Shasan Prabhavika Amar Sadhikaye

The book "Shasan Prabhavika Amar Sadhikaye" (Glorious Immortal Female Ascetics of the Faith) by Devendramuni Shastri, published by Z_Pushkarmuni_Abhinandan_Granth_012012.pdf, is a comprehensive account of prominent Jain female ascetics (Sadhvis) throughout history. The text highlights the contributions and spiritual journeys of numerous influential women who dedicated their lives to the Jain faith, emphasizing their intellectual prowess, ascetic practices, and impact on the propagation of Jainism.

Key Themes and Figures:

The book begins by noting that while Ganadhar Gautam was prominent among the male disciples and Chandanbala among the female disciples after Lord Mahavir, historical records often become silent about prominent female ascetics in later periods. The text then proceeds to highlight notable Sadhvis from various eras:

• Early Prominent Sadhvis:

  • Dharini: The wife of Rashtravardhana, who, after a profound spiritual awakening and escaping a difficult marital situation, became a Sadhvi. She is credited with resolving a conflict between her two sons, Maniprabh and Avantisena, on the battlefield, preventing bloodshed.
  • Yaksha, Yakshadinna, Bhuta, Bhutadinna, Sena, Vena, and Rena: Seven sisters, daughters of Mahamantri Shakadal and sisters of Arya Sthulabhadra. They were known for their exceptional memory and intellectual brilliance, even humbling renowned scholars like Vararuchi in the court of the last Nand. Yaksha, after experiencing remorse for the death of her brother Shriyak (who died during a fast inspired by her), sought divine assurance of her innocence and received four chapters of scripture from Lord Simandhar Swami.

• Sadhvis of Later Centuries:

  • Arya Poini: A learned Sadhvi of the fourth century of the Vir Nirvana era, who was present with 300 other nuns at an Agam council. She was recognized for her intelligence and understanding of Jain scriptures.
  • Saraswati: The sister of the second Kalakacharya. She faced abduction and persecution by King Gardabhilla but remained steadfast in her faith. Arya Kalak rescued her and reinstated her in the monastic order.
  • Sunanda: The mother of Arya Vajra. The text implies a significant community of Sadhvis existed during her time, as Arya Vajra himself studied the eleven Angas from them.
  • Rukmini: The daughter of a wealthy merchant from Patliputra, who was inspired by the renunciation of Arya Vajra and embraced monastic life.
  • Unnamed foreign female ascetic and Murund Princess: A foreign woman, the widow of the Murund king, who took initiation. The text narrates an incident where a Jain Sadhvi bravely faced an elephant threat to protect her modesty and was ultimately honored, leading to the Murund king allowing his sister to become a Jain ascetic.
  • Rudrasoma: The mother of Arya Rakshit, who played a role in her son's advanced studies and also embraced asceticism, inspiring many others.
  • Ishwari: The wife of merchant Jindatt, who, through her faith and guidance from Arya Vajrasena, was instrumental in resolving a famine and inspired her husband and sons to take monastic vows.

• Sadhvi Bhagaji (18th Century): A prominent Sthanakvasi Sadhvi born in Delhi. Known for her immense intellectual capabilities, she memorized 32 Agamas. An anecdote illustrates her profound understanding of scriptures when she corrected a mistake in the recitation of "Chandra Prajnapti" and "Surya Prajnapti" by the learned scholar Dalpat Singhji, which caused the leaves of trees to fall and bloom again.

• Sadhvi Viraji and Saddhaji: Bhagaji's disciples. Saddhaji, born in Sambhar, Rajasthan, displayed remarkable renunciation and determination after her husband's death. She defied societal pressures and her family to embrace asceticism and became a prominent figure in the faith.

• Sadhvi Lachhamaaji: A disciple of Ratnaji, known for her prophetic speech and unwavering faith. She faced hardships and maintained her spiritual path with strength.

• Sadhvi Navlaji and her Lineage: The text details the lineage of Navlaji, tracing it through various disciples like Kansuvaji, Sirakuvarji, Sakarkuvarji, and Najarkuvarji, and then further down to their disciples, highlighting their contributions to scripture study and propagation of Jain principles. It emphasizes the continuity of tradition through successive generations of dedicated ascetics.

• Sadhvi Phoolkunvarji: A disciple of Chagan Kunvarji, she memorized numerous scriptures and had a sweet preaching style. She initiated many disciples and lived a life of great austerity.

• Sadhvi Dhaulakkuvarji: Known for her simplicity and service. She inspired many, including the revered Pushkarmuni Maharaj.

• Sadhvi Sohankunvarji: A highly respected and learned Sadhvi who was appointed the president of the Shramani Sangha. She was known for her deep spiritual practices, rigorous austerities, and dedication to education, advocating for the higher studies of Sadhvis in Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Hindi. She played a crucial role in establishing the Shramani Sangha and its guiding principles.

• Sadhvi Amritaji and her lineage: The text briefly mentions Amritaji, a disciple of Saddhaji, and her lineage, highlighting the intellectual and spiritual contributions of her disciples like Surajkuvarji, Phoolkuvarji, Hulas Kuvarji, and Hukumkuvarji.

Overall Message:

"Shasan Prabhavika Amar Sadhikaye" serves as a testament to the vital role of women in the history and propagation of Jainism. The book highlights their intellectual brilliance, unwavering commitment to spiritual practices, and their courage in facing adversity. It aims to bring to light the contributions of these "immortal female ascetics" whose stories, though sometimes lost to history, were crucial in shaping and sustaining the Jain tradition. The author expresses regret for the lack of comprehensive historical material but emphasizes the importance of recognizing these spiritual figures and hopes that future research will uncover more about their lives and achievements. The book is a valuable resource for understanding the rich heritage of Jain female asceticism.