Surat Chaitya Paripati

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Surat Chaitya Paripati" by Kesharichand Hirachand Zaveri, publisher Jivanchand Sakerchand Zaveri, based on the provided pages:

Overall Purpose and Context:

"Surat Chaitya Paripati" is the second book in the "Seth Hirachand Khubchand Jain Pustak Series." It aims to document the history and significance of Jain temples (Chaityas) in Surat. The book is presented as a valuable resource for understanding the rich Jain heritage of the city, highlighting its ancient temples, inscriptions, and the devotional practices associated with them.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Introduction to Surat and its Jain Heritage:

   • The book begins by praising Surat as a significant city, emphasizing its antiquity and the long-standing presence and prosperity of the Jain community.
   • It cites historical mentions suggesting Jain presence in Surat even before the common era, referencing the construction of four temples in Rander (near Surat) by King Samprati.
   • The text highlights Surat's historical importance as a center of trade and culture, suggesting its wealth contributed to its significant religious establishments.

2. The Significance of Chaitya (Temples) and Idol Worship:

   • A significant portion of the book is dedicated to discussing the concept of "Chaitya," defining it as both the Jain idol (Jin bimb) and the temple itself (Jinalaya).
   • It engages in a philosophical discussion about idol worship ("Murti Puja"), defending its practice within Jainism. The author argues that "Murti Puja" is not merely worshipping stone but a means to connect with the divine principles embodied by the Tirthankaras.
   • The text addresses arguments against idol worship by explaining the different interpretations of the term "Murti Puja" (worship from the idol, worship of the idol, worship in the idol) and asserting that the Jain practice is the first and third.
   • It uses analogies, historical examples (like Akbar honoring the statues of Veer Jaimal and Fateh Singh), and scriptural references to demonstrate the efficacy and ancient tradition of worshipping divine forms for spiritual progress and remembering virtues.
   • The author counters the idea that worshipping idols is incompatible with worshipping an formless, all-pervading God by stating that even abstract meditation involves visualization of a form. It also points out that even those who oppose idol worship often rely on visual representations (like photographs of gurus).

3. The Importance of Devotion (Bhakti) and its Five Forms:

   • The book outlines five essential aspects of devotion to Jain Tirthankaras:
     • Worship with offerings (Pushpadip-Puja): Using flowers, sandalwood, incense, lamps, and offerings.
     • Following their teachings (Aadnya): Adhering to the commandments and principles taught by the Tirthankaras. This is emphasized as paramount, even more so than ritualistic worship. The text critiques modern interpretations that deviate from these teachings for convenience.
     • Protection of Devadravya (Temple Property): Safeguarding and enhancing the wealth and resources dedicated to temples.
     • Celebrating Festivals (Utsav): Organizing and participating in religious celebrations.
     • Pilgrimage (Tirth Yatra): Visiting sacred sites associated with the Tirthankaras.
   • The text strongly advocates for the adherence to these practices, even when facing challenges or societal shifts, critiquing those who use "changing times" as an excuse to abandon fundamental religious duties.

4. The Need for Temple Renovation (Jirnoddhar) and Protection (Tirth Raksha):

   • The book highlights the duty of renovating old and dilapidated temples, stating that it carries eight times the merit of building new ones.
   • It laments situations where wealthy temples are well-maintained while others fall into disrepair, emphasizing the need for balanced resource allocation.
   • It discusses the importance of proper management and advises against initiating renovations without sufficient resources or expertise, leading to incomplete projects.
   • The text stresses the critical need for "Tirth Raksha" (protection of holy sites) due to instances of encroachment and misuse by non-Jains and even some within the community. It criticizes the laxity and negligence that have led to these issues.

5. The Role of Priests and Staff:

   • The author strongly advocates for appointing Jain priests and staff for temple management and worship.
   • The book details the negative consequences of employing non-Jain priests, citing examples of idols being replaced or mixed with other deities (like Shiva Lingams in Jain temples), and instances of mismanagement and financial impropriety.
   • It draws parallels with other communities that prioritize their own members for roles, urging the Jain community to do the same.
   • The text also touches upon the need for proper financial management and transparent administration, suggesting a committee structure for oversight rather than solely relying on one individual.

6. The Importance of Funds (Fand) for Temple Maintenance:

   • The book emphasizes the necessity of establishing robust maintenance funds for temples, suggesting that the corpus should be substantial enough to cover expenses and potentially renovations.
   • It calls for dedicated funds for temple renovations and for providing essential items like saffron and sandalwood for worship.

7. Surat's Devadravya and Chaitya-related Funds:

   • The text lists various institutions and funds established by the Jain community in Surat for educational, social, and religious purposes, showcasing their extensive philanthropic activities.
   • It specifically mentions the "Seth Dharamchand Udaychand Jain Jirnoddhar Fund" and the "Seth Ghelabhai Lalbhai Kesar-Baras Fund," detailing their purposes and contributions.

8. Detailed Catalogue of Surat's Jain Temples:

   • A substantial portion of the book is dedicated to listing and describing specific Jain temples in Surat.
   • For each temple, it provides:
     • The temple's name.
     • Its location within Surat (e.g., Gopipura, Nanavat, Shahpur).
     • The presiding deity (Mulnayak).
     • Details about the founder, administrative trustees, and the Gachchha (sect) associated with the temple.
     • Information about renovations, renovations, and the installation of idols.
     • Notes on the condition of the temple and any specific architectural features or artwork.
     • References to ancient inscriptions and poetic descriptions from texts like "Ladhsha's Chaitya Paripati" and "Vinayvijayji Upadhyay's Sūryapur Chaitya Paripati."
   • The "Pratimā Lekho" (Inscriptions on Idols) section is particularly detailed, providing dates, names of donors, monks, and the specific Tirthankaras or deities installed, offering valuable epigraphic data for historical research.

Author's and Publisher's Intent:

• Preservation of Heritage: The primary goal is to document and preserve the historical and religious significance of Surat's Jain temples for future generations.
• Promoting Devotion: The book aims to inspire devotion and reinforce the importance of traditional Jain practices like temple worship and pilgrimage.
• Community Service: It highlights the philanthropic and community-serving nature of the Jain community in Surat.
• Educational Value: It serves as an educational tool, providing historical, architectural, and religious information about Jainism in Surat.

Significance:

"Surat Chaitya Paripati" is a significant work for several reasons:

• Historical Documentation: It provides a rare and detailed historical record of Jain temples in Surat, including their origins, renovations, and inscriptions.
• Religious Defense: It offers a reasoned defense of Jain idol worship, addressing common criticisms and reinforcing its theological basis.
• Community Pride: It showcases the deep-rooted devotion, architectural achievements, and philanthropic spirit of the Jain community in Surat.
• Epigraphic Resource: The extensive listing of inscriptions is a valuable resource for scholars of Jain history, art, and epigraphy.

In essence, "Surat Chaitya Paripati" is a comprehensive gazetteer of Jain temples in Surat, interwoven with theological arguments for temple worship and devotion, and a testament to the vibrant Jain heritage of the city.