Jainism In Gujarat AD 1100 To 1600 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jainism in Gujarat AD 1100 to 1600" by Chimanlal Bhailal Sheth:

Overall Scope and Purpose:

This book meticulously chronicles the history and significant contributions of Jainism in Gujarat between 1100 AD and 1600 AD. The author aims to fill a perceived gap in the existing literature on medieval Gujarati history by highlighting Jainism's profound impact on the region's culture, society, and politics. The work is based on extensive research, supported by grants from the University of Bombay and publications sponsored by the Shree Vijayadevsur Sangh Jnan Samiti.

Key Themes and Chapters:

The book is structured chronologically, detailing the presence and influence of Jainism through various periods and significant rulers:

Chapter I: Siddharaja and the Jains: This chapter focuses on the reign of King Siddharaja Jayasimha. It highlights the significant presence of talented Jain ministers and officers in his administration, who played crucial roles in state affairs. The text details the contributions and incidents involving prominent Jain figures like Munjala, Santu, Udayana, Asuka, Vagbhata, Ananda, and Sajjana, showcasing their administrative prowess, strategic acumen, and patronage of Jain scholars and temples. The chapter also extensively covers the intellectual and religious activities of learned Jain monks like Devasuri and Abhayadeva Malladhari, detailing their theological debates, philosophical contributions, and influence on the royal court. The text also mentions Vardhamanacharya, Santisuri, Jinavallabhasuri, and Jinadattasuri, among others, and their literary works. The chapter concludes by examining Siddharaja's own inclinations towards Jainism, evidenced by his patronage and participation in Jain religious activities.
Chapter II: Kumarapala: This chapter delves into the reign of King Kumārapāla, a pivotal figure in the history of Jainism in Gujarat. It meticulously traces Kumārapāla's early life, his eventual ascension to the throne, and his profound conversion to Jainism under the guidance of the influential Jain monk Hemachandrasuri. The book details Kumārapāla's rigorous adherence to Jain principles, including his prohibition of animal slaughter, gambling, and illicit relationships, and his active promotion of Jainism throughout his kingdom. His extensive patronage of Jain temples, monasteries, and scholarly pursuits is vividly described, along with the construction of numerous magnificent Jain architectural marvels. The chapter also highlights the administrative and military successes of his reign, positioning him as one of Gujarat's greatest rulers. The section also elaborates on the literary contributions of Hemachandrasuri and his disciples.
Chapter III: Vastupala-Tejahpala: This section highlights the significant contributions of the Jain minister brothers, Vastupala and Tejahpala, during the Vaghela period. It details their rise to prominence, their administrative acumen, and their immense philanthropic and religious activities. The chapter provides extensive descriptions of the numerous Jain temples they patronized and built, most notably the exquisite Lunavasahi temple on Mount Abu, which is lauded as a triumph of art and architecture. Their patronage of learning and the arts, and their role in shaping the cultural landscape of Gujarat are emphasized.
Chapter IV: Jainism in the Vaghela Period: This chapter continues the narrative into the Vaghela era, focusing on influential Jain laymen and monks. It highlights the contributions of figures like Jagadu Shah, known for his immense charity during a famine, and Pethada Shah, a significant builder of Jain temples. The literary activities of various Jain monks and scholars are detailed, showcasing the continued flourishing of Jain literature in Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Gujarati.
Chapter V: Jainism in the 14th Century: This chapter addresses the impact of the Muslim conquest of Gujarat on the Jain community. Despite the challenges, the Jains demonstrated resilience, maintaining their trade, temples, and literary traditions. The chapter notes the repair and construction of Jain temples during this period, albeit under stricter conditions. It also highlights the significant literary output, particularly in Old Gujarati prose and poetry, and introduces key historical works like Merutunga's Prabandhachintamani.
Chapter VI: Somasundarayuga: This period, named after the prominent Jain monk Somasundarasuri, is characterized by the continued patronage of Jainism and the flourishing of Jain literature and architecture. The chapter details the activities of Somasundarasuri and his influential disciples, as well as the contributions of lay patrons like Visala, Govinda, and Gunaraja. The copying of religious texts onto paper marks a significant shift in manuscript production.
Chapter VII: Jainism in Gujarat in the later half of the 15th Century: This chapter covers a period of continued Jain activity and patronage. It highlights the efforts of figures like Laxmisagarasuri and Hemavimalasuri in promoting Jainism. The chapter also discusses the emergence of new schools of thought within Jainism, such as the Lonkashah-led movement that questioned idol worship. The rebuilding and repair of significant Jain temples, like those on Mount Abu and the Satrunjaya Hill, are extensively documented, showcasing the enduring commitment to Jain architecture. The literary contributions, particularly in Gujarati, are further elaborated upon.
Chapter VIII: Hairakayuga: This final chapter focuses on the era of Hiravijayasuri, a highly influential Jain monk who gained significant renown for his interactions with Emperor Akbar. The chapter details Hiravijayasuri's missionary work at Akbar's court, his success in persuading the Emperor to embrace Jain principles like ahimsa (non-violence) and his influence on imperial decrees regarding animal slaughter. The chapter also covers the literary activities of Hiravijayasuri and his pupils, and their broader contributions to Gujarati literature. The chapter concludes by emphasizing the lasting impact of Jainism, particularly the doctrine of non-violence, on Gujarat's cultural and ethical landscape, acknowledging its influence even in modern times through figures like Mahatma Gandhi.

Key Contributions of Jains Highlighted:

Political and Administrative Influence: Jain ministers and officers held prominent positions in the courts of powerful rulers like Siddharaja and Kumārapāla, contributing significantly to governance, administration, and military strategy.
Patronage of Arts and Architecture: Jains were major patrons of art and architecture, responsible for the construction of numerous magnificent temples, monasteries, and public utility structures, many of which are considered masterpieces.
Literary and Intellectual Flourishing: The Jain community produced a vast body of literature in Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Gujarati, encompassing religious texts, philosophical treatises, historical accounts, poetry, and drama. They also supported and patronized learned scholars.
Social and Ethical Contributions: The Jains significantly influenced the moral and ethical fabric of society, particularly through the promotion of ahimsa (non-violence), vegetarianism, and charitable activities. Their emphasis on piety, austerity, and selfless service left a lasting legacy.
Economic Impact: Prominent Jain laymen and merchants played a vital role in Gujarat's economy through their trade activities, charitable donations, and support for public works.

Methodology and Sources:

The author relies on a wide array of historical sources, including inscriptions, contemporary chronicles, Jain scriptures, biographical accounts, and literary works in various languages. The book systematically analyzes these sources to reconstruct the history of Jainism in Gujarat.

Overall Significance:

"Jainism in Gujarat AD 1100 to 1600" stands as a comprehensive and authoritative account of the Jain community's significant presence and influence in Gujarat during a crucial period of its history. It meticulously details their manifold contributions to the political, cultural, social, and religious life of the region, solidifying Jainism's place as an integral part of Gujarat's heritage.