Jain Sanghna Mobhione Margdarshan - Book Summary

Based on the provided text, here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Sanghna Mobhione Margdarshan" by Kirtiyashsuri:

Book Title: Jain Sanghna Mobhione Margdarshan (Guidance for Leaders of Jain Congregations) Author: Kirtiyashsuri Publisher: Sanmarg Prakashan

Overall Theme and Purpose:

This book is a compilation of discourses delivered by Acharya Shri Vijay Kirtiyashsurishwarji Maharaj at the Pavapuri Teerthdham in Rajasthan. The primary purpose of these discourses is to provide guidance to the leaders and trustees of Jain congregations and religious institutions on the proper management, administration, and adherence to Jain principles in their respective roles. The text emphasizes the critical importance of understanding the Jain shastras (scriptures) and their ethical guidelines to ensure the welfare of both the spiritual community (Sangh) and the individual soul, ultimately aiming for spiritual upliftment and liberation.

Key Sections and Content:

The book is structured around several significant discourses and appendices, covering a wide range of topics essential for those involved in managing Jain religious and charitable trusts.

1. Discourses (Pravachans):

First Discourse: Prabhu's Grace and the Sangh's Duty: This discourse highlights the immense kindness and grace of Lord Mahavir Swami. It emphasizes the duty of the Jain community (Sangh) towards the teachings of the Tirthankaras. The speaker delves into Lord Mahavir's life, His asceticism, the suffering He endured for the welfare of beings, and the establishment of the Jain religion. It stresses that the teachings (Shrut) are the foundation of the Jain Shasan (rule or system) and that understanding and following them is paramount. The discourse also touches upon the responsibility of every member of the Sangh, not just the ascetics, in upholding the Shasan.
Second Discourse: The Qualities and Duties of a Sangh Administrator: This discourse focuses on the essential virtues and responsibilities of individuals leading Jain congregations and trusts. It outlines twelve key qualities required for a trustee or administrator, including:
1. Being surrounded by good people (Shubhaswajan).
2. Being wealthy (Vittiman).
3. Being respected and authoritative (Yukt/Sammanya).
4. Belonging to a good lineage (Kuljan).
5. Being free from meanness or cruelty (Akshudra/Akruro).
6. Being courageous and steadfast (Dhrutibalayukt).
7. Being intelligent and wise (Matiman/Buddhiyukt).
8. Being devoted to Dharma (Dharmaragi).
9. Having a liking for worshipping Gurus (Gurupujakarnarati).
10. Possessing qualities like service and attentiveness (Shushrushadi gunasangat).
11. Being knowledgeable about rituals and scriptures (Vidhigyata).
12. Being strictly obedient to the Lord's commands (Agnapradhan). The discourse stresses that these qualities are crucial for effective and righteous administration, and without them, mismanagement can lead to severe consequences, even leading to infernal realms.
Third Discourse: The Importance of Jinagams (Jain Scriptures) and Dharma Shastras: This discourse emphasizes the supreme significance of Jain scriptures (Agams) for the establishment, sustenance, and propagation of Jainism. It explains that without Shrut (scriptural knowledge), the Shasan cannot be established, sustained, or even understood. The speaker highlights that even enlightened beings (Kevalajnani) rely on Shrut for practical application and teaching. The importance of understanding the nuances of Shrut, including the principles of Naya (perspective) and Syaadvada (many-sidedness of truth), is underscored. The reliance on scriptures for understanding the "seven fields" of devotion and the correct administration of Dharma is also discussed.
Fourth Discourse: Teachings on the Occasion of Trustee Felicitation: This discourse, delivered during the felicitation of trustees, offers valuable advice and teachings from the Acharya. The focus is on the responsibility and integrity expected from those managing religious affairs, emphasizing that their actions should always be aligned with Jain principles and scriptures.
Fifth Discourse: Devotion to the Seven Fields and Financial Management: This discourse delves into the devotional aspect of the "Seven Fields" (Saptakshatra) in Jainism and their correct financial management. It details each of the seven fields:
1. Jinvimbti (Idols of Tirthankaras)
2. Jinmandir (Temples)
3. Jinagam (Jain Scriptures)
4. Sadhu (Monks)
5. Sadhvi (Nuns)
6. Shravak (Male devotees)
7. Shravika (Female devotees) It explains the principles of donating wealth (Dravya Vyavastha) to these fields and the correct methods of utilizing funds for their upkeep and development. The discourse also touches upon the importance of Anukampa (compassion) and Jivdaya (compassion for living beings).

2. Appendices (Parishisht):

The book includes ten appendices that provide further detailed insights and practical guidance on various aspects of religious trust management and Jain conduct:

Appendix 1: Planting Wealth in the Seven Fields based on Yoga Shastra: Discusses how to invest resources wisely in the seven fields according to yogic principles.
Appendix 2: All Actions Must Be Performed According to Rituals; Improper actions cause much harm: Emphasizes the importance of following prescribed Jain rituals and the negative consequences of deviating from them.
Appendix 3: Some Understandable Matters based on 'Dravya Saptatika': Offers insights from the "Dravya Saptatika" scripture regarding financial matters and judicious use of resources.
Appendix 4: Some Tasks Related to Jinmandir (Derasar) that leaders of the Sangha must undertake: Details the specific responsibilities of community leaders concerning temple maintenance and management.
Appendix 5: Some Guidance for Administrators of Religious Institutions: Provides general advice for the management of religious organizations.
Appendix 6: Two Letters from the 'Pedhi' (Firm) regarding the money placed in the Aarti-Mangaldeep plate: Discusses the accounting and destination of offerings made during Aarti.
Appendices 7-11: These include speeches and inputs from various respected individuals like Kishorbhai Sanghvi, Prakashbhai Sirodiwala, Nimeshbhai Kampani (financial expert), and P.C. Parmar and T.P. Ostwal (chartered accountants). These contributions offer perspectives on community development, financial planning, legal compliance for trusts, and the importance of adhering to Jain principles in their management.

Key Principles and Takeaways:

Adherence to Jinagams (Scriptures): The core message revolves around the absolute necessity of following the teachings of the Tirthankaras and the Jain scriptures in all aspects of life, especially in the management of religious trusts and congregations.
The Importance of Righteous Conduct: The discourses stress that good intentions are not enough; actions must be guided by scriptural knowledge and ethical conduct.
The Role of Leaders: Leaders and trustees are reminded of their immense responsibility, not just in financial management but in upholding the sanctity of Jain principles, ensuring the welfare of the Sangh, and fostering spiritual growth.
Gurutva of Knowledge and Virtue: The book emphasizes that those who manage religious affairs must possess knowledge, wisdom, detachment, compassion, and a deep reverence for Jainism.
The "Seven Fields" (Saptakshetra): A significant portion of the text is dedicated to explaining the importance and proper management of the seven core elements of Jainism: Jinbimb, Jinmandir, Jinagam, Sadhu, Sadhvi, Shravak, and Shravika.
Financial Prudence and Dharma: The importance of transparent and ethical financial management, proper utilization of funds, and avoiding personal gain from religious wealth is repeatedly highlighted.
Compassion and Jivdaya: The practice of compassion towards all living beings and the importance of Anukampa (compassion) and Jivdaya (Jainism's core principle of compassion) are stressed as essential aspects of religious life.
The Role of the Guru: The indispensable role of the Guru in guiding both ascetics and householders, and the need for adherence to their teachings, is a recurring theme.
Self-Reflection and Improvement: The book encourages introspection and a continuous effort to cultivate virtues and rectify shortcomings in one's conduct, especially for those in leadership positions.

Conclusion:

"Jain Sanghna Mobhione Margdarshan" is a vital guide for anyone involved in leading or managing Jain organizations. It provides a philosophical and practical framework rooted in Jain scriptures, emphasizing responsibility, integrity, and unwavering devotion to the principles of Jainism for the ultimate benefit of the individual and the entire Jain community.