Veer Dharmno Punaruddhar

The book "Veer Dharmno Punaruddhar" (The Revival of the Veer Dharma) by Nyayavijay, published by Jain Yuvak Sangh, is a treatise focused on the revitalization and reform of Jain society and its core principles. The book advocates for a return to the foundational teachings of Mahavir Swami and addresses various issues plaguing the Jain community at the time of its writing.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the key themes and arguments presented in the book, based on the provided text:

1. The Need for Revival (Upliftment of the Jain Religion): The book begins by highlighting the decline in the Jain population and the perceived weakening of the religion's influence. It argues that the "temple of religion" (Dharma Mandir) has become neglected and filled with "dirt and debris," necessitating urgent purification, reform, and repair. The author expresses deep concern over the declining number of Jains, citing census data that shows a significant decrease over decades, contrasting it with the growth of other religious communities in India.

2. Core Principles of True Jainism:

• Universal Dharma: The book emphasizes that true Jainism is a "universal dharma" (Sarva Dharma). The core tenets identified are ahimsa (non-violence), satya (truth), asteya (non-stealing), brahmacharya (celibacy/chastity), and alompta (non-possessiveness/non-greed). These are presented as universally valid and applicable across all countries, communities, castes, and sects.
• The Essence of Dharma: The true essence of dharma is defined as fostering maitri (friendship), paropkar (helping others), and sham (tranquility/self-control).
• Rejection of Sectarianism: The author criticizes the internal divisions and quarrels within the Jain community, arguing that true followers of dharma do not fight over religious differences. Differences in rituals (karmakanda) are acknowledged as inevitable, but they should not lead to conflict, as inner peace and equanimity are what lead to spiritual progress.
• The Supremacy of Righteous Conduct: Righteous thinking (sadavichar) and righteous conduct (sadachar) are identified as the eternal and true Sanatan Dharma. Anything else is deemed ineffective without them.

3. Social and Ethical Imperatives:

• Importance of Brahmacharya: The book strongly advocates for the significance of Brahmacharya, particularly during the Brahmacharya Ashram (student life). This period is crucial for character building, physical development, and acquiring knowledge, forming the foundation for a strong and virtuous life. The author stresses its importance for both men and women, as women are the future mothers who shape society.
• Need for Social Reform: The author critiques various social ills prevalent in the Jain community, including:
  • Disunity and Lack of Organization: The fragmentation of the community due to internal conflicts (kutsangh, fultar, kalah) is seen as a major weakness, hindering progress. The author calls for a united front, akin to a "General Parliament" for Jains, to address common issues.
  • Marriage Institution (Lagansanstha): The book laments the problems within the marriage system, such as child marriages, unequal marriages (anmel vivah, vriddha vivah), dowry practices, and the commercialization of marriage. It stresses the need for age-appropriate marriages, consideration of health, character, and ability to earn a livelihood, rather than just wealth. The author highlights the detrimental effects of these practices on women and the community.
  • Role of Women: The book champions the empowerment and education of women, recognizing them as the "mothers of the future" and crucial pillars of society. It criticizes the traditional suppression of women and advocates for their intellectual and physical development.
  • Family Life and Marital Duties (Dampati Dharma): The author discusses the importance of mutual respect, love, understanding, and shared responsibilities between husband and wife. He emphasizes the husband's role in providing a conducive environment for family well-being and the wife's contribution to the household.
  • Health and Hygiene (Arogya): The importance of cleanliness, pure food and water, and hygienic practices is stressed for maintaining health, which is considered the foundation for all aspects of life (dharma, artha, kama, moksha).
  • The Role of Monks and Nuns (Sadhu-Sanstha): The book reflects on the current state of the monastic order, criticizing internal discord, lack of scholarly pursuit, and deviation from core principles. It calls for a return to rigorous discipline, the pursuit of knowledge, and a focus on spiritual upliftment, urging monks to be beacons of peace and wisdom. It also advocates for a more organized and impactful approach to monastic life.
  • Revival of Vows and Austerity: The book implicitly calls for a renewed emphasis on the vows and austerities central to Jain spiritual practice.

4. Critique of Current Practices: The author is critical of the superficiality and ritualism that have sometimes overshadowed the deeper spiritual essence of Jainism. He criticizes the focus on outward appearances and the neglect of true spiritual development. The internal conflicts and divisions within different Jain sects are a recurring theme, seen as a major impediment to the religion's progress and unity.

5. Call to Action: "Veer Dharmno Punaruddhar" is a passionate call to action for the Jain community, especially the youth, to awaken from complacency and actively participate in the revival and strengthening of their faith. It urges individuals to embrace their responsibilities, overcome internal divisions, and work towards the moral and spiritual upliftment of society. The book advocates for a proactive approach to address the challenges and ensure the continuity and flourishing of Jainism.

In essence, the book is a reformist document aiming to reawaken the Jain community by reminding them of their rich spiritual heritage and the urgent need to adhere to the core ethical and spiritual principles for their own well-being and the propagation of the faith.