Jina Shasana Me Shramaniyo Ki Bhumika

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Jina Shasana me Shramaniyo ki Bhumika" by Kusumlata Jain:

The book emphasizes the significant and continuous role of Shramanis (female ascetics) within the Jain tradition, tracing this lineage from the first Tirthankar, Lord Rishabhdev, to the last, Lord Mahavir Swami, and affirming its ongoing presence.

Key Points and Contributions of Shramanis:

• Foundation of the Four Pillars: Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar, is credited with establishing the four pillars of Jainism: Sadhus (male ascetics), Shramanis (female ascetics), Shravaks (male lay followers), and Shravikas (female lay followers).
• Greater Numbers and Influence: The text highlights that, across all Tirthankaras' eras, the number of Shramanis was generally greater than that of Sadhus. For instance, under Lord Rishabhdev, there were 300,000 Shramanis compared to 84,000 Sadhus. This larger presence often led to a more extensive spread of religious teachings by Shramanis.
• First Shramani and Influence: Brahmi, the daughter of Lord Rishabhdev, is identified as the first Shramani. She played a crucial role in humbling her brother Bahubali's pride, which subsequently led to his attainment of Kevala Jnana (omniscience). The text suggests that Lord Rishabhdev specifically sent Brahmi and Sundari to guide Bahubali, underscoring the importance of Shramanis in influential spiritual guidance.
• Qualities of Shramanis: Shramanis are described as possessing eloquent speech that brings coolness and peace to the listeners, inspiring them towards righteous conduct. They are also characterized by deep humility and discipline, which contribute to the brilliance of the Jain tradition.
• Equal Rights and Practices: The Jain tradition, as depicted in the text, grants equal rights and adherence to the same rules for both Shramanas and Shramanis. The core term "Shram" (effort/labor) in both words signifies their self-reliance and dedication to their practices. They are self-sufficient, obtaining their own necessities without relying on householders, and dedicate their lives to leading others from ignorance to knowledge, impermanence to permanence, and suffering to liberation.
• Adherence to Principles: Both male and female ascetics are equally bound to observe the five Mahavratas (great vows), five Samitis (careful activities), three Guptis (restraints), six Avashyakas (essential duties), Pratikramana (confession and atonement), and the ten Lakshana Dharma (ten virtues).
• Specific Vows: The text mentions the vow of abstaining from night meals, as outlined in the Dashavaikalik Sutra. While this vow was specifically emphasized by Lord Mahavir for his disciples, it is generally encompassed within the broader principle of Ahimsa (non-violence).
• Inclusivity and Empowerment: Jainism is presented as a religion that offers freedom and the right to pursue the path of liberation to women, without requiring dependence on men or others. Any woman, regardless of her caste or community, can embrace the life of a Shramani. The text notes that even a courtesan took initiation, illustrating the religion's inclusive nature.
• Exclusions for Initiation: Certain individuals are excluded from taking initiation, including the elderly, the infirm, those in debt, pregnant women, and mothers of very young children, as initiation is seen as a process to aid spiritual progress.
• Superior Spiritual Aptitude: The text suggests that women often possess a greater capacity for renunciation, penance, and tolerance than men, which explains the higher numbers of Shramanis in each Tirthankar's era.
• Contemporary Role: Today, Shramanis continue to spread the principles of equality, harmony, and goodwill among both the youth and the elderly, playing a vital role in societal development.
• Examples of Dedicated Shramanis: The book specifically honors Sadhvi Rala Shri Kanakunwarji and Shri Champakunwarji for their dedication to furthering the Shramani tradition. They are described as highly learned, eloquent speakers, ascetics, and social reformers, proficient in Sanskrit, Prakrit, Hindi, and Gujarati, and have actively propagated the faith through their travels across India.

In essence, the book "Jina Shasana me Shramaniyo ki Bhumika" firmly establishes the indispensable and multifaceted role of Shramanis in the Jain tradition, highlighting their spiritual prowess, numerical strength, consistent dedication, and vital contribution to the propagation and maintenance of Jain teachings throughout history and in the present day.