Khambat No Prachin Jain Itihas - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Khambat no Prachin Jain Itihas" (Ancient Jain History of Khambat) by Narmadashankar T. Bhatt:

Overall Purpose and Scope:

This book aims to provide a detailed historical account of the Jain community and its presence in Khambat (anciently known as Stambhatirtha), Gujarat. It delves into the origins of the city, the establishment and flourishing of Jainism there, the lives of prominent Jain scholars, ministers, and merchants, the construction and history of Jain temples, and the rich Jain literary output associated with the region. The author's goal is to present a well-researched and comprehensive history of Jainism in this historically significant port city.

Key Themes and Content:

Khambat's Significance: The book highlights Khambat's unique and vital position in Gujarat's history, noting its fame as a prosperous port city ("Duniya nu Vas" - Ornament of the World) due to its maritime trade. It mentions that great kings and rulers from various dynasties, including Siddharaj, Kumarapala, Muslim Sultans, and Mughal emperors, recognized Khambat's importance. Even Emperor Akbar was known as the "King of Khambat."
Jainism's Deep Roots in Khambat: The text emphasizes Khambat's unparalleled significance in religious history, particularly for Jainism. It mentions that great Jain Acharyas like Pandit Hemacharya and Acharya Hirvijaysuri significantly contributed to Khambat's history. The author posits that while the book focuses on Jain history, it is, in essence, the history of Khambat itself.
Historical Chronology and City Origins: The book attempts to pinpoint the founding of Khambat, suggesting it emerged in the late 8th century AD, possibly linked to the Chalukya-Chavda dynasties and the influence of the Pratiharas. It meticulously traces mentions (or lack thereof) of Khambat in ancient texts like the Rigveda, Mahabharata, Ramayana, and early Jain and Buddhist literature, contrasting it with the documented existence of other ancient cities like Saurashtra, Bharuch, and Sopara.
Jain Acharyas and Their Contributions: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the lives and works of prominent Jain Acharyas who visited, resided, or influenced Khambat. This includes detailed discussions on:
- Hemchandracharya: His significant influence, prophecy regarding Kumarpal's future reign made in Khambat, and his monumental works like "Siddha-Hema."
- Abhaydevsuri: His role in rediscovering and re-establishing the idol of Stambhan Parshvanath, his scholarship, and the details of his life, including debates on his birth and death dates.
- Hirvijaysuri: His patronage by Emperor Akbar, his seven Chaturmas in Khambat, and his significant impact on Jainism and society.
- Vijayansurisvarji and Vijayvallabhsurisvarji: Their later contributions and influence, including the restoration of Jain manuscript libraries.
- Vijaynesmisurishvarji: His role in establishing new temples and educational institutions in Khambat.
- Numerous other Acharyas from various Gacchas (sects/lineages) are mentioned, detailing their visits, preachings, and the temples they consecrated.
Jain Temples and Architecture: The book meticulously lists and describes numerous Jain temples and shrines in Khambat, often detailing the Tirthankaras (deities) enshrined within, the historical periods of the idols, and architectural features. It notes the presence of both ancient and modern temples, many of which house remarkably old and revered idols. It also discusses the architectural styles, including the use of marble, shikharas (spires), mandaps (halls), and underground chambers (bhayara) likely built for the protection of idols during times of persecution.
Jain Literature and Manuscript Preservation: The author highlights Khambat's role as a center for Jain literature. It mentions the existence of ancient manuscript libraries (Jnana Bhandars) containing palm-leaf manuscripts and paper books. The efforts of Acharyas like Jinbhadra Suri in preserving and reorganizing these manuscripts are noted. The book lists various Jain texts composed or preserved in Khambat.
Prominent Jain Ministers and Merchants: The text details the lives of influential Jain individuals who served in royal courts or were prominent merchants. This includes:
- Udyan Mehta: A minister during the Solanki period, instrumental in advising Kumarapala and contributing to Khambat's prosperity.
- Vastupala and Tejpal: Renowned ministers and patrons of Jainism, credited with extensive temple renovations and constructions, particularly on Mount Girnar, and their significant contributions to Khambat's architecture and administration.
- Sahana Pal and Samara Shah: Noted for their religious activities and contributions to Jain shrines.
- Shangraj (Sajan Singh): Mentioned for his administrative role and patronage of Jainism.
- Kachar Shah: Praised for his efforts in promoting Jain principles of ahimsa and preventing animal sacrifice.
- Bhima Shah: Highlighted for his generous donations towards Jain temples.
- Shah Sajjan Singh: Recognized for his charitable activities and contributions.
- Manikchand Laxmichand, Popatbhai Amarichand, Tejpal Soni, etc.: Numerous wealthy merchants and patrons of Jainism are mentioned for their contributions to temple building, manuscript preservation, and social welfare activities.
Jain Community and Practices: The book touches upon the religious practices, the importance of pilgrimage (Yatra), and the community's devotion (Jinvir Bhakti). It also mentions the various Jain castes and their historical presence in Khambat.
Trade and Economy: Khambat's historical role as a major port city is discussed, outlining its trade relations with various countries and the types of goods traded. The book also touches upon the coinage and currency used during different periods.
Inscriptions and Historical Evidence: The author relies on inscriptions found in temples and other historical documents to support his claims, providing references and details of these sources in the appendix.
Regional Jain Centers: The book briefly mentions Jain sites in the vicinity of Khambat, such as Shankarpur, Vadva, Ralaj, and Akbardur, further illustrating the widespread influence of Jainism in the region.
Jain Vihar and Rituals: The text describes the customs and traditions associated with Jain monks and their travels (Vihar), including the elaborate ceremonies for welcoming Acharyas (Paveshotsav) and the rituals surrounding initiations (Diksha Mahotsav).

Author's Approach and Tone:

Narmadashankar T. Bhatt approaches the subject with deep reverence and scholarly diligence. He acknowledges his limitations as a student of history rather than a professional historian, expressing hope for reader understanding regarding any factual gaps due to the scarcity of sources. The tone is informative, detailed, and appreciative of the Jain heritage and its exponents.

Structure of the Book:

The book is structured into chapters covering various aspects of Khambat's Jain history, including:

The history of Stambhatirtha (Khambat).
The history of Shri Stambhan Parshvanath.
Khambat as a Jain pilgrimage site.
Temples built by residents and non-residents.
The devotion of Khambat's people.
Influential Acharyas from the 12th to 15th centuries.
Influential Acharyas from the 16th to 17th centuries.
Influential Acharyas from the 18th to 20th centuries.
Great personalities (12th and 13th centuries), including ministers and merchants.
Great personalities (14th and 15th centuries).
Religious and devout merchants (14th and 15th centuries).
Religious and devout merchants (17th and 18th centuries).
Jain literature composed in Gujarati in Khambat.
Manuscript writing and libraries.
The architecture of Jain temples.
Upashrayas (monastic residences) and organizations.
The Sangh (community) and pilgrimage processions.
Jain communities, traditions, and occupations.
Jain sites near Khambat.
Khambat's trade and currency.
Appendices including a chronology, inscriptions, and a list of used books.

Overall Impression:

"Khambat no Prachin Jain Itihas" is a monumental work that meticulously documents the rich and ancient Jain history of Khambat. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, historians, and anyone interested in the heritage of Jainism in Gujarat. The book's detail, scope, and the author's dedication to the subject are evident throughout its pages.