Nitivakyamrut Me Rajniti - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Nitivakyamrut me Rajniti" by Dr. M.L. Sharma:

Book Title: Nitivakyamrut me Rajniti Author: Dr. M.L. Sharma Publisher: Bharatiya Gyanpith Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/090306/1

Overall Purpose and Context:

This book, "Nitivakyamrut me Rajniti" (Politics in Nitivakyamrut), is a scholarly analysis of the political ideals and institutions presented in the Jain text Nitivakyamrut by Acharya Somdev Suri. The author, Dr. M.L. Sharma, presents this work as a revised version of his doctoral dissertation, highlighting that Nitivakyamrut, despite its importance in the tradition of Indian political science, had been largely neglected. The book aims to provide a scientific and comparative study of the political concepts within this significant Jain work.

Introduction and Author's Gratitude:

The preface acknowledges the long-standing tradition of political science in India, predating Western thinkers like Plato and Aristotle. Acharya Somdev Suri's Nitivakyamrut is recognized as a crucial text in this tradition, alongside his other major work, Yashasastilaka Champu. The author expresses gratitude to his guide, Dr. Ramkumar Dixit, and to the esteemed scholar Dr. Adinath Nemichandra Upadhye for their valuable suggestions, particularly regarding the inclusion of the Nitivakyamrut's comprehensive objectives in the appendix. The Bharatiya Gyanpith is also thanked for undertaking the publication.

Key Themes and Structure of the Book:

The book is structured into several chapters, each focusing on a distinct aspect of politics as expounded in Nitivakyamrut. The chapters systematically cover the foundational elements of the state, the role of the king, administrative structures, economic policies, military affairs, international relations, and the judicial system.

Detailed Summary of Chapters:

Tradition of the Study of Political Science in India: This chapter establishes the antiquity and depth of political thought in India, tracing its origins to ancient texts and divine interventions as described in scriptures like the Mahabharata and Kamasutra. It mentions various ancient political science scholars and texts, asserting that India was far ahead of Western nations in this field.
Kautilya's Arthashastra: This section delves into Kautilya's Arthashastra, recognizing it as a monumental work in political science. It discusses its subject matter, the meaning of "Artha-shastra," and Kautilya's foundational role in the discipline. The chapter also touches upon the dating of the Arthashastra, acknowledging scholarly debates.
Kamandaka's Nitisara: This chapter discusses Nitisara, another significant work on politics, noting its reliance on Kautilya's Arthashastra but also highlighting its unique contributions and importance. It covers Kamandaka's views on the seven limbs of the state (Saptanga theory), international relations, and the importance of espionage.
Acharya Somdev Suri and His Nitivakyamrut: This chapter introduces Acharya Somdev Suri, his lineage, and his significant works, Yashasastilaka Champu and Nitivakyamrut. It emphasizes Somdev's skillful blend of dry political theory with poetic language, making the subject engaging. The chapter asserts that Nitivakyamrut is a unique and original contribution, not merely a summary of earlier works, despite some similarities with Kautilya's Arthashastra. It also discusses the estimated period of Somdev's life and the composition of his works, placing them around the 10th century CE.
The State (Rajya):
- Nature and Elements: The book defines the state as the king's duty to protect the earth, which is endowed with resources and inhabited by people following the Varnasrama system. The state is seen as a community of people on land.
- Origin: The text primarily follows the divine origin theory, portraying the king as a manifestation of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. However, it also acknowledges and discusses elements of the social contract theory, where the king is elected by the people for their welfare.
- Organs of the State (Saptanga Theory): Following the ancient Indian tradition, Nitivakyamrut outlines the seven limbs of the state: Swami (King), Amatya (Ministers), Pur (City/Fortress), Rashtra (Territory/Country), Kosa (Treasury), Bala (Army), and Mitra (Ally). The book elaborates on the qualities and functions of each.
- Functions of the State: The state's functions are categorized into essential and optional. Essential functions include defense, maintaining order, administering justice, and ensuring national security. Optional functions encompass promoting welfare through education, healthcare, agriculture, and trade. The book emphasizes the state's role in ensuring the pursuit of Dharma, Artha, and Kama (the three aims of life).
The King (Raja):
- Qualities and Duties: The book extensively details the qualifications and duties of a king, emphasizing the need for him to be knowledgeable in political science, righteous, courageous, just, and mindful of his subjects' welfare. He is seen as a divine representative and protector. Kingship is described as a demanding responsibility, not just a position of power.
- Defects of the King: Conversely, the book also outlines the king's flaws, such as greed, anger, lust, pride, ignorance, and indulgence in vices, which lead to the downfall of the kingdom.
- King's Succession: The text discusses the principles of royal succession, generally favoring the eldest son but acknowledging the importance of competence and suitability for the throne.
Council of Ministers (Mantriparishad):
- Importance and Composition: The book highlights the crucial role of ministers in assisting the king and ensuring effective governance. It specifies the qualifications for ministers, emphasizing loyalty, wisdom, knowledge of law and statecraft, good character, and avoiding vices. The author notes the distinction Somdev makes between ministers and general officials.
- Number and Function: While acknowledging varied opinions on the ideal number of ministers, Somdev favors a council of three, five, or seven members to ensure efficient deliberation and prevent conspiracy. The council's primary function is to advise the king on all matters of state, including policy, warfare, and diplomacy.
- Secrecy of Counsel: The importance of maintaining secrecy in council deliberations is stressed, with various methods suggested to prevent leaks.
Fortress (Durg):
- Significance: Fortresses are recognized as vital for state security, providing defense against internal and external threats. Their strategic importance in warfare and as refuges during crises is emphasized.
- Types of Fortresses: The book details various types of fortresses based on their natural or constructed features: Audaka (water forts), Parvata (mountain forts), Dhanyadruga (desert forts), and Vanadurga (forest forts).
Treasury (Kosa):
- Importance and Definition: The treasury is considered the lifeblood of the state, essential for maintaining the army, administration, and public welfare. It is defined as a storehouse of wealth and resources that can sustain the kingdom during times of crisis.
- Sources of Revenue: The book discusses various sources of state income, including land revenue (taxes), trade duties, and fines. It stresses the importance of fair taxation and the king's responsibility to ensure the treasury is replenished through ethical means.
- Management: The text emphasizes the need for careful management of the treasury, with officials tasked with meticulous accounting and preventing misappropriation of funds.
Army (Sena/Bala):
- Composition and Importance: The army, comprising elephants, cavalry, chariots, and infantry (Chaturangini Sena), is highlighted as crucial for defense and expansion. The book details the qualities of war elephants and horses, emphasizing the importance of training and proper care.
- Leadership: The qualities of a capable general are discussed, stressing the need for loyalty, valor, strategic acumen, and good character.
- Army's Role: The army's primary role is the protection of the state and its people, not oppression. The book warns against an army becoming a source of fear for the populace.
Country/Territory (Rashtra/Janapada):
- Definition and Attributes: The concept of "Rashtra" or "Janapada" is explored, emphasizing its connection to the land, its resources, and its people. The book discusses the ideal characteristics of a prosperous region, including fertile land, natural resources, a stable population, and effective administration.
- Nationalism: The author refutes the notion that ancient India lacked nationalism, citing Vedic literature's emphasis on love for the motherland and the duty to protect it. However, it defines Indian nationalism as humanitarian and inclusive, not narrowly defined by ethnicity or religion.
International Relations:
- Inter-State Diplomacy: The book outlines the principles of diplomacy and foreign policy in ancient India. It discusses the importance of envoys (Duta) with specific qualities and functions, as well as the role of spies (Chara) in gathering intelligence.
- Mandala Theory: A significant portion is dedicated to the Mandala theory, which describes the geopolitical relationships between states in concentric circles. It defines the roles of the Vijigishu (the primary conquering king), his immediate allies and enemies, and neutral or intermediary states.
- Six-Fold Policy (Shadguna): The text elaborates on the Shadguna policy, encompassing Sandhi (alliance), Vigraha (war), Yana (march), Asana (positioning), Sansraya (shelter), and Dvaidhibhava (dual policy). The appropriate application of these policies based on circumstances is discussed.
- Four Policies (Chaturvedha Upaya): The book also covers Sama (conciliation), Dana (gift), Bheda (dissension), and Danda (punishment) as tools for diplomatic engagement.
- Warfare: The principles of warfare, including when to wage war, types of battles (e.g., Dharmayuddha - righteous war), military organization, and the importance of strategic maneuvering, are discussed. The text advocates for war only as a last resort after all peaceful means have been exhausted.
Judicial System (Nyaya-Vyavastha):
- Justice and Law: The book underscores the paramount importance of impartial justice for the well-being of the state and the king's legitimacy. It outlines the basis of law, including Dharma, Vyavahara (customary practice), Charitra (conduct), and Rajasasana (royal decree).
- Courts and Judges: It mentions the existence of courts and the qualifications of judges, stressing their integrity, knowledge of law, and impartiality. The king's court is positioned as the highest judicial authority.
- Legal Procedures: The text touches upon legal procedures, including the stages of a lawsuit, evidence (testimony, documents), and oaths. It notes the practice of administering different types of oaths based on social status.
- Punishment: The book discusses the principles of punishment, emphasizing its role in deterring crime, maintaining social order, and reforming offenders. The importance of proportionate punishment is highlighted, with a warning against arbitrary or excessive sentencing.

Conclusion:

Dr. M.L. Sharma concludes that Nitivakyamrut is an invaluable political treatise that not only synthesizes ancient political thought but also offers practical insights for governance. Acharya Somdev Suri's work is praised for its comprehensive coverage of political science, its emphasis on practical application, and its integration of ethical and spiritual dimensions into statecraft. The book advocates for a balanced approach, where political power is guided by Dharma and aims for the welfare of all beings. Nitivakyamrut is presented as a timeless guide for rulers and citizens alike, offering profound wisdom relevant even in the modern era.