Kalpit Itihas Se Savdhan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Kalpit Itihas se Savdhan" (Beware of Fabricated History), based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Kalpit Itihas se Savdhan (Beware of Fabricated History) Author(s): Bhuvansundarvijay, Jaysundarvijay, Kapurchand Jain Publisher: Divya Darshan Trust Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/032834/1

Overall Purpose and Theme:

This book is a critical analysis and refutation of the historical claims made by Acharya Hastimalji Maharaj, a prominent figure of the Sthanakvasi sect, particularly concerning his two-volume work "Jain Dharm ka Maulik Itihas" (The Fundamental History of Jainism). The primary aim of "Kalpit Itihas se Savdhan" is to defend and reassert the validity of idol worship (Murti Puja) within Jainism, which is presented as an integral and ancient part of the faith, supported by scriptures, ancient literature, archaeology, and tradition. The book argues that Hastimalji's history is "kalpit" (fabricated) and "amulak" (without foundation) because it allegedly distorts or ignores evidence supporting idol worship and other traditional Jain practices.

Key Arguments and Content:

The book is structured into various chapters (Prakaran) that address specific historical and doctrinal points, often by quoting and then critiquing Hastimalji's work. The central theme is a staunch defense of the Sola Sati (Shvetambara) idol-worshipping tradition against what the authors perceive as the Sthanakvasi agenda to discredit and dismantle it.

Here's a breakdown of the key arguments and content presented across the chapters:

• Introduction and Editorial:

  • The editorial (Page 9) sets the tone, accusing Acharya Hastimalji of attacking the "eternal Jain practice" of idol worship from the "glass house" of his own fabricated history. It highlights the author's assertion that Hastimalji's history discredits scriptures, ancient literature, archaeology, thousands of Jain tirthas (pilgrimage sites), and millions of idols.
  • The book is presented as a "mimansa" (critical analysis) written by Muni Bhuvansundar Vijayji, guided by Acharya Vijay Bhuvan Bhanu Surishwarji, and edited by Kapurchand Jain.

• Critique of Hastimalji's Historical Approach:

  • Fabrication and Distortion: The authors repeatedly accuse Hastimalji of presenting fabricated, baseless, and misleading information. They claim he selectively omits or twists facts to suit his sect's ideology.
  • Lack of Scholarly Rigor: Hastimalji's history is criticized for lacking truthfulness, impartiality, and the fearlessness required of an objective historian. His reliance on self-generated logic and speculation, rather than established scriptural evidence, is highlighted.
  • Anti-Idol Worship Bias: The core criticism is Hastimalji's alleged deliberate avoidance of discussing or acknowledging the existence and importance of Jain temples and idols, treating them as insignificant or non-existent in his historical narrative.
  • Contradictions: The authors point out inconsistencies in Hastimalji's work, such as acknowledging the existence of ancient Jain practices while simultaneously discrediting them.

• Defense of Idol Worship and Temples:

  • Scriptural Evidence: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to quoting Jain scriptures (Agamas and Agam-related literature) that explicitly mention or imply the worship of idols, temples (Chaitya), and holy symbols. Examples include references to the worship of Arhants, Chaityas, and the significance of temples in scriptures like Prashna Vyakaran, Vyavahar Sutra, Tattvartha Sutra, Kalpa Sutra, Bhagwati Sutra, and Upasaka Dashanga.
  • Historical and Archaeological Evidence: The book cites archaeological findings, such as ancient inscriptions, coins, and excavated idols and temple structures (like those found at Mathura's Kankali mound), as proof of the antiquity and prevalence of idol worship.
  • Role of Temples: Temples are presented not just as places of worship but as crucial institutions for the preservation and propagation of Jain Dharma.
  • "Chaitya" Meaning: The book strongly asserts that the term "Chaitya" in Jain scriptures unequivocally refers to Jain temples or idols. Hastimalji's attempts to redefine "Chaitya" to exclude idols are deemed illegitimate and scripture-neglecting.

• Refutation of Specific Sthanakvasi Arguments:

  • "Daya Dharma" and "Ahinsa": The book counters the Sthanakvasi claim that idol worship and temple activities involve violence (himsa). It argues that the true spirit of ahinsa lies in righteous conduct and devotion, and that many Sthanakvasi practices (like eating stale food, carrying idols of their gurus, or encouraging disciples to visit temples from afar) are themselves questionable from an ahinsa perspective.
  • "Aparigraha" (Non-possession) and Asceticism: While acknowledging the importance of detachment, the book suggests that Sthanakvasi interpretations often lead to extremes that contradict scriptural injunctions or historical evidence.
  • "Dravya" and "Bhava" Nykchepa: The book defends the validity of Dravya (material) forms of worship (like idols and temples) as supporting Bhava (spiritual) devotion, drawing parallels to how even the names of deities or sacred texts are considered reverential.
  • Miracles and Superhuman Feats: The book defends the accounts of miracles and superhuman powers attributed to Tirthankaras, saints, and deities, arguing that Hastimalji's dismissal of these as mere "miraculous events" or "stories" is a tactic to discredit the very foundation of Jain tradition.

• Specific Historical Figures and Events Discussed:

  • Tirthankaras' Birth Festivals: The book discusses the divine ceremonies associated with Tirthankaras' births, including the Abhishek (anointment) performed by celestial beings.
  • Respected Acharyas: It highlights the contributions of revered Jain acharyas (scholars and spiritual leaders) like Devardhigani Kshamashraman, Abhayadevasuri, Maladhari Hemachandracharya, Haribhadrasuri, Yashovijayji, and Bhaidra Bahu Swami, emphasizing their role in preserving and interpreting scriptures and upholding the tradition of idol worship.
  • Lord Rishabhdeva's Nirvana: The book discusses the accounts of Lord Rishabhdeva's Nirvana at Ashtapad mountain and the sacred relics, including his tooth, being revered.
  • Jarasandha and Krishna's War: It recounts a story where Lord Neminatha's intervention, aided by a statue of Lord Parshvanatha, helped resolve a crisis.
  • Munisuvrata Swami's Stupa: The book discusses the historical significance of a stupa of Lord Munisuvrata Swami in Vaishali, which protected the city.
  • Arya Shyambhav Suri: It explains how the sight of a Lord Shantinatha idol led to Shyambhav's conversion and eventual discipleship.
  • Lord Neminatha and Vairagya: The text addresses the narrative of Lord Neminatha's renunciation, citing events that influenced his decision.
  • Lord Parshvanatha's Vairagya: It discusses how images of Lord Parshvanatha and Rajimati influenced his renunciation.
  • Mallikakumari and Idols: The story of Princess Mallikakumari using her own idol to dissuade suitors from harmful actions is presented as evidence of the efficacy of idols.
  • Gautam Swami: The book defends the miraculous feats of Gautam Swami, the first Gandhara, in using his powers for the benefit of the Sangha and the propagation of Jainism.
  • Bhadrabahu Swami and "Uvassaggaharam Stotra": It highlights the creation of this powerful mantra-stotra by Bhadrabahu Swami to ward off calamities, suggesting that the efficacy of such devotional tools implies the acceptance of spiritual reverence.
  • Chaitya and Idol Worship: The book provides extensive evidence for the meaning and importance of "Chaitya" as temples and idols across various scriptural references.
  • Mathura's Kankali Mound Excavations: The findings from the Kankali mound excavations are presented as undeniable proof of the antiquity of Jain idol worship, linking them to major historical periods and rulers.
  • Bhaktaamara and Kalyana Mandira Stotras: The book discusses the miraculous power of these devotional hymns, particularly the Kalyana Mandira Stotra, attributed to Siddhasena Suri, which is said to have revealed a hidden idol.
  • Jainism and Hinduism/Buddhism: The book sometimes contrasts Jain practices with those of other religions to highlight the unique tradition and validity of Jain idol worship.

• Critique of Sthanakvasi Practices:

  • The book criticizes Sthanakvasi practices like printing their own pictures and distributing them, celebrating gurus' birthdays with ostentatious displays, printing special magazines, and constructing their own places of worship (Upaashraya, Sthanaka) while condemning Jain temples.
  • The authors question the Sthanakvasi adherence to ahinsa when engaging in activities like organizing community meals (Goshthi, Pritibhoj) or seeking donations, while simultaneously condemning the supposed violence in temple worship.

• Call to Action for the Jain Community:

  • The book urges the Shvetambara Murti Pujak Jain community to actively promote literature that supports idol worship and to be vigilant against what they perceive as a systematic attempt by the Sthanakvasi sect to distort Jain history.
  • It encourages readers to provide feedback and suggestions to the authors.

Conclusion:

"Kalpit Itihas se Savdhan" is a passionate defense of traditional Jain practices, particularly idol worship, against the historical revisionism attributed to Acharya Hastimalji. It aims to educate and awaken the Jain community to what the authors believe are fabricated narratives that undermine the core tenets and historical continuity of Jainism. The book emphasizes that the true history of Jainism, as supported by scriptures, archaeological evidence, and the teachings of revered acharyas, is deeply intertwined with the reverence for temples and idols.