Unknown Pilgrims

This comprehensive Jain text, "The Unknown Pilgrims: The Voice of the Sadhvīs: The History, Spirituality and Life of the Jaina Women Ascetics" by N. Shantā, offers a profound exploration of the lives, spirituality, and history of Jain women ascetics, known as Sadhvīs and Āryikās. The book, translated from French by Mary Rogers and published by Sri Satguru Publications, Delhi, in 1997, is a detailed and empathetic study based on extensive research and collaboration with the ascetics themselves.

The core of the book lies in its presentation of the Jaina tradition through the lens of its female practitioners. It delves into their radical renunciation, characterized by constant pilgrimage, and their sustained striving for self-purification, with the ultimate goal of Nirvāṇa. The author meticulously draws upon scriptures, ancient texts, biographies, epigraphy, and iconography to provide a holistic understanding of this tradition.

Key Themes and Content:

• The Voice of the Sadhvīs: The book aims to give voice to the Sadhvīs, who have often been overlooked in historical and religious accounts. It highlights their unique perspective on the spiritual path and their essential role within the Jaina community.
• Radical Renunciation and Pilgrimage: Incessant pilgrimage and constant movement are presented as hallmarks of the Sadhvīs' life, reflecting a deep commitment to detachment and self-purification.
• Jaina Philosophy and Practice: The text provides a thorough overview of Jaina philosophy, explaining concepts such as the Tirthankaras, the cosmic cycles (Utsarpiṇī-avasarpiṇī), the fundamental principles of Dharma, and the core tenets of Bhakti. It also delves into the path to Nirvāṇa, detailing the Ratnatraya (Three Jewels: Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct), the seven Tattvas (Realities), and the crucial role of Samvara (stoppage of karmic influx) and Nirjarā (dissociation of karmic matter).
• The Mahāvratas (Great Vows): The book elaborates on the five Great Vows central to Jainism: Ahimsā (non-violence), Satya (truthfulness), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacarya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possession). It explores their implications and the detailed practices the Sadhvīs undertake to uphold them.
• The Āvaśyakas (Daily Duties): The text meticulously describes the six essential daily duties of Jain ascetics, including Sāmāyika (renunciation of blameworthy action), Caturviṁśatistava (praise of the twenty-four Tirthankaras), Vandana (salutation to superiors), Pratikramaņa (repentance and confession), Kāyotsarga (renunciation of the body), and Pratyākhyāna (abstinence for a limited period).
• Dhyāna (Mental Concentration): Recognizing Dhyāna as the highest form of Tapas (austerity), the book dedicates a significant portion to explaining its nature, conditions, types (Ārta, Raudra, Dharma, and Śukla), and methods, particularly emphasizing Dharma-dhyāna and the foundational importance of Svadhyāya (meditative study of scripture).
• Historical Survey: Part I provides a brief survey of the long tradition of Sadhvīs, tracing their presence from ancient times through various regions of India, including Mathura, the Himalayas, Mount Abu, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. It highlights key figures and historical periods, including the roles of Brāhmī-Sundari, Mallinātha, Rājimati, Pārśvanātha, Mahāvira, and Candanā, as well as the historical context of the schism between Digambara and Svetambara traditions.
• The Community of Sadhvīs: The book details the various communities, sects (sampradāyas), and groupings (gacchas) to which Sadhvīs belong. It explains their internal organisation, the role of the Guruni and Acārya, and the significance of study centres (Śikṣā-kendras, Vidyāpitha, Saṁsthā) in their spiritual formation.
• The āryikās: The text specifically addresses the Digambara tradition of women ascetics, the Āryikās, highlighting their distinct practices, including their views on strīmukti (liberation for women) and their recognizably different attire and customs from the Svetambara Sadhvīs.
• Enduring Faith and Contemporary Relevance: The book underscores the enduring faith and vital presence of Jain women ascetics through various historical periods, noting the resilience of the tradition in regions like Gujarat and Rajasthan. It also touches upon the contemporary efforts towards education and emancipation for women within the Jaina monastic framework.

Methodology and Approach:

The author, N. Shantā, adopts a unique approach, combining rigorous academic research with a deep personal engagement. Having lived in India for many years and formed close relationships with the Sadhvīs, she presents their lives and spirituality not just as an academic subject but as a lived reality. The book's structure, moving from historical overview to philosophical underpinnings, and then to the practicalities of daily life, offers a comprehensive understanding. The presentation by Raimon Panikkar emphasizes the book's importance in rediscovering feminine values and its contribution to inter-cultural and inter-monastic dialogue in an age seeking deeper spiritual understanding.

In essence, "The Unknown Pilgrims" is a monumental work that illuminates a significant yet often hidden aspect of Jainism, offering invaluable insights into the history, spirituality, and daily lives of the women who have dedicated themselves to the Jaina path of liberation.