri.
Afternoon Session:
- Key Highlights:
  - Research papers presented:
    1. "Was Vasu Shramana?" by Munishri Rupchandji.
    2. "Sound (Dhvani) Science" by Sadhvi Shri Sanghmitraji.
    3. "Punhya and Pap" by Shri Iganlalji Shastri.
- Q&A sessions were held.
Night Session (Open Discussion):
- Key Highlights:
  - A special program of "Mukta Chintan Goshti" (Open Thought Session) was held, where scholars presented their views freely.
  - Discussions also took place on various topics related to the Parishad.
- Acharya Shri Tulsi's Special Message:
  - Acknowledged the Parishad's infancy and need for better organization, with increasing responsibility for the convenors.
  - Expressed his long-held desire for a unifying platform for Jain scholars to exchange ideas and collectively promote Jain philosophical thought.
  - Reflected on the broad scope of Jainism in ancient times, which later became limited due to factors like casteism, causing him distress. He attributed the current progress to the Anuvrat movement and the creation of new literature by monks and nuns.
  - Stressed that profound subjects like religion and philosophy cannot be confined to narrow boundaries, comparing their vastness to sunlight and moonlight. He criticized any sectarian, caste, or individualistic claim over these universal elements as narrow-minded.
  - Mentioned the "Panchasutri" (five-point program) for Jain unity initiated in Bombay, which has fostered better relationships with other sects and reduced criticism of the Terapanth society.
  - Highlighted the growing interest in philosophical thought and the readiness of monks and nuns to present this knowledge authentically and modernly. Urged scholars to create literature that provides specific nourishment and guidance for life.
  - Points for Contemplation for Jain Scholars:
    - How can all Jain sects unite, despite their differences?
    - The lack of unity hinders important work.
    - Sanchesari and Mahavir Jayanti are universally accepted Jain festivals, but their separate observance causes confusion. While Mahavir Jayanti is now celebrated collectively, Samvatsari needs consideration.
    - Proposed fixing a single date for Samvatsari, regardless of its duration.
    - Suggested applying this collective approach to other festivals and historical sites.
    - Expressed belief that collective effort will foster a harmonious environment.
    - Encouraged scholars to meditate on these ideas and commit to advancing them, assured of success through everyone's cooperation.

5. Final Intra-session (October 28, 1964):

Venue: Lal Kothdi.
Key Highlights:
- Only scholars and ascetics were present.
- Research papers presented:
  1. "Antiquity and Origin of Jain Iconography" by Dr. L.M. Joshi, M.A., Ph.D. (University of Gorakhpur) (read by Shri Ramchandra Jain).
  2. "Contribution of Kundakunda to Jainism" by Sadhvi Shri Phoolkumariji.
  3. "Religious Traditions of Mahavir's Era" by Sadhvi Shri Yashodhara.
  4. "Comparative Study of Jain Philosophy and Western Philosophy" by Sadhvi Shri Manjula.
  5. "Prashna Vyakarana Sutra: A Study" by Shri Amarchandji Nahata (read by Shri Mohanlal Banthia).
- Q&A session.
- Shri Mohanlal Banthia invited scholars to provide new suggestions for the Parishad.
- Resolutions Passed:
  1. Publication of research papers (full or summarized) along with the proceedings.
  2. Establishing contact with foreign oriental scholars and sending them the Parishad's proceedings.
  3. Presenting and distributing a list of research topics.
  4. Drawing the attention of editors, authors, and publishers to errors in published books.
  5. Creating a Jain bibliography comparable to the Paris Bibliographie or Buddhist bibliographies.
  6. Collecting references to Jainism in non-Jain literature.
  7. Striving to initiate Jain Philosophy and Prakrit language studies in Indian universities at the postgraduate level.
  8. Presenting a list of Jain publishing houses and Jain periodicals.
  9. Presenting a list of Jain scholars and non-Jain scholars interested in Jain subjects.
  10. Constituting the Parishad as an institution named "Jain Darshan and Sanskriti Parishad."
  11. Holding the next convention in the presence of Acharya Shri L.C. (likely referring to Acharya Shri Tulsi).
  12. The Shri Jain Shvetambar Terapanthi Mahasabha, Calcutta, to manage and operate the Parishad institution.
  13. Sending 15 reprints of read research papers to householder researchers.
  14. Shri Mohanlal Banthia to continue as one of the convenors.
  15. The motto (Adarsh Vakya) of the Parishad to be "Appana Sachchamejjija."
  16. Maintaining a register of members with their addresses and workplaces.
  17. Informing state education departments about the Parishad's conventions.
  18. Informing the Indian Government's Culture Department and cultural attachés of foreign embassies about the Parishad.
  19. All research papers to be submitted in written form with a summary.
  20. Arranging for the special celebration of the 2500th Mahavir Jayanti by the Parishad office.
- Further Resolutions (Unanimously Adopted): 21. The Parishad to arrange for the availability of Agamas and Siddhanta texts for researchers. 22. Including a separate topic on Jainism outside India and its study. 23. Research papers presented at the Parishad must be original and not previously read or published elsewhere. 24. Reaffirming the objectives of the Parishad: * Bringing together scholars interested in Jainism. * Gathering information about scholars' activities related to Jainism. * Arranging exhibitions of manuscripts, art, and books. * Facilitating cooperation among scholars worldwide. * Encouraging the study of Jainism and Prakrit. * Arranging exchanges of views among scholars. * Promoting the advancement of learning in Jainism. 25. Establishing subject divisions for Parishad conventions, with separate sessions for each division if enough papers are received: * Jain Philosophy (Logic, Ethics, Nyaya) * Jain Agamas, Pahuda, Niyukti, Churni, etc. * Jain Literature (Prakrit, Sanskrit, Apabhramsa) * Jain Literature in Modern Languages * Jain Linguistics * Jain History & Social Studies * Technical Sciences in Jain Literature * Jain Archaeology * Art * Comparative Study of Religion and Philosophy * Jainism outside India and its Study 26. Informing scholars about the next convention around the first of Vaisakha (Mahavir Jayanti). 27. Sending the second notification (invitation) with location and date decision at the beginning of Chaturmas. 28. Research papers should generally not exceed 10 typed foolscap pages, with a summary not exceeding 300 words. 29. Shri Mohanlal Banthia to be the convenor for the next year as well.
- Shri Indrachandji Shastri thanked Shri Banthia for his efficient and organized convening.
- Shri Banthia expressed heartfelt gratitude to the attending scholars and extended best wishes.
- Acharya Shri Tulsi expressed immense pleasure at the success of the convention.
- The program concluded harmoniously and peacefully.

6. Research Papers Presented:

The text also lists the Hindi research papers read at the Bikaner convention. These cover a wide range of topics within Jain philosophy, culture, history, and literature:

Prakrit Literature: Brief Introduction by Prof. Satyanjan Bandyopadhyay.
Apabhramsa Literature: Apabhramsa Kathakavya by Dr. Devendra Kumar Shastri.
Ghosts of Culture by Dr. Inderchandra Shastri.
Essence of Shraman Culture by Laxminarayan Bharatiya.
Comparative Study of Shraman Culture by Munishri Dulichand 'Dinkar'.
Trees Fulfilling Life's Needs by Sadhvi Shri Kanakprabha.
Influence of Shraman Culture on Upanishads by Munishri Nathmal.
Vyutsarg: The Central Point of Jain Sadhana by Dr. Inderchandra Shastri.
Tirukkural (Tamil Veda): A Jain Creation by Munishri Nagarajji.
Were Vasya Shramana? by Munishri Rupchandji.
Sound (Dhvani) Science by Sadhvi Shri Sanghmitraji.
Religious Traditions of Mahavir's Era by Sadhvi Shri Yashodhara.
Comparative Study of Jain Philosophy and Western Philosophy by Sadhvi Shri Manjula.
Prashna Vyakarana Sutra: A Study by Amarchand Nahata.
Lord Mahavir in Buddhist Literature by Sadhvi Shri Kanakprabha.

Overall Theme and Significance:

The convention aimed to promote the study and understanding of Jain philosophy and culture. It brought together scholars from various backgrounds to discuss and present research on key aspects of Jainism, its historical development, its relationship with other philosophical and religious traditions (like Buddhism and Western philosophy), and its literary heritage. The resolutions passed reflect a commitment to academic rigor, wider dissemination of Jain knowledge, and the institutionalization of the Parishad. Acharya Shri Tulsi's addresses emphasized the need for simplification, accessibility, and the inclusive, unifying spirit of Jain philosophy.