ऋषभ : सम्यक् राजनीतिक प्रणाली के प्रणेता
Summary
The text discusses the political philosophy and governance principles of Bhagwan Rishabh, the first Tirthankara in Jain tradition. It presents Rishabh as a skilled politician and ruler who established social, religious, and political systems. His governance was based on the principle that rulers must nurture their subjects like a cow cares for its calf, as only a well-cared-for populace can strengthen the state. Rishabh employed practical diplomacy adapted to time and circumstances, maintaining harmony with the people. The text compares him to other historical figures like Krishna, Rama, and Chanakya who used diplomacy effectively. It outlines six essential qualities for rulers: scholarship, fame, respect for learned individuals, proper use of treasury funds, using wealth for societal development, and maintaining friendly relations with all. Rishabh established three types of penal policies: acknowledgment of wrongdoing, warning against repetition, and condemnation. He emphasized that politics must be restrained by ethical principles to prevent moral decline, corruption, and violence. The text criticizes contemporary politics for hypocrisy, where leaders' words and actions differ, and for prioritizing self-interest over public welfare. It notes that modern politics has become devoid of principles, with favoritism and corruption becoming integral. The text suggests that Acharya Mahapragya of the Terapanth sect embodies Rishabh's governance ideals, maintaining discipline through a single guru and single system. It concludes that if current leaders adopt Rishabh's model of nurturing subjects with love and adopt anuvratas (small vows), they can become successful politicians and protectors of the people.
Conclusion
The document’s analysis of Bhagavan Rishabh’s governance principles carries direct implications for contemporary political ethics. It argues that Rishabh’s model—emphasizing ruler as nurturer, ethical restraint on power, and alignment of words with deeds—offers a corrective to modern ills like corruption, hypocrisy, and moral decay in politics. The outcome envisioned is that if current leaders adopt Rishabh’s practical, people-centered approach and embrace values like the Anuvratas, they can transform into effective, ethical statesmen. This would restore public trust, curb exploitation, and foster national strength through a satisfied, well-cared-for populace. Ultimately, the text suggests that reviving such timeless principles could heal the disconnect between rulers and citizens, leading to a more just and prosperous society.