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The Jain religion is notable for its inclusive approach towards women, as it grants them a respected position alongside monks. The order of Jain nuns exemplifies this inclusivity, as women from all castes, creeds, and classes are admitted for spiritual pursuits without narrow-minded considerations. The entry into this order is not limited to wealthy women from royal families; even maidservants, courtesans, and marginalized women have embraced initiation for personal growth. Over time, they have become respected figures within the community, embodying knowledge, exemplary character, and rigorous penance. Even mighty kings and prominent citizens would humbly bow before these sacred nuns. Sadhvi Poyani, one of the sixteen chaste and virtuous wives, continues to be revered today, mentioned in the same breath as the Tirthankars (spiritual leaders). These Jain nuns have made significant contributions as authors and demonstrated remarkable memory skills.
The Sanskrit equivalent of the Prakrut word "Potini" is "Poyani," meaning a woman with a fleet of ships. Arya Poyani assisted many religious individuals on their journey through the ocean of worldly life, providing them a safe passage through the ship of knowledge and learning.
Arya Poyani holds a unique position in Jainism due to her versatility, purity of conduct, and leadership qualities. Her life illustrates that, like Jain monks, Jain nuns also awakened spiritual consciousness among the general population by embarking on foot journeys fueled by unwavering faith, devotion, and a spirit of adventure. During the time of Vachanacharya Balissahji, Arya Poyani served as the head of the order of nuns (Sadhvi-Pramukha).
A significant event in Jain history occurred during the reign of Kaling Chakravarti Mahameghvahan Kharvel. King Kharvel learned that Pushyamitra, the ruler of Pataliputra, was persecuting the Jains. In response, Kharvel invaded Pataliputra, and after Pushyamitra surrendered and promised to cease the persecution, a treaty was signed. However, Pushyamitra later resumed his atrocities. After four years, Kharvel launched a second invasion of Pataliputra with a large army and emerged victorious.
In Indian history, King Kharvel holds a special place as a Jain ruler known for his unmatched valor, extraordinary spirit of adventure, intense devotion to religion, and boundless compassion for co-religionists. Subsequently, he invited representatives from the four sects of the Sangh to the Kumargiri mountain and organized the second Agamvachana conference, aiming to systematically compile and preserve the Agam literature (Jain canonical texts). Arya Poyani, along with 300 learned Sadhvis under her leadership, participated in this conference. Her expertise in the Agam literature played a crucial role in determining the accurate text of the Agams.
Sadhvi Poyani was a scholarly and devoted practitioner of sacred precepts, displaying efficient management skills within the Sangh. Through her foot journeys, she fostered spiritual awakening among the people and assisted the Sangh in spreading the religion.
