Paryushan Ek Aetihasik Samiksha - Book Summary

The book "Paryushan: Ek Aitihasik Samiksha" (Paryushan: A Historical Review) by Amarmuni critically examines the historical evolution of the Jain festival of Paryushan, challenging the notion that it is an eternal and unchanging tradition. The author argues that like all traditions, Paryushan has undergone changes over time and that clinging to a belief in its immutability is a misunderstanding of religious practices.

Here's a summary of the key arguments presented in the text:

Traditions are Dynamic, Not Static: The book begins by asserting that all traditions, whether social or religious, are born, develop, and adapt to changing times and circumstances. No tradition can claim to be exactly as it was in its origin, and the idea of such an unchanging tradition is often fueled by a dogmatic adherence to the past.
Distinction Between Religion and Religious Traditions: Amarmuni emphasizes that while religion (Dharma) is eternal and unchanging, religious traditions (Parampara) are not. Traditions are the outward customs, rituals, and guidelines that convey the message of religion. These traditions can evolve, become obsolete, and even cease to exist, while the core of religion remains intact.
Historical Context of Paryushan: The author claims that Paryushan was not always observed in its current form or at its current time. Evidence suggests that it was originally observed on Ashadha Purnima (full moon of Ashadha) and was primarily associated with Varshavas (monsoon retreat) and annual self-criticism (Pratikraman). The practice of observing it later in Bhadrapada (August-September) with specific dates like Bhadrapada Shukla Panchami arose due to various circumstances, including the availability of suitable dwelling places during the monsoon.
Challenging the "Eternal" Claim: The book strongly refutes the idea that Paryushan is anadi (beginningless), ananta (endless), and sarvatra (universal). It highlights that during the long cycles of time in the Jain cosmology (Kalachakra), particularly during the periods of the 22 Tirthankaras between Rishabhanatha and Parshvanatha, and in the akarmabhumi (non-action) eras, Paryushan was not observed. This clearly indicates that the practice is not eternal.
Paryushan as a Varshavas Tradition: The primary meaning of Paryushan, according to the author, is the communal dwelling of monks during the rainy season (Varshavas or Chaturmas). The term Paryusana itself is derived from root verbs indicating "to reside" or "to dwell."
Paryushan and Pratikraman (Self-Criticism): While some link Paryushan solely to annual pratikraman, the author argues that the concept of pratikraman was also observed differently during the time of the 22 Tirthankaras. Pratikraman was performed as needed, upon the commission of an error (atichara), rather than on fixed days or intervals like daily, fortnightly, or annually as practiced in the current era. Therefore, an annual pratikraman as the sole basis of Paryushan is also a later development.
Reinterpreting Texts and Traditions: Amarmuni meticulously analyzes various Jain scriptures like the Brihatkalpasutra Bhashya, Nishitha Sutra, Nishitha Churni, and Samavayanga Sutra. He uses these texts to demonstrate that the current timing and interpretation of Paryushan, particularly its link to Bhadrapada Shukla Panchami and the concept of it being a separate "annual festival" (Samvatsari), might not align with the earliest historical practices.
The Significance of Ashadha Purnima: The author argues that according to Jain tradition, the year traditionally concludes on Ashadha Purnima. Therefore, observing Paryushan, which is linked to the end of the year and annual introspection (Samvatsari), on Ashadha Purnima is more consistent with the ancient understanding of the calendar.
The Evolution of Varshavas and Paryushan Timing: The text explains that the practice of observing Paryushan evolved. Initially, it was at the beginning of the monsoon (Ashadha Purnima), but due to practical reasons like the unavailability of suitable shelter, the observance was extended. The tradition of gradually increasing the period by five days (panch panch din ki vriddhi) led to the eventual observance on Bhadrapada Shukla Panchami as a last resort. This Bhadrapada observance, initially an exception (apavada), gradually became the norm (utsarga).
Challenging Modern Interpretations: The author criticizes certain contemporary interpretations, particularly those that separate Paryushan into two forms – Varshavas and an independent "annual festival" (Samvatsari) observed on Bhadrapada Shukla Panchami. He argues that this distinction and the timing are products of later traditions and sectarian influences, rather than the original intent.
The Case of Acharya Kalaka: The text mentions the story of Acharya Kalaka, who instructed the Jain monks in Pratishthanpur not to observe Paryushan until his arrival. Amarmuni uses this to suggest that Paryushan could be observed earlier than the traditional Bhadrapada dates, implying that the current timing was not always fixed.
The Meaning of Paryusana: The core meaning of Paryusana is to reside or dwell. The author emphasizes that the practice is fundamentally about the monks' stay during the rainy season, not an independent annual ritual divorced from this context.
The Purpose of the Book: Amarmuni states that his intention is not to force a change in the current practices but to clarify the historical truth. He aims to reduce conflicts arising from differing interpretations of Paryushan and to encourage a unified understanding based on historical evidence. He believes that understanding the historical evolution of traditions promotes a more rational and less dogmatic approach to faith.

In essence, "Paryushan: Ek Aitihasik Samiksha" is a scholarly work that delves into the historical roots of the Paryushan festival, advocating for a nuanced understanding of religious traditions that acknowledges their evolutionary nature, rather than adhering to a rigid, ahistorical belief system. The author encourages critical thinking and reliance on historical evidence to understand Jain practices.