Jinmargnu Jatan - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jinmargnu Jatan" by Ratilal Deepchand Desai, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Jinmargnu Jatan (Preservation of the Path of the Jinas) Author: Ratilal Deepchand Desai Publisher: Gurjar Granthratna Karyalay, Ahmedabad

Overall Theme and Purpose:

"Jinmargnu Jatan" is a collection of essays written by Pt. Ratilal Deepchand Desai, meticulously compiled and published by his son, Nitin R. Desai. The book is a profound exploration of Jainism, its principles, its history, and its contemporary relevance. It aims to preserve and promote the Jain way of life, addressing various aspects of Jain philosophy, ethics, social issues, and the challenges faced by the Jain community in the modern era. The author, Pt. Ratilal Desai, was a prolific writer and journalist who used his platform, particularly through the Jain weekly newspaper, to advocate for the progress and welfare of the Jain community and Jainism.

Key Themes and Content:

The book is structured into several sections, each delving into critical aspects of Jainism and its societal impact. Based on the provided table of contents and excerpts, the major themes and content areas include:

The Position of Jainism in the World and its Challenges:
- Cultural History and Jain Civilization: The text emphasizes the significant, yet often overlooked, contribution of Jain culture to India's broader cultural history. It suggests that Jainism's importance in Indian history is increasingly recognized by scholars.
- Ignorance or Neglect of Jain Art: The author laments the lack of national-level awareness and appreciation for Jain art, which he considers "extremely rich."
- Community Issues: Addresses questions of Jain identity, the need for unity among different Jain sects (firqas), the challenges of maintaining a community with dwindling numbers, and how to engage younger generations.
- Internal Weaknesses: Critically examines internal flaws that might be diminishing Jainism's reputation and influence in the modern world.
- Jainism and Politics: Discusses the role of Jains in politics and the importance of their participation for national progress.
- National Defense and Jain Duty: Explores the Jain community's role in national defense and their responsibilities during times of crisis, such as national invasions.
Core Jain Principles and Practices:
- Mahavir's Life: Focuses on the foundational work and exemplary spiritual discipline of Lord Mahavir, highlighting his role as a proponent of religious purity and the lessons derived from his life.
- Ahimsa (Non-violence) Philosophy and Practices: This is a central theme, exploring Ahimsa not just as a doctrine but as a practical guide for daily life. It covers:
  - Ahimsa as a path to victory and stability.
  - The interconnectedness of compassion for all living beings (Jivdaya = Apdaya).
  - The need to promote vegetarianism and condemn animal cruelty, citing examples like the ban on cattle slaughter and the advocacy against it.
  - The scientific basis for vegetarianism and its link to longevity.
  - The importance of avoiding violence in all aspects, including the use of silk, floral offerings, and even dental research.
  - The call for abolishing capital punishment and advocating for Ahimsa's victory over violence.
Social Reform and Upliftment:
- Upliftment of Neglected Classes: Discusses the role of Jainism in the upliftment of women, the need for the Jain community to support the growth of the Sadhvi (female ascetic) community, and encourages introspection within the Digambara sect regarding temple entry issues.
- Addressing Social Ills: Critiques societal issues such as dowry, inter-religious marriages, the existence of old-age homes (seen as a new malady), abortion, and the prevalent materialistic tendencies.
- Importance of Education: Stresses the role of education and cultural development for national progress, criticizing the excessive reliance on English language and advocating for the promotion of vernacular languages.
- The Role of the Community: Highlights the importance of community unity, the need for scriptural study, the decline in scriptural study, and the lack of focus on spiritual practice (Tapa and Bhakti) rather than mere ritual.
The Role of Knowledge and Education:
- Dissemination of Knowledge: Emphasizes the need for Jain dharma conventions, the importance of spreading Jainism, the direction of literary creation, the necessity of literature that instills Jain values, the need for systems to satisfy intellectual curiosity, and the creation of biographical works and art portfolios.
- Religious Education and Teachers: Discusses the national character of religious education, methods for cultivating good conduct, the role of the family environment in religious education, the vision behind religious curricula, and the duties towards religious teachers.
The Author's Perspective and Contribution:
- Author's Background: Ratilal Desai was a thinker and writer whose pen was forged through the "Jain" weekly newspaper. He covered a wide range of topics, from art and culture to social and national issues, demonstrating a fearless and comprehensive approach.
- Nitin Desai's Effort: The book is a testament to the immense effort of Nitin R. Desai, who meticulously compiled and organized his father's extensive writings, fulfilling a filial duty and contributing significantly to Jain literature.
- Timeless Relevance: The essays, though written between 1947 and 1979, are presented as highly relevant to contemporary times, offering insights into the Jain community's concerns and aspirations.
- Call for Re-evaluation: The author urges the Jain community to re-evaluate their practices, particularly concerning the emphasis on rituals over true spiritual knowledge and the need to embrace universal principles of Ahimsa and equanimity.
- Critique of Complacency: The text implicitly criticizes complacency within the Jain community regarding their declining numbers and the need to actively spread Jain teachings rather than just preserving them internally.

Structure and Presentation:

The book is organized thematically, covering a broad spectrum of topics related to Jainism. The essays are presented with depth, offering critical analysis and thoughtful recommendations. The compiler, Nitin R. Desai, has undertaken a significant task, bringing together a vast body of work that reflects the author's deep commitment to Jainism and his concern for the community's progress. The preface by Pujya Acharya Shri Vijaypradhumna Suriji highlights the breadth of Pt. Ratilal Desai's vision and the meticulous effort involved in compiling this comprehensive work.

In essence, "Jinmargnu Jatan" is a comprehensive and insightful work that serves as a guide for the Jain community, encouraging them to uphold their values, address contemporary challenges, and actively contribute to the preservation and propagation of Jainism's timeless message of Ahimsa and spiritual upliftment.