Panch Prashno

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text "Panch Prashno" by Sukhlal Sanghavi:

The text "Panch Prashno" (Five Questions) by Sukhlal Sanghavi delves into various social and personal aspects of life, offering insightful perspectives rooted in traditional wisdom while acknowledging evolving societal norms. The author addresses five key questions, providing detailed answers.

Question 1: The Changing Joint Family System

The first question inquires about the differences between joint families 25 years ago and today, whether these changes are desirable, and the future of the family institution.

• Past Joint Families: The author notes that 25 years ago, joint families, whether in villages or cities, were often not based on mutual respect, honor, and love. Instead, they persisted due to societal pressure, adherence to tradition, and economic compulsions. Fear of social criticism and the difficulty of separation, influenced by upbringing and values, kept families together. While cities offered more freedom due to education and economic progress, many who migrated there still maintained joint family structures primarily due to economic necessity. Fear of social reprisal was less in cities due to larger populations.
• Present Joint Families: Today, the joint family system is breaking down. Marriages happen later, and young individuals are educated and exposed to a more open environment through schools, colleges, and literature, which fosters a desire for freedom. It's natural for them to resist being under anyone's dominance. Disagreements in joint families are common, leading to conflict and distress, where individual dignity and qualities can be diminished.
• Desirability of Change: The author suggests that separate living is often desirable in such situations where harmony is lacking. While an ideal scenario is for individuals to separate after becoming financially independent and maintain love and goodwill, a complete severance of ties is not presented as the only or best option. The institution of family, formed by the union of man and woman, is fundamental and will never disappear. Its foundation lies not in wealth or lineage, but in respect, tolerance, and loyalty, especially tested during times of crisis.
• Future of the Family Institution: The author believes the family institution is indispensable for both individual and societal well-being, whether in domestic life or in renunciation. While challenges will persist, and the institution will transform, it will not cease to exist. The author warns that strict separation of men and women can lead to deviations and that societal welfare is best served by focusing on domestic life and the union of men and women.

Question 2: A Wife's Identity in Marriage

The second question addresses the belief that a wife should merge her identity into her husband's, questioning its impact on family life and its implications for the wife's self-development and societal welfare.

• Understanding "Merging": The author clarifies that "merging" should not mean the loss of discernment and capability. Both partners should maintain a spirit of flexibility. Just as reeds bend with the flow of a river and straighten again when it passes, one partner should adapt during the other's moments of intensity. The author believes it's better to yield the ego ("aham") rather than break the relationship. A husband wouldn't want his wife to completely lose her individuality, as her strength can enhance his.
• Mutual Support: The author emphasizes that strength increases through mutual cooperation. During conflicts, partners should avoid breaking the bond. While a wife should maintain her self-respect and not be marginalized, the complete suppression of her unique identity is neither beneficial for her, her husband, nor society.
• Unhealthy Marriages: In cases where a husband lacks love for his wife or behaves immorally, the wife following him and trying to "correct" him (often unsuccessfully) is seen as detrimental to both, sometimes stemming from weakness. In such situations, the wife should strengthen herself, as economic dependence can trap her in unfortunate circumstances akin to living in an orphanage.
• Shared Responsibilities and Empowerment: The author acknowledges the common middle-class scenario where the husband earns and the wife manages the household and children. If the economic value of the wife's work were accounted for, the husband's earnings might fall short. Therefore, the wife's work and contribution are significant and should be recognized. Sisters should cultivate understanding and self-reliance to establish their importance. If, despite all efforts, disharmony persists, they should strive to live with self-respect. Where mutual respect is maintained, instances of "merging" (ego-dissolution) are fewer. Ultimately, complete abandonment of one's individuality is neither possible nor beneficial. Moreover, the strengthening of both partners' abilities and power benefits men as well.

Question 3: Military Training for Women

The third question asks about the author's view on women receiving military training.

• Positive Aspects and Concerns: The author finds nothing inherently wrong with women receiving military training. He recalls an incident where students from a Gurukul, including girls, showcased their skills at Shantiniketan. While Rabindranath Tagore appreciated their "manliness," he noted a potential loss of their "femininity."
• Purpose and Application: The author believes the purpose of military training is to foster determination and eliminate the need for female protection by men. However, he stresses the need for discretion in its application. The training should not negate a woman's femininity. Considering women's physical characteristics and their role in procreation and domestic life, accepting military training within its limits is not problematic.
• Balancing Training with Development: The author cautions that military training should not lead to aggressive tendencies, harshness, cruelty, or constant aggression. Therefore, alongside physical training, mental development is crucial. Without this development, accompanied by good upbringing and discretion, the training could be detrimental.

Question 4: Marrying Against One's Will

The fourth question probes the justification of marriage due to parental pressure, societal security, or other reasons when there is no personal desire for it.

• Marriage is an Inner Matter: The author firmly states that marriage is not merely a transaction but an internal matter. If there is no willingness, a marriage will never be successful, regardless of external reasons.
• Investigating Parental Motivation: It is crucial to investigate the parents' motivations. While it may seem that individuals agree to marriage solely to appease their parents, this can be a misconception. Often, the parents themselves harbor a latent desire for marriage in some form, which leads them to agree.
• Personal Strength: The author believes one needs inner strength to withstand parental insistence, pressure, pleas, or societal criticism when marrying without personal desire. Marriage solely for external reasons is not considered justifiable.

Question 5: The Justification of Group Organizations

The final question addresses the view of some reformers that organizations based on caste, class, or society are undesirable and should be transcended. It questions whether national organization is appropriate in this context and if such smaller organizations can be reconciled with the ideals of universal brotherhood or humanity.

• Reconciliation is Possible: The author believes reconciliation is possible as long as one organization does not conflict with another. Organizations are seen as convenient tools for achieving common goals. If one possesses a broad mind, the existence of such groups is not an issue.
• National Organization and Universal Brotherhood: While national organization is acceptable, it should not involve aggression, confrontation, or contempt towards other nations, as this would harm the ideal of universal brotherhood. If national organizations wish for the progress of others alongside their own, they are convenient. The author cites China as an example where diverse religions are practiced within a single family without conflict.
• Focus on Purpose and Impact: It is important to consider the basis of an organization and whether it hinders or aids one's development. As long as there is a spirit of mutual help, cooperation, and an open mind, any organization that fosters these qualities is not against humanity.

In essence, Sukhlal Sanghavi's "Panch Prashno" provides a nuanced perspective on contemporary social issues, advocating for individual autonomy, mutual respect, balanced development, and a harmonious approach to societal structures. The author encourages critical thinking and emphasizes the importance of inner values over external pressures.