Terapanthi Hitshiksha

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Terapanthi Hitshiksha" by Vidyavijay, based on the provided pages:

Overall Purpose: The book "Terapanthi Hitshiksha" (Guidance for the Well-being of Terapanthis) is a critique and refutation of the doctrines and practices of the Terapanth sect of Jainism. The author, Muni Vidyavijay, aims to expose what he perceives as deviations from core Jain principles and to guide readers toward a more authentic understanding and practice of Jainism.

Author's Stance and Motivation: Muni Vidyavijay expresses strong disapproval of the Terapanth sect. He believes that the sect has diverged from the teachings of the omniscient Jinas (Tirthankaras) due to the flawed reasoning and character of its founder, Bhikhamji. He feels compelled to write this book to counter what he sees as harmful misinformation and to correct what he considers to be the misinterpretation and perversion of Jain scriptures by the Terapanth sect.

Key Criticisms and Arguments:

1. Founder's Qualifications (Bhikhamji):

   • The author extensively analyzes the life and character of Bhikhamji, the founder of the Terapanth sect.
   • He highlights Bhikhamji's lack of formal education and scholarly understanding of Jain scriptures.
   • He points out inconsistencies and perceived intellectual limitations in Bhikhamji's early life and teachings, questioning his qualifications to establish a new religious path.
   • The author critiques the biographical accounts of Bhikhamji, which he feels elevate him to the status of a Tirthankara without scriptural basis, calling it blind faith.

2. Rejection of Core Jain Principles:

   • Dayā (Compassion) and Anukampā (Mercy): This is a central theme of the critique. The author argues that Terapanthis deny the importance of compassion and mercy, going so far as to claim that saving a living being is sinful while letting it die is not. He contrasts this with the fundamental Jain principle of ahimsa (non-violence) and compassion.
   • Dān (Charity): The Terapanth sect's stance against charity, particularly in the form of supporting the needy or engaging in acts of kindness, is heavily criticized.
   • Mūrtipūjā (Idol Worship): While the author intended to discuss this extensively, he states that he couldn't fully address it due to time constraints. However, the critique of Terapanth's rejection of idol worship is implied, as it's presented as a departure from traditional Jain practices.

3. Scriptural Misinterpretation and Deviation:

   • The author meticulously examines various Jain scriptures (Agamas) like the Bhagavati Sutra, Dashavaikalika Sutra, Acharanga Sutra, and Vyavahar Sutra.
   • He argues that the Terapanth sect misinterprets verses and misapplies them to justify their unique doctrines.
   • He specifically refutes the Terapanth interpretation of the prohibition of "pasu-pāpa" (animal sin) and "pasu-pāpa" (sin in saving animals).
   • The author strongly criticizes the Terapanth practice of wearing a muhapaṭṭi (mouth cloth) constantly throughout the day, arguing that it is not supported by scriptures and is a deviation from the authentic practice of keeping it ready for use when speaking. He believes this practice is an innovation and misapplied from scripture.

4. Unconventional and "Un-Jain" Practices:

   • Association of Sadhus and Sadhvis: The author expresses shock at the Terapanth practice of allowing Sadhus and Sadhvis to live in close proximity, even in the same house (though not the same courtyard), which he considers against scriptural norms and ethical conduct.
   • Dietary Practices: Practices like drinking raw water (even if treated with ash) are questioned.
   • Disregard for Jain Ethics: The author points to several practices that he believes are contrary to Jain behavior and scripture, such as not intervening when animals are in distress or when a house is on fire.

5. Debates and Previous Works:

   • The author mentions a previous book, "Terapanth-Mat Samiksha" (Critique of the Terapanth Sect), which he wrote after witnessing a debate between his guru and Terapanthi representatives. This book addressed 23 questions posed by the Terapanthis and also included 75 questions posed by the author, to which no published response from the Terapanth side was received.

6. Critique of Terapanth's Defense Mechanisms:

   • The author argues that Terapanthis resort to distorted reasoning, misinterpretations, and selective use of scripture to defend their positions.
   • He dismisses their arguments as "unreasonable logic" and attempts to "cook their own broth" by twisting scriptural meanings.
   • He highlights the perceived internal contradictions and illogical arguments presented by the Terapanth sect.

7. Call to Action for Readers:

   • The author urges readers to examine the scriptures and reason for themselves to understand the true teachings of Jainism.
   • He implores readers to uphold the principles of compassion, charity, and adherence to the true path of Jainism.
   • He expresses his intention to write further on topics like idol worship and other Terapanth doctrines.

Structure of the Book (Implied): The book appears to be structured as an argumentative discourse, where the author presents a criticism, followed by scriptural evidence and logical reasoning to refute the Terapanth position. The text is punctuated by poetic verses (shlokas/dohas) that summarize the arguments or express the author's strong sentiments. The concluding section, "Shiksha-Shatak," offers verses that encapsulate the critique in a more poetic and accessible manner.

Key Concepts Discussed:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence): Central to Jainism, and its denial by Terapanthis is a major point of contention.
• Dayā (Compassion) and Anukampā (Mercy): The author emphasizes these as fundamental Jain virtues that the Terapanth sect allegedly neglects.
• Mūrtipūjā (Idol Worship): Presented as a core aspect of Jainism that Terapanthis reject.
• Scriptural Authority (Āgama): The author's reliance on and interpretation of the Jain Agamas as the ultimate source of truth.
• Charitra (Conduct/Behavior): The author scrutinizes the conduct of Terapanth Sadhus and Sadhvis against scriptural standards.
• Parinam (Intention/Mindset): The author stresses the importance of intention in actions, particularly in the context of karma and compassion, arguing that negative intentions lead to negative karma.
• Samayik/Pratikraman: Mentioned in the context of purification rituals.
• Muhapaṭṭi: A specific focus of criticism regarding its constant wearing.
• Labdhi (Supernatural Powers): Discussed in relation to Tirthankara's powers and the author's disagreement with the Terapanth interpretation.

In essence, "Terapanthi Hitshiksha" is a scholarly and passionate defense of what the author considers the orthodox Jain path, presented as a direct challenge to the doctrines and practices of the Terapanth sect.