Jain Dharm

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided text from "Jain Dharm" by Yashwant Nandecha, focusing on the core philosophical and historical aspects discussed:

Summary of "Jain Dharm" by Yashwant Nandecha

The text asserts that Jainism is an ancient and eternal religion, emphasizing that true Jains are those who diligently follow its principles of conduct and thought. It laments that many today are Jains only by name, lacking religious inclination and finding pride in conflict.

The author highlights the historical depth of Jainism, stating that the current descending era (avasarpini kal) saw 24 Tirthankaras, starting with Rishabhdev and ending with Mahavir. The text notes that modern scholars increasingly recognize the historicity of Tirthankaras like Neminath, Parshvanath, and Mahavir, and are tracing their lineage back to Rishabhdev. Evidence from seals found at Mohenjo-daro and Harappa, depicting Rishabhdev in the Kayotsarga mudra, is presented as proof of Jainism's antiquity. Citing Russian sociologist Mrs. Graseva, the text claims Jainism predates the Vedas, as Vedic texts mention Jain Tirthankaras.

Jainism is characterized as a religion of self-effort (purusharth) rather than tradition, playing a significant role in national development and thus remaining vibrant today. The text mentions the 63 "Shalaka Purush" (distinguished individuals) in Jain history, including the 24 Tirthankaras, who are credited with providing structure to human civilization in its early stages, preceded by Kulkaras. Rishabhdev, son of King Nabhira, is deeply embedded in Indian folk life, with numerous statues and authentic prehistoric materials associated with him. Even the renowned Hindi poet Surdas described Rishabhdev in his "Sur Sagar." The text also points to the significant influence of Jainism on South India between the 4th and 12th centuries CE, with dynasties like the Kadambas, Gangas, Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, and Hoysalas being Jain.

A core tenet of Jainism presented is non-violence (ahimsa), which extends not only to humans but to all living beings. The principle of "Live and Let Live" is deemed profoundly meaningful.

The text further elaborates on Jainism's unique approach to truth, highlighting its openness, patience, and reasoned contemplation in all eras. Instead of engaging in futile debates, Jainism strives for universal harmony through its Anēkāntavāda (multi-faceted perspective) philosophy, respecting all religions without denigration. This approach is described as a "spiritual computer" for discovering truth.

Jainism is presented as a religion that rejects superstition and dogma, making it eternally new and relevant. It firmly believes in the human potential to transform from an ordinary being into a divine one (Nar se Narayan), asserting that every soul is the architect of its own destiny and can attain the supreme soul through personal effort.

The text emphasizes that Jainism has no place for cowardice, advocating for healthy contemplation under the open sky, free from ideological pressure or prejudice. It encourages individuals to observe, understand, and adopt beliefs freely. The text warns that understanding Jainism without practice is like trying to understand a rabbit's horns. Jainism liberated individuals from intellectual slavery centuries ago, awakening a spirit of independence through vernacular languages. It is credited with initiating a people-oriented revolution and challenging the intellectual and scriptural exploitation by a select few.

The text also acknowledges Jainism's significant contributions to science, which are yet to be fully evaluated. It states that through detailed explanations of self-effort (purusharth), Jain philosophy provided astounding facts to science millennia ago, capable of explaining atomic theory and the mysteries of creation. Modern scientists have accepted many scientific facts found in Jain Agamas. Jainism's unique contribution of "Bhed Vigyan" (science of discrimination) is also mentioned. Texts like Vishēshāvaśyak Bhāṣya, Jñānasāra, Sūtr̥kr̥tāṅga, Bhagavatīsūtra, Gommāṭasāra, Sarvārthasiddhi, Pañcāstikāya, Dravya Saṅgraha, and Tattvārtha Sūtra are the result of intense practice. Jain asceticism is not seen as self-torture but as a profound quest for truth through Bhed Vigyan, comparable to the hardships undertaken by scientists in their research. Jain philosophy is characterized as the "science of self-experience" and should be viewed in that light. This scientific thinking and critical analysis contribute to Jainism's enduring relevance. While Darwin proposed a theory of evolution from animals to humans, Jainism views humans as inherently human, explaining their gradual development.

Jainism emphasizes Right Faith (Samyaktva), righteousness, and excellence. It encourages individuals to seek truth in its entirety, speak and act righteously, and verify its presence in their lives. The path may be long, but it must be pure. Excellence should be embraced wherever it is found.

The latter part of the text shifts to discuss several Ayurvedic works attributed to Jain ascetics, specifically highlighting the contributions of Kavi Yati Gangaramji. It mentions "Lolimbaraag," "Bhav Nidan," and "Surat Prakash" as significant Ayurvedic compositions, translated into Hindi. These works, dating from the 18th and 19th centuries, were composed in Punjab or Sindh and played a vital role in preserving Ayurveda and promoting Hindi. The text notes that the authors of these medical works, while prolific, provided little information about their personal lives.