Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 01

Here's a comprehensive summary of "Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 01" by Kamtaprasad Jain, based on the provided pages:

This first volume of "A Concise Jain History" by Babu Kamtaprasad Jain aims to present a historical overview of Jainism, emphasizing its ancient origins and the contributions of its Tirthankaras and other significant figures. The book is published by Mulchand Kisandas Kapadia.

Overall Goal and Philosophy:

The author, Kamtaprasad Jain, is presented as a dedicated Jain scholar committed to Jain literature. The publisher, Mulchand Kisandas Kapadia, expresses the book's demand due to the publication of later volumes and their desire to make it accessible despite material shortages. The work is positioned as a crucial effort to correct misconceptions about Jainism and elevate its status in the world. The author acknowledges the collaborative nature of such historical work and expresses gratitude to those who assisted in its creation.

Key Themes and Arguments:

1. Historical Antiquity of Jainism:

   • The book strongly asserts that the antiquity of Jainism is directly tied to the increasing historical evidence for ancient India.
   • It argues that Jainism predates the Vedas and that many concepts and figures mentioned in Hindu scriptures have Jain origins or parallels.
   • Evidence cited includes the use of the term "Arhat" (worshipable deity) in the Rigveda, the mention of Jain Tirthankaras like Rishabha, Suparshva, and Nami in Vedic texts, and the description of Jain monks (Shramanas) who opposed violent Yagnas.
   • References are made to the historical acceptance of Lord Parshvanath and the connection of Lord Neminath to the Mahabharata era.
   • The book highlights the presence of Jain elements in Buddhist scriptures (e.g., "Nigrantha" mentioned in Jataka tales and Nikayas) and the philosophical similarities.
   • Archaeological findings at sites like Harappa and Mohenjo-daro are presented as supporting evidence for ancient Jain practices, with mentions of Jain-like sculptures and inscriptions.
   • The debate on the origin of Aryans is touched upon, suggesting that Jainism, as an Aryan philosophy, implies that Jains are the original inhabitants of India.
   • The author critically examines Vedic texts, suggesting that some sections, particularly those related to animal sacrifice, might have been later additions or interpolations to support evolving Brahmanical rituals, contrasting with the core Jain principles of non-violence.

2. The Time Cycle (Kalachakra) and Stages of Civilization:

   • A significant portion of the book explains the Jain concept of time as cyclical, divided into ascending (Utsarpini) and descending (Avasarpini) phases.
   • Each phase is further divided into six parts, describing the gradual evolution and decline of human lifespan, physical stature, happiness, and societal development.
   • The book details the stages of civilization, from the "Bhogbhumi" (Era of Enjoyment) where humans lived in ease with the help of celestial Kalpavriksha trees, to the "Karmabhumi" (Era of Action), which marks the beginning of human effort, societal organization, and the emergence of Tirthankaras.
   • The author carefully describes the transition from Bhogbhumi to Karmabhumi, highlighting the role of the 14 Kulakaras (law-givers) who gradually introduced societal structures, laws, and knowledge.

3. The First Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhanatha:

   • The volume dedicates substantial content to Lord Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara of this era.
   • His birth, upbringing, significant dreams experienced by his mother, and his divine birth are described in detail, drawing from Jain Puranas.
   • The book emphasizes Lord Rishabha's role as the founder of civilization, introducing concepts like agriculture, industry, governance, script (Brahmi script), and the establishment of the four Varnas (Brahman, Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra).
   • His renunciation, the establishment of the Jain monastic order (Sangha) for both monks and nuns, and his attainment of Kevalgyana (omniscience) are narrated.
   • The narrative includes the significant events of his son, Bharata Chakravarti, and his subsequent renunciation.

4. Subsequent Tirthankaras and Great Figures:

   • The book then proceeds to detail the lives of the other Tirthankaras from Ajitanatha to Parshvanatha.
   • For each Tirthankara, it provides information about their birth, parents, lifespan, notable life events (like renunciation, attainment of Kevalgyana, and Moksha), and their respective Ghans (chief disciples).
   • The descriptions highlight the recurring themes of dharma propagation, the cyclical nature of spiritual decline and revival, and the specific contributions of each Tirthankara.
   • The lives of Chakravartis, Narayanas, and Pratinarayanas are also briefly mentioned in relation to the Tirthankaras of their respective eras.

5. Jain Geography and Cosmology:

   • The book touches upon Jain cosmology, describing the structure of the universe, Jambudvipa, and Bharatkshetra.
   • It explains the geographical divisions within Bharatkshetra and their relation to the concept of Aryakhanda, suggesting that modern continents might be part of this ancient division.

6. The Twelve Angas (Dwadashanga Vani):

   • A significant portion is dedicated to explaining the twelve Angas of Jain scripture, which constitute the sacred "Arsha Veda" or "Shruta."
   • The author explains the nature of divine speech (Shruta) and its characteristics, emphasizing its infallibility and its role in conveying ultimate truth.
   • A detailed breakdown of the content and number of "Madhya Pada" (units of discourse) for each of the twelve Angas and subsequent texts (like 14 Purvas and 5 Chulikas) is provided, illustrating the vastness and depth of Jain scripture.
   • The importance of oral tradition and the eventual need for scriptural compilation due to the decline of memory power over time is also discussed.

7. Jain Dharma and Civilization:

   • The book argues that Jainism is a scientific and philosophical religion, based on principles of causality, karma, and the eternal nature of the soul.
   • It outlines the fundamental Jain principles, including the seven tattvas (soul, non-soul, influx, bondage, cessation, liberation, and karma) and the four cardinal virtues (non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, chastity, and non-possession).
   • The author stresses that Jainism is not a religion based on deities or avatars but on self-effort and the attainment of liberated souls (Tirthankaras) who show the path to Moksha.
   • The text describes the societal structure, ethical guidelines for both monks and householders (the six necessary duties), and the emphasis on non-violence and compassion.
   • The contributions of Jain civilization to Indian culture, including arts, sciences, and governance, are highlighted. The author points out the advanced state of knowledge regarding agriculture, medicine, and warfare in ancient Jain times.

In essence, "Sankshipta Jain Itihas Part 01" serves as an introductory volume that lays the foundation for understanding Jainism's historical depth. It aims to establish Jainism as an ancient, scientifically grounded religion with a rich philosophical and cultural heritage, tracing its origins from the time of Lord Rishabhanatha through the lives of the subsequent Tirthankaras and the core tenets of its scriptures. The book emphasizes the need for accurate historical understanding to counter misconceptions and appreciate the profound contributions of Jainism to Indian civilization.