Jain Dharmno Maulik Itihas Part 04 Samanya Shrutdhar Khand 02

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Dharmno Maulik Itihas Part 04 Samanya Shrutdhar Khand 02" by Hastimal Maharaj, published by Samyag Gyan Pracharak Mandal.

The book is the fourth volume of a series detailing the fundamental history of Jainism. This specific volume, the second part of the "General Shrutdhar Khand," covers the period from Veer Nirvana Samvat 1476 to Veer Nirvana Samvat 2000.

Key Aspects and Content:

• Historical Scope: The text meticulously chronicles the Jain religion's history, encompassing religious, social, and political events during the specified period. It highlights the challenges faced by the Jain community, including internal disputes between different gacchs (sects or lineages), external conflicts, and severe religious persecutions.
• Key Figures and Traditions: The book delves into the lives and contributions of prominent Jain Acharyas and influential figures who played significant roles in preserving and propagating Jainism. It discusses various traditions and their development during this era.
• Internal Strife and External Challenges: The text details the prevalent conflicts and animosities among different Jain gacchs, which led to discord and weakened the community. It also sheds light on the severe religious onslaughts faced by Jain followers, which contributed to the decline in their numbers from being a majority to a minority community.
• The Dark Age and Restoration Efforts: A significant portion of the book focuses on the period considered a "dark age" in Jain history, from Veer Nirvana Samvat 1001 to 1700. It acknowledges the difficulty in reconstructing this era due to the lack of extensive historical records, but the author has made efforts to present available information. The text highlights the resurgence and efforts to restore the purity of Jainism and its practices, emphasizing the crucial role of reformist movements and individuals.
• Specific Topics Covered (as per the index on page 5):
  • A brief introduction to Acharya Hastimalji Maharaj.
  • Editorial notes and perspectives.
  • Details on the 48th to 50th Patthadhars (successors/leaders) and their timelines.
  • The campaign to eradicate the Chaityavasi (temple-dwelling) tradition, mentioning Acharyas like Udyotansuri, Vardhmansuri, and Jineshwarsuri.
  • The role of Navangi Vruttikara Acharya Abhaydevsuri.
  • Historical events like the invasion of India by Ghaznavi.
  • Crises faced by Jainism in the South.
  • The contributions of influential Acharyas like Jinvallabhsuri, Jindattsuri (Dadaguru), Vadidevsuri, Vruttikar Malayagiri, Maldhari Abhaydev, Maldhari Hemchandra, and Chandrprabhsuri.
  • The significance of Yugpradhan Acharya Hemchandra and his relationship with rulers like Siddharaj Jaisingh and Kumarpal.
  • An overview of prominent Gacchas like Khartargachchha, Upkeshgachchha, Anchalgachchha, and Agamicgachchha.
  • Information on the 40th to 41st Yugpradhan Acharyas.
  • Details about the Tapagachchha.
  • The philanthropic contributions of Danveer Shravak Jagadushah.
  • Information about the Badgachchha (Brihadgaccha).
  • The 57th to 63rd Patthadhars and the 42nd to 44th Yugpradhan Acharyas.
  • The role of Dharmoddharak Lokashah.
  • The political situation from Veer Samvat 1357 to 1382.
  • A bibliography of reference texts.
• Critique of Shithilachar (Relaxed Practices): The text critically examines the periods of decline in strict adherence to Jain asceticism (Shramanachar) and highlights the emergence of relaxed practices within some traditions. It emphasizes the importance of returning to the original, pure teachings of Lord Mahavir as found in the Agamas.
• Emphasis on Agamic Tradition: The book strongly advocates for adherence to the Agamas (canonical texts) as the ultimate source of Jain doctrine and practice, contrasting this with the deviations and innovations that arose during different periods.
• Reformist Movements: It details the reformist efforts undertaken by various Acharyas to revive and re-establish the pure form of Jainism, often facing strong opposition from established traditions.
• Historical Accuracy and Sources: The author, Hastimal Maharaj, along with the editors and translators, strived for historical accuracy, cross-referencing information from various ancient manuscripts and texts. The book acknowledges limitations and encourages further study of the original historical works for deeper understanding.
• Gujarati Translation: The book is a Gujarati translation of the original Hindi work, making it accessible to the Gujarati-speaking Jain community.

In essence, this volume provides a detailed and scholarly account of a crucial period in Jain history, marked by both internal challenges and external pressures, while also celebrating the resilience and reformist spirit that helped preserve the Jain tradition.