Khartargaccha Ki Bharatiya Sanskruti Ko Den

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Khartargaccha ki Bharatiya Sanskruti ko Den" by Rishabhdas Ranka, based on the provided pages:

This text highlights the significant contributions of the Khartargaccha sect to Indian culture, particularly focusing on its role in reforming Jain practices and preserving the integrity of Jain religious institutions. The author, Rishabhdas Ranka, argues that the Khartargaccha sect played a crucial role in preventing the decline of Jainism in India and restoring the ancient tradition of asceticism.

Key Contributions and Arguments:

• Reform of Temple Management and Eradication of "Chaityavas":

  • The text strongly criticizes the system of "Chaityavas" (monastic living in temples) that had become prevalent in Jainism by the 8th century CE. It describes how this system led to corruption, luxury, and a departure from strict ascetic principles among some Jain monks.
  • These monks, influenced by wealth and royal patronage, reportedly indulged in worldly pleasures like fine dining, entertainment (music and dance), and even abandoned traditional practices like hair-plucking. They used temple funds for their personal enjoyment and status, mirroring the decline seen in Buddhism, which contributed to its diminishing influence in India.
  • The Khartargaccha, founded by Acharya Jinendrasuri and propagated by subsequent leaders like Acharyas Jinavallabh, Jinvallabh, Jinchandrasuri, and Jinpatisuri, actively opposed "Chaityavas."
  • Their efforts led to the liberation of Jain temples from the influence of these corrupt practices. Temple wealth was thereafter understood as "Dev-dravya" (divine property) and was redirected towards the management, security, and renovation of temples. This reform is credited with ensuring the proper upkeep and safety of Jain temples and preserving ancient Jain architecture.

• Revival of Asceticism and Moral Character:

  • The Khartargaccha strived to re-establish the pure, ascetic, and radiant tradition of Jain monasticism. They emphasized strict adherence to vows and ethical conduct, aiming to create a vibrant and disciplined monastic community.
  • This revival of asceticism is presented as a crucial factor in saving Jainism from a decline similar to that experienced by Buddhism in India.

• Influence on the Oswal Community and Societal Impact:

  • The Khartargaccha played a pivotal role in converting and guiding the Oswal community towards Jainism. This conversion brought a significant and industrious community into the fold of Jainism.
  • The Oswals, influenced by the Khartargaccha, became instrumental in serving not only Jain society but also various aspects of Indian culture. They are praised for their valor, generosity, intelligence, and business acumen, which are attributed to the guidance of the Khartargaccha's influential leaders.
  • The text quotes historian Muni Jinavijay, who states that the Khartargaccha, along with the Tapagaccha, significantly shaped the present form of the Shvetambara Jain Sangha. The influence of the Khartargaccha on the history of Rajputana is also highlighted as particularly significant.

• Literary and Scholarly Contributions:

  • The Khartargaccha fostered a rich tradition of scholarship. Its scholars contributed immensely to the development of literature in Sanskrit, Prakrit, Apabhramsha, and vernacular languages.
  • Through their extensive efforts, hundreds of thousands of Jain manuscripts covering diverse subjects like language, literature, history, philosophy, astrology, and medicine are preserved in Jain Bhandars (libraries).
  • These scholarly contributions are deemed valuable not only for Jainism but for the entirety of Indian culture.

• Critique of Modern Practices and Call for True Devotion:

  • The text expresses concern that the original spirit behind the Khartargaccha's reforms – the spirit of social welfare and spiritual practice – has waned.
  • Instead of emulating the ethical conduct and societal service of the great Acharyas, devotion has often become focused on personal material gains and the alleviation of suffering. This shift, the author argues, has weakened the community and diminished their inherent strength.
  • The author urges the Jain community to engage in deep reflection and follow the path of their exemplary Acharyas. Celebrating anniversaries and paying homage should be done by actively emulating their qualities and contributing to societal and national welfare. Otherwise, such celebrations will be merely symbolic without substantial impact.

Overall Significance:

The book "Khartargaccha ki Bharatiya Sanskruti ko Den" argues that the Khartargaccha sect was a vital force in reforming Jainism, revitalizing its ascetic traditions, and ensuring its continuity. Its influence extended to shaping a significant community (Oswals) and making substantial contributions to Indian literature, scholarship, and culture. The text serves as a call to the Jain community to reconnect with the core principles and impactful legacy of the Khartargaccha, moving beyond superficial practices towards a deeper commitment to spiritual and social well-being.