Jainacharya Pratibodhit Gotra Evam Jatiyan - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jainacharya Pratibodhit Gotra evam Jatiyan" (Jain Acharyas' Enlightened Lineages and Castes), based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Jainacharya Pratibodhit Gotra evam Jatiyan (Jain Acharyas' Enlightened Lineages and Castes) Author(s): Agarchand Nahta, Bhanvarlal Nahta Publisher: Jinharisagarsuri Gyan Bhandar

Overview:

This book, compiled by Agarchand and Bhanvarlal Nahta, explores the historical development and establishment of various Jain communities (Jatis) and their sub-lineages (Gotras) in India, particularly focusing on the influence of Jain Acharyas, especially those from the Khartar Gacch tradition. It highlights how Jain spiritual leaders played a crucial role in converting people from various backgrounds to Jainism, leading to the formation of new castes and Gotras. The book aims to provide a historical and genealogical account of these communities for those interested in Jain history and their lineage.

Key Themes and Content:

Origins of Lineages and Castes:
- The text begins by tracing the origins of social distinctions back to the time of Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara, and the concept of lineages (Gotra) becoming necessary with the development of societal structures and increased population.
- It mentions the Vedic system of four Varnas (Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra) and the subsequent emergence of numerous Gotras from the names of great Rishis.
- Jain scriptures like the Sthānāṅga Sūtra mention seven principal Gotras with seven branches each, totaling 49. The lineage names of Tirthankaras and Ganadharas are also mentioned as falling within these categories.
The Rise of Jain Castes (Shri Mal and Oswal):
- The book details the ancient origins of the Shri Mal and Oswal communities.
- The Oswal caste is believed to have originated with Acharya Ratnaprabh Suri, who converted the Jain-eating King of Osiya (Upakesh Nagar) and its people to Jainism, thus giving rise to the "Oswal" (from Osiya) lineage.
- The Shri Mal caste originated in the ancient city of Shri Mal Nagar, where Swayamprabh Suri converted people. Those who settled towards the eastern gate of Shri Mal Nagar became known as "Pragvat" or "Porwai."
- The authors express skepticism about the claimed ancient dates for the establishment of these castes (like the Oswal founding in 222 CE), suggesting a more probable origin in the 7th-8th centuries CE, coinciding with the greater spread of Jainism in Rajasthan.
The Khartar Gacch and its Impact:
- A significant portion of the book focuses on the Khartar Gacch, a prominent branch of the Shvetambar Jain tradition.
- It highlights the role of Acharya Vardhamansuri and his disciple Jineshwar Suri in the 11th century CE, who established the "Suvihit Marg" (righteous path) and strongly opposed the prevailing "Chaityavas" (lax monastic practices).
- The text traces the lineage of prominent Khartar Gacch Acharyas like Jinchandrasuri, Abhaydev Suri, Devbhadrasuri, Jindattsuri (also known as "Bade Dadaji"), Jinchandrasuri, Jinsen Suri, Jinkushalsuri ("Chhote Dadaji"), Jinprabh Suri, Jinhans Suri, and Jinchandrasuri ("Chauthe Dadaji" or the one who enlightened Emperor Akbar).
Acharyas as Founders of Gotras:
- The book emphasizes that numerous Jain Acharyas, particularly from the Khartar Gacch, played a vital role in converting non-Jains (Jainetars) and establishing new Gotras and castes.
- It is stated that the Oswal caste alone evolved into 1444 Gotras due to the efforts of various Acharyas.
- Specific examples are given:
  - Acharya Jinchandrasuri is credited with the special prominence of the "Mahattayan" caste, which has 84 Gotras.
  - Khartar Gacch Acharyas are credited with establishing 79 Gotras within the Shri Mal caste.
  - The Pordwad caste also has Gotras associated with the Khartar Gacch, like the Panchayanecha Gotra.
- The authors mention that the collected list of Gotras includes 84 Oswal, 79 Shri Mal, and a combined total of 166 from Porwad and Mahattayan.
Methodology and Sources:
- The authors explain that the information on Gotras and their origins is based on handwritten manuscripts, historical records, and Patawalis (genealogical lists of gurus).
- They acknowledge that some dates might be incomplete or inaccurate due to the material being compiled long after the events.
- They reference specific works like the "Khadtar Gach Itihas" and the "Sadharni Vatsalya Kulak" by Abhaydev Suri, and the "Khartar Gacch Vriddh Guravali" by Upadhyaya Labdhimuni.
- The compilation process involved copying information from ancient manuscripts as found, with an attempt to cross-reference and verify where possible.
Specific Gotra Origins and Histories:
- The book details the origins of many specific Gotras, linking them to the Acharyas who converted individuals or groups.
- Examples include:
  - Kukad Chopda: Originating from the conversion of a Rajput prince, with the story involving a "Kukadi" cow and its milk.
  - Bhanashali: From the patronage of royalty and the establishment of religious institutions.
  - Kankariya: Connected to an incident involving throwing pebbles (kankar) to counter enemy weapons.
  - Sanusakha, Pitaliya, Nabalakha, Chhajhad, Pamecha: Many of these are linked to specific dates and kings or rulers who were converted or patronized by the Acharyas.
  - Lohda: From the conversion of Maheshwari people.
  - Bohithra: From the conversion of a Rajput prince of the Devda Chauhan dynasty.
  - Sisodia, Dugad, Khataani, Kothari: Associated with Acharya Jinchandrasuri's activities in Mewar.
  - Gadwani, Bhadgatiya: From a Rathore king in Ajmer.
  - Runwal: From a Sodha Kshatriya in Rajasthan.
  - Baphna, Nahata: Linked to the dynasty of Prince Sagarmal and his descendants, who received enlightenment from Acharya Jindatt Suri.
  - Chorvediya: From a prince who captured thieves and put them in chains.
  - Savankh, Golchha, Parakh: From royal families who were converted.
  - Soni Gara: Associated with a temple and a story of divine intervention.
  - Doshi: Linked to the reign of Raja Bhoj and the lineage of a minister named Doshi.
  - Bohithra: From a Rajput prince who embraced Jainism under Jindattsuri.
  - Bavhel: From a Chauhan king afflicted with leprosy.
  - Daga: From a Chauhan king of Nadol.
  - Gailda: From a Khichi Rajput who became prosperous through Jain practices.
The Importance of "Swadharmi Vatsalya":
- The book emphasizes the Jain principle of "Swadharmi Vatsalya" (affection for co-religionists), quoting verses that encourage treating fellow Jains as dearer than brothers. It highlights the role of Acharyas like Jindattsuri and Jinkushalsuri in promoting this sentiment, which facilitated social cohesion, inter-caste marriages, and religious practices.
Genealogical Records and Challenges:
- The authors acknowledge the historical role of "Kulagurus" (family preceptors) and Bhats (bards) in maintaining genealogical records.
- They also note the existence of various manuscripts and historical accounts (like "Upkesh Gachh Prabandh," "Karmchandra Vansh Prabandh," "Oswal Ras") that contain information about the origin of Jatis and Gotras.
- They mention that the accuracy of some of these records can be challenging due to exaggeration or the passage of time.

Conclusion:

"Jainacharya Pratibodhit Gotra evam Jatiyan" serves as a valuable resource for understanding the historical process by which Jainism spread and evolved into distinct community structures in India. It underscores the profound impact of Jain Acharyas, particularly those of the Khartar Gacch, in shaping the socio-religious landscape by initiating numerous individuals and communities into the Jain faith, thereby establishing new lineages and perpetuating Jain traditions. The book highlights the intricate relationship between religious conversion, social identity, and the formation of castes and Gotras within the Jain community.