Mevad Ke Shasak Evam Jain Dharm - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Mevad ke Shasak evam Jain Dharm" by Jaswantlal Mehta:

Mevad's Rulers and Jain Dharma: A Historical Overview

This extensive text, authored by Jaswantlal Mehta, chronicles the profound and enduring relationship between the rulers of Mewar (modern-day Rajasthan) and the Jain faith. It asserts that Jainism is as ancient as Mewar's history itself, with the region serving as a significant center for Jainism from early times.

Early Foundations and Jain Scholarship:

The text highlights the discovery of the Badli inscription near Ajmer-Merwara, dating back to Brahmi script's Vira Samvat 84. This inscription mentions Madhyamika Nagari (modern Nagari, 7 miles from Chittor), believed to be the oldest inscription in India.
The Madhyamika Nagari is linked to the Madhyamilla or Madhyama branch of the Kotik Gachha, originating from the disciples of Acharya Suhasti Suri. The name of this branch is thought to be derived from the city itself, as it was referred to as 'Majjhimike' in the Badli inscription and 'Majjhamia' in Ardha Magadhi.
Mewar was a hub for many ancient Jain scholars, philosophers, devotees, and writers. Notable figures like Acharya Devgupta Suri (76 BCE) and Acharya Yagyadev Suri (235 CE) are mentioned as having flourished in the region.
Siddhsen Diwakar, considered the "father of Jain philosophy," spent a considerable time in Mewar. He was enlightened by Vriddhivadi Suri and is known for works like "Nyayavatara" and "Sanmati Prakaran." He also wrote "Kalyanamandira Stotra" and "Dvatrimshaka."
Haribhadra Suri, another prominent ancient Acharya, served as the court priest to King Jitar of Chittor. He was a prolific scholar, authoring numerous works like "Samaraichchakah," "Dhurta Khyana," and various yoga texts. Mewar is also the birthplace of the esteemed Jain nun Yakini Mahattara, who inspired Haribhadra Suri.
Besides these Swetambar scholars, the text also acknowledges the contributions of Digambar scholars like Elacharya Virasena (who completed the extensive "Dhavala" commentary), Mahakavi Udda, Harisena, Sakal kirti, and Bhuvanakirti.

Royal Patronage and Jain Influence:

The core of the text focuses on the direct patronage and influence of Mewar's rulers on Jain Dharma. This relationship is traced through various dynasties and rulers:

Mauryan Dynasty: King Samprati, Emperor Ashoka's grandson, ruled over a large part of Western India, including Mewar. He was a fervent propagator of Jainism, emphasizing the prohibition of violence against living beings. Chitrangad, a Jain king of the Mauryan dynasty, is credited with founding Chittor.
Guhila Dynasty:
- Bhartri Bhat II (around 10th century CE) is noted for building the first temple of Lord Adinath in Bhatesar (Bhateshwar), naming it Guhil Vihar. The Guhil Vihar Gachha originated from this place.
- Allata (son of Bhartri Bhat II), also known as Aluraval, was a devotee of Acharya Pradyumna Suri. He built the Mahavir Swami temple in Chittor Fort and a Jinalaya at Aaghatpur (Aayadh), where the idol of Lord Parshvanath was consecrated by Acharya Yashobhadra Suri. Allata's ministers were often Jains, contributing to temple construction. His queen, Hariyadevi, was cured by Balbhadra Suri. Allata also enforced the prohibition of animal sacrifice and night meals throughout his kingdom.
- Vairisingh's reign saw significant Jain events and a major assembly of 500 Jain Acharyas at Aayadh.
- Jaitra Singh (13th century CE) bestowed the title of "Tapa Virud" upon Acharya Jagadchandra Suri, leading to the establishment of the Tapa Gachha. He also honored the Acharya with the title "Hirala."
- Karna Singh (13th century CE) saw the emergence of two Oswal lineages, Sisodia Sarupariya and Sisodia Mehta, whose ancestors embraced Jainism. These families played significant roles in temple construction and patronage. Mehta Meghraj, a descendant, built the first grand Jain temple of Lord Shitalnath in Udaipur.
Maharana Kumbha's Era: This period is highlighted as a peak of Jain patronage.
- Maharana Kumbha (15th century CE) patronized the construction and renovation of numerous Jain temples. The famous Ranakpur temples were consecrated during his reign in V.S. 1416. Kumbha himself commissioned stone pillars for the Ranakpur temple.
- He also supported the construction of new temples and the renovation of old ones at Ajhari, Pindarwata, and Savera. His treasurer, Vela, built the Shantinath temple in Chittor.
- Kumbha's patronage extended to temples in Basantpur and Mulach. The Jain temple at Machhind Fort, built by Kumbha, was later renovated by Maharana Jagat Singh.
- Inscriptions from this period clearly indicate Kumbha's deep devotion and support for Jainism, including the lifting of taxes on Jain pilgrims traveling to Abu. He considered Acharya Hirachand Suri his guru, even bestowing upon him the title of "Kaviraj."
Maharana Rayasingh and Sanga: During their reigns, Jainism continued to flourish, with the presence of various Jain Gachhas and significant Jain literary output. Maharana Sanga was a devoted follower of Acharya Dharmaratna Suri.
Maharana Ratan Singh II: His minister, Karmashah, undertook the seventh renovation of Shatrunjay and the Pundarik temple, re-establishing the idol of Adinath. This was done with special permission from the Gujarat Sultan Bahadur Shah during a period when temple construction was restricted.
Maharana Pratap Singh: Despite his constant warfare, Pratap maintained strong respect for Jain Acharyas, particularly Acharya Hiravijaya Suri. His correspondence shows continued respect for Jain traditions and practices, including the upholding of the Tapa Gachha's authority. His Diwan, Bhamashah, renovated the Kesaraiji (Dhulev) temple.
Maharana Amar Singh and Jagat Singh: Amar Singh issued an edict prohibiting violence during the Paryushana festival. Jagat Singh, influenced by Acharyas Vijaydev Suri and Vijay Singh Suri, stopped collecting taxes at the Varkana pilgrimage and ordered the renovation of the Jain temple at Machhind Fort. He also agreed to various Jain observances, including stopping fishing in lakes and prohibiting animal slaughter on specific occasions.
Maharana Raj Singh: He oversaw the construction of Rajsamand and the magnificent Pavana Jinālayā (52 temples) built by his minister Dayalshah. The text details the story of the temple's consecration and the significant decree issued by Raj Singh under the guidance of Yati Man. This decree provided protection and rights to Jain temples and ascetics, emphasizing the sanctity of Jain places of worship and granting land to ascetics.
Maharana Bhim Singh: He initially banished Acharya Bharmal of the Terapanth sect due to false accusations but later realized his mistake and humbly invited him back. Even though Bharmal did not return, other Jain monks were sent, and the Maharana personally met with them, engaging in religious discussions.
Maharana Jwansingh: He was impressed by the poetic skills and spiritual prowess of Muni Gyansar, leading to a deep devotion.
Maharana Sajjan Singh: He took control of the Kesaraiji Jain Tirth's administration, forming a committee of Oswal merchants and ensuring that Jain customs and decisions from Jain Acharyas were respected. This also led to royal involvement in maintaining the purity and practices of the pilgrimage.
Maharana Fateh Singh and Bhupal Singh: They showed great devotion by offering significant donations to the Kesaraiji Tirth and issuing orders to halt violence during important Jain festivals.

Literary Achievements and Legacy:

The patronage of Mewar's rulers resulted in significant Jain literary output. Jain Acharyas composed works celebrating the valor of Mewar's kings and heroes, such as Hemratna Suri's "Gorabad Pariz" and Jaysingh Suri's "Hamir Mad Maradan." Inscriptions like the Chirwa temple inscription by Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri and the 'Chitrakoot Prashasti' by Charitratragani document the history and achievements of Mewar's rulers and their relationship with Jainism. The "Rajvilas" poem details the life of Maharana Raj Singh I.

Conclusion:

The text concludes by emphasizing that Mewar's rulers, across various eras and dynasties, demonstrated consistent respect and patronage towards all sects and Gachhas of Jainism. The concluding verses highlight that where the "chhatra-chhaya" (umbrella-like protection) of Ahinsa (non-violence) flourishes, the empire of Dharma (righteousness) is assured. This underscores the deeply embedded presence and impact of Jainism on Mewar's history and its rulers.