Mahavir Ki Vani Me Aparigraha

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Mahavir ki Vani me Aparigraha" by Prof. Shreechand Jain:

Book Title: Mahavir ki Vani me Aparigraha (Aparigraha in the Teachings of Mahavir) Author: Prof. Shreechand Jain Publisher: Z_Rajendrasuri_Janma_Sardh_Shatabdi_Granth_012039.pdf Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/211526/1

Summary:

The provided text, an excerpt from "Mahavir ki Vani me Aparigraha" by Prof. Shreechand Jain, emphasizes the Jain principle of Aparigraha (non-possession or non-attachment) as the fundamental solution to the world's problems, deeply rooted in the teachings of Lord Mahavir.

The author asserts that Parigraha (possession or attachment) is the sole cause of the stark differences and inequalities observed among people. This insatiable desire for accumulation creates a division between the rich and the poor, leading to perpetual conflict, akin to dogs fighting day and night. The text quotes poet Ramdhari Singh 'Dinkar' to illustrate the disastrous consequences of Parigraha, warning against its abhorrent manifestations of inequality.

Parigraha is described as a profound distortion that hinders both individual progress and national development. A country driven by Parigraha is labeled as a traitor to its nation, an enemy of society, and a disgrace to humanity. The author argues that the prevalent destruction and conflict in the world stem directly from this acquisitive tendency, where nations exploit each other's prosperity and comfort out of selfishness.

Parigraha dims the inner light of the soul, much like dark clouds obscure the sun's brilliance. It is identified as a vice, an instrument of destruction, a cause of treachery, the generator of enmity, and the destroyer of universal brotherhood. Manifesting in various forms such as greed, luxury, wealth, possessiveness, and pomp, Parigraha tarnishes the natural essence of human life and perpetuates terrifying scenarios of societal disintegration.

Trishna (craving or desire) is likened to a serpent that draws humans towards Parigraha, similar to how moths are attracted to a flame. Therefore, saints have deemed the renunciation of Trishna essential for spiritual development. The text acknowledges that the teachings of Saint Kabir were consistently influenced by Lord Mahavir's preachings. It highlights that all faiths, sects, religions, and beliefs have universally praised a simple life and noble thoughts.

The primary cause of global unrest is identified as Parigraha, which originates from greed. This greed gradually compels humans to accumulate material comforts and possessions unnecessarily, filling their minds with a restless yearning. The poem included in the text powerfully depicts this, contrasting the abundance of milk and clothing for dogs with the suffering of hungry children and mothers. It speaks of young women selling their clothes to pay interest, while the wealthy squander wealth on luxuries. The poem concludes that until this unequal distribution of enjoyment is resolved, turmoil and conflict will persist.

The text firmly states that Parigraha cannot coexist with non-violence (Ahimsa), as Parigraha is essentially another form of violence. Those engrossed in Parigraha are described as extremely violent, immoral, licentious, and deceitful.

The interpretation of Parigraha is further elaborated by quoting Acharya Shvayambhav: "Murchha parigraho vuto Nayaputtena Taina" (Dashve 6). This defines Parigraha as becoming attached to any object, considering it one's own, and losing self-control due to this possessiveness. The text explains this as: "Moha buddhya grihyate sa parigrahah" (accepting something with an attitude of attachment and delusion is Parigraha). In Lord Mahavir's words, Parigraha is the greatest bondage for the soul: "Natthi eriso pasoo padibandho atthi savva jivaanam" (There is no bondage like this for all living beings).

Parigraha, meaning the attachment to wealth and possessions, is itself violence. True non-violence cannot flourish without renouncing Parigraha, because where there is Parigraha, violence is inevitable. The text advises: "Bahupilabhun nahim parigrahaho appanam avasakkijja" (Even if you gain a lot, do not accumulate; keep yourself away from the tendency of possession). It also states: "Pariggaha nivittthanam, veram tesim pavaddhai" (Those engrossed in the tendency of accumulating possessions, increase enmity towards themselves in the world). The cessation of desires signifies the end of suffering. Furthermore, "Je mamaadiam maham jahai se jahai mamaadiam" (He who can renounce his possessiveness, can indeed renounce Parigraha).

Acharya Umashwami defines Parigraha as "Murchha parigrah:" (the state of attachment is Parigraha). The feeling of attachment and possessiveness towards an object is Parigraha. To eradicate the spreading poison of inequality in society, Aparigraha is an indispensable tool. This requires every human to reduce their desires, gradually lessen their cravings, and minimize their needs. The tendency to accumulate gives rise to a demonic nature and constantly amplifies greed, afflictions, passions, worries, and anxieties. Controlling this tendency is an unparalleled means to peace and happiness. The proper renunciation of Parigraha can be considered the true form of socialism. Accumulating more than what is needed is theft, sin, a great sin, and a violation of humanity.

Lord Mahavir's teachings describe the nature of Aparigraha as follows:

• "Etadev ekesim mahavvayam bhavai." (This itself becomes the great fear for some).
• "Kamma-pariggaha sarira pariggaha bahira bhanda matta-pariggaha." (Parigraha is of three types: karmic Parigraha, bodily Parigraha, and external material/equipment Parigraha).
• "Murchha pariggaho vutto." (The feeling of attachment towards an object is called Parigraha).
• "Natthi eriso pasoo padibandho atthi / savva jivaanam savva loe." (There is no bondage like this for all living beings in the entire world).
• "Lohasses anuphaa so manne annayaramavi." (The act of accumulation is a glimpse of the inner greed).

The text concludes by stating it is an undeniable truth that one who is a possessor (parigrahi) goes to hell after death, while one who practices limited possession (parimita sangrahi) attains human birth after death. If we wish to end exploitation, embody the spirit of universal brotherhood, and establish peace and happiness everywhere, then we must promptly embrace the vow of Aparigraha. This is for the welfare of all people and is the foundational duty of Lord Mahavir's followers. The text ends with the profound statement: "Ichchha hu aagasa sama anantiya." (Desires are infinite, like the sky).