Terapanth Pavas Pravas

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Terapanth Pavas Pravas" by Muni Navratnamalmuni:

Book Title: Terapanth Pavas Pravas (Terapanth Rainy Season Sojourns) Author: Muni Navratnalmal Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/003055/1

This book is a meticulously compiled historical record of the Chaturmas (four-month rainy season retreats) undertaken by the Acharyas and Sadhus and Sadhvis of the Terapanth Jain tradition. Spanning from its inception in V.S. 1817 (1760 CE) to V.S. 2042 (1985 CE), it covers a period of over 225 years.

Key Features and Content:

1. Comprehensive Chaturmas Record: The core of the book is the detailed listing of Chaturmas locations and the specific Acharyas or senior Sadhus/Sadhvis who observed them during this extensive period.

2. Geographical and Chronological Scope:

   • It covers the Terapanth's Chaturmas travels and retreats across 14 states of India and Nepal.
   • The data is organized chronologically, starting from V.S. 1817.

3. Extensive Data Coverage:

   • The book documents Chaturmas in approximately 425 different locations associated with the Terapanth.
   • It provides details on the Chaturmas of Acharyas in both chronological (year-wise) and geographical (location-wise) order.
   • It also lists the Maryada Mahotsavs (celebrations of vows and discipline) of the Acharyas, again organized by year and location.

4. Biographical Information:

   • The book includes brief life sketches of the Acharyas of the Terapanth.
   • It also provides brief life sketches of the Sadhvi Pramukhas (leaders of the female monastic order).

5. Initiation Records:

   • "Diksha Darpan" (Mirror of Initiation) and "Diksha: Simhavalokan" (Initiation: A Retrospective Glance) provide information related to spiritual initiations within the Terapanth.

6. Alphabetical Listing:

   • A list of prominent Sadhus and Sadhvis is provided in alphabetical order.

7. Historical Context:

   • The book acknowledges a previous attempt by Lakhmi Chand Ji Doongerwal of Sujangarh to compile Chaturmas details from V.S. 1955 to 2012. However, this book aims to provide a more comprehensive record from the very beginning (V.S. 1817) to V.S. 2042.
   • The author, Muni Navratnamal, highlights the effort involved in collecting this data from ancient commentaries, Geetikas (musical compositions), and letters from lay followers, with significant contribution from the "Shasan Samudra" (Ocean of Governance) series.

8. Purpose and Significance:

   • The book serves as a valuable historical resource for researchers and members of the Terapanth.
   • It helps understand the geographical spread and evolution of the Terapanth tradition.
   • The detailed information can inspire a sense of regional historical compilation among lay followers.
   • It fosters a deeper understanding of the Terapanth's history and strengthens devotion to the Sangha.

Author's Contribution:

Muni Navratnamal is described as a talented disciple of Acharya Shri Tulsi, the 9th Acharya of Terapanth. He is a poet, writer, history specialist, and has been involved in literary creation, editing, and research since V.S. 2031. The book is a testament to his dedication and effort in compiling this significant historical data.

Endorsements:

• Acharya Tulsi praises the book as a rare historical collection, vital for understanding the 225 years of Chaturmas activities and the disciplined nature of the Terapanth Sangha under a single Acharya. He commends Muni Navratnamal's tireless efforts.
• Yuvacharya Mahapragya emphasizes the book's importance as a mirror reflecting the long-term migrations of Sadhus and Sadhvis, providing insights into changing circumstances over time. He highlights the significant labor invested by Muni Navratnamal.

Publisher's Note:

Jain Vishva Bharati acknowledges the immense effort and labor undertaken by Muni Navratnamal in compiling and organizing this vast amount of historical information, showcasing his dedication to the task.

In essence, "Terapanth Pavas Pravas" is a monumental work of historical documentation, crucial for understanding the itinerant history and geographical reach of the Terapanth Dharma Sangha. It provides an invaluable reference for anyone interested in the detailed history of this significant Jain community.