Jain Dharm Aur Vidhva Vivaha 01 - Book Summary

This document is a Jain text titled "Jain Dharm aur Vidhva Vivaha" (Jainism and Widow Marriage), authored by Savyasachi and published by the Jain Bal Vidhva Sahayak Sabha in Delhi. The text primarily consists of a question-and-answer section, addressing various concerns and arguments surrounding the practice of widow remarriage within Jainism.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the content:

Core Argument and Purpose: The primary aim of the book is to advocate for and justify widow remarriage within the Jain tradition. The author argues that widow remarriage is not contrary to Jain principles and, in fact, addresses critical social issues, particularly the declining population and the plight of widows. The text actively refutes the opposing viewpoints that consider widow remarriage a sin or a violation of Jain dharma.

Key Questions and Answers:

The bulk of the book is dedicated to addressing 31 specific questions posed by a "Barrister Sahab" (likely referencing Barrister Champat Rai Jain), with the author, Savyasachi, providing detailed responses. These questions and answers form the core of the argument for widow remarriage.

Here are some of the key themes and arguments addressed:

Impact on Samyagdarshan (Right Faith): The author argues that widow remarriage does not destroy Samyagdarshan. He explains that Samyagdarshan is about the experience of one's true self and is not affected by marital status. Even those in the seventh hell or committing sins can retain Samyagdarshan, so a practice like widow remarriage, which is seen as a means to observe chastity, cannot possibly harm it. The underlying Kasha (passions) involved in widow marriage are not considered destructive to Samyagdarshan.
Permissibility in Scriptures: The author extensively analyzes Jain scriptures and philosophical concepts to demonstrate that there is no explicit prohibition of widow remarriage.
- He argues that the word "Kanya" (virgin) used in scriptures in the context of marriage often refers to a "marriageable woman" in general, not exclusively a virgin. He cites examples from various Jain texts and dictionaries where "Kanya" is used to denote women in general, including those who have had children or whose husbands have died.
- He points out that the definition of marriage in texts like Rajvartika is the acceptance of a man by a woman and vice-versa due to the influence of Sattvic and Charitra Mohaniya karma, which doesn't inherently exclude widows.
- He references the concept of "Punar Vivaha" (remarriage) in Jain texts, such as the Adinath Purana, where it's mentioned in the context of initiation rituals, implying that remarriage is not inherently un-Jain.
Impact on Heavenly and Infernal Destinies: The author asserts that widow remarriage does not lead to binding oneself to Tiryanch (animal) or Naraka (hellish) destinies. He explains that these states are caused by crookedness in mind, speech, and body, which are absent in the straightforwardness of widow marriage. He also argues that opposition to widow marriage, often involving deception and condemnation, is more likely to lead to negative karmic consequences.
Distinction from Adultery (Vyabhichar): The text makes a strong distinction between widow marriage and adultery. It clarifies that while adultery is considered a sin, widow marriage, when conducted through proper marital union, is not. It categorizes current forms of adultery and places widow marriage outside these categories.
Controlling Carnal Desires: A significant argument is that marriage, including widow marriage, serves as a means to control and channel carnal desires. While it might not eliminate them entirely, it provides a structured and permissible outlet, preventing greater sins like adultery and abortion.
Social Necessity and Population Decline: The book highlights the alarming decline in the Jain population, citing census data. It argues that the prohibition of widow remarriage, along with other social ills like child marriage and the prevalence of unmarried men, contributes significantly to this decline. Widow marriage is presented as a practical solution to increase the population and maintain the community.
Critique of Opponents: The author addresses and refutes the arguments of those who oppose widow remarriage, often labeling them as "rudhi-vadi" (traditionalists) or "mithya-drushti" (those with wrong views). He criticizes their rigid adherence to tradition without understanding the underlying principles and the changing social realities. He also highlights the hypocrisy of those who indulge in their own plural marriages or illicit relationships while condemning widow remarriage.
The Importance of Intent and Social Context: The author emphasizes that Jain dharma is not rigid and allows for variations based on time, place, and individual capacity (Dravya, Kshetra, Kala, Bhava). What might be considered a breach of strict celibacy in one context might be a necessary and virtuous act in another, especially when it prevents greater sins.
Reinterpreting "Kanya" and "Vidhva": The text delves into linguistic and interpretive arguments about the meaning of "Kanya" and whether a woman can be considered a "Vidhwā" before experiencing marital intimacy. It argues for a broader interpretation of these terms that accommodates social realities.
Criticism of Child Marriage: The book strongly condemns child marriage, viewing it as invalid from a religious standpoint due to the lack of understanding and consent from the involved parties.
Critique of Forced Widowhood: The author criticizes the societal practice of imposing severe restrictions on widows, viewing it as a form of tyranny and a greater sin than widow remarriage itself. He argues that forced widowhood leads to misery, secret sins, and abortions, which are far more detrimental to spiritual and social well-being.
The Role of Women: The text advocates for greater rights and agency for women, arguing that their subjugation and inability to express their needs are a result of societal oppression. It draws parallels with the women's liberation movements in the West.

Structure of the Book: The book includes:

Fair Use Declaration: A statement from "The Free Indological Collection" about the book's sourcing and usage.
Acknowledgments: A list of individuals and organizations that provided financial assistance for the publication.
Introduction/Minister's Note: Explaining the context and purpose of the book, highlighting the growing debate on widow marriage and Savyasachi's role in addressing it.
Question and Answer Section: The main body of the text, featuring the 31 questions and detailed answers.
Letters and Responses: Includes a letter from a reader named Kalyani, expressing her concerns about widow remarriage, and Savyasachi's detailed response to her points.
An Appeal: An appeal from the Jain Bal Vidhva Sahayak Sabha to the Jain community to support the cause of widow remarriage and provide assistance to widows.
Concluding Remarks: A summary of the arguments and a call for open discussion.
Additional Useful Tracts/Books: A list of other related publications.

Overall Tone and Significance: The book is written in a passionate and argumentative style, aiming to persuade the Jain community to reconsider their stance on widow remarriage. It presents a progressive interpretation of Jain dharma, emphasizing compassion, social reform, and a practical approach to spiritual and societal well-being. The detailed responses to the questions demonstrate a thorough understanding of Jain philosophy and its application to contemporary social issues. The book serves as a significant document in the discourse on social reform within the Jain community.