Jain Rasao

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Rasao" by Vallabhdas T. Gandhi, based on the provided PDF pages:

The book "Jain Rasao" by Vallabhdas T. Gandhi discusses the genre of "Raso" within Jain literature, particularly in the Gujarati language. The author highlights that many Jain poets have composed "Rasos," which are narrative works often written in verse and focused on the lives and teachings of great souls. These narratives aim to convey moral and religious lessons, making them rich in devotional and aesthetic elements.

Key Characteristics of Jain Rasos:

• Narrative Poetry: Rasos are essentially story-based poems. They often recount the lives of significant figures to explain various moral and religious concepts.
• Musicality and Rhythm: Unlike modern poetry written in specific meters or rhymes, Jain Rasos are composed to be sung with specific ragas (melodies), talas (rhythms), and beats. They are often written in local folk forms like "dhal," "garbi," and "desi" (traditional tunes).
• Structure: Similar to other poets, Jain Rasos often begin with invocations to Jain Tirthankaras, gurus, and Saraswati. They then state the purpose and subject matter of the Raso. At the end, they typically include a colophon with details about the author, the time and place of composition, and the lineage of gurus, making them valuable historical documents.
• Influence of Agama Sutras: The content of these Rasos is undoubtedly drawn from the Jain Agama Sutras. However, recognizing that common people at the time might not have had access to or understanding of Sanskrit and Prakrit, Jain monks and scholars translated these narratives into simpler Gujarati.
• Purpose and Audience: The Rasos were created to impart religious knowledge and ethical guidance to the general populace. They served as an accessible medium for people to understand Jain principles in their vernacular language, especially during periods of social upheaval.
• Content and Themes:
  • Moral and Religious Lessons: A primary focus is on conveying the principles of Dharma (righteousness) and ethics.
  • Lives of Great Souls: They often highlight the exemplary lives of Jain saints and influential figures.
  • Wonder and Miracles: As noted by R.B. Shriyut Hargovinddas Kantawala, many Rasos feature miraculous events and supernatural occurrences (like mantra siddhi, acquisition of gold, powers of gems, actions of ghosts and spirits, aerial travel, movement of trees) to captivate the audience and foster faith. This is done in accordance with the popular beliefs of the time.
  • Historical Insights: Rasos like those about Vimal Mantri and Kumarpal provide historical knowledge. They also shed light on the evolution of the Gujarati language at the time.
  • Practical Knowledge: Some Rasos also include elements of astrology and palmistry.

Historical Context and Significance:

• Post-Muslim Conquest Era: The author notes that the beginning of Muslim rule in Gujarat brought about chaos and destruction, including damage to Hindu temples and literature. In such times, preserving religious texts was difficult, leading to their concealment. The Rasos were created to ensure the continuity of religious teachings for the common people.
• Contribution to Gujarati Literature: Jain poets have significantly contributed to Gujarati literature by composing Rasos, hymns, praises, and "sajzhaye" (community-oriented instructional verses). It is estimated that around 400 such Rasos exist in Gujarati.
• Role of Jain Scholars and Monks: Jain monks and scholars, including those from the Sthanakvasi sect (though fewer in number compared to Murtipujak scholars), played a crucial role in enriching Gujarati literature through their writings.
• Appreciation and Recognition: While historically, Jain literature may not have received adequate attention, there is a growing recognition among literary enthusiasts that Jain writings have made a substantial contribution to Gujarati literature.

The Author's Argument and Call to Action:

• Authenticity of Narratives: Gandhi argues that the stories in Jain Rasos are not merely fictional but are based on actual events recorded in the Agama Sutras, which are considered divinely inspired. The poets have simply presented these truths in an attractive, narrative format.
• Importance of Preservation: The author emphasizes the need to bring forth the vast amount of unpublished Jain literature that is currently at risk of decay and destruction due to negligence and insects.
• Community Responsibility: He urges Jain community members to take the initiative in publishing this literature, thereby contributing to Gujarati literature and preserving their heritage.
• Accessibility and Devotion: The author argues that Rasos are crucial for educating younger generations and fostering devotion. The intricate logic and poetic skill demonstrated by some Raso composers are worthy of admiration.
• Universal Appeal of Religious Poetry: Gandhi counters the notion that religious literature is only of interest to religious scholars. He points out that many prominent Gujarati poets like Narsinh Mehta, Premanand, and Dayaram also wrote extensively on religious themes, and their works are integral to Gujarati literature. Therefore, Jain religious poetry should also be recognized as a vital part of the literary landscape.

In essence, "Jain Rasao" by Vallabhdas T. Gandhi is a scholarly exploration of a significant genre in Jain Gujarati literature. It highlights the didactic, musical, historical, and artistic value of these narrative poems, emphasizing their role in disseminating Jain teachings and their crucial contribution to the broader Gujarati literary tradition. The author also advocates for the preservation and promotion of this rich but often overlooked literary heritage.