Jainagam Aur Nari

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Jainagam aur Nari" by Kalavati Jain, focusing on the significance of women in Jain scriptures and society:

The Importance of Women in Jainism and Society

The text, "Jainagam aur Nari" by Kalavati Jain, emphasizes the equal and indispensable role of both men and women in the construction and progress of society. Society is defined as a union of both, like the two wheels of a chariot, where neither is superior or inferior. Both are described as complementary, supportive, and integral parts of the social and universal order, essential for the development of society, nation, and the world. History, the author asserts, is a testament to women's significant contributions, providing new light, inspiration, and consciousness to humanity in every era, exemplified by their lives of ideal conduct, austerity, and dedication.

Women in Shraman Culture and the Teachings of Lord Mahavir

The core of the text highlights the egalitarian nature of Shraman culture, which values equality, universal brotherhood, self-confidence, and the development of virtues. Lord Mahavir, a central figure, is presented as a proponent of equal rights for all to pursue spiritual discipline, self-development, and liberation, irrespective of caste, class, or gender. The text argues that from the perspective of the soul's essence, all souls are identical. The spiritual potential inherent in men is equally present in women. Therefore, in the realm of spiritual pursuit, the distinction between men and women is irrelevant; what matters is victory over attachment, aversion, lust, anger, and other passions.

The author contrasts Lord Mahavir's progressive stance with the prevailing Vedic tradition of his time, which denied religious practice and scriptural study to women and Shudras. Lord Mahavir, in a revolutionary move, granted women equal status and rights within his Sangha, boldly declaring their ability to achieve spiritual growth and ultimate liberation through practice. This was a significant societal shift, met with criticism and opposition, but Lord Mahavir remained steadfast in guiding everyone towards the path of truth and spiritual discipline without discrimination. His doors were open to all, welcoming both men and women into his spiritual fold.

Comparison with Lord Buddha's Approach

The text then draws a comparison with Lord Buddha, a contemporary of Lord Mahavir. While Lord Buddha also challenged caste discrimination and ritualistic sacrifices, and held respect for women, his approach to women in his monastic order is presented as a weakness. Despite requests from his chief disciple, Ananda, to admit women into the Bhikshu Sangha, Lord Buddha initially hesitated. Eventually, he agreed to establish the Bhikshuni Sangha at Ananda's insistence, but with a foreboding that his teachings would last only five hundred years instead of the anticipated thousand, suggesting a perceived risk and a less pragmatic, more cautious approach compared to Lord Mahavir. Lord Mahavir, on the other hand, is depicted as having transcended fear and embracing a practical inclusivity that saw women achieving equal standing in the Chaturvidh Sangha (four-fold community of monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen), all recognized as travelers on the path to salvation.

Women's Prominence in Agam Literature and Jain Practice

The text emphasizes that Lord Mahavir's inclusive ideology resulted in a larger number of nuns (Shramanis) than monks (Shramanas) in his Sangha, and twice as many laywomen (Shravikas) as laymen (Shravakas). This numerical dominance is presented as a testament to the progressive and developed lives of women under Lord Mahavir's dispensation.

The author then delves into Agam literature, showcasing prominent examples of women's intellectual prowess, spiritual dedication, and moral strength. These include:

• Jayanti: The sister of King Shatanik of Kaushambi, who engaged in profound intellectual discussions with Lord Mahavir, demonstrating sharp reasoning and vast knowledge acquired through dedicated study and contemplation.
• Rajmati: Who, when faced with the lustful advances of Rathanemi (Lord Neminath's younger brother), not only resisted but also successfully guided him back to the path of spiritual discipline, showcasing her fearlessness, self-control, knowledge, and persuasive abilities.
• The inspirational verses attributed to the spiritual consciousness awakened by nuns, which continue to inspire humility and detachment.
• Maharani Kamalavati: Who, upon her husband's desire to appropriate the wealth of his renouncing sons, intervened, educated the king, dispelled his greed, and guided him towards the spiritual path.
• Mahakali and Sukali (and other queens): Ten queens of Emperor Shrenik of Magadh, who renounced their opulent lifestyles adorned with jewels and embraced asceticism, illuminating their souls through austerities.

These examples, the text states, are etched in golden letters within Agam literature, highlighting the ideal lives of women characterized by austerity, renunciation, self-control, and spiritual brilliance.

The Enduring Significance of Women

The text concludes by reiterating that women's significant place in Shraman culture and Agam literature stems from their virtues of austerity, renunciation, tolerance, compassion, and maternal affection. Mahatma Gandhi is cited as acknowledging women's importance, calling them the "incarnation of Ahimsa." Jain Acharyas, like Acharya Jinsen, are also credited with depicting the ideal lives of women, stating that virtuous women achieve the highest positions in the world.

Ultimately, the author asserts that underestimating or denying the importance of women is to deny the truth. Women are living embodiments of faith, self-control, equanimity, motherly love, and tolerance. They are the "Goddesses of the Home" who continuously nurture the world with their affection. Their stream of love has flowed through ages and continues to do so. The concluding verse from Mahakavi Jaishankar Prasad beautifully encapsulates this essence: "Woman, you are only faith, in the twinkling of silver mountains; flow like a stream of nectar, on the beautiful plains of life!"