Pragvat Itihas Part 01

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Pragvat Itihas Part 01," authored by Daulatsinh Lodha and published by Pragvat Itihas Prakashak Samiti. The summary is based on the provided pages of the text, covering its introduction, historical context, key figures, and the establishment of the Pragvat community.

Book Title: Pragvat Itihas Part 01 Author: Daulatsinh Lodha Publisher: Pragvat Itihas Prakashak Samiti

Overall Scope: The book, "Pragvat Itihas Part 01," chronicles the history of the Pragvat community from the fifth century BCE to the nineteenth century CE. It is presented as the first volume of this historical narrative.

Key Figures and Their Contributions:

• Upadesak (Preacher): Acharya Shri Vijayateendrasuriji Maharaj, a prominent Jain Acharya from the Saudharma Brihattapgachhiya lineage. He is lauded as a historian, scholar, and author of various historical and religious texts, including "Yatindra-Vihar-Digdarshan" and "Jain Pratima-Lekh Sangrah." His extensive writings and collection of inscriptions highlight his deep commitment to preserving Jain history and culture.

• Lekhak (Author): Daulatsinh Lodha 'Arvind', B.A., is the author of several poetry books and the editor of "Jain Pratima-Lekh Sangrah." He is recognized for his literary contributions and his detailed work in compiling the history of the Pragvat community.

• Arthasahayak (Financial Supporter): Pragvat Sangh Sabha, Sumerpur (Marwar-Rajasthan), provided financial assistance for the publication.

• Prakashak (Publisher): Shri Tarachandji, serving as the Minister of the Pragvat Itihas Prakashak Samiti. He is also a vice-president of Vardhaman Jain Boarding House in Sumerpur and a descendant of the Pragvat lineage.

Historical Context and Key Narratives:

1. The Origins of the Pragvat Community:

   • The text traces the origin of the Pragvat community to the era of the 23rd Jain Tirthankara, Bhagavan Parshvanath, and his successor, Acharya Shrimad Swayamprabhsuriji.
   • Acharya Swayamprabhsuriji, a master of various sciences and arts, played a pivotal role in eradicating the ritualistic and violent practices (like Yagna and Havan) prevalent at the time and promoted the pure philosophy of Ahimsa (non-violence).
   • He embarked on a journey to the Arbudaachal region, where a spiritual revolution was occurring due to the strong influence of Vedic rituals and animal sacrifice.
   • Upon arriving at Arbuda Tirtha and then proceeding to the newly established city of Shreemalpur, Acharya Swayamprabhsuriji engaged in debates with Brahmin scholars. His victory in these debates led to the conversion of King Jayasen and ten thousand Brahmin and Kshatriya families to Jainism, following the traditional lineage practices.
   • The Jain converts from the eastern part of Shreemalpur became known as 'Pragvat,' those who were wealthy as 'Shreemal,' and the extremely wealthy as 'Dhanotkata.'

2. The Founding of Pragvat and Paurwal Identity:

   • Acharya Swayamprabhsuriji later visited Patanagari Padmavati in the Avliparvat region. King Padmasen of Padmavati, a staunch follower of Vedic traditions, was also planning a major Yagna.
   • Acharya Swayamprabhsuriji again emerged victorious in debates with Brahmin scholars, profoundly influencing King Padmasen and forty-five thousand Brahmin and Kshatriya families to embrace Jainism through the tradition of Kulmaryada (lineage practice).
   • The text highlights that the historical region of Avliparvat, particularly its eastern part (Purvapata), which included the capital city Padmavati, became associated with the Pragvat lineage. Due to the king's authority and the influence of the Pragvat followers, the combined region of Bhinmal and Padmavati came to be known as 'Pragvat.'
   • This act of establishing the Shreemal and Pragvat communities through initiation into Jainism by Acharya Swayamprabhsuriji and his successor, Acharya Ratnaprabhsuriji (who established the Oswal community), is considered a foundational and highly commendable deed for the Jain society, strengthening the governance of Bhagavan Mahavir.

3. The Role of Acharya Vijayateendrasuriji Maharaj:

   • The book is dedicated to Acharya Vijayateendrasuriji Maharaj, who served as the preacher and inspirer for this historical compilation.
   • His early life, characterized by significant personal tragedies and a renunciation of worldly affairs, led him to embrace Jainism and dedicate his life to spiritual pursuits and the propagation of Jain dharma.
   • His journey involved extensive study of Sanskrit and Prakrit languages, deep mastery of Jain scriptures, and a dedicated role in the publication of the "Abhidhan-Rajendra-Kosh."
   • He traveled extensively, delivered powerful sermons, performed various religious rites like Anjan Shalaka Pratisthas, organized large-scale Sanghayatras (pilgrimages), and established educational institutions.
   • His literary contributions, including the "Yatindra-Vihar-Digdarshan" series, are noted for their historical and geographical significance.
   • The author, Daulatsinh Lodha, explicitly credits Acharya Vijayateendrasuriji Maharaj for inspiring and guiding him in this monumental task of writing the "Pragvat Itihas."

4. The Foundation of the Pragvat Itihas Prakashak Samiti:

   • The impetus for writing the "Pragvat Itihas" arose from a discussion between Acharya Vijayateendrasuriji Maharaj and Shri Tarachandji. The Acharya encouraged the compilation of the community's history, recognizing its importance for future generations.
   • Shri Tarachandji took the initiative, and the "Pragvat Sangh Sabha" at Sumerpur accepted the proposal.
   • A committee named "Shri Pragvat Itihas Prakashak Samiti" was formed, with Shri Tarachandji as its minister, to oversee the project.

5. The Process of Historical Compilation:

   • The author, Daulatsinh Lodha, began the writing process in July 1945, with the guidance of Acharya Vijayateendrasuriji Maharaj and the support of Shri Tarachandji.
   • The process involved extensive research, collection of historical books, identification of subjects, and detailed documentation. The author highlights the significant role of Acharya Vijayateendrasuriji Maharaj in identifying and collecting relevant materials, saving the author considerable time.
   • The text includes a detailed "Saadhan Samagri" (Bibliography) listing various Sanskrit, Hindi, Gujarati, and English texts, inscriptions, manuscripts, and other sources consulted.

Key Themes and Significance:

• Preservation of History: The book is a testament to the effort to preserve the rich history and lineage of the Pragvat community.
• Impact of Jain Acharyas: It emphasizes the crucial role of Jain Acharyas in shaping the spiritual and social fabric of communities, particularly in propagating Ahimsa and establishing a strong foundation for Jain society.
• Community Identity: The narrative highlights the formation of the Pragvat community through religious conversion and its subsequent development, emphasizing the importance of lineage (Kulmaryada) in Jain traditions.
• Interconnectedness of Religion and Society: The text illustrates how Jain principles influenced social structures, personal conduct, and community organization.
• Literary and Scholarly Endeavor: The collaboration between the Acharya, the author, and the supporting committee showcases a significant scholarly undertaking in the field of Jain history.

Conclusion: "Pragvat Itihas Part 01" is presented as a foundational work aimed at meticulously documenting the origins and early history of the Pragvat community. It underscores the profound influence of Jain Acharyas in shaping this community and emphasizes the value of historical research and preservation for maintaining cultural and religious identity. The text also serves as a tribute to the spiritual and intellectual legacy of Acharya Vijayateendrasuriji Maharaj.