18 Jambudwippragnapti Satik Vishayanukram

Based on the provided catalog link, the book "18 Jambudwippragnapti Satik Vishayanukram" by Dipratnasagar, Deepratnasagar, published by Dipratnasagar, Deepratnasagar, is a commentary (Satik) on a foundational Jain cosmological text, likely the Jambudvipaprajnapti. The title itself indicates it's an index or subject-wise outline (Vishayanukram) of an 18-part work related to the Jambudvipa.

Here's a comprehensive summary of what this book likely entails, drawing upon general knowledge of Jain cosmology and the nature of such commentaries:

Overall Purpose and Content:

This book serves as a detailed and structured guide to the teachings presented in an 18-part exposition concerning the Jambudvipa, a central continent in Jain cosmology. The commentary aims to clarify, organize, and make accessible the complex astronomical, geographical, and philosophical information contained within the original text. It likely provides:

• A Systematic Outline: The "Vishayanukram" (subject-wise index/outline) suggests that the book systematically breaks down the original text into its constituent themes, chapters, or sections. This allows readers to navigate the vast amount of information and understand its logical progression.
• Commentary and Explanation: The "Satik" designation means it is a commentary. This implies that the author(s) have provided explanations, interpretations, and clarifications for the original verses or prose. They likely delve into the meaning of specific terms, astronomical calculations, geographical descriptions, and the underlying philosophical implications.
• Focus on Jambudvipa: The core subject matter is the Jambudvipa, which in Jainism is one of the seven continents (dvipas) within the universe. The text would meticulously describe its:
  • Geography and Dimensions: Detailed measurements of its size, shape, and the location of various mountain ranges, rivers, lakes, and prominent features.
  • Cosmic Location: Its position within the larger Jain universe (Loka).
  • Inhabitants: The types of beings that reside there, including celestial beings (devas), humans, and possibly other entities.
  • Astronomy: The movements of celestial bodies (sun, moon, stars), the calculation of time (kalpa, yugas), and the cycles of eclipses and other astronomical phenomena as understood within the Jain framework.
  • Religious and Ethical Significance: How the Jambudvipa and its features relate to Jain philosophy, the path to liberation (moksha), and the ethical principles of Jainism.
• Eighteen-Part Structure: The "18" in the title suggests that the original text being commented upon is divided into eighteen distinct sections or treatises. The commentary would likely follow this structure, dedicating a portion of its explanation to each of these eighteen parts.
• Authoritative Interpretation: By providing a commentary, Dipratnasagar and Deepratnasagar present their understanding and interpretation of the original text. This would be based on their knowledge of Jain scriptures, philosophical traditions, and potentially other commentaries.

Likely Content Categories within the Commentary:

While the exact content of each of the 18 parts isn't specified in the title alone, a comprehensive commentary on Jain cosmology related to Jambudvipa would typically cover:

1. Introduction to the Universe: An overview of the Jain cosmological model (Loka) and the hierarchical structure of continents.
2. Detailed Description of Jambudvipa: Its shape, size, borders, and central location.
3. Mount Meru/Sumeru: Its significance as the central axis of Jambudvipa, its height, and associated celestial palaces.
4. Rivers and Lakes: The prominent rivers and lakes of Jambudvipa, their origins, and their symbolic meanings.
5. Mountains and Ranges: Descriptions of significant mountain ranges, their inhabitants, and their roles in the geography.
6. The Sun and its Path: The astronomical descriptions of the sun's movement, its chariots, and its influence on the continent.
7. The Moon and its Path: Similar to the sun, the lunar movements and their astronomical significance.
8. Stars and Constellations: The classification and movements of stars and constellations.
9. The Concept of Time (Kala): The cyclical nature of time, the divisions of eras (yugas), and their impact on the continent.
10. Dwelling Places of Celestial Beings: The abodes and activities of devas and other celestial entities within Jambudvipa.
11. The Lives of Great Souls: The births, lives, and teachings of eminent spiritual figures (Tirthankaras, Chakravartins, etc.) who resided in Jambudvipa.
12. The Seven Continents and Oceans: Placing Jambudvipa within the context of the entire system of continents and oceans.
13. The Undervorld and Upperworld: The celestial realms above and the subterranean realms below Jambudvipa.
14. The Laws of Karma and Rebirth: How these fundamental Jain principles manifest in the context of Jambudvipa's inhabitants.
15. The Journey to Liberation: The spiritual paths and practices that lead to moksha, often exemplified by figures from Jambudvipa.
16. The Doctrine of Anekantavada: How the multifaceted nature of reality is reflected in the descriptions of Jambudvipa.
17. The Role of Faith and Practice: The importance of right faith, knowledge, and conduct in understanding and navigating the cosmic order.
18. Concluding Remarks and Philosophical Synthesis: Summarizing the key teachings and their implications for the spiritual life.

Target Audience:

This book would be of particular interest to:

• Jain Scholars and Monastics: Those who study and teach Jain philosophy and cosmology.
• Students of Jainism: Individuals seeking a deeper understanding of Jain scripture and its intricate worldview.
• Devotees: Those who wish to connect with the cosmic order and the spiritual heritage of Jainism.
• Anyone interested in comparative cosmology or ancient astronomical systems.

In essence, "18 Jambudwippragnapti Satik Vishayanukram" is a scholarly and devotional work that aims to illuminate the complex Jain cosmological map, with a specific focus on the continent of Jambudvipa, by providing a structured, commented, and expounded version of an important foundational text.