Sant Samagam Na Sambharna

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Sant Samagam na Sambharna" (Memories of Saintly Encounters), authored by Ambubhai Shah and published by Mahavir Sahitya Prakashan Mandir, Ahmedabad:

Book Title: Sant Samagam na Sambharna (Memories of Saintly Encounters) Author: Ambubhai Shah Publisher: Mahavir Sahitya Prakashan Mandir, Ahmedabad

This book is a collection of reminiscences and experiences of the author, Ambubhai Shah, with Muni Shri Santbalji, a revered Jain monk. The book aims to capture the profound impact of interacting with such a spiritual figure on an individual's life and, by extension, on society.

The preface, written by Manu Pandit, highlights that the book fulfills a desire to pay tribute to Muni Shri Santbalji's associates. It emphasizes that the author, Ambubhai Shah, is one of the individuals whose character was shaped by the Muni. His narrative style is described as simple, engaging, and devotional, offering readers a glimpse into the transformative power of spiritual guidance. The preface also acknowledges Indukumar Jani for his introductory remarks and expresses hope that the collected experiences will inspire other organizations. It notes that while some events may seem repetitive, they are presented from different perspectives, adding depth.

Indukumar Jani, in his introduction, draws a parallel between Jain tradition and Gandhian thought, emphasizing the universal humanism espoused by Muni Shri Santbalji. He highlights the book's ability to transport readers to a past era, showcasing how familial bonds foster strength, how social organizations function, and how individual development alongside societal progress occurs. The anecdotes are presented in a simple and heartfelt language, illustrating the sequential development from the individual to the family, the institutional family, and finally the global family. Jani points out that the incidents, though old, remain relevant, offering lessons on public participation, hygiene, women's empowerment, social reform, farmers' issues, charity, justice, and the need for peace armies. He concludes by stating that the book effectively portrays how a true saint guides society, citing Muni Shri Santbalji's renunciation of the title "Shatavadhani" as an example of his scientific approach to spiritualism, urging contemporary "miracle-working" saints to follow suit. Jani expresses a wish for more such reminiscences to be added.

The author, Ambubhai Shah, in his own words ("Lekhak na Be Bol"), explains that personal experiences became indispensable to the narrative. He was inspired by Muni Shri Santbalji's suggestion to document these encounters. He reflects on how these stories, shared through a series of articles, can impart social values and encourage readers to understand, recognize, and engage in social service. The book, originally conceived as a series of articles, was published as a booklet due to reader demand. He hopes the book provides insight into how associating with a true saint can transform an individual's life and lead to societal change.

The book is structured into various chapters, each detailing specific events and lessons learned from Muni Shri Santbalji. Key themes and incidents covered include:

• Small Family, Big Family, World Family: Early experiences of transitioning from personal to institutional and then to a broader societal perspective, influenced by Muni Shri Santbalji's guidance on familial responsibilities and organizational work.
• The End of the Earth is Home: Discusses the challenges of securing basic needs like housing, and how the community rallied to support individuals.
• Today Society Walks Upside Down: Critiques societal norms and the misplaced reverence for wealth and power, particularly within religious contexts, contrasting it with the true values of spirituality and service.
• Cleaning Work: Acharya Devo Bhava: Highlights the importance of sanitation and communal cleanliness, referencing Muni Shri Santbalji's direct involvement in cleaning drives, even in the face of societal stigma.
• Mira from Mooli: The transformation of a young widow, Mooliben, into 'Miraben' through Muni Shri Santbalji's guidance, emphasizing the elevation of women and the breaking of societal barriers. It also touches upon the challenges faced by women in society and the importance of equality.
• Moment-by-Moment Awareness: Illustrates the profound mindfulness and constant vigilance of Muni Shri Santbalji, exemplified by his fasting due to a minor indulgence.
• All Seem Equal in Nature: Explores the concept of equality and the inherent divinity in all beings, regardless of gender or social standing, and Muni Shri Santbalji's efforts to challenge traditional gender biases within the Jain monastic order.
• Cow Dung Wheat: Depicts the stark reality of poverty and the author's encounter with a community forced to consume wheat mixed with cow dung. It highlights the ongoing struggle for human dignity and the need for continued social reform.
• Socialization of Austerity (Tap): Details how Muni Shri Santbalji transformed individual austerity into a tool for social change, as seen in the "Bugad Social Purification" program to address theft and injustice.
• "Wherever and Whatever is Appropriate...": Discusses the need for contextual and practical application of principles, rather than rigid adherence to tradition, especially when it hinders social progress.
• The Mathematics of Unity: Uses simple analogies to explain the importance of unity and cooperation, both within a community and for the nation.
• Democracy and Spirituality: Explores the intersection of governance and spiritual principles, advocating for ethical leadership and the integration of spiritual values in political decision-making.
• Elementary Lessons in Philosophy: Shows how profound philosophical concepts were simplified by Muni Shri Santbalji for widespread understanding and application.
• Bhal Pipeline Scheme: Chronicles the inspiring story of a community effort, guided by Muni Shri Santbalji, to bring piped water to a drought-prone region, overcoming significant financial and logistical hurdles.
• "Jivraj" - Why a Person's Name? Explains the origin of the "Jivraj Bhal Nalkantha Jal Sahayak Samiti," highlighting how the name reflected respect for a donor's legacy while emphasizing the broader mission.
• Golden Paddy: Recounts the initiative to establish a fair pricing system and cooperative farming for paddy, empowering farmers and breaking free from exploitative market practices.
• Wheat-Paddy Exchange: Describes a resourceful barter system for agricultural inputs like paddy and wheat, demonstrating innovative solutions to resource scarcity.
• Banas Kantha Needs Seed: Details a remarkable initiative to procure vital wheat seeds for the Banas Kantha region during a crisis, showcasing community effort and inter-regional solidarity.
• "We Take Money But...": Delves into Muni Shri Santbalji's philosophy on receiving donations, emphasizing that true charity is done without expectation and that the giver benefits from the act of giving. It also highlights the importance of maintaining the dignity and autonomy of the recipient organization.
• Correcting a Colleague and the Way to View Them: Illustrates Muni Shri Santbalji's approach to handling mistakes, focusing on gentle correction and understanding rather than condemnation.
• The Drama of Justice: Narrates a poignant incident where a flawed legal system contrasts with spiritual principles, highlighting the need for a more compassionate and truth-seeking approach to justice.
• Let's Not Blame Others for Our Weaknesses: Encourages self-reflection and accountability, rather than attributing personal shortcomings to external factors.
• Activities of Shanti Sena (Peace Army): Describes the formation and work of a peace corps dedicated to non-violent conflict resolution and social harmony.
• Avadhan is Not a Miracle, It is Memory Power: Debunks the misconception of 'Avadhan' (a memory-related skill) as supernatural, attributing it to practiced memory power and emphasizing its practical application in education and social upliftment.
• The Means of Livelihood Should Not Be Taken Away: Focuses on protecting the livelihoods of the marginalized, as seen in the struggle to preserve land for farmers against development projects.
• The Approach of a Commander and Saints: Compares the strategic thinking of a military leader with the guidance of saints, emphasizing the shared goal of societal well-being through different means.

The book serves as a testament to Muni Shri Santbalji's profound influence and the timeless relevance of his teachings on social justice, humanism, and spiritual living. It is a valuable read for anyone interested in Jain philosophy, Gandhian principles, and the power of dedicated social service.