Mugal Samrato Ki Dharmik Niti - Book Summary

This document is the book "Mughal Samrato ki Dharmik Niti par Jain Santo (Pracharyo evam Muniyo) ka Prabhav (San 1555 se 1658 tak)" (The Influence of Jain Saints (Acharyas and Munis) on the Religious Policy of Mughal Emperors, 1555-1658) by Km. Nina Jain.

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Core Subject: The book investigates the significant influence of Jain saints, specifically Acharyas and Munis, on the religious policies of Mughal emperors from 1555 to 1658.

Author and Publisher:

Author: Km. Nina Jain (M.A., Ph.D., Lecturer, V.T.P. Upper Primary School, Shivpuri, M.P.)
Publisher: Shri Kashinath Saraf, Acharya Shri Vijyendrasuri Shodh Sansthan, Shivpuri (M.P.)

Key Themes and Chapters:

The book is structured into several chapters, each delving into specific aspects of the interaction between Jain saints and Mughal rulers:

Chapter 1: Jainism and the Acharya Tradition during the Mughal Era:
- Discusses the origins and prominence of two major Jain gacchas (lineages): Tapa Gaccha and Khartara Gaccha.
- Highlights key Acharyas from both traditions who were influential during the Mughal period, including:
  - Tapa Gaccha: Vijaydan Suri, Hiravijaya Suri, Vijaysen Suri, and Vijaydev Suri.
  - Khartara Gaccha: Jinmanikya Suri, Jinchandra Suri, Jinsinh Suri, and Jinraj Suri.
- Describes the socio-political and religious condition of Hindu society during that time, emphasizing the oppression faced by the populace.
- Outlines the historical social contributions of ancient Jain Acharyas.
Chapter 2: Akbar's Religious Policy:
- Analyzes the various factors that shaped Akbar's religious policy, including:
  - The need for Hindu cooperation to quell unrest.
  - The importance of unifying all communities for strengthening the empire.
  - The liberal religious views of his ancestors.
  - The influence of his liberal guardians and teachers (like Abdul Latif).
  - The impact of his marriages to Rajput princesses.
  - Akbar's own liberal outlook and spiritual experiences.
  - The influence of the Bhakti movement and Sufi ideas.
  - Akbar's quest for truth and his intellectual curiosity.
  - Akbar's political ambitions and the need for a stable, inclusive empire.
  - The exposure to the corrupt practices of Islamic clergy (Ulama) in the Ibadatkhana (House of Worship).
- Traces the gradual evolution of Akbar's religious policy.
Chapter 3: Akbar's Interaction with Jain Acharyas and Munis and Their Influence:
- This is a central chapter detailing the direct impact of Jain saints on Akbar.
- Hiravijaya Suri: His encounter with Akbar, stemming from the story of a devout Jain laywoman named Champa. The detailed description of Hiravijaya Suri's wisdom, humility, and adherence to Jain principles (like non-violence, austerity, and non-possession) profoundly impressed Akbar.
  - Akbar's invitation to Hiravijaya Suri to his court.
  - The discussions on Jain philosophy, including the nature of God, soul, and the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Daya (compassion).
  - The significant influence of Hiravijaya Suri leading to Akbar issuing decrees for animal sacrifice prohibition, including for animals like cows, buffaloes, and goats, particularly during religious festivals like Paryushan and on Sundays.
  - Akbar bestowing the title of "Jagadguru" (World Teacher) upon Hiravijaya Suri.
  - The impact on Akbar's personal life, including his reduced meat consumption and attempts to abolish certain taxes.
- U उपाध्याय Shanti Chandra: Hiravijaya Suri's disciple, who continued to influence Akbar. He impressed Akbar with his intellectual prowess and spiritual depth, even performing what appeared to be miracles. Shanti Chandra also composed "Kriparasa Kosh" detailing Akbar's benevolent acts.
- U उपाध्याय Bhanuchandra: Sent by Hiravijaya Suri to Akbar's court. He was appointed to educate Akbar's sons and gained favor for his intellect. Bhanuchandra also taught Akbar the Surya Sahasranama (1000 names of the Sun), influencing Akbar's sun worship.
- U उपाध्याय Siddhi Chandra: A scholar and master of mnemonics (Ashtavadhan), he also impressed Akbar and received titles like "Khushfahm" (intelligent). He played a role in protecting Jain temples and ensuring the welfare of the Jain community.
- Acharya Vijaysen Suri: Another influential Jain Acharya whose interactions with Akbar led to significant decrees related to animal welfare.
- Acharya Jinchandra Suri: A prominent Khartara Gaccha Acharya who impressed Akbar with his scholarship and reasoning, contributing to the annulment of certain unjust royal orders.
- Acharya Jinsingh Suri: Another important figure from the Khartara Gaccha who maintained ties with the Mughal court.
- Other Jain Monks: The text mentions other Jain monks who interacted with the court, highlighting their collective influence.
Chapter 4: Jahangir's Religious Policy:
- Examines the continuation of Akbar's liberal policies by Jahangir, influenced by his Hindu heritage and his mother.
- Highlights his respectful interactions with various religious scholars, including Jain Acharyas.
- Discusses the impact of his wife Nur Jahan and the growing influence of orthodox Muslims that began to shift his policy.
- Details the complex relationship Jahangir had with other religious groups, like Sikhs (Guru Arjan Dev) and Christians.
- Notes the political factors that sometimes overshadowed his religious tolerance, particularly the issue of Prince Khusrau's rebellion and its impact on his treatment of Jain leaders like Man Singh.
- Mentions the challenges faced by the Jain community during Jahangir's reign, including efforts to re-establish previous decrees and the issuance of new ones.
Chapter 5: Jahangir's Interaction with Jain Saints:
- U उपाध्याय Bhanuchandra: Continued his influence from Akbar's reign, teaching Jahangir's son, Shahzada Khurram, and interacting with Jahangir on religious matters.
- U उपाध्याय Siddhi Chandra: Also enjoyed royal favor and received titles like "Nadira Zaman" (Unique of the Age). His interactions with Jahangir focused on demonstrating the principles of Jainism and the importance of self-control and non-violence.
- Acharya Jinchandra Suri: Continued to exert influence, advocating for the annulment of problematic royal decrees.
- Acharya Jinsingh Suri: Known for his intellect and influence, he also received royal recognition.
- Acharya Vijaydev Suri: Received the title of "Mahatapa" from Jahangir, signifying his asceticism and the emperor's respect. He was instrumental in mediating disputes within the Jain community and promoting the construction of Jain temples.
- U उपाध्याय Vivek Harsh and others: These monks actively sought and obtained decrees from Jahangir to prohibit animal slaughter on specific days and during religious festivals, continuing the legacy of their predecessors.
- Nandivijaya: A disciple of Vijayasen Suri, he impressed Jahangir with his intellectual skills, including Ashtavadhan, and received the title "Khushfahm."
- Daya Kushal: His interactions with Jahangir led to a letter from the emperor acknowledging the value of Jain teachings.
Chapter 6: Shah Jahan's Religious Policy and Jainism:
- Contrasts Shah Jahan's reign with that of Akbar and Jahangir, highlighting a more pronounced shift towards Islamic orthodoxy.
- Discusses the reversal of some of Akbar's liberal policies, including the re-imposition of the Jaziya tax and restrictions on temple construction.
- Mentions specific instances of Jain temples being demolished or converted into mosques, particularly in Gujarat, due to the influence of orthodox Muslim officials.
- Notes that despite the general trend, some of the earlier benevolent decrees were renewed or enforced through the efforts of Jain monks.
Chapter 7: Conclusion:
- The Objective of Jain Monks in Influencing Politics: Argues that Jain monks' engagement with Mughal rulers was driven by a deep commitment to lokalyana (welfare of the people) and Jiva Kalyana (welfare of all living beings), not personal gain. Their aim was to imbue rulers with compassion and the principles of Ahimsa.
- The Nature of Jain Monks' Social Contribution: Emphasizes their role as social reformers and propagators of Jain ideals, fostering a sense of community and national unity. Their renunciation and simple lifestyle attracted the respect of rulers.
- Establishment of Political Ideals: Highlights how Jain Acharyas, through their conduct and teachings, influenced rulers to adopt policies promoting welfare, justice, and religious tolerance, thereby contributing to a more ideal governance.
- The Role of Royal Patronage: Underscores the significant royal patronage extended to Jain institutions and saints by Mughal rulers, which facilitated the spread and sustenance of Jainism.

Key Jain Acharyas and their Impact:

Hiravijaya Suri: Widely regarded as the most influential Jain saint during Akbar's reign. His teachings led to significant royal decrees on animal protection and the abolition of certain taxes. He was honored with the title "Jagadguru."
Vijaysen Suri: A prominent disciple of Hiravijaya Suri, who continued the work of promoting Jain principles at the Mughal court.
Bhanuchandra Upadhyay: Educated Akbar's sons and taught him about the Surya Sahasranama.
Siddhi Chandra: Known for his intellectual abilities and saintly demeanor, he received titles from both Akbar and Jahangir.
Jinchandra Suri: A leading Acharya of the Khartara Gaccha who engaged in philosophical debates with Mughal rulers and contributed to the annulment of unjust decrees.
Vijaydev Suri: A significant figure whose interactions with Jahangir resulted in decrees related to animal welfare and the resolution of internal Jain community disputes.

Appendices: The book includes several appendices containing important historical documents and inscriptions, such as:

A letter from Maharana Pratap to Hiravijaya Suri.
An inscription related to the Padukas (footprints) of Vijayasen Suri in Khambhat.
The Surya Sahasranama Stotram (1000 names of the Sun).
Details about the word "Shraman."
An inscription from the Adinath temple in Ranakpur.
An inscription from the Chintamani Parshvanath temple in Khambhat.
A decree from Akbar to Hiravijaya Suri regarding animal protection.
A decree from Akbar to Hiravijaya Suri concerning Jain holy sites.
A decree from Akbar to Jinchandra Suri regarding animal protection.
A decree from Jahangir to Bhanuchandra and Siddhi Chandra regarding animal protection and specific days of prohibition.
A decree from Jahangir to Chandu Sanghvi regarding land grants.
A decree from Shah Jahan to Seth Shanti Das regarding land and temple issues.
The inscription of the Adinath temple in Palitana.
A bibliography of Sanskrit, Hindi, and English sources.

Overall Significance:

The book "Mughal Samrato ki Dharmik Niti" by Nina Jain offers a scholarly examination of how Jain saints, through their profound moral and intellectual influence, played a crucial role in shaping the religious policies of prominent Mughal emperors, particularly Akbar and Jahangir. It highlights the Jain emphasis on Ahimsa, compassion, and religious tolerance and how these principles were effectively conveyed to and adopted by the rulers, leading to benevolent decrees and a more inclusive approach to governance. The book also underscores the importance of Jain literature and inscriptions as valuable historical sources.