Sthanakvasi Jain Itihas

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sthanakvasi Jain Itihas" by Kesrichand Bhandari, based on the provided pages:

Overall Purpose and Argument:

The book aims to present the history of Jainism, with a particular focus on establishing the authenticity and ancient origins of the Sthanakvasi sect. The author's central thesis is that the Sthanakvasi Jains are the true followers of the original and pure Jain dharma, while the Digambaras and Shvetambara Murtipujakas are later, distorted branches. The book also asserts that Jainism is older than Vedic religion and argues for the Sthanakvasi sect's adherence to the original teachings of Lord Mahavir.

Key Themes and Arguments:

1. Antiquity of Jainism:

   • The author strongly argues that Jainism is an extremely ancient religion, predating even the Vedic religion.
   • Jain Tirthankaras, from Rishabhadeva to Mahavir, were born to Kshatriya families, highlighting the noble origins of the faith.
   • The text refutes claims by some European scholars that Jainism originated after Buddhism or Shankaracharya.
   • Evidence is presented from Hindu scriptures (Mahabharata, Ramayana, Yoga Vasistha) and Vedic texts themselves (mentioning Rishabhadeva and Arishtanemi, and the concept of Syadvada) to support Jainism's ancient roots.
   • The author criticizes scholars who mistakenly link Jainism to Buddhism solely based on superficial similarities in principles.

2. Refutation of Misconceptions about Jainism:

   • The book addresses and attempts to correct widespread misunderstandings about Jainism, such as it being an atheistic or a branch of Buddhism.
   • It laments the lack of proactive efforts by Jain scholars in the past to correct these misconceptions.

3. Critique of Other Jain Sects:

   • Digambaras: The author argues that the Digambara sect is a later development, emerging centuries after Mahavir's nirvana. The claim of antiquity based on nudity is refuted, with evidence suggesting that the original Jain monks (Nirgranthas) were not strictly mandated to be naked, and that the Digambara sect's distinct doctrines, like the inability of women to attain moksha and their scriptures, are later innovations. The absence of the term "Digambara" in early Jain and Buddhist texts is also cited as evidence of their later origin.
   • Shvetambara Murtipujakas (Deravasis): The book strongly criticizes the practice of idol worship among the Shvetambara Murtipujakas. The author argues that idol worship has no basis in the original Jain scriptures, citing the lack of any mention of idol worship in key texts like Upasakadasa, Acaranga, and others. The description of Tirthankaras as being in a state of detachment and meditation is contrasted with the Murtipujakas' practices of adorning idols and offering various items, which the author considers contrary to the Tirthankaras' true teachings. The historical evidence suggests that idol worship became prevalent much later, approximately 600-700 years after Mahavir's nirvana, and the oldest discovered idols are attributed to the Shvetambara sect, but not the Murtipujakas' particular practices.

4. Establishment of Sthanakvasi Authenticity:

   • The Sthanakvasi sect is presented as the true inheritor of Mahavir's original teachings.
   • The author highlights the simple, ascetic, and non-possessive lifestyle of Sthanakvasi monks (Sadhus) as aligning with the original Jain principles, in contrast to the perceived deviations of the Murtipujakas.
   • The Sthanakvasi emphasis on non-violence (Ahimsa) in practice is praised.
   • The narrative of Lankashah, a merchant who discovered the true Jain scriptures and principles, is presented as the catalyst for the modern Sthanakvasi movement, emphasizing the Sthanakvasi rejection of idol worship and the advocacy of core Jain tenets.
   • The Sthanakvasi sect is portrayed as having revived the true, ancient Jain dharma, much like Martin Luther's reformation in Europe.
   • The book defends the Sthanakvasi practice of adhering to 32 scriptures (Agamas) while acknowledging the Murtipujakas accept 45, with internal disagreements among Murtipujakas regarding these scriptures.

5. Historical Context and Sectarian Development:

   • The book details the schism that led to the formation of the Digambara sect from the original Jain Sangha (later identified with the Shvetambaras) due to differences in interpretation and practice, particularly regarding nudity.
   • It explains how the term "Shvetambara" (white-clad) likely emerged to differentiate the original followers from the newly formed naked ascetics.
   • The author asserts that the Sthanakvasi sect is not a branch of the Murtipujaka sect but rather the Murtipujaka sect is a deviation from the original Sthanakvasi lineage.

6. Critique of Murtipujaka Practices:

   • The book extensively details the perceived deviations of the Murtipujaka sect from original Jain teachings, including:
     • Idol worship and the associated rituals.
     • The pursuit of worldly desires (wealth, victory, sons) through idol worship.
     • The use of colored clothes by many Murtipujaka monks, contradicting the "Shvetambara" (white-clad) ideal and Mahavir's teachings as interpreted by the author.
     • The accumulation of wealth and property by Murtipujaka monks.
     • The internal divisions and rivalries among different Murtipujaka Gachhas (lineages).

7. Guidelines for Jain Youth and Community:

   • The latter part of the book provides practical advice and teachings for young Jains, emphasizing:
     • Respect for teachers and elders.
     • Diligent study of Jain scriptures.
     • Regular performance of Samayika (meditation/reflection).
     • Chanting the Navkar Mantra.
     • Adherence to ethical principles like truthfulness, non-stealing, and non-possession.
     • Practicing compassion towards all living beings and avoiding harm.
     • Responsible use of resources like water and fire.
     • The importance of supporting Jain institutions and promoting Jain literature.
     • The duty to defend Jain principles and counter misinformation.

Conclusion of the Book's Argument:

The book concludes by reiterating that the Sthanakvasi sect is the true and ancient lineage of Jainism, faithfully following the original teachings of Lord Mahavir, particularly in their ascetic practices, adherence to core principles, and rejection of idol worship. The author urges readers to study the book impartially and verify the claims made, ultimately reinforcing the idea that only the Sthanakvasi sect can legitimately claim to be the original followers of Jain dharma.