Shwetambar Digambar Part 01 And 02 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shwetambar Digambar Part 01 And 02" by Darshanvijay, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Shwetambar-Digambar ( समन्वय / Concordance) Author: Muni Darshan Vijaya Publisher: Mafatlal Manekchand Publication Year: V.S. 2000 / V.E. 2469 (1943 CE)

Overview:

This extensive two-part work, "Shwetambar-Digambar," authored by Muni Darshan Vijaya, aims to bridge the doctrinal and practical differences between the two major sects of Jainism: the Shvetambaras (white-clad) and the Digambaras (sky-clad). The author, in response to a challenge from Muni Sukh Muni, embarked on a deep study of Digambara scriptures to present a comparative and conciliatory perspective rather than a refutational one. The book is dedicated to achieving harmony and understanding between the two traditions.

Key Themes and Content:

The book systematically addresses a wide array of topics where differences exist between the Shvetambara and Digambara schools, presenting arguments and counter-arguments supported by scriptural references and philosophical reasoning. The summary highlights the author's intention to reconcile these differences based on Jain scriptures and principles.

Key Areas of Discussion and Reconciliation:

The two volumes are structured into numerous chapters or "adhikars" covering a vast spectrum of Jain philosophy and practice. Some of the significant areas explored include:

Core Jain Principles: The book emphasizes that the true essence of Jainism lies in Sammat charitra (right conduct) and Syadvada (the doctrine of conditional predication), which are seen as universal and foundational to both sects.
Nature of Jainism: The author argues that Jainism, by its very nature, is meant to be universal. The emphasis on anekantavada (non-absolutism) is crucial for its universal appeal. Rigid adherence to sectarian views (ekantavada) is seen as a limitation.
Origins of Sectarian Differences: The text delves into the historical context of the Shvetambara and Digambara split, tracing it back to the integration of various monastic orders into Bhagavan Mahavir's Sangha, including those of Bhagavan Parshvanath and Makkhali Gosala. The author suggests that initial differences were minor and evolved over time.
Ascetic Conduct and Practices: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to comparing and contrasting the practices of monks from both traditions, including:
- Possessions (Upadhi): The definition of parigraha (possession) is central, with the author arguing that mamata (attachment/possessiveness) is the real obstacle, not the mere possession of certain items like clothes or vessels. This is supported by citing the example of revered figures who possessed items but were considered aparigrahi (non-possessive) due to their lack of attachment.
- Clothing: The debate on whether monks should wear clothes or remain naked is a major focus. The book explores the scriptural injunctions regarding clothing and achelakya (nudity), suggesting that amamatva (non-attachment) is the key, and strict adherence to either wearing or not wearing clothes as an absolute rule might be a misunderstanding.
- Food and Alms: The rules regarding accepting alms, the types of food permitted (including debates on meat, roots, etc., as mentioned in the Ashta Mul Gunas and Digambara Vidhi), and the process of begging (gochari) are discussed.
- Specific Practices: The text covers topics like the jinakalpa and sthavirakalpa, samayika, pauṣadha, pratikramana, preksha, pratyakhyana, etc., attempting to find common ground or explain differences.
- Fasting and Dietary Restrictions: Discussions on rules regarding water consumption, types of food, and the nature of fasting (upavasa) are presented.
- Penance and Atonement: The concept and application of prayaschitta (penance) are examined.
Doctrinal Differences: The book addresses fundamental philosophical and theological differences, including:
- Nature of Kevalis (Omniscient Beings): The author discusses the characteristics of Kevalis, their bodily existence, their sustenance (naukarm ahar), their ability to experience pleasure and pain (vedaniya karma), and the nature of their omniscience.
- Attiśayas (Supernatural Powers/Miracles): The nature and number of atiśayas (special powers or attributes) of Tirthankaras are discussed, with a comparative analysis of Shvetambara and Digambara viewpoints.
- The Role of Women: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the status of women in Jainism, including their eligibility for diksha (initiation), their capacity for moksha (liberation), and addressing perceived limitations or criticisms from both sides. The author uses scriptural evidence to argue for the spiritual equality of women.
- Caste System (Gotra): The book analyzes the concept of gotra (lineage/caste) in Jainism, discussing whether it is determined by birth or conduct and addressing the Shvetambara and Digambara perspectives on issues like shudra initiation and liberation.
- Miraculous Events: The text scrutinizes specific events in Jain history and scriptures that are considered "astonishing" or "miraculous" (ashcharya), such as the birth of Tirthankaras, their garbhāpahāra (transfer of embryo), the role of devas in assisting Tirthankaras, and the dispute over the number of dreams a Tirthankara's mother sees.
Scriptural Interpretation and Authority: The author engages with various Jain scriptures and commentaries from both traditions, aiming to demonstrate that underlying principles are consistent, even if interpretations or emphasis differ. The text also references Buddhist scriptures and other ancient texts to contextualize certain practices.
Conciliation and Harmony: The overarching goal is to foster understanding and a sense of unity within the Jain community, highlighting that the core tenets of Jainism are shared, and sectarian differences are often matters of interpretation or historical development.

Author's Approach:

Muni Darshan Vijaya's approach is characterized by:

Thorough Research: He demonstrates an in-depth knowledge of both Shvetambara and Digambara literature.
Reconciliatory Tone: The aim is to find common ground and explain differences without animosity.
Logical Argumentation: The author presents arguments logically, supported by textual evidence.
Respect for Tradition: While highlighting differences, the author shows respect for the revered figures and scriptures of both sects.

Significance:

"Shwetambar-Digambar" is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to understand the nuances of Jain sectarian traditions. It provides a scholarly yet accessible account of the historical and philosophical underpinnings of these differences, ultimately advocating for a unified and harmonious Jain path. The book serves as a testament to the author's dedication to promoting inter-sectarian understanding within Jainism.