Jain Dharm Ki Udarta - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Dharm Ki Udariata" (The Universality/Magnanimity of Jainism) by Parmeshthidas Jain:

This book, "Jain Dharm Ki Udariata," authored by Pandit Parmeshthidas Jain Nyayatirtha and published in 1934, argues that Jainism is a profoundly universal and magnanimous religion, capable of uplifting all beings regardless of their past actions, social standing, or even species. The author's primary motivation is to highlight Jainism's inclusivity, contrasting it with what he perceives as the limitations and exclusiveness of other religions of his time. He expresses sadness that the magnanimity of Jainism has been suppressed, preventing its true message from reaching the wider world and diminishing the recognition of Lord Mahavir.

The book is structured into several chapters, each exploring a facet of Jainism's inherent generosity:

Salvation of the Sinners (Papiyon Ka Uddhar): The text begins by defining religion as that which uplifts all beings. It asserts that true religion is spiritual, not physical, and that the connection of religion is with the soul, not the body. It emphasizes that Jainism is open to everyone, and individuals can achieve higher status through their actions, citing verses that describe Jainism as a supreme refuge for the destitute and suffering. The book highlights the principle that Jainism does not oppose the sinner but rather the sin itself.
Equanimity Towards the High and Low (Uchch Aur Nichon Mein Samabhav): This section stresses the Jain principle of treating all beings equally. It criticizes the pride and arrogance that leads to looking down upon the poor and suffering. True wisdom, according to Jainism, lies in seeing all living beings as equal, recognizing that karma dictates their circumstances. It argues that holding onto caste pride or wealth is a sign of ignorance.
The Basis of Caste is Conduct (Jati Bhed Ka Aadhar Aacharan Par Hai): The author asserts that the caste system, as understood in his time, was a misinterpretation. Lord Mahavir abolished caste-based superiority, declaring all equal in their right to follow the dharma. He cites historical figures and scholars who acknowledge Jainism's inclusive approach, unlike the perceived limitations of other traditions regarding equal rights for all varnas. Jainism is presented as a religion where one's actions, not birth, determine their standing.
Caste and Gotra Transformation (Varna Parivartan and Gotra Parivartan): The book delves into the concept that caste and lineage (gotra) are not fixed at birth in Jainism but can be transformed through actions and conduct. It cites examples from the Adi Purana where individuals from different castes were elevated to the Brahminical order based on their adherence to virtuous conduct and discrimination. Similarly, it explains that "gotra" is related to karma and can change, with high or low gotra depending on one's deeds and the social standing of their family. It emphasizes that true nobility comes from virtuous conduct, not lineage.
Upliftment of the Fallen (Patiton Ka Uddhar): This crucial section provides numerous examples from Jain scriptures of individuals from severely marginalized backgrounds or those who committed grave sins being uplifted and finding salvation through Jainism. Stories of charlatans, thieves, prostitutes, meat-eaters, and even those with "impure" lineage becoming revered monks or attaining heavenly states are presented. It highlights instances where even those ostracized by society were embraced, purified, and accorded religious rights. The author criticizes the modern Jain community for sometimes upholding the very caste prejudices that Jainism historically sought to dismantle.
Classical Punitive Measures (Shastriya Dand Vidhan): The text discusses the Jain approach to penance and punishment, describing it as inherently compassionate and aimed at purification. It contrasts this with the perceived harshness and exclusivity in how the community sometimes treats those who commit minor offenses. The author emphasizes that the aim should be to guide the fallen back to the righteous path, not to permanently exclude them. He criticizes societal practices that are more severe than the scriptural injunctions, especially concerning women and those from lower castes.
Oppressive Punitive Measures (Atachari Dand Vidhan): This chapter strongly critiques the discriminatory and harsh social practices that have infiltrated the Jain community, often overriding the scriptural emphasis on magnanimity. The author cites examples of severe social boycotts and excommunication for seemingly minor transgressions (e.g., accidentally killing an insect, inter-caste dining), arguing that these practices are unjust and go against the spirit of Jainism. He laments that such exclusionary practices lead people to abandon Jainism.
Examples of Magnanimity (Udariata Ke Udaharan): This section reiterates the theme with further examples of how Jainism has historically accepted and reformed individuals from all walks of life, including those from the "Mleccha" (foreigner) or "Shudra" communities. It showcases stories of individuals from such backgrounds becoming revered monks, gaining spiritual knowledge, and attaining high spiritual states.
Rights of Shudras in Jainism (Jain Dharm Mein Shudron Ke Adhikar): The author explicitly argues that Jainism grants equal rights to Shudras as it does to Brahmins, Kshatriyas, and Vaishyas. He provides scriptural evidence of Shudras performing religious rites, becoming monks, and attaining liberation. He criticizes contemporary interpretations that restrict these rights, attributing them to ignorance and prejudice.
Women's Rights (Striyon Ke Adhikar): The book champions the equal status of women in Jainism. It states that women have the same religious rights as men, including the ability to perform rituals, take vows, study scriptures, and become nuns (Aryikas). It highlights Lord Adinath's initiative in educating his daughters, Brahmi and Sundari, and criticizes societal views that diminish women's status. The author points out that while some scriptures may contain discriminatory verses (influenced by other cultures), the core Jain teachings advocate for respect and equal opportunity for women.
Marital Magnanimity (Vaivahik Udariata): This chapter addresses the flexibility in marriage practices in historical Jain society. It notes that inter-caste, inter-religious, and even exogamous marriages were not uncommon and did not result in social or religious exclusion. The author contrasts this with the rigid, endogamous practices prevalent in contemporary Jain society, which he sees as a departure from Jain principles of inclusivity.
Conclusion (Upsanhar): The book concludes by reaffirming Jainism's unparalleled magnanimity. The author urges the current Jain community, especially the youth, to re-embrace these core principles of inclusivity, tolerance, and universal upliftment. He calls for the abandonment of caste pride, the reintegration of ostracized community members, and the promotion of inter-caste marriages to truly embody the spirit of Jainism and make it a universal religion once again. The author believes that a lack of selfless leaders is a major impediment to this revival.

In essence, "Jain Dharm Ki Udariata" is a passionate appeal to reform the Jain community by returning to the fundamental, inclusive, and compassionate teachings of Lord Mahavir, emphasizing that true Jainism transcends birth, caste, gender, and past transgressions, offering a path to salvation for all beings.