Jain Dharm Me Nari - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text in English, focusing on the role and status of women in Jainism:

The book "Jain Dharm me Nari" by Indarchand Vaidya, as presented in the initial pages, emphasizes the fundamental equality and complementary roles of men and women in human society and within the Jain faith.

Core Tenets of Jainism Regarding Equality:

Complementary Nature: Men and women are presented as two essential parts of human society, forming a complete human personality. They are incomplete and meaningless without each other, acting as complementary forces.
Equality in Creation and Spirit: Nature has endowed both men and women with equal resources for development. While physical differences exist, on a spiritual level, there is no distinction between the sexes. The Jain scripture Samavāyānga states, "Ege āyā" (soul is one), highlighting the oneness of the soul.
Universal Equality: The principle of equality between men and women is echoed across all religions and in every civilized and enlightened society. Religion, in particular, opens all paths of spiritual development to both men and women, offering salvation as a fruit of worship without bias or injustice.
The Nature of Jainism: Jainism is an ancient Indian religion originating from the concept of 'Jina,' meaning conqueror of senses and passions. It posits that every soul is inherently divine, destined to become a perfected soul (Siddha) by shedding karmic coverings. This journey of purification is undertaken through various lifetimes, and the human form, whether male or female, is equally capable of this spiritual pursuit.

Women's Spiritual Authority and Achievement in Jainism:

Capability for Liberation: Jainism unequivocally states that if a man can achieve liberation (Moksha) through spiritual practice, a woman is equally entitled to it. Numerous female ascetics (anagari) and householders (sagari) have attained liberation by shedding their karmas.
Capability for Tirthankarship: The eligibility to attain the highest spiritual status of a Tirthankar (spiritual preceptor and founder of a religious order) is recognized for women, just as it is for men.
- MalliNath: The text highlights MalliNath as a significant female Tirthankar among the 24 Tirthankaras of the present era. Princess Malli of Mithila, after completing her past karmas, attained the revered Tirthankar status, proving that women can reach the highest peaks of spiritual practice.
Examples of Spiritual Prowess:
- Marudevi: The mother of the first Tirthankar, Rishabhdev, is mentioned as having attained Siddhahood.
- Brahmī and Sundarī: Daughters of Rishabhdev, Brahmī (credited with inventing the alphabet) and Sundarī (credited with inventing numerals), played a crucial role in guiding their brother Bahubali away from ego, enabling his spiritual liberation. This exemplifies women's role in spiritual upliftment not just for themselves but also for others.
- Rājumatī: The story of Rājumatī, the wife of Arishtanemi (a relative of Lord Krishna), is presented as a powerful example of female chastity and determination. When Arishtanemi renounced worldly life upon witnessing the suffering of animals destined for sacrifice, Rājumatī followed him to the mountains for spiritual practice. Her strong rejection of her former lover, Rathnemi, who was blinded by lust, highlights the immense value placed on chastity and virtuous conduct in Jain culture.
The Sixteen Highly Praiseworthy Satis: The text mentions that sixteen women are considered eternally venerable in Jain tradition, and prayers are offered to them for the welfare of humanity. Examples include Brahmī, Chandanbalika, Bhagavati, Rājumatī, Draupadi, Kausalya, etc. This indicates the deep respect and veneration accorded to chaste and virtuous women.

Jain Community Structure and Women's Participation:

Four Pillars of the Faith: Lord Mahavir divided his followers into four categories: Sadhus (monks), Sadhvis (nuns), Shravakas (laymen), and Shravikas (laywomen). This classification, a unique contribution of the Shraman culture, institutionalizes the ideal of equality.
Importance of Laywomen (Shravikas): The numbers of Shravikas (approximately 318,000) were significantly higher than Shravakas (approximately 159,000) during Lord Mahavir's time, suggesting a greater influence and participation of women in religious observance.
Respect for Householders and Nuns: Women were respected as householders (Griha Swamini) and were considered even more venerated upon embracing the life of a nun (Sadhvi).
Freedom of Worship: Jain tradition has historically been liberal and inclusive, allowing women the freedom to worship according to their individual beliefs. This is evident in instances where family members followed different spiritual paths (e.g., Mahavir and Buddha), and even in contemporary Jain families, this freedom of worship for women persists.

Asceticism and Devotion of Women:

Tapasya (Asceticism): Asceticism is a vital component of Jain dharma. The text emphasizes that the faith remains vibrant and alive today due to the ascetic practices of its devout mothers and sisters.
Adhai Fast: The eight-day fast, known as 'Adhai,' is performed in countless homes, signifying the active participation of women in rigorous spiritual disciplines from a young age.
Self-Control: Tapasya is described as a means to control the senses and exercise self-control, a practice that Jain women undertake with great enthusiasm and courage, showcasing their dedication to the spiritual essence of Jainism.

In essence, the book "Jain Dharm me Nari" presents a perspective where Jainism upholds the inherent equality of women with men, grants them equal rights and opportunities for spiritual advancement, and celebrates their significant contributions to the faith through devotion, asceticism, and spiritual leadership.