Prachin Jain Itihas Sangraha Part 04 Jain Dharm Ka Prachar

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Prachin Jain Itihas Sangraha Part 04: Jain Dharm ka Prachar" by Gyansundar Maharaj:

This book, the fourth part of the "Ancient Jain History Collection," focuses on the propagation of Jainism. It aims to demonstrate the widespread reach and influence of Jainism throughout India and even beyond its borders, from the time of Bhagavan Mahavir Swami up to the reign of Emperor Samprati and King Kharavela.

The author, Gyansundar Maharaj, emphasizes that Jainism was not confined to specific regions but had a strong presence across India and in foreign lands. The book details the spread of Jainism through various examples and historical evidence:

Key Themes and Examples of Propagation:

• Widespread Reach: The book asserts that there was no region in India where people did not embrace Jainism and achieve high spiritual progress. It also claims a significant presence of Jainism outside of India.
• Promotion Beyond India:
  • Europe: Archaeological findings in Austria-Hungary, specifically a statue of Bhagavan Mahavir discovered in Budapest, suggest a substantial Jain community in central Europe, actively practicing their faith and constructing temples.
  • West Asia: The text mentions a Jain temple existing in Mecca before the advent of Islam. Jain followers from Madhumati (Mahuva) rescued the idols from Mecca when the Jains were no longer present there, preserving them in their own city. This highlights the reach of Jainism into desert regions and the dedication of its followers.
  • Central Asia and beyond: The author lists numerous regions where Jainism spread due to the efforts of Jain monks and patrons, including: Avistana (Afghanistan), Turkistan, Iran, Greece, Egypt, Tibet, China, Japan, Burma, Assam, Lanka, Africa, and America. This spread is supported by ancient texts and modern archaeological discoveries.
• Specific Regions and their Jain History:
  • Nepal: During a severe famine in the 4th century BCE, Acharya Bhadrabahusuri and his disciples migrated to Nepal, indicating a significant Jain population there.
  • Anga, Vanga, and Magadha: These provinces were central to the activities of Bhagavan Mahavir and his disciples. During the reigns of kings like Shrenik, Konika, Udayin, the Nanda dynasty, Chandragupta Maurya, and Samprati, Jainism was practically the state religion, with its influence permeating every household.
  • Kalinga: Before Emperor Ashok, Kalinga was predominantly Jain. Emperor Kharavela made significant efforts for Jainism's advancement, leading to its widespread propagation. Jain monks resided in caves there, and Jain kings ruled until the 15th century CE.
  • Punjab: Acharya Devguptasuri and Acharya Siddhasuri played a crucial role in establishing and promoting Jainism in Punjab, leading to its strong presence, even extending to Ghazni and beyond.
  • Sindh: Acharya Yakshdevasuri and Acharya Kakksuri were instrumental in establishing and strengthening Jainism in Sindh, resulting in a large Jain populace. The existence of 500 Jain temples under the Upakesha Gachha alone indicates a significant community. Persecution by the Yavanas led to the migration of Jains from this region.
  • Kutch: Acharya Kakksuri initiated Jainism's propagation here, with his disciples continuing the work. It remained a significant region until the 14th century CE, with notable charitable Jains.
  • Saurashtra: This region has always been a center of Jainism, home to the revered pilgrimage sites of Shatrunjaya and Girnar. During the reign of King Shiladitya of Valabhi, Jainism flourished. Acharya Devardhigani organized a major conference and compiled the Agamas. Kings like Siddharaj Jaysingh and Kumarpal were devout Jains and actively promoted the religion, leaving behind numerous temples and inscriptions.
  • Gujarat (influenced by Marwar migration): A significant migration of Jains from Marwar to Gujarat occurred from the 6th century CE onwards due to political unrest. Cities like Surat, Bharuch, Vadodara, Khambhat, Bhavnagar, and Ahmedabad became home to large Jain populations. Historically, prominent figures like Javad Shah, Nanak Lehari, Viradev, Vimalashah, Vastupal, Tejpal, Deshalshah, Samar Singh, Saharanpal, and Sahajpal greatly contributed to Jainism's prosperity and protection.
  • Maharashtra: Jainism was prevalent in southern regions like Khandesh, Karnatak, and Tailang. Acharya Bhadrabahusuri and his followers resided and traveled here during a famine. Historical texts suggest Jainism's presence even before Bhadrabahusuri, with mentions of Lohityacharya. Jainism was a state religion under various dynasties like Rashtrakuta, Pandya, Chola, and Kalachuri. However, the rise of Lingayatism and subsequent persecution led to a decline in Jainism, with many Jains forced to convert or flee.
  • Avanti (Malwa): Jainism had an unbroken reign in this region during the time of Emperor Samprati. King Vikramaditya was converted and became a propagator of Jainism. King Bhoj also patronized the religion. Jainism remained prominent until the 16th century CE, with ancient pilgrimage sites like Avant, Makshi, and Mandavgadh still existing.
  • United Provinces (modern Uttar Pradesh): This region has a long history of Jainism with ancient pilgrimage sites like Shauripur, Mathura, and Hastinapur. Acharya Skandhalsuri organized a significant gathering of monks in Mathura and initiated the process of documenting the Agamas. Ancient excavations in Mathura have revealed Jain idols and temple ruins dating back to before the 2nd century BCE.
  • Kashi-Kosala: This region is the birthplace of Bhagavan Parshvanath and was extensively influenced by his teachings. The eighteen kings of Kashi-Kosala were all Jains, and they were present during Bhagavan Mahavir's final Chaturmas. Cities like Banarasi, Singhpuri, and Ayodhya are significant Jain holy sites.
  • Mewar (Medpat): Jainism has been prevalent here since ancient times. The Parmar rulers of Chitrakoot and the Ranas of Chittorgarh respected and upheld Jainism. Migrations from Marwar also contributed to the Jain population. Notable figures like Karma Shah, the last restorer of Shatrunjaya, and the charitable heroes Bhama Shah and Asha Shah hailed from this region, contributing significantly to its cultural and religious landscape.
  • Marwar: This region is considered the origin of Jain communities. Acharya Swayamprabhsurisuri and Ratnaprabhsurisuri established the Mahajan (Vaishya) community here. While it was once a dominant religion, political hardship led to the migration of its inhabitants to surrounding regions. Despite this, Marwar remains the primary center of Jainism today, with a significant population. The text notes a decline in the community's numbers due to various factors.
• The Mahajan Community and its Decline: The book touches upon the historical development of the Mahajan community, emphasizing its initial widespread conversion of non-Jains and its subsequent decline due to the introduction of narrow sectarianism and other divisive practices.
• The Need for Revival and Challenges: The author expresses concern about the current state of Jainism, highlighting the lack of active propagation, the slow pace of modernization, and internal conflicts within the community. He criticizes the perceived complacency of religious leaders and the decline in religious education, leading to increased unemployment and a drift towards atheism. The text also laments the conversion of Jain temples into Shiva temples and the dwindling numbers of Jains.

Overall Message:

The book serves as a historical testament to the glorious past of Jainism and its extensive global reach. However, it also acts as a wake-up call for the present Jain community. Gyansundar Maharaj urges religious leaders and the laity to rekindle the spirit of propagation, learn from the sacrifices and efforts of their ancestors, and actively work towards the revival and expansion of Jain Dharma in the modern world. The author expresses his sincere intention in writing this book and seeks forgiveness if any part causes offense.