Jain Shravikao Ka Bruhad Itihas

The text provided is a comprehensive historical compilation titled "Jain Shravikao ka Bruhad Itihas" (A Grand History of Jain Laywomen) authored by Sadhvi Dr. Pratibhashreeji. The book, published by Prachya Vidyapith Shajapur and co-published with Civil Line Sthanakvasi Jain Sangh, Ludhiana, aims to document the contributions of Jain laywomen from ancient times to the present day.

Here's a summary of the key themes and content, based on the provided pages:

Core Objective:

The primary goal of this book is to bring to light the significant, often overlooked, contributions of Jain laywomen (Shravikas) throughout history. The author aims to showcase their roles in the Jain religious and social fabric, highlighting their devotion, sacrifices, and impact on the propagation and preservation of Jainism.

Structure and Scope:

The book is structured chronologically, tracing the history of Jain laywomen from the ancient period up to the modern era. It is divided into several chapters, with the initial pages detailing dedications, blessings, recommendations, and introductory chapters that lay the groundwork for the historical research.

Key Themes and Content:

• Historical Research: The book is based on extensive research, drawing from various sources including Jain Agam literature, commentaries, historical texts, inscriptions, archaeological evidence, and manuscripts. The author, Sadhvi Dr. Pratibhashreeji, has dedicated herself to meticulously gathering and presenting this historical data.
• Vast Contribution: The author emphasizes that thousands of Jain laywomen have made invaluable contributions to Jainism. The book aims to be a rare historical research volume that enumerates these contributions.
• Role of Laywomen: The text highlights the crucial role of Shravikas as the foundational pillar of the Chaturvidh Jain Sangha (the four-fold Jain community: monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen). It asserts that without the support of laywomen, the other three sections of the Sangha would be unable to function effectively, particularly in terms of their service, care, and sustenance.
• Spiritual Prowess: The book aims to demonstrate that Jain laywomen, like their male counterparts, have achieved high levels of spiritual attainment, including adherence to vows, austerity, and spiritual enlightenment.
• Overcoming Challenges: The author notes the difficulty in compiling this history due to the often anonymous nature of women's contributions, their work being behind the scenes, or being lost to time. The book is presented as an effort to bring these "hidden gems" to light.
• Challenging Societal Norms: The text implicitly addresses the historical patriarchal structures where women's roles were often secondary. By dedicating an entire volume to Shravikas, the book champions the recognition of their significant contributions and challenges the notion that they were mere followers.
• Specific Periods Covered: The book outlines its coverage across different historical periods:
  • Ancient India (Vedic to Upanishadic): Discusses the position of women in Indian tradition, Vedic, Upanishadic, Ramayana, and Mahabharata periods, highlighting their roles and societal standing.
  • Buddha and Mahavira Eras: Details the social contributions of women during these pivotal religious periods, with a focus on Jainism's liberal approach to women's spiritual participation.
  • Mythological/Pre-historic Era: Covers the contributions of Shravikas associated with the Tirthankaras from Rishabhdev to Arishtanemi, acknowledging the reliance on traditional narratives and available textual evidence.
  • Historical Periods (Puranic to Mahavira's time): Further elaborates on the status and roles of women in these eras, specifically focusing on Jain practices and contributions.
  • Post-Mahavira Era: Traces the role of Jain women from the 6th century BCE to the 7th century CE.
  • Medieval Period (8th to 15th Century): Focuses on the contributions of Jain laywomen in North and South India, including their involvement in temple construction, patronage of arts and literature, and influence on rulers.
  • Mughal Period (16th to 18th Century): Explores the impact of Jain laywomen during the Mughal era, including their interactions with emperors and their contributions to religious propagation.
  • Modern Era (19th to 21st Century): Documents the involvement of Jain women in various fields like politics, social reform, education, arts, and culture.
• Art and Architecture: The book includes a significant section on the role of Jain laywomen in art and architecture, presenting numerous illustrations of sculptures and inscriptions depicting their involvement in temple construction, idol installation, and patronage of artistic endeavors. This section emphasizes the tangible legacy left by these women.
• Key Figures and Concepts: The text mentions numerous influential Jain laywomen from different periods, highlighting their specific contributions. It also delves into the concept of Shravikacharya (the conduct of laywomen) and the twelve vows undertaken by laywomen.
• Academic Rigor: The book is presented as a doctoral dissertation accepted by Jain Vishva Bharti University, indicating a strong foundation in academic research and methodology. The guidance of Dr. Sagarmal Jain is also acknowledged, suggesting scholarly oversight.

Overall Impression:

"Jain Shravikao ka Bruhad Itihas" is a monumental work that seeks to rectify the historical oversight of women's roles in Jainism. It is an endeavor to provide a comprehensive and well-researched account of the multifaceted contributions of Jain laywomen, celebrating their strength, devotion, and enduring legacy in shaping Jain history and culture. The extensive bibliography and detailed table of contents underscore the depth of research undertaken.