Muni Sammelan Vikram Samvat 1969 Year 1912

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Muni Sammelan Vikram Samvat 1969 Year 1912":

This document details a significant gathering of Jain monks (Munis) from the Shvetambara tradition, which took place in Vadodara (Baroda), Gujarat, on June 13, 1912. The event was organized by disciples of the revered Jainacharya Shri 108 Shrimad Vijayanand Suri (also known as Shrimad Atmaramji Maharaj). The author, Pandit Hiralal Sharma of Amritsar, was present and documented the proceedings. The publication was sponsored by Seth Hirachand Sancheti of Ajmer and Lala Chunilal Duggad of Amritsar.

Key Aspects of the Muni Sammelan:

• Purpose and Necessity: The primary purpose of the Sammelan, as explained by Muni Shri Vallabh Vijayji, was to bring together monks from different regions. This was seen as essential for fostering mutual recognition, strengthening fraternal bonds, facilitating cooperation in religious matters, promoting the advancement of the Jain tradition (Shasan), and learning from each other's experiences. It was emphasized that such gatherings were not new but a revival of ancient practices. The speaker highlighted that the transient nature of monastic life, with monks constantly on the move, made it difficult for them to meet and collaborate, thus necessitating these regular assemblies. Furthermore, such gatherings were crucial to counter misinformation and divisions that might arise due to isolation and misunderstanding.

• Historical Context and Need for Unity: The speeches, particularly from the presiding Acharya Shri Vijaykamal Suri, underscored the historical importance of Jain monks and the need for them to uphold the teachings of Lord Mahavir. A lament was expressed about the decline in the proactive efforts of monks compared to their predecessors, who successfully spread Jainism even during challenging times. The Acharya pointed out that while other religions and communities hold conferences for reform and progress, the Jain community, particularly the monastic order, had been hindered by internal differences. He stressed the importance of unity and collective action for the upliftment of the Jain faith.

• Key Issues and Concerns Raised:

  • Lack of Unified Action: A major concern was the inability of the Shvetambara monastic community to unite for such conferences for a long time due to various internal disagreements.
  • Stagnation and Complacency: The Acharya criticized the tendency of some monks to remain in prosperous cities like Gujarat, neglecting to spread Jainism in other regions where it was declining or absent. This geographical complacency was seen as a significant factor in the decrease of Jain followers.
  • Need for Education and Intellectual Rigor: There was a strong emphasis on the need for monks to pursue higher knowledge, including subjects like logic and philosophy, rather than being content with basic scriptural study. The importance of understanding ancient texts was highlighted, along with the need to adapt to contemporary knowledge.
  • Adherence to Monastic Discipline: Several points were raised regarding adherence to strict monastic conduct. This included discussions on maintaining proper conduct, avoiding undue attachment to material possessions (like expensive clothing), and not deviating from core disciplinary rules.
  • Role of the Laity: The role of lay followers (Shravaks and Shravikas) was also discussed, emphasizing their responsibility to support the monastic community and uphold the teachings.

• Resolutions Passed (Proposals): The Sammelan passed several significant resolutions, reflecting the concerns raised. These included:

  • Following Acharya's Guidance for Chaturmas: Monks should observe Chaturmas (the four-month rainy season retreat) at the location designated by the Acharya.
  • Avoiding Prolonged Stasis: Monks should not spend more than one Chaturmas in the same place without a valid reason and should undertake extensive travel (vihar).
  • Prohibition of Solitary Vihar: Monks should not travel alone (ekal vihari); they should at least travel in pairs, and if alone, it should be with the Acharya's permission.
  • Regulation of Inter-Monastic Relations: Monks should not accept disciples who have left their previous guru without the Acharya's permission.
  • Adherence to Rules for New Initiates: New monks should undergo rigorous training in foundational scriptures before engaging in advanced studies.
  • Restrictions on Property and Donations: Monks should not accept clothes washed or brought to the Upashraya (monastery) by lay people, and should collect only what is needed from lay homes.
  • Prohibition of Luxurious Items: Monks should avoid using expensive spectacles frames.
  • Importance of Vihar in Less Prosperous Regions: Monks should actively travel to regions like Marwar, Mewar, Malwa, Punjab, etc., to spread Jainism and prevent conversions to other religions.
  • Emphasis on Simplicity in Dress: Monks should use simple and inexpensive woolens like Punjabi or Bikaneri blankets, rather than expensive attire.
  • Daily Spiritual Practice: Monks should engage in daily study of at least 100 verses and meditation or recitation of the Namokar mantra.
  • Public Discourse and Engagement: Monks should deliver public discourses to benefit a wider audience, not just the Jain community, and should attend lectures by others where appropriate (with permission).
  • Avoiding Internal Disputes: Monks should not get involved in internal disputes among lay people or other monks and should strive to resolve conflicts peacefully.
  • Promoting Harmony: The importance of unity and harmonious relations among monks, even those from different gurus or traditions, was stressed as essential for the progress of the faith.
  • Strict Rules for New Discipleship: Strict examination and notification of family members are required before accepting a new disciple to prevent misconduct and religious disrepute.
  • Critique of Mendicant Practices: The text criticizes certain practices like monks remaining in the same place for extended periods, potentially leading to complacency and a decline in respect.
  • Condemnation of Defamatory Publications: The conference condemned a defamatory pamphlet published by Mohanlal Lallubhai of Ahmedabad against revered Jain leaders and resolved to maintain peace in such situations.
  • Reiteration of Observances: The revival of practices like hair-pulling (lochan) was reinforced, with provisions for exceptions in cases of illness.

• Outcome and Impact: The Sammelan was considered a success, with many resolutions passed unanimously. The author and newspaper reviews highlight the importance of this gathering for the Jain community, hoping it would inspire similar efforts in the future. The speeches and resolutions aimed to strengthen the monastic order, promote doctrinal purity, and revitalize the spread of Jainism. The concluding remarks by the Acharya emphasized the enduring strength of unity and the need to uphold the principles of Jainism in all aspects of life.

In essence, the "Muni Sammelan Vikram Samvat 1969 Year 1912" was a pivotal event aimed at addressing the challenges faced by the Jain monastic community, promoting discipline, fostering unity, and revitalizing the practice and spread of Jain Dharma in a changing world.