Mahavir Jivan Me - Book Summary

The book "Mahavir Jeevan Mein?" (In the Life of Mahavir?) by Manakchand Katariya is a collection of essays exploring the profound teachings of Lord Mahavir and their relevance to contemporary life. Published in December 1975, the book aims to bridge the gap between traditional Jain philosophy and the realities of modern society.

Here's a summary of the key themes and ideas presented in the book, based on the provided pages:

Core Message and Approach:

Relevance of Mahavir's Teachings: The book argues that Mahavir's teachings are not merely historical or religious doctrines but are vital for living a meaningful and ethical life in the present. The title itself, "Mahavir Jeevan Mein?" (In the Life of Mahavir?), poses a question that permeates the essays: how can we truly integrate Mahavir's life and principles into our daily existence?
Self-Reflection and Critical Examination: The author, Manakchand Katariya, is presented as a "kasauti ke lekhak" (writer of touchstone), meaning he provides readers with critical frameworks and challenging questions to examine their own lives and societal practices. He doesn't shy away from pointing out discrepancies between professed ideals and actual behavior.
Bridging Tradition and Modernity: The collection is praised for being appreciated by both traditionalists and modern thinkers, suggesting that the essays offer a balanced perspective that respects tradition while engaging with contemporary challenges.
Mahavir Beyond Jainism: A significant contribution highlighted is the book's effort to present Mahavir not just as a figure for Jains but as a universally relevant spiritual and philosophical guide for Indian history and culture.

Key Concepts and Themes Explored in the Essays:

Ahimsa (Non-violence): Ahimsa is presented as more than a slogan or a dogma; it is a way of life that must be experienced and lived. The essays delve into the deeper meaning of ahimsa, moving beyond mere dietary restrictions (like vegetarianism) or avoiding physical harm. It is rooted in inner purity of thought and intention, controlling desires, anger, hatred, and attachment. The book emphasizes that true ahimsa stems from within and naturally reflects outwards in behavior.
Aparigraha (Non-possession/Non-attachment): Aparigraha is identified as the fundamental pillar of ahimsa. Without detachment from possessions, ahimsa cannot be sustained. The focus is on becoming unattached to material things, not just renouncing them. Mahavir's asceticism is seen as a practice of non-attachment rather than mere renunciation.
Anekanta (Multi-sidedness/Pluralism): Anekanta is considered the most successful and powerful experiment of ahimsa, acting as its laboratory. It is presented as crucial for understanding truth and fostering tolerance, enabling a harmonious coexistence of diverse perspectives. The lack of adherence to anekanta has led to sectarianism and the confinement of Mahavir's teachings within narrow boundaries.
Samayik (Equanimity/Meditation) and Self-Realization: Samayik is highlighted as Mahavir's discovery – a process of merging with one's own soul, distinct from mere meditation where an external object is focused upon. The book emphasizes the need to turn inwards, understand oneself, and confront internal vices like anger, greed, and ego.
Holistic Living (Totality): Mahavir's dharma is described as a religion of totality, where religious and worldly lives are not separate. The essays critique the compartmentalization of life into religious and secular spheres, urging for a consistent application of ethical principles in all aspects of existence.
The Impact of Gandhi: The book draws a parallel between Mahavir and Mahatma Gandhi, viewing Gandhi's Satyagraha as a modern manifestation of Mahavir's principles applied to societal change. Gandhi's emphasis on confronting injustice and social evils is seen as an extension of Mahavir's message to the collective sphere.
The Problem of "Mere Listening": A significant critique is leveled against the passive "listening" or "shravan bhakti" prevalent in society. Despite hearing countless sermons, scriptures, and bhajans, people often fail to internalize and act upon these teachings. The essays question why these profound messages don't translate into tangible change, suggesting a disconnect between hearing and doing.
Fear and its Constraints: The book explores how various forms of fear – fear of tradition, societal judgment ("what will people say?"), fear of authority, and the pervasive fear of anxiety and inadequacy – paralyze individuals and prevent them from living according to their inner convictions.
The Illusion of "Crowd Mentality": The essays criticize the tendency to follow traditions and societal norms simply because they are popular or followed by the crowd. This "crowd mentality" leads to the erosion of individuality and the suppression of personal ethical insights.
The Corruption of "Punishment" and "Sin": The book questions the conventional understanding of "punya" (merit/virtue) and "paap" (sin). It suggests that societal definitions of merit have become heavily associated with material wealth, power, and status, while poverty and lack are often equated with sin or misfortune. This misinterpretation distorts the true meaning of spiritual progress.
The "Closed Book" of Life: Many individuals, the book argues, live with their "life book closed," avoiding self-examination and the difficult task of confronting their own shortcomings. They prefer to present a curated "cover" to the world rather than reveal the often-flawed content within.
The Formula of "Tyag, Bhog" (Renunciation, Enjoyment): Vinoba Bhave's formula is discussed, highlighting the inherent interdependence of renunciation and enjoyment. The book suggests that a life of true fulfillment requires a balance, and that modern society's excessive pursuit of enjoyment without renunciation leads to imbalance and discontent.
Anekanta and Relativity: The book connects Mahavir's concept of anekanta with Einstein's Theory of Relativity. Both emphasize that truth is multi-faceted and perspective-dependent, advocating for open-mindedness, tolerance, and the avoidance of rigid, one-sided views.
Ahimsa and Co-existence: The essays link ahimsa with the principle of co-existence ("Live and Let Live"). The destruction of nature and the lack of empathy towards other living beings are presented as failures in practicing true ahimsa and co-existence.
The Problem of Idol Worship vs. Inner Transformation: A significant critique is made against the prevalent practice of idol worship where the external form of Mahavir (or other deities) is revered, but the inner essence of their teachings – virtues like compassion, non-attachment, and equanimity – are neglected. The temples and statues hold the ideals, but the devotees fail to internalize them.
The Limitations of Ritualism: The book points out that adhering to rituals and external practices without inner transformation leads to a superficial understanding of dharma, leaving individuals broken and disconnected from their true selves.

In essence, "Mahavir Jeevan Mein?" is a call to action for readers to critically examine their lives, move beyond superficial religious practices, and actively embody the profound and transformative principles of Lord Mahavir, particularly ahimsa, aparigraha, and anekanta, in every aspect of their existence.