Kalpasutranu Vachan Ane Shravan - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text "Kalpasutranu Vachan ane Shravan" by Sukhlal Sanghavi, focusing on the main arguments and themes:

The article "Kalpasutranu Vachan ane Shravan" by Sukhlal Sanghavi critically examines the tradition of reading and listening to the Kalpa Sutra within the Jain community, particularly highlighting its prominence within the Shvetambara tradition. While acknowledging that the Kalpa Sutra contains accounts of other Tirthankaras and prominent monks, the author asserts that its primary significance and the veneration it receives are deeply tied to the life of Lord Mahavir.

The Disparity in Practice:

The author observes a significant difference in how the Kalpa Sutra is treated by the three main Jain sects: Digambara, Sthanakavasi, and Shvetambara. Although Lord Mahavir is revered by all, the Kalpa Sutra's recitation and listening are deeply ingrained in the Shvetambara tradition, especially during the Paryushana or Dashalakshana festivals, being a household ritual for all ages.

Digambaras: Their non-acceptance of certain facts and traditions mentioned in the Kalpa Sutra explains their lack of engagement with it.
Sthanakavasis: Surprisingly, even the Sthanakavasis, who find no factual discrepancies with the Kalpa Sutra, do not accord it the same level of reverence as the Shvetambaras. Their recitation and listening during Paryushana are not considered essential and lack the grandiosity and adherence seen in the Shvetambara community.

The Origin and Evolution of the Practice:

The article delves into the why behind the practice, stating that its origin lies in spiritual devotion (Adhyatmik Bhakti). The core aim was to keep the ideal life of Lord Mahavir as a constant inspiration for Jains, to foster the development of virtues, and to remain vigilant against straying from the right path. The Kalpa Sutra was intended as a tool for this spiritual nourishment and constant remembrance.

However, Sanghavi argues that this original spiritual intent has been distorted over time. The reverence has shifted from the life of Lord Mahavir to the book itself, and then to the Gurus (readers) of the book.

Objectification of the Book: The Kalpa Sutra book, along with its bindings and decorations, has become an object of worship.
Veneration of the Reader-Gurus: The Gurus who read the Kalpa Sutra have also become objects of veneration, often based on mere outward appearance (a particular type of attire) rather than genuine spiritual merit or qualification. This has led to a situation where anyone with the prescribed attire can be considered a Guru and is worthy of being seated and honored.

The Erosion of Spiritual Devotion and the Rise of Commercialism:

The author critically points out how this evolved practice has become hollowed out, devoid of its original spiritual core.

Loss of Critical Thinking: The tradition has become mechanical, with a focus on rote recitation rather than understanding or applying the teachings. This has led to a narrow perspective and adherence to ritualistic philosophy, making it difficult to break free from this rigid adherence.
Blind Devotion and Ritualism: The practice has become an annual mandatory observance, akin to the monsoon season, with elaborate ceremonies, rituals, and expenses. The original purpose is lost amidst the "cheap and expensive ceremonies and rituals."
Commercialization and Competition: The article describes how the reading of the Kalpa Sutra has become a source of livelihood for some Gurus. Competition arises among Gurus to attract more devotees, with financial prosperity playing a significant role in determining a Guru's stature. The funds generated are often used by the Gurus, leading to a situation where the Kalpa Sutra reading has become a means to offset their expenses, undermining the apparent selflessness of the monastic life.
Blind Faith in Gurus: The author laments that the Shvetambara community, which historically fought against caste-based Brahminism, has now embraced a similar system where mere birthright (in the form of monastic attire) grants the status of Guru. This has led to a situation where the qualifications and sincerity of the reader are secondary to their external presentation.
Consequences for the Laity: The laity, believing that merely listening to the Kalpa Sutra fulfills their spiritual obligation, are often unaware of how the money they contribute is used. This blind faith sustains many "misguided sectarians."

The Detrimental Effects:

The author highlights several negative consequences arising from this distorted practice:

Stagnation of Intellectual and Spiritual Growth: The focus on mechanical recitation has stifled the intellectual and spiritual development of both the readers and the audience.
Spread of Ignorance and Superstition: Instead of providing inspiration and solutions to societal problems, the ritualistic practice has plunged society deeper into darkness.
Perversion of Devotion: Devotion, when devoid of intellect and selflessness, becomes a source of hatred and causes society to become rigid, narrow, and conflict-ridden.
Suppression of Dissent: Anyone attempting to break free from this rigid tradition or offer a different perspective is often labeled as irreligious or atheistic.

A Path Forward:

Despite the grim picture, Sanghavi offers a hopeful outlook and suggests a path for reform. He emphasizes the need for intellectual engagement and a return to the original spirit of the practice.

Disengagement from Lifeless Practices: Fearless thinkers should not participate in ritualistic reading and listening that lacks intellectual engagement and purity.
Intellectual and Comparative Study: Instead, engage in practices that touch upon various intellectual domains and explore life stories from historical and comparative perspectives, free from any expectation of donations or rewards.
Focus on Societal Relevance: The practice should be transformed into a week of learning and peace, focusing on personal, familial, social, national, and even global issues from a neutral and honest perspective, rather than dry spiritual discussions.
Self-Study and Broadening Horizons: If access to genuine intellectual guidance is difficult, individuals should engage in self-study or group reading of books that align with religious festivals, including the biographies of figures like Buddha, Rama, Krishna, Jesus, and their followers. This would foster an understanding of Lord Mahavir's life from multiple perspectives.
Integration of Jainism with Life: The author stresses that Jainism must be integrated with life, not separated from it. Young people should be encouraged to develop their intellect and broaden their horizons by reading the lives and thoughts of influential figures like Sri Aurobindo, Tagore, Mahatma Gandhi, and Mashruwala.

In conclusion, Sanghavi's article is a powerful critique of the ritualistic and commercialized practice of reading the Kalpa Sutra within certain Jain traditions. He calls for a return to its original purpose of spiritual inspiration, intellectual growth, and the development of virtues, urging the community to embrace a more dynamic and relevant engagement with the teachings of Lord Mahavir.