Parmanandna Dharmocchedak Vicharo

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Parmanandna Dharmocchedak Vicharo" by Prabhudas Bechardas Parekh, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Parmanandna Dharmocchedak Vicharo (Destructive Thoughts of Bhai Parmanand) Author/Publisher: Prabhudas Bechardas Parekh

Core Argument:

This book is a strong refutation and critique of the speeches and ideas presented by "Bhai Parmanand" (likely a Jain individual) at the Jain Youth Conference. The author, Prabhudas Bechardas Parekh, argues that Parmanand's ideas are not merely reformist or offering a different perspective, but are fundamentally destructive to the core tenets of Jainism. The text emphasizes that the Jain Sangh (community) desires peace and stability, and Parmanand's provocative language and proposals have disrupted this peace, causing significant distress within the Jain community.

Key Themes and Criticisms:

1. Disruption of Jain Sangh's Peace:

   • Parmanand's speech after a period of calm has reignited unrest within the Jain community, deeply hurting the sentiments of millions.
   • The Jain Sangh is dedicated to maintaining peace for religious practice and will not tolerate anything that causes disharmony or doubt in faith.
   • The Sangh prioritizes preventing any disturbance to religious activities, whether from external sources or within the community.

2. Parmanand's Destructive Agenda:

   • The author directly accuses Parmanand of launching an attack on the very foundations of Jainism, namely Dev (Deity), Guru (Teacher), and Dharma (Religion).
   • Parmanand's language is described as "revolutionary" (ક્રાંતિ), indicating a desire for upheaval and destruction rather than constructive reform.
   • His ideas are characterized as aiming to "uproot the foundation" (પાયા ઉખેડી નાખનારું) of Jainism and the broader Aryan dharma.

3. Critique of Specific Ideas:

   • Wealth and Temple Usage: Parmanand's suggestion that temple income should be used for social welfare (education, housing, healthcare) and that temple decorations should cease is seen as an attack on the concept of Devdravya (wealth dedicated to the deity). The author argues that temple wealth is essential for the sustenance of the faith and its institutions.
   • Critique of Jain Ascetics (Munis): Parmanand is criticized for undermining the respect for Jain monks by questioning their traditional attire (વેશ) and their teachings on renunciation (ત્યાગ), asceticism (સંયમ), and detachment from worldly life (સંસાર અસાર). The author defends the monastic tradition as embodying the core values of Jainism.
   • Misinterpretation of Jain Principles:
     • Anekanta (Many-sidedness): Parmanand is accused of misusing the principle of Anekanta to justify any behavior or belief, distorting Jain philosophy.
     • Ahimsa (Non-violence): Similarly, Ahimsa is portrayed as being distorted to serve his agenda.
   • Undermining Dev and Guru Tattva: The author argues that attacking the concept of temples and idols (Deva) and the practices of ascetics (Guru) is a direct attack on the core principles of Jainism.
   • Rejection of Tradition: Parmanand's call for "original research" (મૌલિક સંશાધન) into the monastic institution is seen as a veiled attempt to destroy it. His statement that "even renunciants and seekers of liberation do not need to be supported" is condemned as an attack on the path to liberation itself.
   • Call to Action: Parmanand's advocacy for gathering strength, launching an attack, and forcibly accepting his agenda is seen as a departure from peaceful dialogue and an embrace of confrontational tactics.

4. Defense of the Jain Sangh's Stance:

   • The Jain Sangh is characterized as peace-loving and dedicated to protecting the faith.
   • The Sangh does not wish to lose any Jain and seeks to guide individuals back to the path if they stray.
   • The Sangh's traditional approach of resolving issues through consultation, compromise, and strategic action is highlighted.

5. Critique of "Freedom of Speech" Defense:

   • The author dismisses the defense that Parmanand's speech was merely "original contemplation" as an attempt to cover up his destructive intent. He argues that freedom of speech does not extend to inciting destruction of fundamental principles.

6. Critique of Ahmedabad and Bhavnagar's Response:

   • The text criticizes the apparent silence or lack of strong opposition from the Bhavnagar Sangh towards Parmanand's actions, especially after his speech in Ahmedabad, which is deemed an insult to the city's Jain community and its leadership.

7. Concerns about Societal Impact:

   • Parmanand's ideas are seen as potentially leading to the breakdown of social order, encouraging unrest, and creating disharmony, particularly concerning women's status and the dissolution of community identities.
   • The author expresses deep concern about the potential negative impact of such ideas on future generations.

8. Call for Discernment:

   • The public is urged to discern the true intentions behind Parmanand's words and not be misled by rhetoric.
   • The author emphasizes that genuine reform should be constructive and adhere to the established principles of Jainism.

9. Concluding Remarks:

   • The book concludes with a strong condemnation of Parmanand's thoughts as being fundamentally destructive to Jainism.
   • It expresses regret that a fellow Jain would advocate for the "uprooting" of the faith.
   • The author calls for vigilance against such destructive influences and prays for the perpetrators to gain righteous understanding.

In essence, "Parmanandna Dharmocchedak Vicharo" is a passionate and detailed defense of traditional Jainism against what the author perceives as a direct and dangerous assault by Bhai Parmanand. It frames Parmanand's ideas as an attack on the very foundations of Jain belief and practice, urging the Jain community to be vigilant and united in protecting their faith.