Jain Dharm

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text titled "Jain Dharm" by Sampurnanand and Kailashchandra Shastri. The summary covers the historical context, core principles, ethical practices, literary traditions, art and archaeology, sects, festivals, and pilgrimage sites of Jainism as presented in the book.

Book Title: Jain Dharm Author(s): Sampurnanand, Kailashchandra Shastri Publisher: Bharatiya Digambar Jain Sahitya

Fair Use Declaration: The provided text is from The Free Indological Collection (TFIC) and is made available for educational and research purposes under Fair Use guidelines, believing it to be in the public domain.

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Summary:

"Jain Dharm" is a detailed and authentic introduction to Jainism, covering its history, principles, ethics, literature, art, archaeology, sects, festivals, and pilgrimage sites. The book aims to provide a foundational understanding of all aspects of Jainism for general readers.

Key Themes and Content:

1. History of Jainism:

   • Origins: The book refutes the notion that Jainism originated from Buddhism, asserting its antiquity and independence. It highlights that Jainism predates Buddhism and its founders, Mahavira and Parshvanatha. The tradition traces its origins to the first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva, supported by Jain and some non-Jain literature (like Yajurveda and Bhagavata Purana).
   • Tirthankaras: It details the lives and teachings of the 24 Tirthankaras, starting with Rishabhadeva, who is credited with establishing societal order and introducing the six primary occupations (krishi, masi, etc.). The lives of key Tirthankaras like Neminatha, Parshvanatha, and Mahavira are elaborated upon.
   • Mahavira's Post-Nirvana Period: The text discusses the spread and influence of Jainism in various regions of India after Mahavira's passing, mentioning the patronage by rulers like Chandragupta Maurya and Kharavela.
   • Spread Across India: It traces the historical presence of Jainism in Bihar, Odisha, Bengal, Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and South India (Tamil and Karnataka regions), highlighting the patronage it received from various dynasties like the Mauryas, Guptas, Kalachuris, Chalukyas, Rashtrakutas, Hoysalas, and others.

2. Principles of Jainism (Siddhanta):

   • What is Jainism? Jainism is defined as the religion taught by the "Jinas" (victors), individuals who have conquered their internal passions and senses. It is distinct from faiths centered on divine incarnations or solely on scriptures revealed by God.
   • Anekantavada and Syadvada: The core philosophical principle of Jainism is Anekantavada (many-sidedness of reality), which posits that reality is multifaceted and can be viewed from various perspectives. Syadvada is the logical expression of Anekantavada, using the term "syat" (perhaps, in some way) to qualify statements, acknowledging that any assertion about reality is conditional and partial. This is contrasted with absolute viewpoints.
   • Dravya Vyavastha (Ontology): The universe is composed of six fundamental substances (dravyas): Jiva (soul), Pudgala (matter), Dharma (medium of motion), Adharma (medium of rest), Akasha (space), and Kala (time). Pudgala is the only material substance; the rest are non-material.
   • God: Jainism is described as atheistic in the sense that it does not believe in a creator God. However, it reveres Jinas (Tirthankaras) who have achieved liberation and omniscience through their own efforts. These liberated souls are considered God-like entities, but not creators or controllers of the universe.
   • Seven Tattvas: The fundamental principles for understanding reality and liberation are Jiva, Ajiva (comprising Pudgala, Dharma, Adharma, Akasha, Kala), Asrava (influx of karma), Bandha (bondage of karma), Samvara (cessation of karma influx), Nirjara (shedding of karma), and Moksha (liberation).
   • Karma Theory: Karma is viewed not just as a principle but as a subtle material substance that attaches to the soul due to passions (kashayas) and actions (yoga), influencing its future experiences. The process of karma, its types, and its effects are explained in detail.
   • Dukkha and Moksha: The ultimate goal is Moksha (liberation) from the cycle of birth and death, achieved by eradicating karma through right faith (Samyagdarshan), right knowledge (Samyagjnana), and right conduct (Samyakcharitra), collectively known as the Three Jewels.
   • The Universe: The universe is considered eternal, uncreated, and without beginning or end, governed by the inherent nature of its constituent substances and the laws of karma.

3. Conduct and Ethics (Charitra):

   • Vows (Vratas): The ethical framework is based on vows, observed in varying degrees by monks (Maha-vratas) and householders (Anu-vratas). The primary vows are Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy/chastity), and Aparigraha (non-possession/non-attachment).
   • Ahimsa: Ahimsa is central, encompassing non-violence in thought, word, and deed. It extends to microscopic beings and the intention behind an action. The text distinguishes between unintentional harm (due to carelessness) and intentional violence.
   • Brahmacharya and Aparigraha: These vows emphasize control over senses and possessions to detach from worldly attachments, which are seen as the root of suffering.
   • Asceticism (Muni Charitra): The rigorous lifestyle of Jain monks is described, including their 28 basic observances (mula-gunas), their daily routine, emphasis on non-violence in all actions, and their detachment from worldly concerns.
   • Layperson's Conduct (Shravak Charitra): The book details the practices and vows for lay followers, including the five Anu-vratas and additional vows (Gunavratas and Shikshavratas), outlining a path for spiritual progress within a householder's life. It discusses practices like night-meal avoidance, water-filtering, and avoiding harmful professions.
   • The 14 Stages of Spiritual Progress (Gunasthanas): Jainism categorizes spiritual development into 14 stages, illustrating the soul's journey from ignorance and bondage to omniscience and liberation.

4. Jain Literature:

   • Vastness and Diversity: Jain literature is presented as vast and significant, written in Sanskrit, Prakrit, Apabhramsa, and various vernacular languages like Gujarati, Kannada, Tamil, and Hindi.
   • Canonical Texts: The Agamas, particularly the Angas and Upangas (in Shvetambara tradition), are discussed. The Digambara tradition emphasizes the importance of the Shatkhandagama and Kashayapahuda.
   • Key Authors and Works: Prominent authors like Kundakunda (Pravachanasara, Samaysara, Panchastikaya), Umaswami (Tattvartha Sutra), Samantabhadra (Aptamimamsa), Siddhasena Divakara (Nyayavatara), Akalanka (Ashtashati), Vidyanandi (Ashtasahasri), and Hemachandra (Siddha-Hema Vyakarana, Trishashtishalaka-purusha-charitra) are highlighted for their contributions to philosophy, logic, grammar, poetry, and ethics.
   • Contribution to Indian Languages: Jain authors played a crucial role in developing and enriching various Indian languages and literatures.

5. Jain Art and Archaeology:

   • Artistic Traditions: Jain art is characterized by its distinctive style, particularly in sculpture and architecture, reflecting its core principles of detachment and spiritual focus.
   • Sculpture: Jain sculptures, especially of Tirthankaras, are noted for their serene expressions, posture (Padmasana or Khadgasana), and lack of ornamentation, symbolizing spiritual purity. The massive Gomateshwara statue in Shravanabelagola is a prime example.
   • Architecture: Jain temples and cave complexes, found across India, showcase intricate carvings and impressive architectural designs, reflecting different regional styles influenced by local dynasties. The Dilwara temples in Mount Abu are renowned for their marble artistry.
   • Archaeological Evidence: Ancient sites like Mathura, Kausambi, Shravasti, and the rock-cut caves of Khandagiri and Udayagiri in Odisha provide significant archaeological evidence of Jainism's historical presence and artistic achievements. The influence of Jain art on broader Indian artistic traditions is also acknowledged.

6. Sects and Divisions:

   • Digambara and Shvetambara: The major schism in Jainism is explained, primarily attributed to differing interpretations of monastic conduct (especially regarding nudity) and later differences in scriptural canons and practices. The text provides the historical context of this division, often linked to the famine in ancient Magadha.
   • Sub-sects and Gachhas: The book mentions the proliferation of various sub-sects and gacchas (monastic lineages) within both Digambara and Shvetambara traditions, such as the Kharatara, Tapagachha, Tarapantha, and others, noting differences in practices and interpretations.
   • Modern Sects: It also touches upon contemporary sects like the Sthanakavasis (who reject idol worship) and the Terapanth sect, highlighting their distinct practices.

7. Festivals (Jain Parva):

   • Major Festivals: The text describes significant Jain festivals:
     • Dashalakshana Parva (Paryushana): Celebrated for its emphasis on the ten virtues (patience, humility, straightness, purity, truth, restraint, penance, renunciation, detachment, and celibacy).
     • Ananta Chaturdashi: The final day of Dashalakshana, often marked by special observances and processions.
     • Mahavir Jayanti: Celebration of Lord Mahavira's birth.
     • Vir Shashan Jayanti: Commemorating the first sermon of Lord Mahavira.
     • Shruta Panchami: Honoring the Agamic scriptures, particularly the Shatkhandagama.
     • Deepavali: While also celebrated by Hindus, its Jain connection is explained through the commemoration of Mahavira's Nirvana and the worship of spiritual Lakshmi (knowledge and liberation).
     • Raksha Bandhan: Its Jain origins are linked to the story of Vishnukumar and the Jain munis, emphasizing protection and mutual support.
   • Other Observances: The text also mentions the significance of festivals related to Tirthankara's life events (Kalyanaka) and the worship of the Siddha-Chakra.

8. Pilgrimage Sites (Tirtha Kshetra):

   • Significance: Jain Tirthas are sacred places associated with the life events of Tirthankaras or significant Jain spiritual figures, serving as focal points for devotion and spiritual practice.
   • Key Sites: The book details numerous pilgrimage sites across India, categorized by region:
     • Bihar: Sammed Shikhar (Parasnath Hill), Kolhua, Gunawa, Pawapuri, Rajgir, Kundalpur, Mandargiri.
     • Uttar Pradesh: Varanasi, Shreyansnathpur (Sarnath), Chandrapuri, Prayagraj, Paphosa, Kaushambi, Ayodhya, Khukhundo, Shravasti, Ratnapuri, Kampila, Ahichhatra, Parva.
     • Madhya Pradesh/Bundelkhand: Muktagiri, Kundalpur, Siddhavarkoot, Vidisha, Sonagiri, Deogarh, Gwalior Fort, Paphundra, Ahilya, Hastinapur.
     • Rajasthan and Gujarat: Shri Mahavirji, Chandrakhedi, Maksi Parshvanatha, Vijapuriya, Mount Abu (Dilwara), Achalgarh, Taranga, Girnar, Shatrunjaya, Pavagadh.
     • Maharashtra/Vidarbha: Antariksha Parshvanatha, Karja, Muktagiri, Bhatkuli, Ramtek.
     • Karnataka: Shravanabelagola (Gommateshwara statue), Velur, Halibid, Kudatgiri.
   • Regional Diversity: The description highlights the rich network of Jain pilgrimage sites, emphasizing their historical and spiritual significance.

9. Jainism and Other Religions:

   • Comparison with Hinduism: The text explores the relationship and differences between Jainism and Hinduism (Vedic Dharma), noting shared philosophical concepts like karma and reincarnation but also fundamental disagreements on the nature of God, the authority of Vedas, and creation. It discusses the historical evolution of Vedic thought from ritualism to Upanishadic philosophy.
   • Comparison with Buddhism: The text clarifies the distinctness and historical precedence of Jainism over Buddhism, refuting claims of Jainism being a mere branch of Buddhism.
   • Comparison with Islam: A brief mention of the interaction between Jainism and Islam is made, noting the influence of Islamic iconoclasm on the rise of iconoclastic Jain sects like Sthanakavasis and Tarapanthis.

10. Jain Verses (Suktiyan):

    • The book includes a collection of moral and philosophical verses from Jain scriptures, encapsulating Jain teachings on conduct, detachment, and spiritual pursuit.

Overall Significance:

"Jain Dharm" serves as an encyclopedic overview of Jainism, presenting a balanced perspective that integrates historical accounts, philosophical depth, ethical guidelines, literary achievements, artistic expressions, and the socio-religious fabric of Jainism. It aims to dispel misconceptions and provide a comprehensive resource for anyone seeking to understand this ancient Indian tradition. The preface by Sampurnanand highlights the book's objective approach and its contribution to inter-religious understanding. The author's notes also shed light on the motivation behind creating such a comprehensive yet accessible work.