Historical Perspective of Samvatsari Day and Jain Calendar

Author(s): Pravin K Shah
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

Page 9

have a different Moon phase and hence the actual Tithi will be different (error rate could be up to two days or more). Hence we can safely conclude that the Tithis defined in all Jain calendars are meant for uniform religious activities (Ärädhana) and to create social harmony among Jains of each Jain sect located in the various cities of India and of the world. It has no other religious significance associated with it. Recommendation It is the desire of every Jain person to see that all Jains celebrate Samvatsari / Kshamäväni (Forgiveness) on the same day thus avoiding confusion and projecting unity. This way we can collectively start the movement to stop slaughtering animals on Samvatsari day and other similar movements for compassion and non-violence activities. It seems that Jain leaders in India find it very difficult to compromise on this issue. Shvetämbar Murtipujak Jains have tried 9 times over the past 120 years period and have not been able to resolve the Tithi problem among themselves, which is not a real problem to begin with (Tithis in the present Jain calendar are derived from the Hindu calendar of the Jodhapur or Mumbai area based on the Sunrise time). To have differences on this issue reflects rigidity our leaders' part. Every one provides their reason but forgets that the root of our Jain calendar is a Hindu calendar and not the Jain Agam. Hence any reason given by quoting the scriptures are not the valid reasons. A very simple solution exists for Jains in India as follows: "Shwetambar Murtipujak Tapa Gachchha Jains should change Samvatsary Day back to Bhadarva Shud 5 and start to use Chaandasu chandu Hindu calendar as a base for Jain Calendar This will solve almost all the problems associated with Samvatsari Day. Every Jain including one tithi and two tithi sects will do Samvatsari Pratikraman on the same day. All differences in various calendars will disappear. North American Jains North American Jains have created an environment conducive to unite all Jain sects. The following is the summary of their accomplishments in this area:
Almost all Jain centers in North America are nonsectarian centers Almost all Jain temples have both Shvetämbar and Digambar Murtis and Sthänaka for Sthänakaväsi / Teräpanthi and other sects Federation of Jaina is a unique organization in the Jain world which has the membership of 67 Jain centers. It has elected its presidents from various sects of Jainism. Jain Digest, the quarterly magazine, publishes the news from all the sects JAINA convention is a very unique Jain convention in the world and leaders from all sects are invited and get together on one stage.
Jaina Education material is non sectarian and represents the uniqueness of each sect. Now is the proper time for all Jain centers of North America and JAINA to look ahead and eliminate confusion for our youths; come together and celebrate Samvatsari / Kshamäväni (Forgiveness) in a united way across North America. We, the believers of the Anekantaväda can certainly work together on this issue. Since all Jain centers are non-sectarian centers in North America and we do not have Jain monks or nuns in America who can provide the guidance to all Jain Sanghs. It is the responsibility of the