Jina Pujadhikar Mimansa - Book Summary

The Jain text "Jina pujadhikar Mimansa" by Jugalkishor Mukhtar, published in Mumbai by Natharang Gandhi in April 1913 (Shri Veer Nirvana Samvat 2439), is a treatise that delves into the principles and rights concerning the worship of Jina (victorious souls who have attained liberation). The book argues for the inclusive right to worship Jinas, challenging certain contemporary interpretations that restricted this right based on caste, sect, or adherence to specific Jain traditions.

The summary of the text can be broken down into the following key themes:

1. The Nature of Jina Worship:

Jain Philosophy of Divinity: The text begins by explaining the Jain concept of divinity, stating that "Parmatma" (the Supreme Soul) is not an external creator god, but rather the soul's own liberated state, characterized by infinite perception, knowledge, bliss, and energy. This state is achieved through the shedding of karmic impurities.
Purpose of Worship: Jain worship of Jinas is not to please or appease a divine entity to gain favor. Instead, it is a practice undertaken to remember the soul's true nature, to cultivate devotion to the qualities of the liberated soul (like omniscience, non-attachment), and to aid in one's own spiritual progress. The worship serves as a catalyst for self-realization.
Ideal as Inspiration: The Jinas are presented as the ultimate role models, embodying the highest spiritual achievements. Adoring them is a way to internalize their virtues and strive towards that state of liberation.

2. The Right to Worship (Adhikar):

Universal Right: Mukhtar strongly advocates that the right to worship Jinas is universal, extending to all individuals, regardless of their social standing, gender, sect (like Bissa or Dassa), or even species.
Arguments from Scripture and Examples: The author extensively quotes Jain scriptures and narrates stories to support this universal right.
- He cites passages from texts like Adi Purana, Amitgati Shravakachar, and Padmanandi Panchavimsatika, which emphasize the importance of deity worship (Deva Puja) as a daily duty for householders and Shravakas (lay followers).
- The text highlights that even animals like frogs and elephants, in their past lives or current existence, attained great merit and auspicious births through their devotion and worship of Jinas, sometimes even with rudimentary actions driven by pure intent.
- The examples of the Shudra girl Kusumavati and Pushpavati, the cowherd boy who became King Karakandu, and even the frog's sincere aspiration for worship demonstrate that the purity of intention (bhava) in worship is paramount, not the ritualistic details or the performer's social status.
Challenging Exclusionary Practices: The book directly confronts the practices of certain Jain communities or individuals who denied worship rights to specific groups (like the "Dassa" sect or Shudras). Mukhtar argues that such exclusions are contrary to the core principles of Jainism, which emphasizes the potential for liberation inherent in every soul.

3. Forms of Worship:

Daily Worship (Nitya Puja): The text places significant emphasis on daily worship as a fundamental duty for householders. This typically involves bringing materials from home to the temple, performing rituals with devotion, and remembering the Jinas.
Special Worships (Naimittika Puja): The book briefly mentions various special worships like Ashtahnik, Indradhwaja, Chaturmukh, and Kalpadruma, noting that these often require specific circumstances or higher status individuals (like kings).
Idol Worship (Pratima Puja): The author clarifies that the worship of idols (made of clay, stone, metal) is not directed at the material itself but is a means to remember and connect with the Jina's qualities. The idol serves as a focal point for meditation and devotion. The act of consecrating an idol (Pratishtha) is also discussed.

4. Qualifications for Worshippers (Pujak):

Broad Definition of Pujak: The text defines a "Pujak" (worshipper) broadly. While referencing scriptural descriptions of "Pujak" and "Pujakacharya" (those who perform consecrations), Mukhtar emphasizes that the essential qualification is sincere devotion (bhakti) and the intention to worship.
Addressing the "Pujak" vs. "Pujakacharya" Distinction: The author addresses descriptions in some texts that list specific qualities for a "Pujak" (like being well-formed, learned, belonging to certain castes, etc.). He argues that these descriptions often refer to "Pujakacharya" (those who lead complex rituals or consecrations) rather than the general daily worshipper. He reiterates that the core requirement for daily worship is faith and devotion.

5. The Case of Shudras and "Dassa" Jains:

Shudras' Right: Mukhtar argues forcefully that Shudras have the right to worship. He points out that if animals can attain merit through worship, then humans, including Shudras, who possess higher consciousness, certainly have the right. He also highlights that historically, Shudras have been known to be Jain and follow Jain practices.
Debunking the "Dassa" Distinction: The text dismisses the "Dassa" vs. "Bissa" sectarian division as lacking scriptural basis. It asserts that all Jains are adherents of the Jain dharma and are therefore entitled to worship. The author critiques the discriminatory practices of some communities that deny access or certain privileges within temples based on these artificial divisions.
Focus on Intention (Bhava): Throughout these arguments, the underlying principle is that the purity of intention, faith, and devotion is the true basis for worship, not one's birth, caste, or sectarian affiliation.

6. The Importance of Devotion and Good Conduct:

Inner Feeling Over External Ritual: The book consistently underscores that the internal feeling, devotion, and aspiration (bhava) are more important than the external ritualistic performance.
Worship as a Means to Spiritual Growth: The act of worship is seen as a continuous practice that helps purify the mind, eliminate negative tendencies, and progress towards spiritual liberation.

Conclusion:

"Jina pujadhikar Mimansa" is a significant text for its strong defense of religious inclusivity within Jainism. Jugalkishor Mukhtar, through meticulous argumentation, scriptural references, and ethical reasoning, champions the idea that the path to spiritual devotion and remembrance of the Jinas is open to all, advocating for a unified and compassionate approach to worship that transcends social and sectarian divisions. The book's publication in 1913 reflects a period of reform and re-examination of traditions within Jain communities.