Jain Samajna Utkarsh Ange Margdarshak Vicharna

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Samajna Utkarsh Ange Margdarshak Vicharna" by Nyalchand Lakshmichand Soni, based on the provided pages.

Book Title: Jain Samajna Utkarsh Ange Margdarshak Vicharna (Guidelines for the Upliftment of Jain Society) Author: Nyalchand Lakshmichand Soni (Sadrāwālā), B.A., LL.B. (Retired Agency Lawyer) Publisher: Yashovijay Jain Granthmala

Overall Theme:

The book is a call to action for the Jain community to actively participate in its own upliftment and progress, both religiously and socially, in the modern era. The author emphasizes the need for introspection, reform, and proactive engagement to ensure the continued relevance and growth of Jainism and its followers. He draws heavily on Jain philosophy and history to illustrate his points and propose solutions.

Key Sections and Arguments:

1. Introduction and Author's Intent (Pages 3-5):

   • The preface highlights that the author has written with genuine concern for societal improvement, even if his words might appear harsh. His underlying motivation is the progress of the Jain community.
   • The author, prompted by an essay competition in 1947 on how to achieve religious and social upliftment in modern times, presents this work.
   • He acknowledges the global efforts towards societal progress and aims for the Jain community, despite its smaller numbers, to contribute meaningfully.
   • The author stresses the importance of understanding one's responsibilities towards society and urges proactive participation in national progress, especially after India's independence.
   • He expresses hope that the essay will instill a sense of responsibility in those who are indifferent to societal well-being and a deterrent to corrupt practices like bribery and hoarding.

2. Jain Philosophy and the Soul (Pages 6-7):

   • The text begins by explaining the Jain concept of the soul (Jivatma) as inherently pure and powerful, like a crystal, but obscured by karmic attachments accumulated over countless lifetimes.
   • These karmic bonds (karmadala) lead to suffering, rebirth, and the cycle of samsara.
   • Internal enemies like passion (raag-dvesh), desires (vishay), anger, pride, deceit, and attachment (kashay, moh) are identified as the root causes of these karmic bonds.
   • Practices like sense control, discipline, charity, vows, austerities, meditation, and renunciation are presented as means to overcome these internal enemies and achieve liberation (moksha).
   • The author notes that this fundamental understanding of the soul's condition and the path to liberation is recognized, in various forms, by most other philosophical schools as well.

3. The Role of Tirthankaras and the Jain Sangha (Pages 7-9):

   • Jain scripture states that some souls, through the karmic influence of "Tirthankar-nama" karma, establish the four-fold Jain Sangha (monks, nuns, male lay followers, female lay followers) during their final birth. These are the Tirthankaras, who are also called "Arihants" or "Jinas" after conquering their internal enemies.
   • The Jain Dharma, as promulgated by the Tirthankaras, serves as the primary means for beings to cross the ocean of worldly existence.
   • The Jain community is understood as this four-fold Sangha.
   • The text mentions the cyclical nature of time in Jain cosmology and the existence of infinite Tirthankaras. Specifically, it refers to the 24 Tirthankaras of the current era, with Lord Mahavir being the last.
   • Lord Mahavir's teachings, delivered about 2500 years ago, established the Jain Sangha.

4. Historical Context and Community's Resilience (Pages 9-11):

   • The author notes the difficulty of a comprehensive historical analysis without specialized scholars but acknowledges the existence of numerous historical texts and biographies of great figures.
   • He points out that the Jain Dharma and Sangha have endured numerous challenges and adverse forces throughout history, even losing state patronage at times.
   • The text suggests that the Jain community has faced numerous trials and emerged, with varying degrees of loss, but has survived.
   • The author stresses that current leaders must consider how to uplift the Jain community in the modern context, which requires more than just contemplation; it demands concrete plans and commitment.

5. Modern Challenges and the Need for Reform (Pages 11-27):

   • The author highlights the drastic changes in society over 2500 years and the emergence of new challenges. He calls for historical analysis to understand how the community has faced or adapted to these changes.
   • He emphasizes the need to utilize the vast historical knowledge and the lives of great Jain figures to guide present-day actions.
   • The text points out that Jainism's founding occurred in a context where Brahmanism was dominant, rituals were prevalent, and animal sacrifice was common, directly opposing the Jain principle of Ahimsa. Lord Mahavir and Gautama Buddha both challenged these prevailing societal norms.
   • Initially, the Jain Sangha was inclusive of various castes, including those considered "untouchable" today, and had a large number of ascetics.
   • However, over time, the Jain community became concentrated in specific merchant castes.
   • The author laments the decline in Jain population and overall development, attributing it partly to the lack of royal patronage, the rise of other religions, and people being lured to convert for immediate benefits.
   • He criticizes the current state of the Jain community, characterized by internal divisions (like Devasi, Sthanakvasi, Digambari), sectarianism, factionalism, and wasteful expenditure of resources.
   • The book strongly criticizes the tendency towards ostentatious displays, lavish spending on festivals, and the focus on outward appearances rather than the core principles of Jainism. The author suggests that millions spent on processions and ceremonies have not significantly contributed to the community's true upliftment.
   • He calls for a shift in focus from mere external show to genuine societal progress and advocates for adapting to the changing times.

6. The Role of Sadhus and Laypeople (Pages 28-43):

   • The author discusses the significant presence and influence of the monastic community (sadhus and sadhvis). He acknowledges their unique position and the respect they command.
   • He criticizes the financial dependence of some religious leaders on wealthy patrons and the potential for self-interest.
   • While praising the intellectual caliber and dedication of many monks, he also suggests that they, like lay leaders, have shown a degree of complacency towards societal upliftment.
   • He calls for a change in perspective and a move away from narrow sectarian views.
   • The author stresses the need for collective awareness and action, urging every individual Jain to contribute towards societal progress. He emphasizes that superficial efforts are insufficient and calls for dedicated work for the betterment of the community.

7. Critique of Modern Practices and Suggestions for Improvement (Pages 43-65):

   • The book critiques the current practices, including wasteful expenditure on religious ceremonies, lack of focus on intellectual and ethical development, and the absence of organized efforts for social welfare.
   • The author advocates for the adoption of modern means of communication and education, such as radio, cinema, and newspapers, to spread Jain teachings.
   • He suggests the need for producing literature that is accessible, informative, and appealing to both Jain and non-Jain audiences.
   • He calls for a critical evaluation of traditional practices and a willingness to reform them to align with modern needs.
   • The author suggests establishing service organizations and educational institutions, funded by the community's wealth, to address social needs and promote Jain values.
   • He stresses the importance of character building and ethical conduct, criticizing the rise of corruption, greed, and dishonesty in societal dealings.
   • He emphasizes the need for selfless service, unity, and a collective approach to achieving societal progress, drawing parallels with the ideals of "Vashudhaiv Kutumbakam" (the world is one family).

8. Education and Economic Empowerment (Pages 65-72):

   • The book strongly advocates for the promotion of education at all levels, including vocational and technical education, to empower the Jain community.
   • It calls for the establishment of schools, colleges, and vocational training centers, which should be accessible to all, including the less fortunate and those from different backgrounds.
   • The author suggests providing financial assistance through loans and scholarships to students pursuing higher education, both domestically and abroad, to foster expertise and bring credit to the community.
   • He highlights the need to support the Sarak community in Bengal and Bihar, who are facing difficult circumstances.
   • The book addresses the challenges faced by Jains in Pakistan after the partition, calling for support and protection for them.
   • It also emphasizes the importance of protecting Jain pilgrimage sites and resolving internal disputes through unity and strength.

9. Financial Management and Social Responsibility (Pages 72-77):

   • The author discusses the financial resources available within the Jain community and the need for their judicious and ethical management.
   • He criticizes the misallocation of charitable funds and the lack of transparency in managing trusts and donations.
   • He suggests reforming the management of charitable funds, possibly through loans provided by organized service committees, to support education and vocational training.
   • He stresses that wealth should be seen as a trust for the benefit of society and that donors should be encouraged to support constructive initiatives.

10. Concluding Remarks and Call to Action (Pages 77-81):

    • The author reiterates the urgency of collective action and emphasizes that the current era demands a proactive approach.
    • He calls for unity and cooperation among all sects within Jainism to strengthen the community.
    • The book concludes with a plea for selfless service, moral conduct, and a commitment to the welfare of all beings, aligning with the teachings of Lord Mahavir.
    • There's a specific note to pilgrims visiting Shatrunjay, inviting them to visit Goghā and highlighting the importance of the Navkhanda Parshvanath temple there.
    • The final pages include information about books published by Yashovijay Jain Granthmala and a mention of the author's own works.

Key Takeaways:

• Modernization and Adaptation: The Jain community needs to adapt to modern times by embracing education, utilizing modern technology, and reforming outdated practices.
• Unity and Collective Action: Internal divisions must be overcome, and a united front is crucial for societal progress.
• Ethical Conduct and Financial Prudence: There's a strong emphasis on moral uprightness, transparency in financial dealings, and the responsible use of community resources.
• Education as a Cornerstone: Education is presented as the primary vehicle for individual and societal upliftment.
• Service and Selfless Contribution: The book is a powerful appeal for active participation in social service and a commitment to the welfare of the community and all beings.
• Historical Awareness: Understanding Jain history provides valuable lessons and inspiration for present-day actions.

In essence, "Jain Samajna Utkarsh Ange Margdarshak Vicharna" is a comprehensive socio-religious critique and a roadmap for the Jain community to revitalize itself, engage with the modern world, and fulfill its spiritual and social responsibilities.