Nava Vargna Sadhutanu Digdarshan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Nava Vargna Sadhutanu Digdarshan" by Hansasagar:

Title: Nava Vargna Sadhutanu Digdarshan (A Glimpse into the Sainthood of the New Sect)

Author: Hansasagar Ganivarya (a scholar-monk)

Publisher: Shasan Kantakoddharak Gyanmandir

Overall Theme: This book is a critical and polemical work by Hansasagar, primarily defending his own views and refuting the arguments and alleged misrepresentations made by a group he refers to as the "Nava Varg" (New Sect) or "Navamati," and specifically targeting a monk named Jambu vijay (and implicitly his gurus and followers). The central conflict revolves around interpretations of Jain scriptures, particularly concerning the "Ashtam" (eighth) rule and the minimum age for monastic initiation. Hansasagar aims to expose what he considers falsehoods, manipulations, and deviations from established Jain tradition by this "New Sect."

Key Arguments and Content:

• Dispute over "Ashtam" and Initiation Age: The core of the book is a lengthy debate concerning the interpretation of the "Ashtam" (eighth) rule, which relates to the age for monastic initiation. Hansasagar asserts that a particular discussion in Surat in 1988 between his guru, Anandsagar Suri, and another prominent Acharya, Danasuri, resolved this dispute. Hansasagar claims Danasuri admitted his views were incorrect and publicly accepted Anandsagar Suri's interpretations regarding the age of initiation.

• Allegations of Lying and Distortion by Jambu vijay: Hansasagar accuses Jambu vijay of lying and distorting the facts of the 1988 Surat discussion. He claims Jambu vijay, through various publications, denied that the discussion even took place or misrepresented its outcome, specifically by stating that the "Ashtam" proponent was silenced by scriptural arguments. Hansasagar insists this is false.

• Defense of Hansasagar's Book "Prastavana Timirbhaskar": The book "Nava Vargna Sadhutanu Digdarshan" is presented as a response to a book by the "Nava Varg," titled "Prastavana Timir Tarani," which allegedly attacked Hansasagar's previous work, "Prastavana Timirbhaskar." Hansasagar defends the accuracy of his earlier work, especially regarding the Surat incident.

• Supporting Evidence from a Layperson (Advocate Amitchandra Govindji Shah): A significant portion of the book consists of correspondence and statements from Advocate Amitchandra Govindji Shah, a respected Jain layman from Surat. Shah corroborates Hansasagar's account of the 1988 Surat discussion, confirming that Danasuri admitted his error and accepted Anandsagar Suri's views. Shah's statements are presented as crucial evidence to refute Jambu vijay's claims.

• Accusations of Fabrication and Deception: Hansasagar repeatedly accuses Jambu vijay and his sect of fabricating events, misrepresenting facts, and employing deceptive tactics to promote their views. This includes accusations of manipulating scriptures, inventing verses, and engaging in character assassination.

• Critique of "Nava Varg's" Practices and Beliefs: The book criticizes various aspects of the "Nava Varg's" approach. This includes:

  • Dishonesty: Accusations of lying, misrepresentation, and promoting falsehoods.
  • Misinterpretation of Scriptures: Claiming they twist scriptural meanings to suit their agenda.
  • Undermining Tradition: Accused of deviating from established Jain practices and traditions.
  • Personal Attacks: Engaging in slanderous campaigns against opposing monks and scholars.
  • Manipulation of Dates and Events: Allegations of altering historical accounts for their benefit.

• Defense of Jain Principles and Tradition: Hansasagar positions himself as a defender of pure Jain doctrine and tradition against what he sees as the corrupting influence of the "New Sect." He emphasizes the importance of adhering to scriptural accuracy and established lineage.

• Specific Examples of Alleged Misconduct: The text details specific instances of alleged misconduct by the "New Sect," including:

  • Publishing pamphlets with offensive language.
  • Fabricating narratives about spiritual lineage and teachings.
  • Manipulating calendar dates and observances (like the "Sutak" or impurity period).
  • Attacking respected figures like Acharya Vijay Vallabh Suri.

• Call to the Reader: Hansasagar urges readers to carefully examine the evidence presented and make their own informed judgment about the truth of the matters discussed. He implies that the "New Sect" is leading people astray with their false claims.

Overall Tone: The book is written in a highly combative and assertive tone. Hansasagar uses strong language to condemn the "New Sect" and its prominent figures, employing terms like "falsehood," "deception," "malignancy," and "ignorance." He presents himself as a righteous defender of truth against a deceitful opposition.

Significance: This book appears to be a significant document in understanding intra-sectarian disputes within Jainism during the period it was published. It highlights the importance of scriptural interpretation, historical accuracy, and upholding tradition within the Jain community. The detailed accounts and the involvement of a lay advocate underscore the seriousness of the theological and disciplinary debates.