धर्म का धंधा
By प्रोफेसर सागरमल जैन
Summary
The text is a critical commentary on the commercialization and corruption of religion, presented as a poetic or rhetorical monologue. It describes religion as a business or trade (धंधा) where even gods are bribed, and offerings like sweets are used to manipulate divine favor. The author accuses religious figures of exploiting devotees by demanding money for prayers, performing fake miracles, and using fear of sin or hell to loot the public. This religious business requires no capital or hard work, yet yields wealth, prestige, and even a heavenly bank account. The text contrasts this corrupt practice with true spirituality, which is about humanity, selflessness, and surrender. It states that real religion is not about taking but giving, not about gaining but losing oneself. It emphasizes that the divine is not deceived by outward displays of piety, as the inner self recognizes such tricks. The author, Professor Sagarmal Jain, concludes that religion should be a path of love and sacrifice, where the ego is destroyed and the universal self is embraced. The piece is dated September 2013 and appears in Jain Bharati.
Conclusion
The text critiques the commercialization of religion, portraying it as a deceptive business where rituals and divine names are exploited for personal gain. It highlights how faith is manipulated through bribes, false miracles, and fear to exploit devotees, while genuine spirituality is replaced by greed and hypocrisy. The conclusion emphasizes that true religion is not about profit or deception but about selflessness, humanity, and spiritual surrender. It calls for a shift from exploiting faith to embracing compassion and inner purity, where the ego dissolves and the divine is realized within. The document ultimately warns against fake religious leaders and urges a return to authentic, ethical spirituality.