Samyaktattva Ka Amudh Drushti Ang Ek Mahattvapurna Parikshan Siddhant

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Samyaktattva ka Amudh Drushti Ang Ek Mahattvapurna Parikshan Siddhant," by Darbarilal Kothiya, in English:

The text emphasizes that while all philosophical systems have their ideals, Jain philosophy's principles are universal, aimed at the upliftment and welfare of every individual, society, time, and field. Unlike doctrines tied to specific individuals or groups, Jainism focuses on both self-development and the well-being of others, regardless of their affiliation. The author highlights the distinction between religion (faith-based) and philosophy (reason-based), arguing that for religion to be meaningful and not mere blind imitation, it must be nourished by philosophy. Jain sages, recognizing the tendency for blind adherence, presented philosophy alongside religious teachings to guide people towards truth and righteousness.

The core of the article revolves around the Parikshan Siddhant (Testing Principle), described as a crucial and fundamental tenet of Jain philosophy. This principle advocates for the thorough examination and verification of any belief or teaching before acceptance. It states that one should not accept something simply because it was said by a particular person, nor reject it because it wasn't. Instead, it should be tested against the touchstone of truth. If the examination confirms its truth, it should be accepted; otherwise, it should be met with equanimity (neither attachment nor aversion). The text likens this to buying even a cheap pot, which is inspected before purchase, and argues that the same rigor should be applied to accepting religious tenets. The testing principle is deemed essential for choosing the path of life's development. While its neglect in worldly affairs can lead to significant losses, its neglect in matters of faith is unacceptable.

The author illustrates this with an anecdote about the Panchkoshi pilgrimage in Kashi. During the pilgrimage, travelers pass by the Jain Ghat (Prabhughat) of the Syadvada Mahavidyalaya. On one occasion, some individuals placed a few stones on the ghat, adorned them with flowers, and sprinkled water. Shortly after, a large quantity of flowers, garlands, coins, and money was offered to these stones. The text points out that no one questioned the absence of a deity's idol, attributing this to Gatanugatikta (following the beaten path) or Andhanukaran (blind imitation). Jain philosophy condemns such blind following, stating that it increases ignorance rather than yielding any benefit. Therefore, the testing principle is not just necessary but mandatory in religious matters.

The text then connects the Testing Principle to the Amudh Drushti (Unconfused or Discriminating Vision), one of the eight limbs of Samyaktva (Right Faith) in Jainism. This Amudh Drushti is essentially the ability to critically evaluate and understand, enabling one to correctly seek truth. Jain thinkers have extended this principle to the point of asserting that even revered beings (Aptas) should be accepted as objects of worship only after their examination. The article cites Acharya Haribhadra Suri's statement, "I have no attachment to Vira (Mahavira) nor aversion to Kapila and others; I accept the word of anyone whose speech is logical." Swami Samantabhadra's work, "Aptamimansa," is highlighted as a significant treatise dedicated to examining Lord Mahavira and accepting him as an "Apta" (a reliable, perfected being) after verifying his divine qualities and teachings (Syadvada). Later Jain logicians like Acharya Vidyananda further promoted the testing principle through works like "Apta Pariksha."

The author concludes by asserting that the reception of truth occurs through examination, not just faith. The Testing Principle, originating in Jain thought thousands of years ago, is now widely accepted globally, even considered the ultimate criterion for establishing the authenticity of any claim. It is the foundation of modern science, used to prove physical experiments and, increasingly, to validate the principles of various religious and philosophical systems. The Jain principle of Amudh Drushti, the text posits, safeguards individuals from deception and blind faith, making its adherence beneficial for everyone.