Jain Viro Ka Itihas

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Jain Viro ka Itihas" by Kamtaprasad Jain, based on the provided pages:

The book, "Jain Viro ka Itihas" (History of Jain Heroes), written by Kamtaprasad Jain, aims to shed light on the heroic figures within Jainism, countering the perception that Jainism is a religion that promotes cowardice. The author acknowledges that Indian history, and particularly Jain history, is shrouded in darkness, with much valuable historical material still lying undiscovered in Jain archives. Despite this challenge, the author felt compelled to undertake the task of outlining the history of Jain heroes, spurred by an invitation from the Jain Mitra Mandal in Delhi. He preemptively acknowledges that some of his interpretations might not align with other scholars, but he prioritizes making the book accessible to the general public. He mentions that his more detailed arguments for contentious points will be found in the second volume of his "Sankshipt Jain Itihas" (Brief History of Jainism).

The author expresses his joy in presenting this brief account, hoping that the examples of these great heroes will inspire a revival and elevate the name of Jains. He dedicates the book to the enthusiastic workers of the Jain Mitra Mandal, Delhi, and expresses gratitude to Professor Hiralal for writing the foreword.

Foreword by Professor Hiralal:

Professor Hiralal emphasizes the importance of studying the history of great personalities for societal inspiration and the cultivation of virtue and fortitude. He argues that Jainism is fundamentally a religion of hero-worship. The ultimate Jain ideal is the "Jina," one who has conquered all inner enemies (passions and desires). He refutes the notion that Jainism neglects the body, stating that the Jain philosophy emphasizes the interconnectedness of spiritual and physical well-being, even to the point that a perfectly developed physique (Vajra Rishabhanaracha Sanhanana) is necessary for liberation.

He highlights that Jain history is indeed replete with examples of individuals who demonstrated both spiritual and physical heroism. Many Jain figures, in historical times, displayed remarkable intelligence and extraordinary valor in their service to both their faith and their country, leaving a lasting impact on Indian history. He names several prominent figures:

• Eastern India: Kharvel, the ruler of Kalinga.
• Southern India: Chamundaraya, the Ganga general, and Gangraja, the Hoysala minister.
• Western India: Vastupala and Tejpal, ministers in Gujarat.
• Mewar: Bhamashah, the commander.

Professor Hiralal laments that for a long time, Jains have neglected the memory of these heroes, leading to a misconception that Jainism fosters cowardice. This misconception has even led some scholars to blame Jainism for India's subjugation. He calls this a great stain on a religion that was established by true Kshatriya warriors and respected by heroic souls. He sees the current efforts to unearth these heroic characters as a crucial step in rectifying this historical injustice and reawakening the Jain community to its true ideals.

He concludes by stating that the present booklet is a pioneering effort and a "glimpse" into the history of Jain heroes, covering figures from the Puranic era up to the 15th-16th centuries. He believes that a complete history requires further efforts such as publishing unpublished Jain literature, collecting inscriptions, and cross-referencing this material with known historical accounts, a task the author is actively pursuing.

Content Overview and Key Themes (from the Table of Contents and early pages):

The book appears to be structured chronologically and thematically, covering a wide range of Jain heroes and rulers across different periods and regions of India. The Table of Contents reveals the intended scope:

• Preliminary Remarks (Prak-Kathan): Sets the context and justification for the book.
• Ancient and Puranic Heroes:
  • Menander (a foreign ruler influenced by Jainism)
  • Rishabhdev (the first Tirthankar, presented as a heroic king and civilizer)
  • Nahapan (a foreign ruler, possibly a Jain convert)
  • Rudrasingh
  • Emperor Vikramaditya (presented as a Jain convert)
  • Lord Mahavir and his contemporaries (including President Chetak and Emperor Shrenik)
  • Samrat Ajatshatru
  • King Udayana
  • King Chandpradyot
  • Nanda Empire Jain heroes (Samrat Nandivardhan, Mahanand, Nandraj)
  • Mauryan Empire Jain heroes (Samrat Chandragupta Maurya, Vindusar & Ashoka, Samprati)
  • Emperor Ail Kharvel (Kalinga)
• Foreign Jain Heroes: Discusses foreign rulers who embraced Jainism.
• Gujarat Dynasties:
  • Vallabhi Kings
  • Haihay/Kalchuri Jain heroes
  • Chalukya warriors
  • Rashtrakuta Kings
  • Chavda dynasty
  • Solanki heroes (Emperor Kumarpal)
  • Baghel dynasty Jain heroes (Vir Dhaval, Vastupala-Tejpal)
  • Parmar dynasty Jain Kings (Bhoj, Narverma)
• Regional Heroes:
  • Jodhpur state Jain heroes
  • Jaipur state Jain warriors
  • Kot Kangra Jain Diwans
  • Veer Dharmchandji
  • Southern India Jain heroes (Vir Bahubali, ancient Pandya-Chola-Cher, Bhanj dynasty kings, Nadol Chauhan heroes, Hastikundi Rathore heroes, Jainveer Kakuk)
  • Mewar State heroes (Bhamashah, Ashashah)
  • Bikaner State Jain heroes
• Specific Heroes:
  • Veer Suhridhwaj
  • Chandela Jain heroes
  • Veer Bavhad
  • Jain King Pushyamitra
• Queens/Heroines (Jain Virangana): Features notable Jain women.

Key Arguments and Philosophy:

• Jainism is intrinsically heroic: The name "Jina" itself means "victor," implying a fundamental connection to heroism. The ultimate victory is over one's own passions and desires.
• Holistic Development: Jainism promotes the development of both the spiritual and the physical. A strong body is seen as a vehicle for spiritual attainment.
• Duty and Action: The text emphasizes that true heroism lies in righteous action, whether in spiritual or worldly spheres. "He who is a hero in action is a hero in Dharma."
• Just War and Non-violence: The book clarifies that Jain non-violence (Ahimsa) does not preclude self-defense or fighting for a just cause. The text quotes scriptures that permit the use of force against unjust aggressors when necessary, but without malice or ego.
• Inspiration from the Past: The author believes that studying the lives of Jain heroes will inspire contemporary Jains, counter the negative stereotype, and revive the community's pride and commitment to its heritage.
• Challenging Misconceptions: The book directly confronts the idea that Jainism has made India weak or led to its subjugation, attributing India's decline to internal divisions rather than Jain principles.
• Role of Jains in Indian History: The book aims to showcase the significant contributions of Jains to India's political, cultural, and religious landscape across various dynasties and eras.

The provided pages offer a glimpse into the author's comprehensive approach to recounting Jain history, emphasizing the valor, righteousness, and significant contributions of Jain individuals and rulers to the fabric of Indian civilization.