Sadhumargi Jain Dharmanuyayioe Janva Jog Ketlik Aetihasik Nondh - Book Summary

This comprehensive summary of "Sadhumargi Jain Dharmanuyayioe Janva Jog Ketlik Aetihasik Nondh" by V. M. Shah aims to capture the essence and historical details presented in the text, acknowledging the limitations of summarizing a book that is itself a historical compilation.

Overall Objective:

The book "Sadhumargi Jain Dharmanuyayioe Janva Jog Ketlik Aetihasik Nondh" (Historical Notes to be Known by Followers of the Sadhumargi Jain Dharma) by V. M. Shah, published by Purushottamdas Hargovind Shah, is a historical treatise intended to provide followers of the Sadhumargi Jain tradition with essential historical knowledge. The author, V. M. Shah, emphasizes the importance of understanding the past to strengthen faith and guide present actions, while also acknowledging the need for critical evaluation of historical accounts.

Author's Stance and Methodology:

Quest for Truth: Shah expresses a deep personal quest for historical truth, acknowledging that many existing historical accounts are biased or influenced by sectarian interests. He states that he doesn't have complete faith in any single sect's written history.
Critical Evaluation: He advocates for evaluating history based on character and actions rather than just names or lineage. He criticizes the practice of each sect claiming direct lineage from Mahavir and declaring others as illegitimate.
Openness to Criticism: Shah is not afraid of criticism and anticipates that his candid remarks might displease some within the Sadhumargi community.
Personal Background: He reveals he was born into a family that followed the Dariyapuri sect but was not afraid to critically analyze their traditions.

Key Themes and Content:

The Nature of Religion and Sects:
- Shah begins by exploring the nature of religion and the debates surrounding religious truth. He posits that while the core truth of religion is eternal, human interpretations and practices (mats) can differ and lead to conflict.
- He differentiates between "Dharma" (eternal truth) and "Mat" (human interpretation and practice), arguing that conflicts arise from the latter. He highlights that the core principles of Jainism, as he understands them, are rational and that deviations from these principles by individuals or groups are to be criticized.
Historical Context of Jainism:
- Lord Mahavir: The book starts with a brief account of Lord Mahavir's life, his teachings, and his immediate disciples, setting a foundational timeline for Jain history.
- The "Bhasm Grah" Period: Shah discusses a prophesied period of decline in Jain practices following Lord Mahavir, linking it to a lack of propagation and worship of enlightened individuals. He connects this to the era of Lord Lokashah.
The Rise of Lokashah and the Lok Gachh:
- Reformer and Scholar: The central figure in the early historical narrative is Lokashah, a wealthy merchant from Ahmedabad. Shah portrays him as a scholar and reformer who, through his meticulous study and copying of Jain scriptures, recognized the deviation from original teachings.
- Critique of Idol Worship: Lokashah is presented as a strong critic of idol worship, questioning its scriptural basis and the practices associated with it. He argued that scriptures do not mandate idol worship and that the focus should be on inner spiritual development and adherence to the core principles of Jainism.
- Founding of the Lok Gachh: Lokashah's reformist zeal led to the establishment of the Lok Gachh (or Lok Gachh), which aimed to revive the pure teachings of Jainism. He is credited with initiating a "mission" to spread these pure teachings, which significantly impacted the Jain community, leading many to embrace the Lok Gachh ideology.
The Evolution and Divisions within the Lok Gachh:
- The Role of 'Yatis' and 'Sadhus': The text details the emergence of two distinct groups within the Lok Gachh: the 'Yatis' (who became more attached to possessions and worldly affairs) and the 'Sadhus' (who remained closer to the original ideals of renunciation).
- Disciple Lineages and Schisms: Shah meticulously traces the lineages of prominent disciples and the subsequent schisms within the Lok Gachh. Key figures like Dharmasinhji, Lavji Rishi, and Dharamdasji are highlighted as significant reformers who either tried to uphold the original Lok Gachh principles or initiated new branches in response to perceived deviations.
- Geographical Spread: The narrative follows the spread of these movements across Gujarat, Kathiawar, and Punjab, detailing the establishment of various sub-sects or "Samudays" (Gachhs).
The Role of Reformers and the Need for Continuous Reform:
- Dharmasinhji: Shah devotes significant attention to Dharmasinhji, presenting him as a pivotal figure who championed the strict adherence to Jain principles, even confronting his own guru and later establishing a separate path. His significant contribution of composing commentaries (Tiba) on scriptures is emphasized.
- Lavji Rishi and Dharamdasji: These figures are also discussed as important reformers who emerged in response to the perceived decline in practices within their respective communities.
- The Cycle of Reform: Shah frames reform as a continuous process, suggesting that as darkness creeps into any tradition, reformers emerge, and this cycle is natural. He expresses a hope that further efforts will lead to greater clarity and unity.
Critique of Current Practices:
- Shah voices strong criticisms of contemporary Jain practices, including the accumulation of wealth by religious leaders, the disconnect between teachings and actions, and the proliferation of divisions within the community.
- He laments the lack of historical documentation and the tendency to rely on legends rather than verified facts.
The Importance of the Sadhumargi Path:
- While critical of various sectarian practices, Shah expresses a high regard for the principles of the Sadhumargi Jain path, finding its tenets rational and conducive to a virtuous life.
- He advocates for self-reliance, understanding of karma, peaceful diligence, and the mental acquisition of virtues through reverence, rather than material offerings.

Structure and Approach:

The book is structured thematically and chronologically, beginning with general principles of religion, then delving into historical periods, the emergence of specific lineages (Gachhs), and the lives of key reformers. The author frequently refers to historical records, oral traditions, and his own critical analysis.

Overall Contribution:

"Sadhumargi Jain Dharmanuyayioe Janva Jog Ketlik Aetihasik Nondh" is a scholarly attempt to provide a historical framework for the Sadhumargi Jain tradition. It is characterized by the author's deep commitment to truth, his critical approach to historical narratives, and his desire to offer a clearer understanding of Jainism's historical development. The book serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to understand the origins and evolution of different Jain sects and the reform movements that shaped them.