Jain Dharm Darpan

I've reviewed the provided text from "Jain Dharm Darpan" by Jivanlal Kalidas Vohra. This is a comprehensive work that delves into the history and lineages of Jainism, particularly focusing on the succession of acharya (spiritual leaders) and the development of different gachhas (sects or monastic orders).

Here's a summary of the key aspects covered in the text:

I. Genesis and Purpose of the Book:

• Title and Author: "Jain Dharm Darpan" (Jain Dharma Mirror), authored by Jivanlal Kalidas Vohra, with assistance from Bhavanishankar Narasinram.
• Objective: The book aims to mirror Jain dharma for its readers, presenting its teachings and history.
• Dedication: The book is dedicated to Raja Shri Motichand Talshibhai, who is praised for his deep faith in Jainism, his pursuit of knowledge, and his support of Jain religious literature.
• Motivation: The author expresses the difficulty in compiling the "Patavali" (lineage of spiritual leaders) due to its fragmented nature, requiring extensive research and collation of accurate information.

II. Historical Overview and Key Figures:

• The Beginning: The text traces the origins of Jainism back to the time of Rishabh Dev (Adinath), the first Tirthankar. It mentions a period of abundance followed by scarcity, leading to the imposition of taxes and later, the establishment of a regulated social order under kings and their subjects.
• Rishabh Dev: He is described as the first Tirthankar, born to Raja Nabhi and Marudevi. He taught various arts and sciences, ruled justly for a long period, and eventually took diksha (renunciation) and achieved liberation.
• Subsequent Tirthankars: The book mentions that 23 other Tirthankars followed Rishabh Dev, with Lord Mahavir Swami being the last.
• Lord Mahavir Swami: The text details the birth of Lord Mahavir, his naming as Vardhaman due to increased prosperity during his mother's pregnancy, and the origin of his title "Mahavir" from an incident involving his immense strength. It mentions his 20 years of married life, his renunciation, his 12 years of asceticism, and his attainment of Kevala Jnana (omniscience) and Moksha (liberation).
• The Period After Mahavir: The text highlights challenges after Mahavir Swami, including famines that led to the proliferation of various conflicting interpretations and sects within Jainism. The author notes the difficulty in tracing the lineage of acharya after Mahavir Swami, making the effort to reconstruct the "Patavali" a significant undertaking.

III. The "Patavali" (Lineage of Acharyas and Gachhas):

A significant portion of the book is dedicated to detailing the "Patavali," which chronicles the succession of Jain acharyas and the emergence of various gachhas (sects). This section covers:

• The Ganadharas: After Lord Mahavir's nirvana, the text lists his Ganadharas (principal disciples) and their respective numbers of disciples, detailing some of their lives and their respective nirvana locations.
• The Decline of Pure Knowledge: It discusses the gradual fading of prior knowledge over time and the impact of the fifth ara (period of decline) in Jain cosmology.
• The Rise of Different Gachhas and Schools: The text traces the evolution of various Jain traditions, including:
  • Digambara Sect: The establishment of the Digambara sect around 600 years after Mahavir Swami's nirvana, initiated by a monk named Buta, who allegedly broke from the original traditions due to a disagreement about clothing.
  • Influence of Kings and Scholars: The text mentions the impact of rulers like Vikramaditya in promoting Jainism and establishing customs.
  • Various Acharyas and Their Contributions: It details the lives and teachings of numerous acharyas from different gachhas like the Kharatara Gachha and Tapagachha, highlighting their efforts in preserving and propagating Jain principles, writing commentaries, and establishing monastic rules.
  • The Role of Scholars like Vachhad (Vajrasen Swami), Jinchandra Suri, Chandrasuri, and Devrajji Swami, Ajaramarji Swami, Kanjiswami, and Dipchandji Swami. These individuals are presented as pivotal figures in the history of Jainism, contributing to its doctrinal purity, philosophical discourse, and organizational structure.
  • The Emergence of the Lokagachha: The text explains the founding of the Lokagachha by Lavgji, who, after learning the true teachings from Lavgji, started a new lineage based on the pure principles of Jainism.
  • The "Terapanth": The text mentions the emergence of the Terapanth sect, which is presented as having deviated from the core principles.
  • The Importance of the Shravak Community: The book acknowledges the vital role of lay followers (shravaks) in supporting the Jain tradition, often being instrumental in the establishment of new traditions or the patronage of significant religious figures and endeavors.
  • The Establishment of the Limbdi Sanghada: The text details the significant influence of Acharya Ajaramarji Swami in establishing the Limbdi Sanghada, which became a major center for Jainism. It also outlines the lineage of acharyas from this Sanghada.

IV. Doctrinal and Ethical Teachings:

• Core Principles: The book emphasizes the foundational Jain principles of ahimsa (non-violence) in thought, word, and deed, as well as the importance of self-control, contentment, and knowledge.
• The Value of Human Birth: It repeatedly stresses the rarity and preciousness of human birth and the need to utilize this opportunity for spiritual progress.
• The Impermanence of the World: The text uses poetic verses to highlight the transient nature of worldly possessions, relationships, and life itself, urging readers to seek lasting spiritual truths.
• The Importance of Study and Practice: The author stresses the need for both the study of scriptures (Siddhanta Sutra) and the practical application of Jain ethics in daily life.

V. Literary and Social Context:

• Poetic Style: The book is interspersed with devotional songs (lavani and savaiya), philosophical verses, and cautionary tales, making the complex teachings more accessible and engaging.
• Social Support: The extensive list of subscribers and patrons at the end of the text highlights the widespread interest and support for Jain religious literature within the community.
• Historical Records: The author's effort to compile the "Patavali" underscores the importance of historical lineage in preserving the authenticity and continuity of Jain traditions.

In essence, "Jain Dharm Darpan" serves as a historical and genealogical record of Jain spiritual leadership and monastic orders, providing insights into the evolution of Jain thought and practice, while also serving as a guide to core Jain ethical and philosophical tenets. It is a valuable resource for understanding the historical trajectory of Jainism and the contributions of its key luminaries.