Oswal Porwal Aur Shreemal Jatiyo Ka Sachitra Prachin Itihas

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Book Title: Oswal Porwal Aur Shreemal Jatiyo Ka Sachitra Prachin Itihas (Illustrated Ancient History of Oswal, Porwal, and Shreemal Castes) Author: Gyansundar Maharaj Publisher: Ratnaprabhakar Gyanpushpamala

Overall Purpose: This book aims to present the ancient and authentic history of the Oswal, Porwal, and Shreemal Jain communities. It is presented as a chapter from a larger work titled "Jain Jati Mahoday" (Greatness of Jain Castes). The author emphasizes the importance of knowing one's ancestry and encourages promoting historical knowledge within the community.

Summary of Content (Chapter 3: Jain Jati Mahoday):

This chapter focuses on the succession of spiritual leaders (Acharyas) following Lord Parshvanath and their role in spreading and preserving Jainism. It also touches upon the challenges faced by Jainism from other religious practices, particularly animal sacrifice in Yajna rituals. The narrative highlights the intellectual debates and the eventual triumph of Jain principles of Ahimsa (non-violence).

Key Points and Figures:

1. Post-Parshvanath Era: After Lord Parshvanath attained Nirvana, a spiritual darkness spread. The Jain Sangha (community) appointed Acharya Shubhadatta as the first successor. He was described as a great scholar, enlightened, and capable of overcoming karmic enemies through penance and self-control. He lived in a manner befitting a Jin (Tirthankar) and propagated Jain Dharma.

2. Acharya Haridatta Suri: Following Acharya Shubhadatta, Acharya Haridatta Suri became the leader. His era saw a rise in Yajna practices involving animal sacrifice, promoted by those who claimed to lead to heaven through such rituals. Simultaneously, ascetics and renunciates criticized these practices as cruel and irreligious. Acharya Haridatta Suri and his thousands of monks actively spread the message of "Ahimsa Paramo Dharma" (Non-violence is the supreme religion).

   • Debate with Lohitacharya: A significant event was the religious debate between Acharya Haridatta Suri and Lohitacharya, a proponent of Yajna. The debate took place in the court of King Adineshshatru. Acharya Haridatta Suri argued that Jain Dharma is ancient, predating the Vedas, and cited references to Jain Tirthankaras in the Vedas. He refuted the idea that God is the creator and blamed those who attributed ignorance or cruelty to God. The debate concluded with Lohitacharya and his 1000 disciples embracing Jainism. This period saw a significant spread of Jain Dharma, combating the practices of animal sacrifice.

3. Acharya Aryasamudra Suri: The successor was Acharya Aryasamudra Suri, known for his immense knowledge and influence. During his time, the practice of animal sacrifice continued. His disciples spread Ahimsa throughout various regions. He appointed Lohitagani (former Lohitacharya) as the Acharya for the southern regions, leading to two distinct branches of the monastic order: the Lohit branch in the south and the Nirgranth community in the north. These branches significantly propagated Jain Dharma, diminishing the influence of Vedantic scholars.

   • Keshi Kumar and Avanti: A key event involved Keshi Kumara, the prince of Avanti. After hearing Acharya Aryasamudra Suri's discourse, he experienced a deep sense of detachment. Through his past life recollection, he realized he had been a Jain monk. He renounced his princely life and, along with his parents, embraced Jainism.

4. Acharya Keshishramanacharya: Following Aryasamudra Suri, Acharya Keshishramanacharya took leadership. He had to contend with the re-emergination of Yajna practices and the rise of Buddhism, which offered simpler tenets and prohibited animal sacrifice. A significant challenge was the internal schism within the Jain Sangha, leading to the apostasy of a disciple named Buddhakirti, who then propagated Buddhism. Keshishramanacharya worked to unify the Sangha and sent out many monks to spread Jainism.

   • Lord Mahavir's Arrival: The chapter then transitions to the era of Lord Mahavir Swami, the 24th Tirthankar. It describes his birth, life, and renunciation, highlighting his role in revitalizing Jain Dharma with stricter adherence to its principles, particularly Ahimsa. The text suggests that the teachings of Lord Mahavir significantly influenced the kings and people, leading many to embrace Jainism. The descendants of Parshvanath's lineage, like Keshishramanacharya, also largely accepted Lord Mahavir's teachings.

5. Acharya Swayamprabh Suri: The narrative then focuses on Acharya Swayamprabh Suri, who played a crucial role in spreading Jainism in the desert regions of Marwar, where practices like Tantra and Devi worship were prevalent.

   • Shreemal Nagara and its Conversion: The city of Shreemal (likely ancient Bhinmal) was a center for these practices. Acharya Swayamprabh Suri's discourse on Ahimsa deeply impacted the people. A major event was the debate in the royal court of King Jaysen, where Acharya Swayamprabh Suri eloquently refuted the practices of animal sacrifice in Yajna and the misinterpretations of religious texts. The King and a large population embraced Jainism, leading to the establishment of the Shreemal community.

   • Padmavati Nagara and Porwar Community: The Acharya then proceeded to Padmavati Nagara, where King Padmasen was preparing for an Ashwamedha Yajna. Acharya Swayamprabh Suri again debated with the Brahmins and convinced the King and 45,000 families to adopt Jainism. During this event, the community that embraced Jainism in Padmavati was later established as the Porwar community.

6. Establishment of Upakeshpatta (Oshiyan): The chapter details the founding of Upakeshpatta (modern Oshiyan). The narrative describes Prince Upladev of Bhinmal seeking land to establish a new city. Guided by a parrot's advice and supported by his minister Uhad, he founded the city of Upakeshpatta. This migration led to the founding of Oshiyan and a new branch of the Jain community, the Oshwal community.

7. Acharya Ratnaprabh Suri: The text highlights the significant contributions of Acharya Ratnaprabh Suri. He is depicted as a highly learned and influential Acharya who spread Jainism extensively.

   • Confrontation with Chamunda Devi: A notable incident involves Acharya Ratnaprabh Suri's encounter with the goddess Chamunda Devi, who was associated with animal sacrifice. The Acharya persuaded the goddess to abandon these practices, and she subsequently became a protector of Jain Dharma, known as Sachika Devi. This led to the transformation of many followers of Chamunda Devi into Jain devotees.

   • Establishment of Temples and Communities: Acharya Ratnaprabh Suri was instrumental in establishing Jain temples, including one for Lord Mahavir in Upakeshpatta and another for Lord Shantinarh in Padmavati. He also played a key role in the organization and establishment of the Oshwal and Porwal communities, further solidifying the Jain presence in the region. He also established new Gotras (clans) for the community.

   • Kanakprabh Suri and Gacchas: The chapter also mentions the establishment of the Korant Gachha (sect) and its Acharya, Kanakprabh Suri, who was a disciple of Acharya Ratnaprabh Suri. The text explains the division of spiritual leadership and the establishment of distinct lineages, emphasizing the need for regional Acharyas.

   • Mahavir Jayanti and Temple Consecration: The consecration of the Lord Mahavir temple in Upakeshpatta is described in detail, including the miraculous finding of the idol and the divine intervention of goddesses. The text highlights the deep devotion and the spread of Jainism as a result of these events.

   • Yaksha Dev Suri: The chapter concludes with a reference to Acharya Ratnaprabh Suri's disciple, Yaksha Dev Suri, who was appointed as an Acharya to propagate Jain teachings and resolve issues. The text also mentions the immense popularity and the lineage of Acharya Ratnaprabh Suri, noting his significant role in converting people and strengthening the Jain community.

Overall Message: The chapter emphasizes the continuous spiritual lineage within Jainism, highlighting the dedication of Acharyas in preserving and propagating the faith. It underscores the core Jain principles of Ahimsa and the struggle against practices like animal sacrifice. The narrative also celebrates the establishment and growth of prominent Jain communities like Oswal, Porwal, and Shreemal, tracing their historical roots and spiritual guidance. The author conveys a message of pride in one's heritage and the importance of upholding Jain values.