Samyaktva Shalyoddhara

The provided text is an excerpt from "Samyaktva Shalyoddhara" (सम्यक्त्वशल्योद्धार), authored by Atmaramji Maharaj (also known as Vijayananda Suri). The book is published by Atmanand Jain Sabha, Punjab, and was printed in 1903.

The core purpose of this book is to refute the beliefs and practices of the "Dhundhak" sect, which is presented as a deviation from true Jainism. The author, Atmaramji Maharaj, a respected Tapa Gaccha Acharya, undertook this task after studying the principles of Jainism and recognizing the Dhundhak sect's teachings as contrary to the established scriptures.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the key points and arguments presented in the provided pages:

1. Introduction and Context:

• Purpose: The book aims to clarify and uphold the true Jain path, refuting the "Dhundhak" sect's erroneous doctrines, particularly those attributed to a monk named Jethmal.
• Origin of Dhundhak Sect: The author traces the origin of the Dhundhak sect to about 250 years prior to the book's writing. He states that no learned saint or follower of this sect is known to have emerged from within the Jain tradition, implying its external or erroneous origin.
• Author's Background: Atmaramji Maharaj himself abandoned the Dhundhak path after studying Jain principles, influencing many in Punjab, Marwar, and Gujarat to return to the Tapa Gaccha tradition.
• Tapa Gaccha: The author emphasizes that "Tapa Gaccha" is not an arbitrary name but is derived from the traditional lineage of Jain gurus, being the sixth name in a sequence originating from Shridharmaswami.
• Critique of Jethmal's "Samkit Sar": The book is written in response to Jethmal's work, "Samkit Sar" (समकितसार), which the author deems flawed and contrary to true Jainism. "Samkit Sar" was reportedly created in 1865, but gained prominence when reprinted in 1903.

2. Refutation of Dhundhak Doctrines (Chapter by Chapter - based on the Index):

The index and subsequent content reveal a detailed point-by-point refutation of Dhundhak claims, covering a wide range of topics:

• Origin of Dhundhak Sect: The book discusses the Dhundhak sect's origin and lineage, attributing it to a scribe named Lanka and later influential figures like Lavji of Surat. It highlights their deviation from Jain practices and scriptures.
• Scriptural Interpretation: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to interpreting and defending Jain scriptures (like Bhagavati Sutra, Sutrakritanga, Acharanga Sutra, Nandi Sutra, Anuyogadvara Sutra, etc.) against the Dhundhak sect's misinterpretations.
• Idol Worship (Pratima Puja): This is a central theme. The author vigorously defends the worship of Jain idols, citing numerous scriptural passages and historical examples of lay followers (Ananda, Ambaḍ, Draupadi) and even celestial beings (Suryabha, Vijaypoliya) who worshipped idols. He refutes the Dhundhak claim that idols are unnecessary or even wrong.
• Monastic Practices: The book addresses various monastic practices, including the use of a "muhapti" (mouth covering), the length and type of "rajoharan" (broom), carrying money ("ganth mein garath"), and other rituals, contrasting the Dhundhak practices with the scriptural norms.
• Acceptable Food (Aadha-karmya Ahar): The text discusses the rules regarding food intake for monks and lay followers, criticizing the Dhundhaks' practices related to "aadha-karmya" (impure/contaminated food) and their consumption of impure items.
• Sacred Sites (Yatra Tirth): The author defends the importance of visiting sacred sites and refutes the Dhundhak notion that such journeys are meaningless.
• Meaning of Terms: The book clarifies the correct scriptural meanings of terms like "Kayabalikamma" (कृत बलि कर्मा - ritualistic offering/worship), "Siddhayatan" (सिद्धायतन - abode of the perfected), and "Chaitra" (चैत्य), arguing against the Dhundhak interpretations.
• Role of Scriptures: The author defends the validity of various Jain scriptures, including commentaries (Niyukti, Bhashya, Churni, Tika), which the Dhundhaks tend to disregard. He argues that without these commentaries, the understanding of the original scriptures becomes difficult, and disputes arise.
• Contradictions in Dhundhak Beliefs: The author points out inconsistencies and contradictions within the Dhundhak sect's own doctrines and their adherence to only 32 out of the 1444 Jain scriptures, according to their claims.
• Examples of Jain Virtues: The book uses narratives and examples from Jain scriptures to illustrate the correct path and the virtues of adherence to Jain principles.
• Refutation of Specific Dhundhak Claims: The author systematically addresses numerous specific claims made by the Dhundhak sect, often presenting them as questions and then providing scriptural refutations. These include claims about:
  • The birth and status of Tirthankaras.
  • The nature of celestial beings and their worship.
  • The practice of taking disciples by "purchase."
  • The use of amulets and spells.
  • The fruits of various religious practices.
  • The meaning and practice of "Samayika" (meditation) and "Pratikramana" (repentance).
  • The acceptance of money and various rituals like "Ujamanas" (celebrations).
  • The validity of "Namuṭṭhunaṁ" (a specific prayer).
  • The nature of "Dravya Nichepa" (material representation) and "Sthapana Nichepa" (established representation) in relation to worship.
  • The significance of the "Bhabbya Kula" (family lineage of the destined) and "Abhabbya Kula" (family lineage of the non-destined).
  • The meaning of "Chaitra" (temple/idol/tree), refuting the Dhundhak interpretation of it meaning "sadhu" or "knowledge."
  • The proper interpretation of scriptural verses regarding the use of "muhapti" and other monastic tools.
  • The validity of devotional practices like singing, dancing, and theatrical performances in the presence of Tirthankaras.
  • The rationale behind idol worship and the perceived "flaws" in it pointed out by the Dhundhaks.
  • The interpretation of verses related to permissible and impermissible actions in Jainism.
  • The supposed contradictions in the scriptures themselves, which the author argues are due to misinterpretation or lack of understanding of the nuanced Jain philosophical approach (Nayas, Apeksha).

3. Author's Tone and Purpose:

• Polemical but Principled: While the book is polemical in nature, aiming to expose the Dhundhak sect's errors, it maintains a principled stance, relying heavily on scriptural authority and logical reasoning within the Jain framework.
• Educational and Reformative: The ultimate goal is to educate the Jain community, guide those who may have strayed towards erroneous paths, and uphold the sanctity and integrity of the Jain faith as handed down through generations.
• Emphasis on "Syadvada": The author implicitly promotes the Jain principle of "Syadvada" (manifold perspectives), suggesting that apparent contradictions in scriptures are often resolved by understanding different contexts, limitations, or interpretations, which the learned scholars (Acharyas) have elucidated in their commentaries.

In essence, "Samyaktva Shalyoddhara" is a comprehensive theological and historical defense of orthodox Jainism against a perceived schism, providing a detailed scriptural and logical argument against the Dhundhak sect's teachings, particularly their rejection of idol worship and their deviations from established Jain practices and interpretations.