Paryushan Parv Vyakhyanmala

Based on the provided Gujarati text, here's a comprehensive summary in English of the "Paryushan Parv Vyakhyanmala" publication:

Book Title: Paryushan Parv Vyakhyanmala (A Series of Discourses on the Paryushan Festival) Publisher: Jainatva Vicharak Mandal (Jain Thought Association) Author(s): Jainatva Vicharak Mandal (as compilers and organizers), with discourses by various learned speakers.

Overview:

This publication is a collection of discourses delivered during the Paryushan Parva, a significant Jain festival of self-purification and penance. The Jainatva Vicharak Mandal, driven by the need to adapt religious discourse to the evolving times and the growing intellectual curiosity of the youth, initiated this lecture series starting from the year 1982 of the Vikram Samvat calendar (roughly corresponding to 1925-26 CE). The publication aims to present the wisdom of Jainism in a way that resonates with contemporary audiences, encouraging critical thinking and spiritual growth.

Key Themes and Content:

The book presents a series of lectures covering various aspects of Jain philosophy, practice, and contemporary relevance. The discourses address:

• The Essence of Paryushan: Explaining the spiritual significance of the festival, emphasizing introspection, self-correction, and drawing closer to one's true self. It highlights that external rituals are meaningful only when coupled with internal purification.
• The Importance of Inquiry and Adaptation: A significant theme is the recognition that religious practices and interpretations must evolve to meet the needs of changing times and the intellectual demands of younger generations. The preface and Pandit Sukhilalji's letter emphasize the shift from rigid traditional discourse to more inclusive and relevant discussions.
• Critique of Traditional Practices and the Need for Reform: The text implicitly and explicitly critiques certain ossified traditions within the Jain community, such as the exclusive reliance on scriptures read only by specific individuals or within limited contexts. It advocates for broader access to knowledge and more open discussions on religious and social issues.
• The Path to Self-Improvement (Aatmonnati): Several discourses focus on practical guidance for spiritual and moral development. This includes the importance of:
  • Right Conduct and Ethics: Emphasizing honesty, integrity, and treating others as one would wish to be treated (the Golden Rule).
  • Self-Reflection and Introspection: The use of "thought as a mirror" to examine one's inner self and identify flaws.
  • Discipline and Control: The significance of controlling desires, senses, and actions.
  • The Role of Ascetic Practices (Tapa): Explaining both external austerities (like fasting, reduced intake) and internal austerities (like repentance, humility, study, meditation), stressing that their true purpose is purification of the soul.
• The Role of Faith (Shraddha): The importance of sincere faith and belief as a foundation for spiritual progress, illustrated through stories and examples.
• Community and Social Responsibility: Discussions touch upon the state of the Jain community, urging unity among different sects, addressing economic and social challenges, and the need for responsible stewardship of wealth and resources.
• The Need for Rationality and Understanding: Discourses advocate for understanding the underlying principles of religious practices rather than blindly following rituals. The example of Russia is used to illustrate how a society that rejects religious dogma can still achieve material prosperity if its underlying principles are sound, while highlighting the need for a balanced approach that integrates true spiritual principles.
• The Value of Jain Literature and Western Scholarship: A discourse by Shri Balal Dave highlights the significant contributions of Western scholars (like Dr. Jacobi, Dr. Bühler) in preserving, cataloging, and promoting Jain literature globally. It points out the contrast between the systematic study and preservation of Jain texts in the West and the often fragmented and less accessible state of these texts within India, urging the community to take proactive steps.
• Specific Topics Addressed by Speakers: The lectures cover diverse subjects like:
  • The mystery of Paryushan
  • The simple path to self-improvement
  • Sectarianism vs. True Religion
  • The need of the Jain community today
  • Charity and Economics
  • The flow of charity
  • Asceticism (Tapa)
  • The contribution of Western scholars to Jain literature
  • The secret of devotion (Bhajan)
  • Discourses on villages
  • The relationship between life and religion
  • The meaning of true worship and devotion
  • The essence of charity and its economic implications
  • The continuity of charity
  • The practice of asceticism
  • The meaning of devotional singing and chanting
  • The impact of modern education and lifestyle on faith.

Context and Evolution:

The "Nivedan" (Preface) explicitly discusses the societal changes happening with scientific advancement and the need for religious discourse to adapt. It notes the initial struggle for a venue and the gradual increase in audience, including individuals from outside the immediate community. The involvement of prominent scholars like Pandit Sukhlalji and Pandit Becherdasji, and later Muni Shri Nanchandji Swami, signifies the intellectual caliber and broad appeal of the lecture series. The text also acknowledges the challenges posed by differing sectarian views but celebrates the inclusive approach taken by the organizers.

Overall Message:

The "Paryushan Parv Vyakhyanmala" is more than just a compilation of religious sermons; it's a testament to the Jain community's effort to remain relevant and vibrant in a changing world. It champions the cause of informed spirituality, critical engagement with tradition, and the application of Jain principles to contemporary life, aiming to foster genuine spiritual growth and community well-being. The publication encourages a shift from superficial rituals to a deeper understanding and practice of Jain tenets, emphasizing the interconnectedness of individual upliftment with the welfare of society and the world.