Samajik Samrasta Ke Praneta Tirthankar Mahavir - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Samajik Samrasta ke Praneta Tirthankar Mahavir" by Dr. Munni Pushpa Jain:

The book "Samajik Samrasta ke Praneta Tirthankar Mahavir" (Tirthankar Mahavir, the Prophet of Social Harmony) by Dr. Munni Pushpa Jain explores the profound philosophy of equality (Samata) propagated by Lord Mahavir and its relevance for achieving social harmony today.

Core Message:

The central argument is that Lord Mahavir's doctrine of Samata (equality) can serve as a symbol of social harmony if it is practiced in daily life. By embracing this philosophy, individuals can overcome mental conflicts, communal disharmony, religious fanaticism, conservatism, and caste-based discrimination, fostering virtues like friendship, universal religious tolerance, and compassion in society and across the nation.

Key Principles and Their Connection to Social Harmony:

Samata (Equality) as the Mantra of Life: Tirthankar Mahavir, the 24th and last Tirthankar, established ideals of non-violence (Ahimsa), non-absolutism (Anekant), and non-possession (Aparigraha). These principles are the foundation for developing values like universal brotherhood, equality, unity, coordination, and love, all of which are encompassed within the concept of Samata. This doctrine offers an unparalleled mantra for a noble lifestyle, prioritizing human dignity above all else.
Mahavir's Response to Societal Inequality: Mahavir's era was marked by significant societal inequalities. He courageously challenged harmful practices and superstitions, understanding that such reforms are arduous revolutions. He introduced a revolutionary spirit of "coordination" amidst societal discord and sounded the bugle for Samata, advocating for communal harmony and universal brotherhood. This path is presented as critically relevant today.
Samata as the Basis for Social Harmony: In the current transitional and troubled times, Mahavir's principle of Samata is highly significant. His teachings never promoted fanaticism for any particular sect; instead, they championed Samata against religious dogma and conservatism. This principle is instrumental in the unified development of humanism and socialism. Those who neglect the core tenet of Samata and get entangled in superficial differences like caste, language, and color, have obscured the fundamental principles of religion—Samata, tolerance, and co-existence—with the "dust of communalism."
True Equality Beyond External Differences: Mahavir emphasized that true equality cannot be measured by external factors. While acknowledging differences in bodies, minds, tendencies, intellect, tastes, languages, and appearances, he asserted that at the spiritual level, which is the fundamental basis of our existence, all beings are equal. He famously stated that greatness comes not from birth but from "karma" (actions). No one is born a Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, or Shudra; one becomes so by their deeds.
Development of Samata through Principles: Living life according to the principle of Samata leads to introspection and a broader worldview, fostering unity, equality, co-existence, and friendship. This progression culminates in complete social harmony. The development of Samata is achieved by practicing Ahimsa, Anekant, and Aparigraha with mind, speech, and body.
- Ahimsa (Non-violence): This is not merely the absence of violence but a state of friendship towards all beings, encompassing compassion, mercy, benevolence, and love. Mahavir's message, "My friendship is with all beings," underscores this. Treating all creatures equally is the essence of Ahimsa and Samata.
- Anekant (Non-absolutism/Multi-sidedness): Mahavir strengthened humanism by presenting the ideal of Anekant. He addressed the root cause of religious strife—the clash of ideas—which has historically led to wars and suffering. He argued that claiming exclusive knowledge ("What I know is the only truth") breeds ego. Mahavir stated that truth is one, but its aspects are many. We can grasp only one aspect at a time, which is incomplete. Therefore, we should not impose our views on others but strive to understand each other. This fosters coordination and Samata.
- Aparigraha (Non-possession) and Economic Equality: Alongside social equality, Mahavir advocated for economic equality through the principle of Aparigraha. While acknowledging the necessity of wealth for life, he considered excessive accumulation as "poison" and injustice. Human greatness is measured by conduct, not wealth. Greed leads to materialism, which can only be curbed by Aparigraha. The text cites the example of the wealthy merchant Anand, who embraced the vow of limiting possessions and distributing his surplus wealth, marking his first step towards Samata.
Inclusion of Women's Equality: Mahavir also championed the equality of women, raising his voice for their rights. In his time, women were considered inferior and subservient to men in social, religious, and economic spheres. By initiating Chandanbala, a neglected woman, into the monastic order, Mahavir honored womankind.
Samata Beyond Dogmatism: Mahavir's concept of human unity left no room for sectarian prejudice. He believed that an individual's sect is less important than the purity of their conduct and thoughts. While sects can be limited, the message of Samata is universal, ensuring the development and welfare of all. Where Samata prevails, peace, happiness, and love reign.
Samata as the Mother of Harmony: The text laments the erosion of India's inherent values and virtues, leading to a decline in nationalism, duty, love, and devotion, while communalism intensifies. In this dire situation, Lord Mahavir's principle of Samata is most crucial. Overcoming communalism and moving towards social harmony is possible through Samata, coordination, dedication, cooperation, tolerance, and co-existence.
Universal Inclusivity: Mahavir extended the principle of Samata not only to human society but also to animals and birds, recognizing them as essential companions. In his Samavasarana (divine assembly), all beings, from lay followers to monks and nuns, scholars, and even animals, were given equal status. Mahavir proclaimed that the souls of all beings are equal and can progress towards the ultimate state, with no hierarchy of superiority or inferiority. Through this "beacon of social Samata," he illuminated the world and spread the spirit of universal brotherhood. He believed that this social equality would eradicate negative tendencies like attachment, aversion, ego, and stubbornness from the human mind, fostering friendship, love, compassion, cooperation, co-existence, dedication, coordination, and universal religious tolerance, ultimately ushering in peace and happiness throughout the world.

The book, authored by Dr. Munni Pushpa Jain, is praised for its beautiful and insightful analysis of Tirthankar Mahavir's philosophy of Samata.