Jinmargnu Anushilan

This comprehensive summary is based on the provided Gujarati text of "Jinmargnu Anushilan," a book by Ratilal D Desai and Nitin R Desai, published by Gurjar Granthratna Karyalay. The book is a collection of articles primarily written by Ratilal D Desai, published in the Jain weekly newspaper.

The summary covers the following key aspects of the book, based on the provided pages:

Book Overview and Context:

• Title: Jinmargnu Anushilan (જિનમાર્ગનું અનુશીલન)
• Author(s): Ratilal D Desai (primary author of the articles), Nitin R Desai (editor)
• Publisher: Gurjar Granthratna Karyalay, Ahmedabad
• Nature of Content: The book compiles articles written by Ratilal D Desai, published in the Jain weekly newspaper between 1947 and 1979. These articles primarily focus on contemporary events, trends, and issues within the Jain community.
• Purpose of Compilation: The articles are presented in three volumes, aiming to provide insights into various aspects of Jain life, spiritual practices, community issues, and historical context. The intention is to preserve and share the author's thoughtful reflections for the enlightenment of the Jain community.

Key Themes and Topics Discussed (as indicated by the Table of Contents and introductory remarks):

The book is structured into several sections, each addressing distinct areas relevant to Jainism and the Jain community:

1. Dharmadrushti, Gunvikas ane Sadhana-path (ધર્મદૃષ્ટિ, ગુણવિકાસ અને સાધનાપથ - Religious Perspective, Character Development, and Path of Practice): This section delves into fundamental Jain concepts like:

   • The nature of Dharma (as the inherent nature of things and as that which aids in spiritual progress).
   • The importance of faithfulness, understanding, and practice (Samyak Darshan, Gyan, Charitra).
   • The role of honesty and integrity in personal and professional life.
   • The concept of Ahimsa (non-violence) – its expansive nature beyond mere negation and its importance in promoting life.
   • The necessity of balance between Ahimsa and Satya (truth).
   • The role of devotion, the need for discretion in devotion, and the integration of health and spiritual practice.
   • Discussions on concepts like rebirth, detachment (Vairagya), and the importance of self-introspection.
   • The author's personal reflections on his life's journey.

2. Shraman-Samudayni Ekta, Gyan-Sata ane Achar-Shuddhi (શ્રમણ-સમુદાયની એકતા, જ્ઞાન-સતા અને આચાર-શુદ્ધિ - Unity of the Monastic Community, Knowledge, and Purity of Conduct): This extensive section addresses crucial issues concerning the Jain monastic order (Shraman community):

   • The primary duty of Shramanas and the necessity of behavioral purity.
   • Critique of practices and rituals, urging for a return to core principles.
   • Discussions on unity within the monastic community, the study of scriptures (Shrut bhakti), and the importance of the "Shraman Vidyalaya" (monastic educational institutions).
   • The role of Sadhavis (female ascetics) and addressing their challenges.
   • Critique of the degradation of monastic titles and the need for genuine conduct over mere titles.
   • The essential characteristics of a true ascetic, emphasizing detachment, intellectual clarity, and emotional strength.
   • The author's background, emphasizing his upbringing in a traditional Jain family, his education in Jain Sanskrit pathshalas, and his study of Nyaya Shastra.
   • His father's conversion to monasticism and the author's reaction.
   • His professional life, his integrity in employment, and his avoidance of speculation.
   • His positive family life and the nurturing environment he provided for his children.
   • His engagement in various Jain propagation activities, including close relationships with monks and nuns.
   • The author's inherent humility and self-critical nature, even when celebrated.
   • His balanced approach, integrating intellect and heart (like a 'Jignasu Bhakta' in Bhagavad Gita's terminology).
   • The importance of righteousness, character development, and the path of spiritual practice.

3. Jain-Sanghoni Antarik Ekta ane Shuddhi (જૈન-સંઘોની આંતરિક એકતા અને શુદ્ધિ - Internal Unity and Purity of Jain Organizations): This section focuses on the internal dynamics of the Jain community:

   • The individual's responsibility in maintaining the dignity of religion and the community.
   • The importance of purity in religious practices, means of livelihood, and intentions.
   • The challenges and efforts towards unity within various Jain sects (e.g., Digambara unity efforts, issues related to Terapanth).
   • The historical context and debate surrounding the fixation of religious dates (Tithi Charcha).
   • The need for clear principles regarding authority and responsibility within the community.
   • The author's critique of certain practices and the importance of introspection.
   • The author's emphasis on the need for reform and his critique of complacency.

4. Sanskrutina Mul-Tatvo (સંસ્કૃતિનાં મૂળતત્ત્વો - Fundamentals of Culture): This section explores broader cultural aspects:

   • The nature of spiritual pursuit and the realization of the highest ideals.
   • The relationship between science and spirituality.
   • The need for a humanistic culture.
   • Critique of India's passive intellectualism.
   • The importance of cooperation and tolerance for building a global family.
   • The role of language purification in cultural development.

5. Uchcha Jain Vidhyadhyay (ઉચ્ચ જૈન વિદ્યાધ્યયન - Higher Jain Learning): This section highlights the importance and state of Jain academic pursuits:

   • Critique of blind faith towards scholars and the need for critical inquiry.
   • The necessity of structured plans for scripture study.
   • Discussion regarding the establishment of Jain chairs in universities.
   • The importance of preserving and promoting Jain Sanskrit centers.
   • The role of Oriental Conferences and the engagement of Jains in them.
   • The need for identifying and categorizing advanced Jain studies.
   • The call for academic pursuit that is insightful and beneficial to society.
   • The development of Vidya in Gujarat.
   • The significance of education and the role of perseverance in achieving it.
   • The inspirational examples of charity in the pursuit of knowledge.
   • The urgent need for a comprehensive overview of modern global Jain studies.
   • The importance of making 'Vidyaashram' (centers of learning) complete and fruitful.

6. Jain Granthbhandaro ane Jnanoddhar (જૈન ગ્રંથભંડારો અને જ્ઞાનોદ્ધાર - Jain Libraries and the Revival of Knowledge): This section focuses on the preservation and accessibility of Jain literature:

   • The long-standing Jain tradition of protecting scriptural wealth.
   • The urgency of reviving Jain literature.
   • The deplorable state of Jain repositories and the need for timely action.
   • The neglected treasure of knowledge in Kutch.
   • The immediate need to transfer knowledge repositories from risky locations.
   • The administration of knowledge repositories.
   • The valuable literary journey of monks.
   • A monumental effort in knowledge revival.
   • The importance of continuing to publish ancient Gujarati Jain literature.

7. Jain Agamo: Mahatva ane Prakashan (જૈન આગમો: મહત્ત્વ અને પ્રકાશન - Significance and Publication of Jain Agamas): This section discusses the Jain scriptures:

   • Various modern plans for Agama publication.
   • The inefficiency of sectarian Agama research.
   • The need for the Sthanakvasi community to reconsider the commentaries on Agamas.
   • The study of Agamas abroad.

8. Prakritadi nu Adhyayan (પ્રાકૃતાદિનું અધ્યયન - Study of Prakrit etc.): This section emphasizes the importance of studying Prakrit and other related languages:

   • The significance of studying Prakrit and other vernacular languages.
   • Ancient scientific knowledge in Prakrit literature – a commendable study.
   • Efforts to preserve the Prakrit language.
   • The status of Prakrit studies and practitioners.
   • Facilities for Prakrit studies in India – a survey.
   • The need for preparation in Prakrit education.
   • The Prakrit Vidya Mandal.

9. Prachin-Vidya-Kala ni Samagri (પ્રાચીન-વિદ્યાકળાની સામગ્રી - Ancient Art and Knowledge Material): This focuses on preserving ancient arts and knowledge:

   • The necessity of preserving ancient art and knowledge material.
   • The need for the conservation of ancient relics.

10. Samayiko ane Jain-Patra satheni Lekhaki Sahayatra (0 સામયિકો અને જૈન-પત્ર સાથેની લેખકની સહયાત્રા - Author's Journey with Periodicals and 'Jain' Newspaper): This section highlights the author's journalistic work:

    • Journalism as an era-defining factor.
    • Jain journalism: taking tentative steps.
    • The path of Jain journalism.
    • The 'Jain' newspaper – its spirit, efforts, and good fortune.
    • A respected periodical – a festival of self-cultivation (farewell words).
    • The vigilant, service-oriented journalism of 'Jain Prakash'.
    • Congratulations to the editor of 'Jain Journal'.
    • The need for the Sangh's support for 'Jain Yug'.
    • Will the 'Jain-Satyaprakash', the adornment of Jain culture, close down?
    • The need to sustain 'Harijan' newspapers, which are like the lifeblood of the people.
    • The development path of the author's expression.

11. Granthvishesh ane Prakashan-Samaroh-Vishesho: Samiksha (ગ્રંથવિશેષ અને પ્રકાશન-સમારોહ-વિશેષો: સમીક્ષા - Special Books and Publication Ceremony Reviews): This section includes reviews of specific works and events:

    • Two milestones in the research and publication of the great work 'Naya Chakra'.
    • An interesting translation of a scholarly topic: 'Gandarvad'.
    • A welcome knowledge festival for the publication of 'Karma Granth'.
    • Book review of 'Yogashatak'.
    • A model compilation (Three ancient Gujarati works).
    • A heroic tale of literary effort (Russian translation of Mahabharata).
    • A simple translation of the ancient 'Kuvalaymala Mahakatha'.
    • A blessed occasion! Blessed Gujarat! (Publication of 'Harishanhita').
    • Ancient history of Jain Tirthas.
    • A powerful portrait depicting the life of Mahavir.
    • Paintings of the life of Bhagwan Rishabhdev: Revival of tradition.
    • 'Mahavir Darshan' and the story-song of Chandanbala.
    • 'Shri Mahavir Katha' – Must read.
    • Welcoming the book 'Shasan Samrat'.
    • An admirable activity for public education.
    • The anguish of a socially conscious thinker: A book review.

Author's Perspective and Philosophy:

• Emphasis on Thoughtfulness and Awareness: The author, Ratilal D Desai, through his writings, aims to stimulate thoughtful consideration and awaken consciousness within the Jain community. He believes that a healthy mind leads to a healthy body, life, society, and the world.
• Critique of Ritualism and Superstition: The author often questions blind adherence to rituals and superstitions that have crept into religious practices, advocating for a return to the core principles of Jainism.
• Importance of Intellectual Honesty and Self-Reflection: Desai emphasizes the need for scholars and spiritual leaders to engage in genuine introspection, admit their limitations, and avoid dogmatism.
• Holistic Approach to Life: The author's writings cover a wide spectrum, from spiritual practices to family responsibilities, social harmony, national issues, and cultural preservation, reflecting a comprehensive understanding of life.
• Appreciation for Original Sources and Critical Study: He highlights the need to study original Jain scriptures with a critical and analytical mind, rather than blindly accepting tradition.
• Value of Diligence and Perseverance: The author stresses the importance of consistent effort and perseverance in the pursuit of knowledge and spiritual growth.
• Critique of Materialism and External Show: There's an underlying critique of the excessive focus on wealth and external displays in religious activities, advocating for inner purity and the true essence of spirituality.

Overall Tone and Contribution:

The book, through its diverse collection of articles, serves as a reflective and analytical commentary on Jainism and the Jain way of life in the context of the 20th century. Ratilal D Desai's writings are characterized by clarity, depth of thought, fearlessness in expressing opinions, and a deep concern for the well-being and progress of the Jain community. His work is seen as a significant contribution to Jain literature and thought.

This summary aims to capture the essence of the provided text, highlighting the key themes and the author's perspective on various aspects of Jainism and community life.