World Jain Conference 1995 6th Conference

SR No.: 014040
Original Sutra Author: N/A
Author: Satish Jain
Publisher: Ahimsa International
Publication Year: 1995
Total Pages: 257
Language: English, Hindi
Classification: Seminar & Articles
File Size: 23 MB

Page 103

'Tandulvaicharik Prakirnak' dwells upon some 94 innate characteristics of a women. Indeed, at some places the description seems to be derogatory but it is sepcifically mentioned in 'Bhagvati Aradhana' that this description of the shortcomings applies only to ordinary women and women of no chastity, whereas women of chastity have no such shortcomings. Moreover, in praise of womer this book mentions how the glory of a virtuous woman spreads everywhere and she is like a goddess on earth. She is worshipped even by the gods and no words are adequate enough to praise her. It is for this reason that the Jain Agams regard wife as 'dhammasahaya' - as one who helps in religion.
As a result of this concept of equality for women, the role of women in Jain religion has been very significant
Women also played the role of providing inspiration to men. it was because of the inspiration of Hemchandracharya's mother Pahini that he came to earn the reputation as the “Ocean of Knowledge”, Kavi Dhanpal was inspired by his sister Sundari in writing his monumental work 'AMARKOSH'. So also women like Shreedevi and Anupamadevi provided inspiration to their husbands spend their wealth for religious purposes. Even in this century, there have been numerous sadhvis and shravikas who have earned high reputation in various fields. Impressed by the personality of Mahasati Ujjavalkumari, Gandhiji himself went to visit her. Harkunvar Shethani constructed the Hathisinha temples of imense grandeur and sponsored a huge procession of pilgrims and thereby exhibited her skill in management. Mahattara Mrigavatisbriji inspired the contruction of Vallabhsmarak at New Delhi. Sardabai Mahasatiji, Sadhvi Pramukha Kanakprabhashriji and many other Sadhviji's have provided fruitful guidance and leadership to the society.
It is because of this emphatic and positive role of Sadhvis and Shravikas that the Jain religion, committed as it was to non- violence did not approve the 'Sati' system which was prevalent in the Middle Ages. So also it has strongly resisted the 'dasi' system-women slavery and the practice of the trading of women. 'Dasi' system was regarded as a symbol of affluence and prestige. Many dasi's were bought from various countries for the pleasure of Megh Kumar. But Bhagvan Mahavir protested strongly against the practice. Sadhvi Yakshakunvarji struggled incessantly to end the practice of sacrificing animals. Jain religion is fundamentally opposed to the seven vices like polygamy, adultery, addiction to alcoholic drinks, barlotry and gambling. Women from this religion are saved from the torture that results from these evils. In 'GNATA DHARMAKATHA’ King Drupad asks Droupadi to select husband for herself. As mentioned in ‘UPASAK DASHANG', Mahashatak does not compel his wife Revati in any way as regards religious faith, food habits and other matters. On the other hand women like the wife of Shravak Anand very willingly and joyously follow the faith of their husband and perform the 'Upasak' vows of Bhagvan Mahavir. Thus, since the times of Agama era women are allowed total freedom as regards religious faith and life style. Sadhvis used to live and move independently from the company of the Sadhus, and arranged for their own security by appointing a sadhvi as like Pratibari-guard.
Bhagvan Mahavir has glorified the vow of celibacy and women were also allowed to refuse the married way of life and go for the celibate way of living. Women like Brahmi, Sundari Malli,