Ath Shatkalyanak Nirnay

The Jain text "Ath Shatkalyanak Nirnay" (Determination of the Six Auspicious Events) appears to be a polemical work arguing in favor of the six kalyanakas (auspicious events) of Lord Mahavir. The unknown author, published by an unknown entity, with a catalog link to jainqq.org, presents a detailed refutation of arguments against the concept of six kalyanakas, particularly those put forth by a certain "Nyayaratna Shri Shantivijayji."

The core of the text is a defense of the six kalyanakas of Lord Mahavir, refuting claims that only five exist. The author's main argument is that several ancient and authoritative Jain scriptures, including those by prominent Acharyas and from various traditions (gachhas) like Kharatar and Tapgachh, explicitly mention and describe six kalyanakas. The text cites numerous passages from scriptures such as the Kalpa Sutra, Acharanga Sutra, Sthananga Sutra, Dashashrutaskandha, and commentaries by renowned Acharyas like Bhadrabahuswami, Abhaydevasuri, Haribhadrasuri, and others, to support the existence of six kalyanakas.

The author strongly criticizes those who deny the six kalyanakas, accusing them of misinterpreting scriptures, taking verses out of context, and using fallacious arguments to mislead the laity into mithyatva (false belief). The text specifically targets proponents of the five-kalyanaka view, highlighting their alleged misinterpretations of verses related to the garbhavahar (transfer of embryo) and rajyabhishek (coronation).

The work systematically presents excerpts from various scriptures, accompanied by their interpretations, to demonstrate the validity of the six kalyanakas. These include:

• Chyavan Kalyana (Descent from heaven)
• Garbhavatarana/Garbhavaharana Kalyana (Conception/Transfer to womb)
• Janma Kalyana (Birth)
• Diksha Kalyana (Renunciation)
• Kevala Jnana Kalyana (Attainment of Omniscience)
• Nirvana Kalyana (Liberation)

The author argues that the garbhavatarana (transfer of embryo to the womb of the mother) is a distinct and significant event, often associated with the Hasta Uttara (Uttaraphalguni) constellation, and is considered the second chyavan (descent) by many scriptures. The text refutes the idea that only five such events are mentioned, asserting that numerous commentaries and original scriptures clearly delineate all six.

A significant portion of the text is dedicated to refuting specific arguments presented by opponents, such as the claim that the Panchashaka Sutra and its commentary by Abhaydevasuri only mention five kalyanakas. The author meticulously analyzes these texts, demonstrating how their verses, when understood in their full context, actually support the six-kalyanaka doctrine. The text also addresses the timing and constellations associated with each kalyana, reinforcing the scriptural basis.

The author expresses dismay at the rigidity and partisan behavior (gachhadagraha) of some scholars who distort scriptural meanings to fit their preconceived notions, causing confusion and hindering spiritual progress. The text aims to clarify the truth for tattvabhilashi (truth-seeking) individuals and to uphold the authority of the ancient Acharyas.

In essence, "Ath Shatkalyanak Nirnay" is a scholarly defense of the six kalyanakas in Jainism, grounded in scriptural evidence and aimed at correcting perceived misinterpretations and biases within the Jain tradition.