Abhinav Hem Laghu Prakriya Part 02

The book "Abhinav Hem Laghu Prakriya Part 02" by Dipratnasagar and Deepratnasagar, published by Abhinav Shrut Prakashan, is the second volume in a series aimed at making the study of Jain grammar, specifically the "Hem" (Hemachandra) system, more accessible through Gujarati.

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Core Purpose and Context:

• Revival of Classical Grammar: The book is part of an effort to bring back the study of Siddha-Hem Shabdanushasan, a highly respected Jain grammar composed by Acharya Hemchandracharya. The original grammar, written in Sanskrit, was later adapted into a "Prakriya" (process-oriented) format by Acharya Vinayavijayaji in 1710 AD.
• Accessibility through Gujarati: Recognizing that many Jain monks and nuns (Sadhus and Sadhvis) may not have a strong command of Sanskrit, this work aims to provide a Gujarati translation and commentary on the "Laghu Prakriya" (Simplified Process) by Acharya Vinayavijayaji. This is noted as the first such comprehensive Gujarati publication.
• Building on the First Volume: The publication of the second volume follows the successful release of the first part, which was met with positive feedback and cooperation.

Key Content and Features of Part 02:

• Focus on "Laghu Prakriya": The title itself indicates that this volume deals with the "Laghu Prakriya," which is a simplified, process-oriented approach to understanding grammar rules, as opposed to the original "Ashtadhyayi" (chapter-based) structure.
• Comprehensive Commentary: The book is not just a translation but includes detailed commentary, explanations, references to other Jain scriptural texts (like Brihadvritti, Nyay Sangrah, Kosh, etc.), and clarifications to resolve ambiguities or fill gaps found in the original Prakriya.
• Addressing Shortcomings of Original Prakriya: The text highlights how the "Prakriya" format, while simplifying the original structure, sometimes left certain explanations incomplete. This new publication aims to address these gaps by providing:
  • Comprehensive Knowledge: Going beyond the basic "two books" often associated with Laghu Prakriya, offering richer insights.
  • Doubt Resolution: Clarifying complex or ambiguous sutras by referencing larger commentaries and providing detailed explanations.
  • Completing Incomplete Sections: Supplying explanations for sutras where the original Prakriya might have been brief or omitted details.
  • Inclusion of Omitted Words: Reintroducing essential words or concepts that might have been left out of the Prakriya for brevity but are crucial for understanding.
  • Clarification of Complex Sections: Providing separate sections ("Shashvritti") to explain instances where multiple sutras are grouped together, preventing confusion for the student.
  • Addressing Errors or Changes: Correcting any discrepancies in sutra numbering or explanations found in the original Prakriya, referencing the original Siddha-Hem text where necessary.
  • Explaining the 'Why' behind Rules: Addressing potential questions like "why this rule?" or "why this specific form?" by drawing from extensive commentaries.
  • Preventing Fundamental Errors: Correcting errors in the root principles of grammar.
• Structure: The book includes a detailed table of contents (Vishay Suchi) outlining the chapters covered, which include:
  • Introduction and Importance of Grammar Study
  • How to Use the Book
  • Acknowledgments (Rin Svikar)
  • Explaining that "Laghu Prakriya" is more than just two books.
  • Expert Opinions
  • Publisher's Statement
  • Main Content: Specific grammatical sections like "Stri Pratyay" (Feminine Suffixes), "Karak" (Cases), "Samas" (Compound Words), "Taddhit" (Nominal Suffixes).
  • Appendices: Alphabetical Sutra Index (Akaradi Sutra Kram), Explanation of Siddha-Hem Sutras, Reference Lists (Sandarbh Suchi).
  • Errata (Shuddhi Patrak).
  • List of Financial Supporters (Dravya Sahayak Namavali).
• Inspiration and Dedication: The work is inspired and driven by the dedication and profound sentiment of Pujya Muniraj Shri Sudharmasagarji Maharaj. Pujya Munishri Shri Thopratnasagarji (M.Com, M.Ed.) is credited with the editing, translation, and reference commentary.
• Goal: The ultimate aim is for students to gain pure knowledge of "Siddhi" (perfection in grammar) and, through contemplation and contemplation of the scriptures' meanings, attain eternal happiness.

Overall Significance:

"Abhinav Hem Laghu Prakriya Part 02" is presented as a valuable resource for the Jain monastic community and anyone interested in deeply understanding Jain grammar through the lens of the Hemachandracharya tradition, made accessible in the Gujarati language. It emphasizes the importance of grammar not just as a linguistic tool but as a pathway to spiritual knowledge and liberation.