Jain Samaj Savdhan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Samaj Savdhan" by Hansasagar, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Jain Samaj Savdhan (The Jain Community Be Alert) Author: Muni Hansasagar Publisher: Motichand Dipchand Shah Series: Shree Anand-Chandra Hans Jain Ratnamala, 8th Gem

Overall Purpose:

The book is a critical and exhaustive refutation of a "new sect" or "new opinion" (nava mata) that emerged within the Jain community, primarily concerning the correct dates for observing religious observances, particularly the Paryushana festival and Samvatsari. Muni Hansasagar aims to expose the alleged falsehoods, distortions of scripture, and manipulative tactics used by the proponents of this new sect, identifying Acharya Shri Vijayramchandrasuriji as a central figure associated with its propagation.

Core Arguments and Content:

The primary focus of the book is to challenge the calendar-based calculations and interpretations of the "new sect" and defend what the author considers the orthodox and traditional Jain calendar and practices. The author meticulously dissects various publications and statements made by the opposing sect, itemizing what he believes to be inaccuracies, misrepresentations, and deliberate fabrications.

Key themes and arguments include:

1. Calendar Discrepancies and Samvatsari: A major point of contention is the date of Samvatsari. The author strongly asserts that the traditional observance falls on Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi (Bhadrapada bright 4th day), and criticizes the new sect for promoting a Thursday-based observance without regard for the specific lunar day. He cites historical instances and scriptural interpretations to validate the traditional date.

2. Critique of Publications and Propaganda: The book details a series of publications (tracts, articles in newspapers like "Mahavir Shasan Patra," and books like "Tithi Charcha na Vishayma Satya nu Spashtikaran") that the author believes propagate the "new sect's" erroneous views. He accuses the proponents of selectively quoting, distorting, and even fabricating scriptural passages to support their claims.

3. Historical Precedents and Debates: Muni Hansasagar extensively references past debates and the opinions of respected Jain scholars and Acharyas (like Acharya Shri Vijaysiddhisuriji, Acharya Shri Vijaydhanasuriji, and Purv Acharyas) to demonstrate the historical continuity of the practices he defends. He uses specific instances from the years 1952, 1961, and 1989 to illustrate the evolving nature of the calendar debate and the perceived deviation by the new sect.

4. Misinterpretation of Scriptures: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to analyzing specific Sanskrit and Prakrit scriptural verses (e.g., from Surya Prajnapti, Dashashrutaskandha, Nishith Churni, Tatvatarangini) and arguing that the new sect's interpretations are deliberately twisted and fallacious. The author provides his own detailed scriptural analyses to counter these interpretations.

5. Accusations of Deception and Intent: The author repeatedly accuses the proponents of the new sect of intentional deception, driven by ego, stubbornness, and a desire to establish their own authority. He suggests they are misleading the Jain community and acting against the core principles of Jainism and the established traditions.

6. Specific Examples of Disputed Practices:

   • Kalyanak Tithis vs. Parva Tithis: The book differentiates between "Kalyank" (auspicious days related to Tirthankaras) and "Parva Tithis" (regular lunar tithis) and argues against their conflation.
   • Ayushya Bandha: The author disputes the claim that observing Kalyank tithis leads to the binding of life span, attributing this to the twelve mandatory Parva tithis.
   • Panchangs: The author defends the sanctity and correctness of traditional Jain Panchangs (almanacs) against the claim that they are merely "lokik" (worldly).
   • Tithi Kshay (Loss of Tithi) and Vruddhi (Increase of Tithi): A substantial part of the critique is dedicated to how the new sect allegedly misinterprets and misapplies the concepts of Tithi Kshay and Vruddhi, particularly concerning the observation of Samvatsari and Paryushana.
   • Purnima and Amas: The book delves into specific scenarios of Purnima (full moon) and Amavasya (new moon) tithi eclipses and the correct traditional practices versus the new sect's interpretations.
   • Navpadji Oli: The author criticizes the new sect's approach to observing the Navpadji Oli, particularly when tithi eclipses occur.

7. Call for Alertness and Reversion to Tradition: The title itself, "Jain Samaj Savdhan," reflects the author's urgent call to the Jain community to be vigilant against the spread of what he deems erroneous beliefs. He urges adherence to the established scriptures, traditions, and the guidance of revered Acharyas.

Structure and Tone:

The book is presented as a systematic and detailed rebuttal. It is highly polemical, employing strong language to condemn the actions and beliefs of the opposing sect. The author dedicates significant space to refuting specific points made in various publications, often quoting extensively and then dissecting each claim. The sheer volume of detailed refutations suggests a deep and passionate commitment to preserving what he sees as the true Jain path.

In essence, "Jain Samaj Savdhan" is a vigorous defense of traditional Jain calendar and ritual practices against a newly emerging interpretation, accusing its proponents of scriptural misrepresentation and deliberate deception. The author, Muni Hansasagar, presents a detailed, scholarly, and passionate argument, urging the Jain community to remain vigilant and adhere to established traditions.