Paschatya Vidwano Ne Jain Sahitya

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text in English:

This article, "Paschatya Vidwano ne Jain Sahitya" (Western Scholars and Jain Literature) by Fulchand Harihand Shah, discusses the evolving understanding and appreciation of Jain literature by Western scholars, highlighting a shift from ignorance and misconceptions to dedicated research and a growing recognition of Jainism's significance.

Early Misconceptions: The author begins by describing a period of significant ignorance among both Eastern and Western scholars regarding Jainism. Jainism was often mistakenly viewed as:

• A branch of Buddhism.
• Having Mahavir as its sole founder.
• A new religion originating from Hinduism.
• An atheistic religion because it does not believe in a creator God. Prominent scholars like Dr. Weber, Professor Larson, Mr. Barth, and Mr. Wilson held these views. The similarity in certain aspects with Buddhism, such as opposing Vedic rituals, the ascetic nature of their leaders, and the emphasis on non-violence, contributed to this misclassification. Major-General Fuller initially categorized Jainism as a branch of Buddhism but later corrected himself after extensive research, stating that "Jainism thus appears as the earliest faith in India."

Emerging Recognition and Scholarship: The article then details the efforts of various Western scholars who have worked to dispel these misconceptions and bring Jain literature to the forefront.

• Dr. Parralde is quoted, strongly refuting the notion of Jainism being atheistic and asserting its importance in the comparative study of religions due to its advanced views.
• The influence of Buddhist literature mentioning Jainism and archaeological findings in Mathura (dating back to the 1st-2nd centuries BCE, as evidenced by inscriptions and sculptures from Kankali Tila) also contributed to understanding Jainism's ancient roots.
• The presence of Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankara, in the Bhagavata Purana is cited as proof that Jainism predates Mahavir, with Mahavir and Parshvanath being reformers.
• Despite ongoing ignorance in many parts of the world and even in India (as evidenced by historical accounts by Lala Lajpat Rai and Pandit Shivashankar Mishra, and lectures by Professor Shram from Columbia University), dedicated scholars are making significant strides.

Key Western Scholars and Their Contributions: The article highlights the pioneering work of several Western scholars:

• Hermann Jacobi is lauded for his extensive and diligent study of Jain literature.
• Dr. Bübler and Dr. Hoernle are recognized for their enthusiastic support and contribution to dispelling misconceptions.
• Professor Weber is credited with initiating the study of Jain literature in the West, publishing a brief note on Jain biographies and Jain sacred books in his "History of Indian Literature" in 1876. He also emphasized the importance of Jain grammar and lexicography.
• Professor Leopold von Schroeder made a brief mention of the Jain community in his "Literature and Culture of India" in 1887.
• C.A. Macdonell and A. Barth (though his mention is brief) made some references in their works on Sanskrit literature.
• A. Barth (1902) and H. Lüders (1903) wrote more extensively about Jainism and its literature.
• W. Frazer (1898) in his "Literary History of India" pointed out the profound influence of Jainism on South Indian literature, stating it was through Jain care that new ideals and literary forms were introduced.

The Impact of Indian Advocates: The article emphasizes the crucial role played by two prominent Indian figures in promoting Jainism and its literature in the West:

• Vidyavachaspati Pujyapad Shri Atmaram (Vijayanand Suri): Invited to the Parliament of Religions in Chicago in 1893, he could not attend personally but sent Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi as his representative. Gandhi delivered an excellent speech, introducing Jain principles to scholars. He subsequently traveled through America and Europe, delivering lectures, attracting scholars, and explaining the essence of Jainism, leading many scholars to focus on this field.
• Acharya Shri Vidharm Suri is also recognized for his extensive work and propagation of Jainism among Western scholars. His memoirs are said to have been well-received.

The Growing Momentum: The author notes that the situation has dramatically changed in the last 25-30 years. There is a growing interest and respect for Jain literature in Europe, with scholars working enthusiastically.

• Many scholars now acknowledge Jainism as an ancient religion and its principles' significant role in comparative religious studies.
• Jain literature is recognized as rich, vast, and well-organized, covering various disciplines like Dravyānuvoga, Gaṇitānuvoga, Charaṇakaraṇānuvoga, and Kathānuvoga, along with excellent grammar, lexicography, logic, astrology, ancient sciences, medicine, and zoology.
• C. Winternitz is quoted, stating that a large volume would be needed to document the Jain contributions to Indian literature, emphasizing their significant share in religious, ethical, poetic, and scientific literature.

The Need for Sustained Effort and Organization: The article concludes by stressing the need for organized efforts to further promote Jain literature.

• The author suggests several initiatives:
  1. Creating a Jain Directory of both Western and Eastern scholars.
  2. Establishing a "Jain Information Bureau" to disseminate information about published books, answer queries, support book publications, and provide necessary resources to scholars.
  3. Revitalizing and preserving existing manuscript collections and establishing "knowledge centers."
  4. Encouraging the study of Jain literature through awards and support for research papers.
  5. Inviting foreign scholars to India to deliver lectures.
  6. Providing scholarships and training for Indian students interested in Jain studies abroad.
  7. Establishing a "Jain Vidyapeeth" (Jain University) for independent propagation, research, and education.
• The author laments the lack of enthusiasm and support within the Jain community for these endeavors, noting that while Western scholars have responded positively to a request for a Jain directory, many Indian scholars and religious figures have remained silent.
• The article lists numerous Western scholars and their specific contributions, including publications of Jain Agamas, translations, and research in various languages and countries (Germany, America, England, France, Italy, Czechoslovakia).
• It highlights ongoing research, such as Dr. Otto Stein's work on sociological and political aspects from Jain Agamas, Professor Dohlmuth's comprehensive book on Jainism, Miss Krause's translation of Acharya Vidharm Suri's teachings, and Ph.D. research by American scholars on Jain texts.
• The author expresses confidence that continued support and systematic efforts will lead to a greater spread of Jain principles and literature globally, echoing the sentiment that "The Spirit of Jainism is the Spirit of India."

In essence, the article is a historical overview and a passionate call to action, celebrating the growing scholarly interest in Jainism from the West and urging the Jain community to actively participate in and support the dissemination and preservation of their rich literary heritage.