Sthanakvasi Jainonu Dharm Karttavya

The book "Sthanakvasi Jainonu Dharm Kartavya" (The Religious Duty of Sthanakvasi Jains) by Nagindas Girdharlal Sheth, published by Jain Siddhant Sabha, is a discourse aimed at elucidating the core principles of Jainism and critiquing contemporary sectarian practices, particularly within the Sthanakvasi tradition. The author's primary goal is to guide Jains towards understanding and adhering to the original, pure teachings of Lord Mahavir, advocating for unity and dispelling misconceptions that have arisen through the proliferation of different sects and interpretations.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the key themes and arguments presented in the text:

Core Argument:

The central thesis of the book is that the true Jain Dharma, as propounded by Lord Mahavir, is singular and based on truth and Anekantavada (non-absolutism). The author argues that the emergence of various sects or Sampradayas has led to deviations from this pure dharma, often introducing elements of Ekanatavada (absolutism) and thereby veering towards untruth or Mithyatva (false belief), which is considered a grave sin in Jainism. The author's mission is to awaken Jains to this reality and encourage them to return to the foundational principles of their faith.

Key Themes and Arguments:

1. The Original Purity of Jain Dharma: The book strongly emphasizes that Lord Mahavir established a single, unified Jain Dharma. There were no divisions or sects during his time. The author asserts that any deviation from the original teachings, especially those that introduce exclusivity or a singular viewpoint (Ekanatavada), constitutes a departure from the pure, foundational dharma.

2. Critique of Sectarianism (Sampradayavada):

   • Origin of Sects: The author contends that sects (Sampradayas) arise when followers deviate from the original pure Jain Dharma to some extent. Therefore, no Jain sect can be considered the original Jain Dharma itself.
   • Ekanatavada as Untruth/Mithyatva: The introduction of Ekanatavada (holding to one single viewpoint as absolute truth) within sects is identified as a major deviation from the Jain principle of Anekantavada. This Ekanatavada is branded as Mithyatva, which is a significant sin.
   • The Role of Sadhus: The author points fingers at Sadhus (monks) as the primary reason for the fragmentation of Jainism into various sects and for perpetuating these divisions. Sadhus who preach the Ekanatavada of their specific sect and strive to maintain it are not considered true Sadhus. Similarly, those who uphold Ekanatavada are not true Shravakas (lay followers).

3. Emphasis on Truth and Understanding: The book urges readers to recognize, understand, and embrace the pure, original Jain Dharma. It stresses that accepting truth as truth is a religious duty (Dharma Kartavya), and rejecting truth is Mithyatva, which leads to prolonged cycles of birth and death (Bhavabhraman).

4. The Issue of Idol Worship (Murti Puja): A significant portion of the book, and a major point of contention between different Jain sects, is idol worship.

   • Historical Presence: The author argues, with extensive referencing to scriptures, inscriptions, archaeological findings, and even Buddhist texts, that idols of Tirthankaras and their temples existed even during the time of the Tirthankaras.
   • Distinction between Murti and Murti Puja: A crucial distinction is made between the idol (Murti) and the act of idol worship (Murti Puja). The author asserts that while the idols themselves were present in ancient times, the savadya (sinful/worldly) form of Murti Puja, with its elaborate rituals and expenses, is a later development.
   • Critique of Savadya Murti Puja: The author strongly condemns the elaborate and often costly rituals associated with Savadya Murti Puja, suggesting they were introduced by later Acharyas, possibly to conceal their own laxity in practice or to gain influence through wealthy patrons. The author believes that the original form of worship was simpler and focused on devotion rather than elaborate ceremonies.
   • Sthanakvasi Position: The book addresses the Sthanakvasi viewpoint, stating that due to not understanding the distinction between Murti and Murti Puja, they have rejected idols along with Savadya Murti Puja. The author contends that the Sthanakvasi sect's rejection of idols is based on ignorance and a misunderstanding of historical and scriptural evidence.
   • Call for Acceptance of Murti: The author firmly advocates that accepting the existence of Murti, which was accepted by the Tirthankaras, is a religious duty for every Jain.

5. The Concept of "Chaitra": The book delves into the interpretation of the word "Chaitra," which is often debated. The author argues that its primary meaning, supported by etymology and various ancient texts (including Sanskrit and Buddhist literature), refers to a shrine, idol, or temple, not to abstract concepts like knowledge or a sadhu, as some Sthanakvasi interpretations suggest. The author criticizes the Sthanakvasi practice of misinterpreting scriptural words to fit their sect's beliefs.

6. Critique of Sthanakvasi Practices: The book directly addresses the Sthanakvasi community, urging them to re-examine their beliefs and practices. It criticizes their emphasis on certain rituals (like the Mahapatti) while potentially neglecting other core tenets, their rejection of idols, and their tendency towards Ekanatavada. The author believes that without solid scriptural proof for their interpretations, their stance leads to Mithyatva.

7. Call for Unity: A significant underlying theme is the call for unity among Jains. The author expresses a strong desire to bridge the divides between different sects and re-establish the oneness of the Jain dharma. The author believes that by recognizing the truth and adhering to the original principles, unity can be achieved.

8. The Role of Sadhus: The author places a significant responsibility on Sadhus and Sadhvis to uphold the pure Jain dharma. They are urged to abandon sectarianism and lead followers back to the true path. The author expresses disappointment that many Sadhus are more concerned with upholding their specific sect's doctrines than with propagating the original pure Jain dharma.

9. Importance of Understanding and Decision: The book encourages readers to read, reflect, and make their own decisions based on reasoned understanding, rather than blindly following established sectarian traditions.

In essence, "Sthanakvasi Jainonu Dharm Kartavya" is a passionate plea for a return to the fundamental truths of Jainism, advocating for a unified approach to the dharma that embraces the historical and scriptural evidence for practices like idol worship (while distinguishing it from later excesses) and rejecting the narrow, sectarian interpretations that have fragmented the community. The author aims to empower Jains with knowledge to discern the truth and act according to their religious duty.