Vivah Kshetra Prakash

This document is the "Vivah Kshetra Prakash" (विवाह-क्षेत्र प्रकाश), authored by Pandit Jugalkishor Mukhtar and published by Johrimal Jain Saraf. It serves as a detailed response and critique of a review written by Pandit Makhanlal Ji, a preacher from the Jain Orphanage in Delhi. The book's primary aim is to shed light on the current state of marriage practices by demonstrating various ancient traditions.

Key Themes and Arguments:

• Defense of Original Work: The author, Pandit Mukhtar, begins by defending his earlier works, particularly a series titled "Shikshaprad Shastriya Udaharan" (Educationally Profitable Classical Examples). He expresses surprise and dismay at the harsh criticism leveled against his work by Pandit Makhanlal Ji, labeling the review as baseless, illogical, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to obscure the truth.
• Critique of the Review: Pandit Mukhtar meticulously dissects the criticisms made by Pandit Makhanlal Ji. He asserts that the reviewer has misrepresented the objectives and intentions of his original writings, often quoting passages out of context or fabricating interpretations to support his negative claims.
• Historical and Scriptural Analysis of Marriage: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to analyzing classical Jain narratives and scriptures related to marriage. The author uses examples like those of Vasudev, Devki, Jara, Priyangusundari, and Charudatta to illustrate:
  • The Evolving Nature of Customs: Pandit Mukhtar emphasizes that societal customs and marriage rituals have not remained static but have evolved over time due to changing societal needs and contexts. He uses the example of Vasudev's marriages, which were acceptable in his era but would be viewed differently today, to highlight this point.
  • The Spirit vs. The Letter of the Law: He argues that while scriptures provide guidance, blind adherence to outdated rituals without understanding their underlying spirit can be detrimental. He criticizes those who rigidly follow traditions, considering them immutable principles, and contrasts this with the need for adaptation based on time and place.
  • Rejection of Rigid Caste and Gotra Systems in Marriage: Through the examples of Vasudev, Charudatta, and the historical evolution of Gotras in communities like Agarwal and Khandewal, the author challenges the absolute adherence to Gotra, caste, and lineage restrictions in marriage. He highlights how these systems have been created and can be reformed.
  • Acceptance of Inter-caste and Inter-Gotra Marriages: The book provides evidence from Jain scriptures and historical accounts to demonstrate that marriages between different Varnas (castes), Gotras, and even with people of different origins (like Mlecchas and people from different geographical regions) were not uncommon in ancient times and were often accepted by society and even praised by great figures.
  • The Purpose of the Examples: Pandit Mukhtar clarifies that his intention in presenting these historical examples was not to advocate for all ancient practices in the present day but to illustrate the adaptability of customs, the importance of contextual understanding, and the spirit of Jain principles. He aims to show that rigid adherence to current practices can be detrimental and that reform is sometimes necessary.
• Addressing Specific Criticisms:
  • Devki's Marriage: A major point of contention is the author's assertion that Devki was Vasudev's niece and that their marriage, while possibly occurring within the same clan, was acceptable in that era. He defends this by referencing the original texts like the Harivansha Purana and Uttar Purana and critiquing the reviewer's interpretations.
  • Jara's Marriage: The author defends the marriage of Vasudev with Jara, who was of Mleccha origin, by referencing scriptures that describe Mlecchas and their customs. He argues that 'Mleccha' refers to those with impure conduct, and not necessarily all non-Aryans, and that the texts do not show any objection to such marriages in that period. He also debunks the idea that Mlecchas were exclusively ugly or of bad character.
  • Priyangusundari's Marriage: The author clarifies that Priyangusundari's father was born out of wedlock (vyabhicharjat), and therefore considered a 'dasa' or 'gata' in modern parlance. He defends Vasudev's marriage to her, stating it was not considered improper at the time, and points out that even marriages with courtesans (like Charudatta and Vasantsena) were sometimes accepted or tolerated, leading to positive outcomes.
  • Rohini's Marriage (Self-Choice/Svayamvara): The author defends the principle of Svayamvara, where the bride chooses her groom regardless of his status or clan. He explains that Vasudev, disguised as a musician, was chosen by Rohini, and the scriptures support the idea of choice in Svayamvara, even if the groom is not of noble birth.
  • Charudatta's Marriage to Vasantsena: He defends the narrative of Charudatta marrying Vasantsena, a courtesan, and highlights how the community's acceptance and support led to the redemption of both individuals. He criticizes the reviewer's misinterpretation that this promotes promiscuity.
• Criticism of Social Practices: The author strongly criticizes contemporary Jain community practices of excommunication and rigid social judgments, particularly in matters of marriage. He argues that such practices weaken the community and hinder individual progress and reform.
• The Concept of Gotra: Pandit Mukhtar delves into the historical and artificial nature of Gotras, explaining how they originated from sages, places, professions, or events. He illustrates this with the example of Agarwal and Khandewal communities, showing how Gotras were created and changed over time, suggesting that the current rigid adherence to them in marriage is not based on a timeless principle.
• Inter-caste and Inter-Gotra Marriage: He argues that since Gotras are not permanent and can be altered, and given the historical examples of marriages between different castes and Gotras (even within the same lineage), the prohibition of inter-Gotra and inter-caste marriages among Jain sub-castes is not strongly supported by the spirit of the scriptures. He highlights that even ancient kings and ascetics engaged in such marriages.
• The Importance of Original Texts: Throughout the book, the author stresses the importance of referring to the original Jain scriptures and provides quotes and references to support his arguments. He criticizes the reviewer for relying on later interpretations or other texts that contradict the original classical texts.
• Call for Reform and Understanding: The book concludes with a plea for greater understanding, reform, and a more flexible approach to marriage traditions, encouraging readers to consider the historical context and the spirit of Jainism rather than blindly following rigid customs.

In essence, "Vivah Kshetra Prakash" is a scholarly and passionate defense of Pandit Mukhtar's views on marriage, aiming to correct what he perceives as misinterpretations and to advocate for a more progressive and historically informed approach to marital customs within the Jain community. It is a polemical work, directly engaging with and refuting a specific critical review.