Jain Dharm - Book Summary | JainGPT

The book "Jain Dharm" (Jainism) by Sushilmuni, published by A B Shwetambar Sthanakwasi Jain Shastroddhar Samiti, is a comprehensive overview of Jain principles and practices. The book aims to introduce Jainism to non-Jains and serves as an educational resource for those interested in the religion.

The book is divided into 13 chapters, covering various aspects of Jainism:

Introduction: This section likely includes a prayer or invocation (Mangalacharan) and a traditional Jain auspicious passage (Mangalpath).
Nature of Jainism: This chapter would introduce the fundamental characteristics of Jainism.
Glimpses of the Past (Ateet ki Jhalak): This extensive chapter delves into the history and origins of Jainism. It discusses its timeless nature, the role of the Tirthankaras (especially Rishabhdev, Neminath, Parshvanath, and Mahavir), the early propagation of Jainism, its relation to Vedic and other traditions, and the persecution faced by Jain ascetics. It highlights Jainism as an "Arya Dharma" and its philosophical basis in "Anekantavada" (multi-sidedness) and "Ahinsa" (non-violence).
The Path to Liberation (Mukti Marg): This chapter defines liberation (Moksha) and outlines the path to achieve it, which is centered around the "three jewels": Right Knowledge (Samyak Gyan), Right Faith (Samyak Darshan), and Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra).
Right Knowledge (Samyak Gyan): This detailed chapter explores the nature of knowledge, its types (like Mati Gyan, Shruta Gyan, Avadhi Gyan, Man Paryav Gyan, Keval Gyan), the structure of reality (Dravya Vyavastha) into soul (Jiva) and non-soul (Ajiva), the discussion of tattvas (principles like soul, matter, merit, demerit, influx, stoppage, bondage, and liberation), epistemology (Praman Mimansa), and the theory of knowledge perspectives (Nayavad and Syadvada). It also touches upon the concept of "Anekant" and the philosophy of language and classification (Naya Niti Nakshep Vidhan).
Psychology (Manovigyan): This chapter discusses the Jain perspective on the senses, mind, and the concept of "Leshya" (aura or disposition) and "Kashaya" (passions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed).
Jain Yoga: This chapter explains the Jain path to spiritual union, detailing the eight limbs of Jain Yoga, including the Great Vows (Mahavratas), conduct, posture, breath control (Pranayama), sensory control (Pratyahara), concentration (Dharana), meditation (Dhyana), and Samadhi. It further elaborates on different types of meditation.
Spiritual Evolution (Adhyatmik Utkranti): This chapter outlines the fourteen stages of spiritual progress (Gunsthans) that a soul goes through on its journey to liberation, from the state of utter delusion to omniscience and liberation.
Karma Theory (Karma Vada): This chapter explains the Jain concept of karma, its types, the causes of karmic bondage, the classification of karma, and the benefits of destroying karma. It also touches upon the process of rebirth.
Conduct and Ethics (Charitra aur Nitishastra): This chapter discusses the dual aspects of Jain dharma: householder's dharma (Grihastha Dharma) and ascetic's dharma (Anagar Dharma). It details the vows (Vratas), ethical principles, the five great vows (Panch Mahavratas) for ascetics, the five restraints (Samiti), three controls (Gupti), twelve contemplations (Bhavana), and the rigorous practices of Jain monks. It also covers the vows for householders (Anuvratas), the classification of householders, and the path of conduct.
Tradition of Jainism (Jain Dharm ki Parampara): This chapter provides an overview of the Jain tradition, its sects, the contribution of Jain acharyas (monks and scholars) to India's spiritual development, the role of kings and patrons, and the spread of Jainism.
Special Characteristics of Jainism (Jain Dharm ki Visheshataen): This chapter highlights the unique aspects of Jainism, including its scientific nature, views on creation, the nature of the soul, the doctrine of Anekantavada, the supreme importance of Ahinsa, its rejection of avatarhood (divine incarnation), the worship of virtues, and the principle of non-possession (Aparigraha).
Jain Etiquette (Jain Shishtachar): This final chapter discusses Jain social customs and etiquette, including respectful behavior towards deities and gurus, interactions among monks, among householders, and rules governing marital and master-servant relationships. It also lists and briefly describes major Jain festivals like Samvatsari, Dashalakshan, Ashtanika, Ayambil Oli, Shrut Panchami, Mahavir Jayanti, Diwali, and Raksha Bandhan.

The book emphasizes Jainism as a scientific religion rooted in the principles of Ahinsa (non-violence) and Anekantavada (multi-sidedness), offering a comprehensive and balanced perspective on its philosophy, ethics, and practices. The introduction also includes endorsements from prominent figures like Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan and Sumitranandan Pant, highlighting the book's significance and value.