Vartaman Sandarbh Me Mahavir Ki Shikshaye

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vartaman Sandarbh me Mahavir ki Shikshaye" by Sudha Jain, based on the provided pages:

The book "Vartaman Sandarbh me Mahavir ki Shikshaye" (Mahavir's Teachings in the Present Context) by Sudha Jain, highlights the timeless relevance and practical applicability of Lord Mahavir's teachings in today's world, which is increasingly plagued by violence, materialism, and social unrest due to rapid scientific advancements.

Core Message:

The central argument of the book is that the path prescribed by Lord Mahavir, characterized by Ahimsa (non-violence), Achaurya (non-stealing), Aparigraha (non-possession), Tapasya (austerity), and Brahmacharya (celibacy/self-control), is the only true way for humanity to achieve all-round progress – spiritual, material, economic, social, political, and ethical. In a world suffering from its own cruelty and desperately seeking peace, Mahavir's path offers a release from the suffocating environment of violence and a liberating entry into the pure sky of peace.

Key Teachings and Their Relevance:

• Ahimsa (Non-violence):

  • Jainism's concept of Ahimsa is presented as the most profound, extending to even the smallest, one-sensed beings.
  • Described as "Sarvabhuyakhemankari" (beneficial to all beings), Amritarupa (nectar-like), Parabrahmaswarupa (essence of the supreme spirit), and Sarvavyapini (all-pervading).
  • Ahimsa is not just a teaching but the expression of consciousness in all living beings, forming the very basis of human society's existence.
  • While absolute Ahimsa might be difficult, practicing it in a "sthula" (gross) sense is both possible and essential for the welfare of humanity.
  • Mahavir emphasized that all beings desire happiness and dislike suffering, hence no one should be caused pain. This makes Ahimsa the paramount path.

• Achaurya (Non-stealing) and Aparigraha (Non-possession):

  • These principles are presented as crucial for the liberation of souls weary of worldly existence.
  • Imperialism and capitalism are blamed for degrading humanity to a state worse than animals, making the need for change critical.
  • Aparigraha, as propounded by Mahavir through Mahavratas and Anuvratas, is a universal, eternal, and universal truth.
  • Possessiveness is identified as the root of all suffering. The text quotes scriptures stating that one should keep oneself away from possessions (Pariggaha) as they disrupt peace and equality, creating unrest and disparity.
  • The absence of attachment (Murchha ka abhav) through the Aparigraha vow leads to freedom from suffering. Possessions are seen as the door to hell, while Aparigraha is the door to liberation.
  • Practicing Aparigraha ushers in simplicity, moderation, and peace into life, benefiting all six categories of living beings (Shatjivanikay).

• Ankanto (Multi-perspectivism) and Syadvada (Conditional Predication):

  • Anekanto is presented as a tool to test the truth of Mahavir's path. It is defined as the manifestation of mutually contradictory powers that establish the existence of an object within a single entity.
  • While Anekanto fosters understanding, Syadvada aids in the expression of that truth.

• Equality and Social Reform:

  • Mahavir preached equality among all castes and classes, stating that greatness is not determined by birth or lineage but by actions.
  • He asserted that liberation is attainable by anyone through their Karma, regardless of their birth. All beings possess equal consciousness.
  • The example of Harikeshi, a Chandal's son, being accepted into the monastic order and honored highlights the emphasis on Karma over birth.
  • Mahavir's revolutionary impact on Indian religious history is acknowledged, with him being credited for rejuvenating existing religions and providing new life to them.
  • His philosophy of Ahimsa and his advocacy for women's rights, granting them equal status in his Sangha, are highlighted as significant contributions to societal progress and women's empowerment.

• Self-Reliance and Inner Strength:

  • The teaching of "Atmaupanty" (self-reliance) is emphasized. Just as we desire only happiness and dislike pain, so do all beings. Therefore, causing pain to others is unacceptable.
  • True liberation comes from inner penance, self-reliance, and personal effort, not from external means or inflicting physical hardship on oneself.
  • The path to liberation lies in pure intentions, knowledge, Ahimsa, and truth.

• The Sangha (Monastic Order) and its Organization:

  • Mahavir's unique ability to organize his followers is noted. The structured system of distinct rules for ascetics and householders, and their interrelationships, created an unbreakable chain within his Sangha.
  • This strong organizational structure allowed Jainism to remain stable and well-managed through various crises.

• Mahatma Gandhi and Mahavir's Influence:

  • Mahatma Gandhi is presented as a prime example of someone who drew inspiration from Mahavir's teachings for his world-changing methods.
  • Principles like Ahimsa, truth, the eradication of untouchability, women's upliftment, and social equality are directly linked to Mahavir's philosophy.

• Mahavir's Eight Messages for the Welfare of All:

  • The book concludes by listing eight specific messages from the "Sthanang-sutra" that Mahavir gave for the welfare of people: listen to the scriptures, remember what is heard, stop new actions, destroy past karma, become a refuge for the helpless, educate the uneducated, serve the sick without expectation, and remove conflicts impartially.

In essence, the book argues that in a modern world grappling with the consequences of violence and materialism, the principles of Ahimsa, Aparigraha, and self-reliance taught by Lord Mahavir offer a clear and direct path towards individual and collective salvation and progress.