Jainatva Jagaran

This Jain text, titled "Jainatva Jagaran" (Awakening of Jainism) by Bhushan Shah and published by Chandroday Parivar, is a comprehensive exploration of the Jain faith, its history, and its global presence. The book argues for the resurgence and active promotion of Jainism, addressing concerns about its declining numbers and the neglect of its rich heritage.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content:

I. The Call to Action and the Core Message:

• "Jainatva Jagaran": The title itself is a call to awaken and revitalize the Jain identity and principles.
• Dwindling Population and Preservation of Heritage: The book expresses deep concern about the shrinking Jain population and the lack of preservation for Jain temples, scriptures, and traditions.
• Call for Unity and Action: It urges the Jain community (Sangh) to unite and actively participate in spreading and protecting the faith.
• Dedication: The book is dedicated to the author's parents and his sister and brother-in-law, highlighting the importance of family and support in such endeavors.

II. Historical Context and Global Spread of Jainism:

• Ancient Origins: The text emphasizes Jainism's status as one of the world's oldest religions, predating many other faiths and influencing global cultures.
• Universal Appeal: It posits that Jainism is a universal religion and that its core principles are evident in various cultures and traditions worldwide.
• Evidence of Global Influence: The book extensively discusses the presence and influence of Jainism in:
  • Ancient India: Tracing its roots from the Indus Valley Civilization and its connection to figures like Rishabhdev.
  • International Reach: Citing evidence from Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, Rome, Persia, Tibet, Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, China, Central Asia, Europe, and even the Americas.
  • Symbolism and Practices: It highlights the spread of Jain symbols (like the Swastika), practices (like vegetarianism, non-violence, asceticism), and deities' iconography across different cultures.
  • Misinterpretation and Syncretism: The text argues that many practices and deities in other religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and even aspects of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, have roots or similarities to Jain teachings and traditions, often due to historical interaction and syncretism.
  • Scholarly Support: The author frequently quotes historians and scholars (both Indian and foreign) to substantiate claims about Jainism's ancient and widespread influence.

III. The "Sarak" Community: A Case Study and Call for Revival:

• The "Sarak" Identity: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the "Sarak" community, identified as descendants of ancient Jain followers, particularly in Eastern India (Bengal, Bihar, Orissa, and surrounding regions).
• Lost Heritage and Current State: The text details how this community, despite maintaining some Jain-like practices (vegetarianism, non-violence, avoidance of root vegetables and night meals), has lost its overt Jain identity and often identifies as Hindu.
• Historical Connections: It argues that the Sarak community's unique customs, gotras (named after Tirthankaras), language influences, and metallurgical skills (copper and iron) point to a strong Jain lineage.
• Revival Efforts: The book calls for concerted efforts to re-educate and re-integrate the Sarak community into mainstream Jainism, emphasizing the need for scholars, monks, and laity to engage with them.
• Cultural Syncretism: The book notes that while the Sarak community has retained some Jain-like practices, their culture has also absorbed influences from Vaishnavism and local traditions, leading to syncretic practices.

IV. Addressing Challenges and Proposing Solutions:

• Declining Population: The book attributes the decline to assimilation with other religions, lack of focus on propagation, and the costly nature of religious rituals.
• Historical Inaccuracies and Neglect: It criticizes Indian historians for downplaying Jainism's significance and for biased interpretations.
• Cultural Assimilation: The text highlights the issue of inter-religious marriages, particularly with the Agarwal community, leading to the dilution of Jain identity.
• Need for Education and Awareness: It stresses the importance of establishing Jain schools, promoting Jain literature in foreign languages, and educating the youth about their rich heritage.
• Modern Challenges: The book also touches upon issues like the loss of historical sites due to development projects and the need for their preservation.
• Call for Self-Reliance: It encourages Jains to engage in business rather than solely relying on jobs and to prioritize their own community in their professional lives.

V. Emphasis on Jain Principles and Practices:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): Central to Jainism, this is highlighted as a core principle that the Sarak community has largely maintained.
• Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct (Samyak Darshan, Samyak Gyan, Samyak Charitra): The ultimate path to liberation, as advocated by the Tirthankaras.
• Asceticism and Renunciation: The book praises the life of ascetics and the importance of detachment from worldly possessions.
• The Role of Tirthankaras: It discusses the historical and spiritual significance of the Tirthankaras, their teachings, and their global impact.
• Importance of Temples and Idols: The text defends the practice of idol worship and temple construction, emphasizing their historical roots in Jainism.

VI. Specific Chapters and Their Focus:

The book is structured into several chapters, each delving into specific aspects:

• Preface and Editor's Note: Setting the stage and outlining the book's purpose.
• A Ray of Hope: Expressing optimism for the future of Jainism.
• Wake Up, Jain Community!: A direct appeal to the community.
• The Universality of Jainism: Presenting Jainism as a global faith.
• Declining Jain Population: Addressing the demographic concerns.
• Source of Culture: Highlighting Jainism's foundational role in various cultures.
• Ancient Form of Jin Pratima (Idol): Discussing the historical evolution and significance of Jain idol worship.
• The Land of Shraman Culture - Eastern India: Focusing on the historical Jain presence in Eastern India.
• The Mystery of the Sarak Tribe: Introducing the Sarak community.
• History of the Sarak Tribe: Delving into the origins and history of the Sarak community.

In essence, "Jainatva Jagaran" is a passionate appeal to the Jain community to recognize the immense historical and spiritual legacy of their faith, to actively work towards its revival and preservation, and to extend its timeless values of peace, non-violence, and self-discipline to the wider world. The book aims to inspire a sense of pride and responsibility, urging every Jain to contribute to the "awakening" and flourishing of Jainism.