Pratima Poojan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Pratima Poojan" (Idol Worship) by Bhadrankarvijay, published by Vimal Prakashan Trust, Ahmedabad, based on the provided text:

Title: Pratima Poojan (Idol Worship) Author: P. P. Shri Bhadrankarvijayji Ganivar Publisher: Shri Vimal Prakashan Trust, Ahmedabad Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/003200/1

Overall Purpose: The book "Pratima Poojan" is a comprehensive defense and explanation of the practice of idol worship within Jainism. It aims to establish the scriptural, scientific, and logical validity of worshipping Jain idols (Jina-pratimas) and to dispel misconceptions and criticisms against this practice. The author argues that idol worship is not an act of ignorance but a profound and beneficial religious activity for both self and societal welfare.

Key Arguments and Themes:

1. Pratima Poojan as the Primary Outcome of Devotional Aspiration: The book opens by quoting Bhagwan Shri Haribhadrasuri, who states that the desire to worship and honor the Jineshwar Dev (Jain Tirthankaras) is the primary outcome of developing the path of renunciation and adherence to the lay follower's (Shravak) dharma. Without this inclination, one has not even achieved the initial stage of this path.

2. Scriptural Foundation and Ancient Practice: The text strongly emphasizes that idol worship is deeply rooted in ancient Jain scriptures and has been advocated by revered Acharyas and Tirthankaras throughout history.

   • It cites scriptures mentioning that worship of 'Chaitya' (Jain temples or images) through mind, speech, and body leads to auspicious thoughts, the shedding of karma, and ultimate welfare.
   • It refers to the authoritative pronouncements of ancient scholars like Shri Jinbhadra Ganikshamashramanji, Shri Umaswatiji, and Shri Bhadrabahuswami, as well as the original Sutrakar Ganadhar Bhagwan Shri Sudharmaswamiji, all of whom affirmed the efficacy of worshipping Arihants' images.
   • The term "Chaitya" itself is explained as relating to the mind or the image of the Jina that evokes profound meditation.

3. Countering Criticisms: The book systematically addresses and refutes common criticisms against idol worship:

   • Violence (Himsa): It argues that Jain worship does not involve violence but rather enhances non-violence (Ahimsa). It clarifies that 'Himsa' in Jainism refers to actions driven by passions (vishay-kashayadi) that harm others, not necessarily all activities involving living beings. The intention behind the action is crucial.
   • Blind Tradition/Stupidity: It counters the claim that idol worship promotes intellectual dullness or is a blind tradition. Instead, it asserts that it fosters purity of intellect and follows the path illuminated by enlightened beings.
   • Jad (Inanimate) Nature: The book extensively discusses the concept of 'Nakshepa' (categories of understanding reality) - particularly 'Nama' (Name), 'Sthapana' (Establishment/Representation), 'Dravya' (Substance), and 'Bhava' (Essence/Quality). It argues that 'Sthapana' (representation like an idol) is a valid means of understanding and connecting with the object it represents, just as names or scriptures are. The idol is not worshipped as a stone but as a representation of the Jina's qualities and path.
   • Is Idol Worship a "Savadh" (Sinful) Act? The text argues that any action aimed at spiritual progress is not inherently sinful. If minor unavoidable violence occurs in ritualistic actions (like cleaning for worship), it is considered 'Swarup Himsa' (inherent violence) rather than 'Anubandhi Himsa' (violence with resulting negative karma), especially when the intention is pure and aimed at higher spiritual goals.

4. The Necessity of Form and Representation (Nama, Sthapana, Anakar):

   • The book explains that for ordinary beings (Chhadmastha), understanding abstract or formless deities and their qualities is difficult without the aid of names, forms, or representations.
   • Just as names remind us of qualities, idols serve as a powerful visual aid, evoking memories of the Jina's virtues and inspiring devotion.
   • The author uses analogies from daily life (like portraits, plans, and even religious symbols of other faiths) to illustrate the universal human need for representation.
   • The principle of 'Nakshepa' is thoroughly explained, showing how names, established representations (like idols), substance, and essence are interconnected and essential for complete understanding.

5. The Role of Idols in Spiritual Practice:

   • Idols are presented as essential tools for devotees to focus their minds, cultivate devotion, and draw inspiration for spiritual practice.
   • They facilitate 'Bhava Poojan' (worship through internal feeling) by providing a concrete object of meditation and reverence.
   • The book claims that idol worship helps reduce worldly attachments and fosters virtues like humility, gratitude, and detachment.

6. Ancientness and Universality of Idol Worship: The text posits that idol worship is as ancient as the universe itself and is a universal principle found across various cultures and religions, even among those who outwardly claim to oppose it.

   • It cites historical evidence of idol worship in various ancient civilizations.
   • It argues that even objectors often engage in symbolic worship of representations (like mosques, crosses, or mausoleums) in their own traditions.

7. The 'Nakshepa' Philosophy in Detail: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to explaining the four 'Nakshepas' (Nama, Sthapana, Dravya, Bhava) in great detail with numerous examples. This philosophical framework is used to justify why an idol ('Sthapana') is a valid and effective object of worship.

   • It explains how even abstract concepts or absent entities can be understood and venerated through their representations.
   • The text clarifies that the worship is directed towards the Jina's qualities and essence, which the idol represents, not the inanimate material of the idol itself.

8. Benefits of Idol Worship: The book lists numerous benefits derived from idol worship, including:

   • Purification of the mind and intellect.
   • Cultivation of virtues and detachment.
   • Attainment of spiritual knowledge and powers (Siddhis).
   • Attainment of auspicious rebirths and ultimately liberation (Moksha).
   • Fostering a sense of community and shared spiritual purpose.
   • Providing a focal point for devotion and meditation, especially for householders.

9. Relevance for Householders (Grasthas): The book highlights that idol worship is a fundamental religious practice for lay followers, providing them with a tangible means to engage in spiritual activities amidst their worldly duties.

10. Historical Context of Opposition: The book provides a historical account of the opposition to idol worship, tracing its roots to historical events and personalities within and outside Jainism. It attributes the opposition to various factors, including misunderstanding, misuse of religious practices, and external influences.

11. Response to Specific Criticisms: The book addresses specific arguments like:

    • "If idols are inanimate, why do they have special rituals?" (The response is that the rituals are for the devotee's spiritual uplift, projecting the Jina's qualities onto the idol.)
    • "Why do idols require protection?" (The protection is for the sacred representation, not because the Jina needs it. This is akin to protecting scriptures or the symbols of one's guru.)
    • "If statues are inanimate, how can they grant liberation?" (The liberation is not granted by the statue itself but by the spiritual progress achieved by the devotee through focusing on the idol and its represented virtues.)

12. The Importance of 'Chaitya' (Temple/Shrine): The text emphasizes the significance of temples ('Chaityalaya') as sacred spaces for worship and community gathering, which in turn facilitates the presence and influence of righteous monks.

Structure of the Book: The book is structured into several chapters (Prakaran), covering:

• Introduction (Prakashakiya, Upodghat)
• Pratima Poojan: Its Spiritual Efficacy and Practice (Pratima Poojan ki Paramarthik Shreyah Sadhyakta)
• Pratima Poojan: Its Antiquity (Pratima Poojan ki Prachinla)
• Pratima Poojan: Its Perpetuity (Pratima Poojan ki Shashwatata)
• Q&A Section: Proving the Scriptural, Scientific, and Intellectual Basis of Pratima Poojan (Prashnosari)
• Collection of Verses and Sayings (Shlokadi Sangrah)
• Thought-provoking ideas of a non-Jain scholar on idol worship.

Conclusion: "Pratima Poojan" by Bhadrankarvijay is a rigorous and detailed treatise that seeks to firmly establish idol worship as an integral and beneficial aspect of Jain practice. It champions the view that through proper understanding and devotion, the worship of Jina idols is a powerful means for spiritual attainment and universal welfare, deeply supported by Jain philosophy and tradition.