Sanghbhed Namnu Mahapaap

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sanghbhed Namnu Mahapaap" (The Great Sin of Schism in the Sangha):

The book, authored by Acharya Shri Vijay Jaydarshansuriji and published by Shri Jinagna Prakashan, addresses the accusation of causing schism within the Jain community that was leveled against the revered Acharya Shri Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj. The author aims to dispel this misconception and present the historical and scriptural context surrounding the issue, particularly concerning the interpretation and adherence to Jain calendar dates (tithi).

Central Argument:

The core of the book is to prove that Acharya Shri Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj did not cause a schism but rather upheld the scriptural traditions and the true spirit of the Jain Sangha. The accusation of schism arose primarily from disagreements on how to handle the Kshay-Vruddhi (contraction and expansion) of festival dates, especially concerning Parva Tithis (auspicious festival days).

Key Points and Historical Context:

1. The Sanctity of the Sangha: The book begins by emphasizing the supreme importance of the Chaturvidh Shri Sangh (four-fold monastic and lay community) established by the Tirthankaras. It highlights that any action that undermines the Sangha's integrity is a grave offense.

2. Historical Precedent for Handling Tithi Fluctuations: The author presents extensive historical and scriptural evidence to demonstrate that the practice of acknowledging and accommodating tithi Kshay-Vruddhi (contraction and expansion) is not a new or divisive concept introduced by Acharya Shri Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj. Instead, it is a tradition that has been understood and practiced by learned Acharyas throughout Jain history.

   • Early Acharyas: Quotes and references from ancient texts and commentaries by prominent Acharyas like Shri Haribhadrasurishwarji Maharaj, Shri Somtundarsurishwarji Maharaj, and Shri Umaswati Vachak are used to establish the scriptural basis for adapting to tithi variations.
   • Key Texts and Scholars: The book extensively quotes and analyzes texts like:
     • Shri Nandisutra
     • Shri Shree Parushana Sthiti Vichar by Pandit Shri Harshbhooshan Ganivar
     • "Mananiya Vicharana" (a shorter title for "Parva Tithi tatha Sanvatsari Mahapravani Aradhana ne Anghe Shastranusari Suvihit Parampara Many") by Muni Shri Janakvijayji Maharaj and Pt. Shri Jinendravijayji Ganivar.
     • Shri Hirprashnottar and Shri Seansprashn by Tapagachhadhipati Acharyas Shri Vijay Hirsurishwarji Maharaj and Shri Vijaysensurishwarji Maharaj, respectively.
     • Commentaries on the Kalpasutra by Acharya Shri Dharmasagarji Maharaj, Pt. Shri Jayvijayji Maharaj, and Acharya Shri Vinayvijayji Maharaj.
     • Shri Shravakvidhi Prakaran by Acharya Shri Ratanshekhar Surishwarji Maharaj.
     • The "Siddhachakra" publication featuring the views of Acharya Shri Sagaranand Surishwarji Maharaj and his disciples.
     • A historical letter from the Khambhat Sangha dating back to VS 1889.
     • A letter from Pt. Deepvijayji Maharaj from VS 1871.
     • A letter from Pt. Rupvijayji Maharaj from VS 1896.
     • A pamphlet by Acharya Shri Vijay Dharanendrasurishwarji Maharaj (Devsuri Gachh) and its refutation by Acharya Shri Shantisagar Surishwarji Maharaj.
     • A pamphlet by Acharya Shri Mohansagarji Maharaj.

3. The "Sattar" Tithi and "Udayat" Tithi Debate: The book delves into the intricacies of tithi calculations, specifically addressing the concept of "Udayat Tithi" (the tithi that is present at sunrise) and its importance in Jain practice. It argues that adhering to the tithi present at sunrise is a fundamental scriptural principle.

4. Debunking the "New Opinion" Claim: A major thrust of the book is to demonstrate that the understanding and practice of accommodating tithi Kshay-Vruddhi (e.g., observing the festival on the subsequent tithi if the primary tithi is abbreviated or absent at sunrise) was prevalent among many eminent Acharyas and the Sangha for centuries before Acharya Shri Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj. The accusation that he introduced a "new opinion" (navo panth) is presented as a falsehood.

5. The Accusation of Schism: The book systematically dismantles the claim that Acharya Shri Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj caused a schism. It argues that the real "schism" was caused by those who, out of obstinacy or misunderstanding, rejected the established scriptural practices and the consensus of learned Acharyas. The author asserts that those who unjustly accuse Acharya Shri Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj of schism are themselves committing the sin of "Abhyakhyan" (false accusation).

6. Historical Misrepresentations and Counter-Arguments: The author addresses various specific instances and arguments used by those who accuse Acharya Shri Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj. For instance, it refutes the notion that the tithi dispute began in VS 1992, presenting evidence of similar debates and practices much earlier. It also highlights how certain historical documents and statements were selectively interpreted or misrepresented to malign the Acharya.

7. The True Spirit of the Sangha: The book concludes by reiterating that true adherence to Jain principles lies in upholding the scriptures and the consensus of the learned, rather than clinging to stubborn opinions. It advocates for unity and understanding within the Sangha, urging readers to seek truth based on historical evidence and scriptural authority.

In Essence:

"Sanghbhed Namnu Mahapaap" is a detailed defense of Acharya Shri Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, presented through a rigorous examination of Jain scriptures, historical records, and the writings of numerous prominent Acharyas and scholars. The book asserts that the concept of tithi Kshay-Vruddhi and its appropriate handling according to scriptural principles is well-established in Jain tradition. It argues that the accusation of schism against Acharya Shri Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj is a false propaganda, and instead, it was the adherence to these established principles that unfortunately led to misunderstandings and accusations from those who either misunderstood the scriptures or were driven by other motives. The book urges the community to rely on historical evidence and scriptural understanding to resolve such disputes and maintain unity.