Jaini Kaun Ho Sakta Hai - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jaini Kaun Ho Sakta Hai" by Jugalkishor Mukhtar, based on the provided pages:

The text "Jaini Kaun Ho Sakta Hai" (Who Can Be a Jain?) by Jugalkishor Mukhtar addresses a critical contemporary issue within Jainism: the misconception that Jainism is a proprietary or ancestral inheritance, leading to a reluctance to share its teachings or to convert others. The author asserts that this is a grave error and aims to correct this misunderstanding.

The True Nature of Jainism and the Jain:

Universality of the Soul: The fundamental principle is that all living beings (jivas) are essentially equal in their "dravyattva" (essence) and possess the same inherent nature and qualities.
Karma as the Cause of Difference: The differences observed in beings – such as their forms as insects, animals, humans, gods, or hell-beings – are not due to their inherent nature but are the result of karmic impurities (karma-mal) that have adhered to the soul since time immemorial. This state of suffering and transmigration is called "vibhavapariniti" (perverse manifestation).
Liberation (Moksha): Liberation is achieved when these karmic impurities are eradicated, and the soul's true, untainted nature (nijsvabha) is fully realized.
Jainism as the Natural Dharma: The author posits that the soul's true nature is its dharma (righteousness or inherent duty). Jainism, therefore, is not merely a religion to be adopted but is the inherent dharma of all beings. Consequently, every living being has the right to embrace Jainism.

Historical Precedents: Animals and Humans as Jains:

The text provides numerous examples from Jain scriptures to demonstrate that Jainism has historically been accessible to all beings, not just those born into Jain families.

Animals Embracing Jainism:
- Lord Mahavir Swami: In a past life, as a lion, Lord Mahavir attained recollection of past lives upon encountering a sage. He immediately adopted the twelve vows of a lay follower (shravak), abstaining from killing and eating meat, and eventually attained the status of a Tirthankara.
- An Elephant: The "Parshvanath Purana" recounts the story of an elephant that, through the teachings of Muni Arvind, adopted the vows of a lay follower. Despite being an animal, it lived righteously, eventually becoming a god in the twelfth heaven and later, through progression, was born as the Tirthankara Lord Parshvanath.
- Other Animals: The text mentions that many other animals have also embraced Jainism and achieved spiritual progress.
Humans of All Castes and Backgrounds:
- Inclusivity: The author strongly asserts that no human, regardless of country, caste, or varna (social class), is prohibited from embracing Jainism.
- Soma Deva Suri's Quote: Quoting Soma Deva Suri, the text states that all beings are qualified to practice dharma through mind, speech, and body.
- Historical Adoption: Jain scriptures and historical texts clearly show that people from all castes have historically embraced Jainism.
- Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras: The text details how Brahmins, Kshatriyas, and Vaishyas have historically been followers of Jainism. Even when Brahmins became lax in their practice, Jainism continued to be adopted by individuals from these groups. Acharyas like Bhadrabahu and Patrakesari were Brahmins. Shudras have also embraced Jainism, progressing to the level of 'Kshullaka' (an ascetic stage).
- Outcasts and Mlecchas (Foreigners/Barbarians): The text highlights even more profound examples:
  - Putigandha: A Chandala girl with a foul odor was initiated into the lay vows by Muni Samadhigupta. She later became a goddess and then the queen Rukmini.
  - Chandala Girl: Another Chandala girl, born blind and with a foul smell, was taught Jainism and adopted lay vows by Muni Agnibhuta, eventually becoming Lord Mahavir's disciple Sukumal.
  - Poornabhadra and Manabhadra: Two Vaishya brothers initiated a Chandala, who then became a powerful god.
  - Bhil and Mleccha: A Bhil named Parvartaka and Mlecchas were also given lay vows by ascetics. Even Mleccha princesses were married by Jain kings, and their offspring could become monks. King Jarajumar, born to a Mleccha queen, was a devout Jain and took monastic vows.
  - Animals again: During Lord Mahavir's sermon, even some animals adopted the lay vows.

The Present-Day Misconception and the Call to Action:

Modern Jains' Error: The author laments that modern Jains have a narrow-minded and selfish approach, viewing Jainism as their exclusive property. They are unwilling to share its teachings or guide others towards it, fearing dilution of their "inheritance."
Consequences of This Attitude: This narrowness has led to a significant decline and tarnishing of the Jain community's reputation. It reflects a lack of courage, selfishness, and a failure to uphold the ideals of their revered ancestors.
The Duty of Jains: Jains have a moral obligation to actively share Jainism with all beings. They should overcome their selfishness and embrace the path of their ancient gurus, who dedicated their lives to the welfare of all creatures.
The Current Opportunity: The present time is favorable for spreading Jainism, as people are seeking truth and impartiality. Jains should seize this opportunity to illuminate the world with the principles of Jainism, explaining its benefits for achieving true happiness.
Overcoming Fear and Doubt: Jains should not fear that embracing more people will lead to social complications like changes in food habits. These are matters of personal preference and social custom, distinct from the core principles of the religion.
The Importance of Faith (Shraddhan): Even if complete adherence to Jain practices is not immediately possible for everyone, developing faith is crucial. Faith can lead to gradual progress in practice.
Jainism's Inherent Appeal: The author emphasizes that Jainism has an innate power to attract people. The primary duty of Jains is to introduce others to it.
Universal Accessibility: No one should be considered unqualified to hear about or practice Jainism. The author concludes by urging Jains to be fearless, courageous, and patient in spreading the dharma, focusing first on establishing correct faith and then guiding practice. Social interactions, while important, are secondary and should be based on principles of righteousness and mutual love.

In essence, "Jaini Kaun Ho Sakta Hai" is a powerful plea to the Jain community to shed its insularity and embrace the universal, inclusive, and benevolent nature of their faith, actively sharing its transformative teachings with all of humanity and beyond.