Jain Dharm Prakash

This comprehensive summary of "Jain Dharm Prakash" by Shitalprasad, published by Parishad Publishing House Bijnaur in 1924 (second edition), aims to encapsulate its vast content. The book serves as an extensive exposition of Jainism, covering its core tenets, history, practices, and philosophical underpinnings.

Introduction and Purpose: The book's primary objective is to present the true essence of Jainism to the general public, dispelling misconceptions and establishing it as an independent, ancient religion with a distinct philosophical foundation, separate from Hinduism and Buddhism. The author highlights the historical marginalization and misunderstanding of Jainism, attributing it to historical biases and the destruction of Jain literature.

Core Jain Principles:

• Jiva and Ajiva: The fundamental distinction between soul (Jiva) and non-soul (Ajiva) is central. Jiva is conscious, eternal, and capable of experiencing bliss, while Ajiva encompasses matter, medium of motion, medium of rest, space, and time, all of which are non-conscious.
• Ahimsa (Non-violence): Ahimsa is declared as the supreme dharma. It is categorized into Bhavahimsa (violence of emotions like anger, ego, deceit, greed) and Dravyahimsa (violence to physical beings). Jains strive for utmost non-violence in thought, word, and deed, with ascetics adhering to it strictly and householders practicing it to the best of their abilities.
• Karma: The law of karma governs the cycle of birth and death. Souls bind karma through actions, thoughts, and words, and experience the fruits of these actions.
• Liberation (Moksha): The ultimate goal is liberation from the cycle of rebirth and suffering by eradicating all karmic bondage. This is achieved through the "Ratnatraya" – Right Faith (Samyak Darshan), Right Knowledge (Samyak Gyana), and Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra).
• God: Jainism does not believe in a creator God. The universe is considered eternal and self-existing. However, Jains revere the liberated souls (Siddhas) and those who have attained divine knowledge and powers (Arhants) as perfected beings worthy of worship, not as creators or dispensers of fate.

Philosophy and Metaphysics:

• Anekantavada and Syadvada: The principles of manifold truths (Anekantavada) and conditional predication (Syadvada) are explained. These doctrines emphasize that reality is complex and can be viewed from multiple perspectives, advocating for tolerance and understanding. The seven-fold prediction (Sapta Bhangi) is elaborated to illustrate this.
• Six Dravyas and Seven Tattvas: The book details the six fundamental substances (Dravyas) of the universe and the seven ethical principles or categories (Tattvas) that guide the path to liberation. The seven Tattvas are Jiva, Ajiva, Asrava (inflow of karma), Bandha (bondage of karma), Samvara (prevention of karma inflow), Nirjara (shedding of karma), and Moksha (liberation).
• Nayas (Perspectives): The text discusses Nischay Naya (ultimate truth) and Vyavahar Naya (conventional truth) as essential tools for understanding reality and achieving spiritual progress.

History and Antiquity:

• Ancient Origins: The author strongly asserts the ancient origins of Jainism, predating Buddhism and having a distinct lineage from Hinduism. Evidence from archaeological findings and comparative religious studies is cited.
• Historical Figures: The book provides brief biographical sketches of the 24 Tirthankaras, including Rishabhanatha, Neminatha, Parshvanatha, and Mahavira. It also mentions prominent Jain kings like Chandragupta Maurya and Kharavela, highlighting their patronage of Jainism.
• Jainism and Other Religions: The text addresses the relationship between Jainism, Buddhism, and Hinduism, refuting claims of Jainism being a branch of either. It highlights philosophical differences and historical interactions.

Practices and Conduct:

• Samyak Darshan, Gyana, Charitra: The path to liberation is explained through the adherence to these three jewels.
• Asceticism (Sadhu/Muni): The rigorous lifestyle of Jain ascetics is described, including their vows (Maha-vrata), daily duties (Shad-avashyak), disciplinary conduct (Mool-gun), and the practice of rigorous penance. The text details the 28 Mool-gun, including the five great vows (Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya, Aparigraha), five control over senses, five control over speech, sixfold duties, and specific ascetic practices.
• Lay Vows (Shravaka Dharma): The responsibilities and practices of Jain householders are outlined, including the observance of lesser vows (Anu-vrata), the practice of six daily duties (Deva-puja, Guru-bhakti, Shastra-pathana, Samyama, Tapa, Dana), and the eleven stages of progress for lay followers (Pratimas).
• Festivals and Rituals: Key Jain festivals like Ashtanika, Nirvana Chaudas, Akshaya Tritiya, and festivals related to the Tirthankaras are mentioned. The importance of Dev-puja (worship of the Tirthankaras) and the purpose behind idol worship (as a focal point for devotion and a reminder of spiritual ideals) are explained.
• Sanskaras (Life Cycle Rituals): The book describes various life-cycle rituals for Jain individuals, from conception to initiation into religious life, emphasizing their spiritual significance.

Cosmology and Jain Literature:

• Universe Structure: The Jain cosmological model, describing the universe (Loka) as consisting of six eternal substances and divided into lower, middle, and upper worlds with their respective inhabitants (hell dwellers, humans, animals, and celestial beings), is presented.
• Jain Scriptures: The extensive Jain literature is categorized into four Anuyogas (Prathamanuyoga, Karananuyoga, Charanannuyoga, and Dravyanuyoga), each covering different aspects of Jain teachings, including biographies, cosmology, ethics, and philosophy. Major works and prominent Acharyas are listed.

Key Philosophical Differences:

• Comparison with Vedanta, Samkhya, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Mimamsa, Buddhism, Theosophy, Arya Samaj, and Zoroastrianism: The book engages in a detailed comparative analysis of Jainism's philosophical positions with other major Indian and some foreign religious and philosophical systems, highlighting the unique aspects of Jainism, such as its view on karma, liberation, the nature of the soul, and the absence of a creator God.

Conclusion: "Jain Dharm Prakash" is presented as a guide for those seeking to understand Jainism comprehensively. It emphasizes the practical applicability of Jain principles for individual spiritual growth and societal well-being, advocating for the diligent practice of its ethical teachings and philosophical insights. The book underscores the importance of faith in the Tirthankaras, scriptures, and ascetics as guides on the path to liberation.