Sanatan Jain

This document is an excerpt from "The Sanatana Jaina," a magazine published in Bombay in 1907-1908. The excerpt focuses on Jain philosophy, particularly the Jain view of the elements of the universe and the concept of Nirvana. It also includes a section on the controversy surrounding the sacred Parasnath Hill and its impact on the Jain community, as well as a discussion on Jain scriptures and historical figures.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and concepts presented:

Jain Philosophy and Cosmology:

• Six Dravyas (Substances): The universe is composed of six eternal and independent substances:
  1. Jiva (Soul): Possesses consciousness and nine distinguishing characteristics, including being alive, inclined towards other things (Upyoga), cause of feelings, ability to regulate size, being a sufferer of karma, being worldly, being perfect, and moving upwards.
  2. Pudgal (Matter): Has form and is the only substance with form.
  3. Dharma (Medium of Motion): Helps Jiva and Pudgal move, but does not force them.
  4. Adharma (Medium of Stillness): Helps Jiva and Pudgal cease motion, like shade under a tree.
  5. Kal (Time): The duration of a thing, Akaya (without body).
  6. Akash (Space): Gives room to other Dravyas, divided into Lokakash (where Dravyas exist) and Alokakash (pure space).
• Twofold View: Jain philosophy views everything from two perspectives:
  • Vyavahar (Superficial/Common Sense View): How things are ordinarily understood.
  • Nischaya (Inner/Philosophical View): How things truly are.
• Eternality of Dravyas: All Dravyas are eternal, without beginning or end.
• Union of Jiva and Pudgal: Their union is the cause of worldly suffering and pleasure, while their disunion leads to perfect happiness.
• Seven Tattvas (Cardinal Principles): Ashrava (influx of karma), Bandha (bondage of karma), Samvara (cessation of Ashrava), Nirjara (separation of karma), Moksha (liberation), Punya (merit), and Pap (demerit). These, along with Jiva and Ajiva, form the nine Padarthas.
• Nirvana: The ultimate goal, achieved through the cessation of all karmas, leading to perfect happiness, knowledge, and power, and freedom from the cycle of birth and rebirth.

Controversy over Sametshikhar/Parasnath Hill:

• The article highlights a significant conflict between the Jain community and the Anglo-Indian government regarding the sacred Parasnath Hill.
• The government proposed converting parts of the hill into a sanitarium or allowing building sites, which deeply offended the religious sentiments of the Jains.
• The Jains argued that the entire hill is sacred, sanctified by the austerities and Nirvana of many Tirthankaras and Sadhus. They cited historical evidence and legal covenants (like the 'Ekrarnama' with the Raja of Palgunge) to support their claim to exclusive worship rights over the entire hill.
• The article criticizes the government's actions as insensitive and detrimental to the religious feelings of a large community, especially at a time when national sentiments were already agitated. It appeals to the Lieutenant Governor for a just decision based on recognizing the Jains' rights in the entire hill.

Jain Sastras and Historical Figures:

• The text delves into the nature of Jain scriptures and their historical development.
• It discusses the concept of Agama (scriptures) and how, over time, the original fourteen Purvas (early scriptures) were reduced to twelve Angas and fourteen Upangas due to the loss of knowledge.
• It mentions the contributions of various Jain acharyas like Kundakunda Acharya, Umaswati, Bhadrabahu, Siddhasena Divakara, Hemchandracharya, and Amita Gati, highlighting their philosophical works, grammatical treatises, and historical narratives.
• The text also details the lineage and periods of prominent Jain acharyas and their respective contributions, providing a glimpse into the rich literary heritage of Jainism.
• Jain View of Life and Salvation: Jainism assumes suffering is inherent in the world and offers a path to conquer it through self-control, internal enlightenment, and spiritual happiness. Nirvana is described as a state of perfect bliss, peace, and knowledge, achieved by purging the soul of all desires, passions, and karmic associations.
• Right Faith, Knowledge, and Conduct: These are presented as the three essential components for achieving Nirvana. Right faith is emphasized as the crucial first step, requiring reasoned belief rather than blind faith.
• Rejection of a Creator God: Jainism does not believe in God as a creator, viewing such a conception as imperfect. Their deities are liberated souls who have attained perfection.

Historical Context and Social Commentary:

• The article reflects the socio-political climate of India in 1907-1908, mentioning Mr. John Morley's quote on overcoming prejudice and the growing nationalistic sentiments, particularly in response to the government's perceived disregard for Jain religious beliefs.
• It criticizes the "Anglo-Indian papers" for misrepresenting Jain sentiments and contributing to unrest by portraying the Jain movement as a "dog in the manger" policy.
• The text expresses concern about the decline of spiritual and intellectual prowess among contemporary Jain scholars compared to past figures like Hemchandracharya and Amita Gati, suggesting a need to revive the study of ancient Jain scriptures.

Pali Grammar Discussion:

• A significant portion of the text is dedicated to explaining the basics of Pali grammar, likely as a means to understand the original language of some Buddhist scriptures, which the author suggests has similarities to Jain Prakrit. This section is detailed and technical, covering parts of speech, verb conjugation, and noun declensions.

Overall, the excerpt from "The Sanatana Jaina" offers a multifaceted look into Jain philosophy, its cosmological understanding, the struggles of the community for religious freedom, and a historical overview of prominent Jain scholars and their literary contributions. It highlights the importance of adherence to principles, the pursuit of spiritual knowledge, and the enduring nature of Jain traditions and beliefs.