Pratima Pujan - Book Summary | JainGPT

This document is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Pratima Pujan" (Idol Worship) authored by Pt. Shri Bhadrakar Vijayji Ganivar and published by Smruti Granth Samiti, Mumbai. The book is dedicated to the glory of Dev, Guru, and Dharma, and specifically to the revered Acharya Dev Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj and Acharya Dev Shrimad Pradyotan Surishwarji Maharaj.

The text elaborates on the significance and justification of idol worship in Jainism, addressing various arguments and misconceptions. Here's a breakdown of the key themes and points discussed:

1. Introduction and Acknowledgements:

The book's publication is attributed to the grace of Dev, Guru, and Dharma, and the blessings of the revered Acharyas.
It acknowledges the contributions of various individuals and committees involved in the publication, including Muniraj Shri Vajrasenvijayji Maharaj for his diligent work in compiling the writings of Pt. Bhadrakar Vijayji.
Financial support from several individuals like Shri Himmatmalji Rugnathmalji, Shri C.K. Mehta, Shri C.K. Shah, and others is gratefully acknowledged, with special mention of Shri C.K. Mehta as the primary financial supporter for this edition.
The publishers express their gratitude for the efforts of those involved in editing, printing, and design.

2. About the Author (Pujya Panyasji Shri Bhadrakar Vijayji Ganivar):

A detailed biographical sketch of the author is provided, highlighting his unique qualities, contributions, and the impact he had on the Jain community.
He is described as an exceptional yogi of this era, known for his impactful writings, profound understanding of scriptures, and ability to connect with people through his teachings.
His life spanned from VS 1959 to 2036 (approximately 1903 to 2000 AD), spanning 77 years.
His work on the significance of the Namaskar Mahamantra and the principle of friendship (Maitri Bhavna) are particularly emphasized as unique contributions.
He is remembered for his calm demeanor, ability to turn adversaries into friends, and his insightful yet gentle approach to refutation and affirmation.
His teachings often revolved around the principles of "Khama" (forgiveness/patience) and "Namava" (bowing down/humility), which he considered symbols of humility and devotion, respectively.
His passing away in Samadhi is mentioned as a testament to his lifelong spiritual practice.
His journey involved extensive travels, particularly in the Marwar region, where he inspired many to undertake spiritual practices.
His health issues in his later years are described, with doctors expressing astonishment at his resilience, attributing it to the power of his spiritual discipline.
His final Chaturmas in Patan and the circumstances of his passing are narrated, highlighting his devotion and the auspicious timing of his departure.
His birth name was Bhagwandas, and he was initiated as Muni Shri Bhadrakarvijayji under the tutelage of Pu. Ramvijayji Maharaj. He embraced asceticism in VS 1987 (approx. 1930 AD).
He was honored with the title of Panyas in VS 2007 (approx. 1950 AD) in Palitana and remained known as "Panyasji Maharaj" throughout his life.
His humility in refusing the title of Acharya is noted, making him comparable to Acharya Shri Haribhadra Surishwarji in his era.
His philosophy emphasized the chanting of the Ayambil Tap Mahamantra and the Brahmacharya Vrata, influencing the widespread practice of Navpad and Vardhman Tapa, and the popularization of Siddha Chakra Mahapujan.
His 50-year spiritual journey was marked by qualities like humility, detachment, love for humanity, compassion, constant smiles, deep contemplation, devotion to the Namaskar Mantra, and devotion to the Lord.
His life was a confluence of Saraswati (knowledge) and Sanyam (discipline), and his death was a "Samadhi Mrityu" (death in meditation).

3. Table of Contents (Anukramanika): The book is structured into 27 chapters or sections, covering a wide range of topics related to idol worship, including:

The nature of the Durshkalam (age of degeneration) and the importance of Jin Bimb (images of Tirthankaras) and Jin Agam (scriptures).
The concept of Chaitya and its meaning.
The venerability of Pratima (idol).
The fruits of worship and pleasing the mind.
The significance of Jin Mandirs (temples).
Jina Puja and its relation to Ahimsa (non-violence).
The benefits of Prabhu Puja (worship of the Lord).
The eternal nature of Pratima Puja.
The unique life of Tirthankaras.
Jina Pratima as a reflection of Jinvar (Tirthankara).
The disadvantages of denying idols and the advantages of accepting them.
Detailed Q&A sections addressing various doubts and queries related to Pratima Puja, covering concepts like the four Niskhepas, the role of the sculptor, the worship of stone, the concept of 'murti' and 'muhurta', the meaning of Agam, and the debate between formless worship and idol worship.
Discussions on the scriptural, scientific, and logical basis of Pratima Puja.
The concept of 'Sthapana' (consecration/establishment) and its necessity in religious practices.
The ancient nature of Pratima Puja.
The unparalleled significance of Dev Darshan (seeing the divine).
The pervasive nature of Pratima Puja.
Collection of verses (Shlokadi Sangrah).
Pratima Puja as the foundation for attaining the ultimate goal (Param Pad).
Concluding advice and exhortation.
Appendices.

4. Key Arguments and Concepts:

Chaitya: The term Chaitya refers to Jin Mandirs or Jin Bimb (idols) which generate auspicious feelings and lead to the shedding of karma.
Dravya's Role in Bhav (Devotion): The text emphasizes that material objects (Dravya) play a significant role in evoking emotions and devotion (Bhav). Just as seeing a snake evokes fear, seeing a saint evokes goodness, and seeing ruins evokes sadness, seeing the beautiful idols of Jin(e)shwars evokes auspicious feelings.
Pratikruti (Representation): Jin Pratima are considered replicas or representations of Jin(e)shwar Dev, who are described as the most perfect beings in the universe. Seeing them provides an opportunity to experience the concentrated form of their infinite virtues.
Chitta (Mind) and Chaitya: The mind (Chitta) and its activities (Bhav) are considered Chaitya. Jin Pratimas are called Chaitya because they stimulate pure mental states.
Justice of Pratima Puja: The text argues that Pratima Puja is justified because it leads to mental peace, concentration (Samadhi), and ultimately, liberation (Nihshreyas). It is a means to connect with the divine and overcome internal impurities like Raga and Dwesha.
Incomplete Devotion without Pratima Puja: The author argues that denying the worship of idols, while accepting their names, is incomplete devotion. The analogy of a map representing the world for a geography student is used to illustrate how forms help in understanding the formless.
Names and Forms: The text asserts that both names and forms (Pratima) are essential for understanding and worshipping anything, especially abstract or divine concepts. It's a mistake to deny the importance of form while accepting the name.
Savadya vs. Niravdya (Sinful vs. Sinless): The argument that idol worship is 'Savadya' (sinful) is refuted by explaining that 'Savadya' refers to actions driven by worldly desires and passions (Vishay-Kashay). Religious actions, even if they involve some minimal harm to subtle beings (which is inherent in any action), are considered 'Niravdya' (sinless) if they are performed with the right intention (Bhav) and lead to spiritual progress.
The Moksha Marg: The Jain path to liberation is described as one that involves minimal harm and maximum non-violence. Idol worship is presented as a means to progress on this path.
The Nature of Pratima: Jin Pratimas are described as representations of the Tirthankaras, embodying peace, beauty, and detachment. They are considered unique works of art that captivate the mind.
Pratima Puja as a Means to Moksha: The text strongly advocates for Pratima Puja as an essential and effective means to attain spiritual liberation.
Pratima Puja vs. Formless Worship: The book refutes the idea that only formless worship is valid, arguing that forms are necessary aids for beginners to connect with the divine and develop concentration.
The Role of Faith: The text emphasizes that the devotion and faith of the worshipper are paramount. The same idol can evoke different feelings based on the worshipper's internal state.
The Importance of 'Sthapana': The concept of 'Sthapana' (consecration or establishment) is crucial in religious practices, even for inanimate objects associated with revered figures.
The Benefits of Pratima Puja: The text details numerous benefits, including spiritual purification, detachment from worldly desires, attainment of virtues like humility and gratitude, and ultimately, liberation.
Pratima Puja is Ancient: The practice of idol worship is presented as being as ancient as the universe itself, with evidence from scriptures and historical sites supporting its longevity.
The Four Niskhepas: The text elaborates on the concept of four Niskhepas (Name, Sthapana, Dravya, Bhav) as fundamental to understanding any object or concept, including the divine.
Relevance in Durshkalam: The necessity of Pratima Puja is particularly emphasized in the current era (Durshkalam), where spiritual inclination is considered low.
Addressing Common Objections: The book systematically addresses objections like the harm caused to living beings during the ritualistic process, the perceived futility of worshipping stone, and the argument for formless worship. It argues that the intention (Bhav) behind the action is crucial and that the harm in rituals is minimal compared to the spiritual benefits derived.

In essence, "Pratima Pujan" by Bhadrankarvijayji is a profound defense and exposition of idol worship within the Jain tradition. It aims to educate and guide the reader by providing scriptural evidence, logical reasoning, and insightful explanations to address doubts and reinforce the spiritual significance of worshipping the images of Tirthankaras.