Rushi Sampraday Ve Panch So Varsh - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Rushi Sampraday ve Panch So Varsh," by Kundan Rushi:

This text chronicles the history and development of the "Rushi Sampraday" (Tradition of Rishis) within Jainism over approximately 500 years, tracing its origins from a period of perceived decline to its influential modern-day presence.

The Decline of Jain Practices and the Rise of Lokashah:

Post-Mahavir Era: Following Lord Mahavir's Nirvana, the Jain monastic order (Sangh) functioned smoothly for about a thousand years. However, after this period, while core principles remained unified, practices and conduct diverged, leading to the formation of various sub-sects (Gachhas).
Degeneration of Monastic Conduct: Over time, a laxity in monastic discipline set in. Monks began adopting external displays of status like staffs and palanquins, referring to themselves as 'Yatis' and residing in monasteries similar to other religious orders. They also sought prestige through astrology, mathematics, and tantric practices. This marked a departure from the original renunciatory path, with even those who renounced wealth (kanak-kamini) becoming attached to worldly possessions.
The "Dark Age" of Jainism: This period, roughly a thousand years after Mahavir's Nirvana, is described as a "dim" era in Jain history, where the development of the monastic order was stunted and seemed to be declining.
Lokashah's Revolution: It was during this time that Lokashah, a revolutionary figure, emerged. Even in his youth, he was brilliant and learned. By the age of fifteen, he had deeply studied the Jain scriptures. The stark contrast between the scriptures' prescribed conduct for monks and the prevailing practices of the 'Yatis' deeply disturbed him. He resolved to address this disparity, believing that the current state of the monastic order was tarnishing the legacy of Lord Mahavir. He felt that if this trend continued, Jainism itself would fade away, with people becoming detached from religious sentiments and the monastic order failing to uphold its ideals. His solution was to reacquaint the public with the doctrines and practices outlined in the Agamas (scriptures).

The Founding of the Lonkagachha and its Legacy:

Lokashah's Teachings: Lokashah began advocating for the Agamic principles of conduct and thought. His teachings resonated with the intellectual class, and many began to follow him, zealously promoting Mahavir's pure path of asceticism.
Opposition and Success: Despite facing conspiracies, Lokashah, through his inner strength and integrity, overcame challenges. Inspired by his guidance, 45 individuals expressed a desire for monastic initiation and received it from Jnana Rishi Ji Maharaj. In gratitude, they named their sect "Lonkagachha" after their benefactor.
Growth and Subsequent Decline: The Lonkagachha grew rapidly, with a significant increase in followers and monks. Within 70-75 years, the number of monks reached 1100. However, in the first part of the 17th century, a similar spiritual laxity and internal strife led to the decline of the Lonkagachha, recreating the pre-Lokashah conditions. This necessitated the emergence of another ascetic leader.

The Emergence of the Rushi Sampraday and Lava Rishi Ji Maharaj:

Lava Rishi Ji Maharaj's Ascendancy: In the latter half of the 17th century (Vikram era), Lava Rishi Ji Maharaj appeared as a revolutionary figure. He faced numerous hardships and played a crucial role in revitalizing the path of asceticism. He is considered the founder of the "Rushi Sampraday," and the tradition of righteous conduct he initiated continues to this day.
Background of Lava Rishi Ji: The text details Lava Rishi Ji's background, including his birth in Gujarat, his devotion to Bajrang Rishi Ji Maharaj, and his mother, Fulabai, who became a widow at a young age. Fulabai's son, Lava, was raised with strong religious values. He demonstrated exceptional memory and intellect, mastering scriptures at a young age.
Lava Rishi Ji's Education and Renunciation: Fulabai brought young Lava to Bajrang Rishi Ji for spiritual instruction. Impressed by Lava's aptitude, Bajrang Rishi Ji advised Fulabai to have him study the Jain Agamas. Lava's deep study of scriptures led him to develop profound detachment from the world.
The Decision to Seek a Pure Path: Lava Rishi Ji was deeply saddened by the prevalent laxity in monastic practices. He decided that the best way to reform the lax monks was to set an example by taking monastic vows himself. After convincing his family, he made a condition with Bajrang Rishi Ji that if their principles diverged, he would be free to pursue his own path after two years. He took initiation from Bajrang Rishi Ji in 1662 (Vikram era).
Initiating the "Kriyoddhar" (Revival of Practices): Bajrang Rishi Ji encouraged Lava Rishi Ji to continue his scriptural studies and, due to his old age, sanctioned Lava Rishi Ji to undertake the task of "Kriyoddhar" (reviving righteous practices).
Establishing the Rushi Sampraday's Movement: Lava Rishi Ji, along with his disciples Thobhan Rishi Ji and Bhanu Rishi Ji, began their mission in Khambhat. Their public discourses gained popularity, and influential individuals pledged their support. Lava Rishi Ji emphasized his intention to revive pure practices and sought their assistance. He then formally re-initiated himself and his disciples in Khambhat, vowing to follow scriptural conduct.
Spreading the Message and Facing Opposition: They traveled, preaching against laxity and encountering strong opposition from the Yati community. Lava Rishi Ji was even imprisoned by the local Nawab but was eventually freed due to the influence of the Dharma. He later visited Ahmedabad, where he met Dharmasinh Ji Maharaj from the Lonkagachha, who joined his movement.
Growth and Martyrdom: Lava Rishi Ji continued to spread his teachings, initiating disciples, including Sakhiya Ji Bhansali, expanding their group. He also initiated Somji, a young layman, in 1710. Tragically, Muni Bhanu Rishi Ji was murdered by the Yatis in Ahmedabad. Later, in Burhanpur, followers of Lava Rishi Ji were ostracized by the Yati-influenced community. Ultimately, Lava Rishi Ji himself was poisoned by a conspirator, leading to his death.

The Succession and Expansion of the Rushi Sampraday:

Somji Rishi Ji Maharaj: Lava Rishi Ji's disciple, Somji Rishi Ji Maharaj, became his successor. He engaged in theological discussions with Dharmasinh Ji Maharaj and gained followers, including monks who left Dharmasinh Ji's lineage. Several other influential monks and disciples from various Gachhas joined Somji Rishi Ji, significantly bolstering the Rushi Sampraday.
Various Branches and Influential Acharyas: Somji Rishi Ji's teachings led to the formation of several branches, named after influential disciples or regions, such as the Godhaji, Parashram Ji, Kota, and Hardas Ji (Punjab) traditions. These branches produced many esteemed Acharyas who significantly contributed to Jainism.
Kahan Rishi Ji Maharaj: Born in Surat, Kahan Rishi Ji Maharaj was a disciple of Somji Rishi Ji. He further expanded the Rushi Sampraday's work, with his influence reaching Malwa, where his disciples are still prominent.
Regional Divisions and Prominent Figures: The Rushi Sampraday became divided into Khambhat and Malviya branches. The text lists numerous influential monks from the Malviya branch, highlighting figures like Ami Rishi Ji Maharaj, a prolific writer and poet, and Dev Rishi Ji Maharaj, a great ascetic.
Amolak Rishi Ji Maharaj (The Agama Reviver): Amolak Rishi Ji Maharaj is celebrated for his monumental work in compiling and publishing the 32 Agamas with Hindi translations and pure text. He also authored numerous other books and contributed significantly to Jain literature.
Tilok Rishi Ji Maharaj: Known for his poetic talent and scholarly works, Tilok Rishi Ji Maharaj was instrumental in spreading Jainism to the southern regions of India.
Ratan Rishi Ji Maharaj: Ratan Rishi Ji Maharaj played a vital role in reviving spiritual and cultural consciousness in Maharashtra. He established educational institutions and inspired the founding of the Tilok Jain Pathshala. He also mentored Acharya Anand Rishi Ji Maharaj.
Acharya Anand Rishi Ji Maharaj: The text culminates by introducing Acharya Anand Rishi Ji Maharaj as a prominent and highly respected figure whose scholarly prowess, asceticism, and dedication to the Jain faith have brought honor to the entire community. He is depicted as embodying the virtues of his esteemed predecessors.

The Role of Mahasatis (Female Ascetics):

Historical Oversight: The text acknowledges a historical gap in recording the contributions of women. However, it mentions Mahasati Radhaji Ji as an influential figure who played a role in the organization of the Chaturvidh Sangh and the awakening of women.
Prominent Mahasatis: The text then introduces several notable Mahasatis, including Kushal Kunwar Ji Maharaj (who was honored with the position of Pravartini), Sardara Ji Maharaj, Dhankunwar Ji Maharaj, Dayakankvar Ji Maharaj, Hiraji Maharaj, Sirakankvar Ji Maharaj, and Sumatikankvar Ji Maharaj. These Mahasatis are described as scholars, ascetics, and propagators of Jain teachings, with their disciples continuing their legacy.

Conclusion:

The book emphasizes that the Rushi Sampraday has been a force for propagating Jain principles across India. Its most significant contribution is the "Kriyoddhar" – the revolution against laxity that began with Lokashah and was carried forward by figures like Lava Rishi Ji Maharaj over five hundred years. The Rushi Sampraday has consistently championed organization and unity, even merging with other sects to form a unified "Shraman Sangh." The text concludes by praising the continuous efforts of the Rushi Sampraday's saints and Mahasatis in upholding the ideals of Jain asceticism, knowledge, and spiritual practice, thereby serving the Jain faith and its followers.