Kya Dharmik Shiksha Upayogi Hai

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Kya Dharmik Shiksha Upayogi Hai" by Sadhvi Shri Ramakumariji, based on the provided pages:

The article argues that religious education is crucial for the well-being and development of students in the modern era.

The author begins by observing a significant shift in the educational landscape and in individuals' beliefs and thought processes. She highlights that science has diminished spiritual faith, leading to a complex and value-less society where individuals are becoming increasingly faithless. This situation is described as dire for students, leaving them confused and unable to determine their future direction. The author attributes the disorderly and undisciplined behavior of students to the lack of religious education.

She asserts that the absence of religiousness in life obscures the true, pure nature of the soul. Incorporating religiousness into daily life would bring about a transformative change in students' lives, filling their future with joy and light. The article emphasizes that an authentic moral life is the backbone of a bright future.

To achieve a luminous life, students are encouraged to internalize the wisdom of the provided Sanskrit verse: "Vinayaḥ śāsane mūlaṁ, vinītaḥ saṁyato bhavet । Vinayād vipramuktasya, kuto dharmaḥ kuto jayaḥ ॥11॥" (Humility is the root of discipline; the disciplined person is restrained. Without humility, where is righteousness, where is victory?).

The author then illustrates the power of humility through the story of Satyakam Jabal. Satyakam, born to a maidservant, possessed an intense desire for knowledge but lacked the means to pursue it. Guided by his strong religious inclinations, he approached Maharshi Gautam. When asked about his lineage, Satyakam honestly stated his unknown origins. Maharshi Gautam, impressed by Satyakam's sincerity and humility, allowed him to study in his ashram. Satyakam's inner purity and respect deeply moved Maharshi Gautam, who then imparted the knowledge of 'Brahmajnana' (divine knowledge) to him. Satyakam later became known as Maharshi Jabal.

The text emphasizes that true knowledge is attained by those who are worthy vessels, just as lioness's milk can only be contained in a golden vessel. It quotes a poet stating that without a guru, even the wise cannot understand Dharma, and without a light, even the blind cannot see in the darkness. The article underscores the profound importance of a guru who can perceive a disciple's inner thoughts and feelings.

While modern science has created amazing machines, the author notes that no machine can truly understand the soul. She advocates for the Jain principle of "Charejjatt gavesae" (Know thyself), echoing the Western sentiment of "Know thy self." Modern students, she argues, only grasp superficial knowledge, like algae floating on water, and do not delve into the depths of the ocean of knowledge to find precious pearls.

The article states that without religion, individuals cannot truly contemplate their welfare. Religion is presented as the soul of the Indian people, and a life devoid of spirituality is akin to the cessation of the soul. The author criticizes the spiritually empty education system, which, in the current materialistic age, proves to be more of a curse than a blessing, especially as Indian students remain influenced by Western culture. This influence has led to a decline in civility and practicality.

The article suggests that divine words (Bhagavad Vani) can transform the lives of Indian students. By examining their lives with truth and integrity, they can become cultured and civilized citizens. Students are reminded of the importance of speaking truthfully and avoiding harsh or unpleasant words, as this is the true fruit of learning. Noble thoughts are seen as the foundation of a healthy society.

The guru explains to the disciple that knowledge is the purest thing in the world, but true understanding comes when the veil of illusion is removed from the intellect, leading to its purification and the spread of light. The analogy of the elephant is used: an elephant bathes but then throws mud on itself with its trunk. The author explains that this is due to the elephant's ignorance and lack of awakened discernment. Humans, being rational beings with awakened discernment, do not repeat actions they deem undesirable. This awareness of what is desirable and undesirable arises from knowledge and study.

The text reinforces the saying "Sa vidya ya vimuktae" – true knowledge liberates from vices. However, contemporary students have become slaves to vices and fashion, wasting their precious human lives. The influence of parents and gurus is minimal because the human mind is more susceptible to vices than virtues. This lack of mental control fuels immorality, which cannot be eradicated by external laws. Inner awakening is necessary to transform vice into virtue.

The article encourages students aspiring to become leaders or presidents of India to practice self-reflection through the 'Anuvrat' movement and to value time. The dreams they nurture can become reality if they harness the power of time. The author highlights the importance of time with the saying "Time is money," citing Napoleon's example of finding time to write letters to Josephine, which are now invaluable.

In an anecdote about Benjamin Franklin, a customer inquires about the price of a book. Franklin initially quotes one dollar. When the customer returns to ask for a discount, Franklin raises the price to one and a quarter dollars, explaining that the increased price reflects the value of his time spent waiting. This emphasizes that development and progress are achieved through the wise use of time.

Therefore, students are urged to value time, be punctual, and strive to live ethical, honest, and virtuous lives. The article concludes by stating that only those whose hearts are filled with compassion and friendship can establish moral values in society, nation, and family, and thus reflect a bright and pure inner light. The life of a student who truly understands the vitality of time is deemed blessed. The article also briefly mentions the historical importance of the Vidya Bhumi of Ranavas in the field of moral education.