Nari Ki Bhumika Vishwa Shanti Ke Sandarbh Me

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Nari ki Bhumika Vishwa Shanti ke Sandarbh me" (The Role of Women in the Context of World Peace) by Dr. Kumari Malti Jain, based on the provided pages:

The article begins by painting a stark picture of the current global scenario, characterized by pervasive violence, bloodshed, terrorism, communalism, and racism. It highlights how divisions based on caste, class, and region are amplified, and how powerful nations are engaged in the development of destructive weapons, making the discussion of world peace seem like a futile endeavor.

The author then addresses the seemingly paradoxical notion of considering the role of women in achieving world peace. Women are often stereotyped as symbols of frailty, with the phrase "Frailty, thy name is woman" being cited. It is even argued by some that women are at the root of conflict, citing historical examples like Sita being blamed for the Ram-Ravan war and Draupadi for the Mahabharata, and the common saying that "wealth, land, and women" are primary causes of conflict.

However, the author strongly refutes this pessimistic view, invoking the words of Chilean poet Pablo Neruda to find hope and light even in darkness. The article asserts that history, when examined closely, reveals that women, possessing immense reservoirs of compassion, love, affection, sweetness, and unwavering faith, have consistently played a crucial role in resolving conflict and establishing peace and harmony.

The author draws upon literary and historical examples to support this claim:

• Jayashankar Prasad's Play "Ajaatshatru": The author quotes Prasad, who describes men as examples of hardness and women as embodiments of softness. Men are seen as cruelty, while women are compassion, the highest development of the inner world, on which all morality rests. Historically, compassionate women have countered male cruelty with tolerance and forgiveness.
• Sita's Tolerance: Despite her unjust abandonment by Rama due to public slander, Sita, the epitome of forgiveness and tolerance, does not curse Rama or the public. Instead, she selflessly prays for the welfare of Rama and his subjects, demonstrating her deep concern for their well-being and stability. The author emphasizes that Sita, with her gentle heart, could have easily instigated rebellion, but chose not to create further unrest.
• Queen Chellana: The Jain queen Chellana of Magadh, despite the disrespectful behavior of her Buddhist husband King Shrenik towards Jain monks, maintained her composure. Her tolerance and wisdom led to King Shrenik's conversion to Jainism, serving as an exemplary model for the religiously intolerant.
• Jakala Devi: The Chalukya queen Jakala Devi's humility and grace are credited with influencing her husband, a staunch opponent of Jainism, to embrace the faith. The author laments that those who shed blood in the name of religion today could learn lessons of religious harmony and goodwill from such tolerant women.
• Kanti Devi: The article highlights the story of Kanti Devi, a Jain poetess, who, instead of engaging in petty rivalries that poison the literary atmosphere, displayed immense magnanimity. When her contemporary poet Pamp, consumed by jealousy, collapsed, Kanti Devi's genuine grief and concern for his talent were so profound that they revived him. This selfless act is presented as an inspiration for intellectual and literary circles to foster harmony.
• Moral Instruction to Men: Women are seen not only as forgiving but also as teachers of love, tolerance, and virtue to men prone to brute instincts. The example of "Yakini Mahattara" calming the anger of Acharya Haribhadra Suri when his disciples were killed by Buddhists is cited. Acharya Haribhadra's acknowledgment of her wisdom by referring to himself as "Yakini Mahattara Sunu" (son of Yakini Mahattara) underscores the positive influence women can have.
• Women as Warriors: The author acknowledges that while women are generally peaceful, they have also taken up arms when necessary. The inscription of the Veeragalu (hero stone) of Saviyavve, who fought alongside her husband Vaddega in battle and achieved martyrdom, is presented. The image depicted shows her on horseback, sword in hand, facing a male warrior on an elephant.
• Kiran Devi Jain: This warrior queen is celebrated for challenging Emperor Akbar's "Meena Bazaar," a place where women's dignity was violated. Kiran Devi's courage in disarming the Emperor and threatening him with his own dagger, leading to his promise to cease such practices, is a testament to her bravery and her role in rectifying injustice.

The article then shifts to the role of women as mothers in shaping peaceful citizens. It is stated that mothers are responsible not only for giving birth but also for nurturing children into peace-loving individuals. Jain history is replete with mothers who instilled devotion and detachment in their children from infancy, guiding them towards a path of peace. The author quotes a saying: "A child's heart is a tender pot; you can plant thorny bushes or flowering plants in it." The English saying, "Child learns the first lesson of citizenship between the kiss of his mother and caress of his father," further emphasizes this maternal role.

• Mothers of Tirthankaras: The contributions of the mothers of the 24 Tirthankaras are recognized, with a special tribute paid to mother Marudevi. The devotional verses by Shri Mantungacharya highlight the unique role of Marudevi in giving birth to a son like the Tirthankara, comparing her to the East that alone gives birth to the radiant sun.
• Ideal Motherhood of Sita: Sita, as an ideal mother, did not incite her sons Lav and Kush to take revenge on their father Rama. Instead, she was pained by the insult they suffered and found solace when they sought forgiveness from their father.
• Chellana's Influence: Chellana's role in shaping peace-loving individuals like Abhayakumar and Varidhana is also acknowledged.
• Modern Leaders: The article mentions the contributions of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in establishing world peace, emphasizing her resolve and the sacrifices she made. Mother Teresa's tireless efforts in promoting world peace in the computer age are highlighted as a testament to the enduring presence of compassion and motherly love.
• Jain Sadhvis: The continuous efforts of Jain nuns like Mahasati Shri Chandravati Ji, Mahasati Shri Priyadarshana Ji, Mahasati Shri Kiranprabha Ji, and Mahasati Shri Ratnajyoti Ji, under the guidance of Sadhviratna Shri Pushpavati Ji, are lauded. By renouncing worldly comforts and dedicating themselves to establishing peace, they offer strength to a world groaning under the weight of nuclear weapons. Their efforts to spread peace, cooperation, and goodwill through their sweet and gentle voices are seen as a vital force.

The author concludes by quoting poet Maithilisharan Gupt's lines: "Not one, but two measures, woman is heavier than man," suggesting the inherent strength and significance of women. The article ends with a quote from Prasad's "Kamayani," portraying women as a source of faith and a "nectar stream" flowing in life, eradicating disparities and providing a strong foundation for harmony.

In essence, the article argues that women, through their inherent qualities of compassion, tolerance, forgiveness, and their role as nurturers and educators, are indispensable architects of world peace. While acknowledging instances where women have taken a more active, even warrior-like, stance against injustice, the primary emphasis is on their capacity to foster understanding, reconciliation, and harmony, making them powerful agents for global peace.