Avantinu Aadhipatya Yane Mahavir Nirvan Pachi 605 Varsh

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Avantinu Aadhipatya Yane Mahavir Nirvan Pachi 605 Varsh" by Siddhimuni, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Avantinu Aadhipatya Yane Mahavir Nirvan Pachi 605 Varsh (The Dominion of Avanti or 605 Years After Mahavir's Nirvana) Author: Siddhimuni Publisher: Mafatlal Zaverchand Pandit

Overview:

This Jain text, "Avantinu Aadhipatya," by Siddhimuni, delves into a critical aspect of historical chronology within Jainism, focusing on the period after Lord Mahavir's nirvana. The title itself, "605 Years After Mahavir's Nirvana," indicates a primary concern with establishing accurate timelines for events and reigns, particularly relating to the dominion of Avanti and its kings. The author, Siddhimuni, undertakes a meticulous scholarly endeavor to reconcile conflicting historical accounts and chronologies, primarily centered around the debate between two major chronological frameworks: one placing the start of the Vikram Samvat 470 years after Mahavir's nirvana, and another, which the author supports, placing it 410 years after.

Author's Argument and Methodology:

Siddhimuni begins by acknowledging the inherent difficulties and ambiguities in historical research due to incomplete and contradictory sources. He asserts that true historical accuracy emerges from a balanced and unbiased researcher who synthess available evidence—inscriptions, coins, and textual references. He criticizes scholars who allow personal biases, envy, greed for fame, or even nationalistic agendas to distort historical accounts.

The author explains that his motivation for writing this book stemmed from observing inconsistencies in the chronological calculations of modern historians concerning events after Mahavir's nirvana. He found that the prevailing tradition of placing the start of the Vikram Samvat 470 years after Mahavir's nirvana (Mahaparinirvana - MN 470) leads to numerous discrepancies. He proposes that recalibrating the beginning of the Vikram Samvat to 410 years after Mahavir's nirvana (MN 410) resolves these issues and aligns better with historical evidence.

To support his thesis, Siddhimuni heavily relies on the "Himavant Theravali," a text that details the reigns of Magadha kings from Kenik to Samprati, Kalinga kings from Shobharaya to Vidhurahraya, and Avanti kings from Samprati to Vikram. He particularly highlights Himavatacharya's assertion that Vikram's coronation occurred 410 years after Mahavir's nirvana.

Key Chronological Debates and Reconciliations:

The book engages with several significant chronological debates:

• Mahavir Nirvana and Vikram Era: The central argument revolves around the time gap between Mahavir's nirvana and the establishment of the Vikram era. The prevailing tradition of 470 years is challenged by the author's proposed 410 years, supported by Himavant Theravali.
• Reign of Kings and Dynasties: Siddhimuni meticulously attempts to synchronize the timelines of various dynasties and their rulers, including:
  • The Palak dynasty in Avanti, stating their rule lasted 60 years (Palk 20 years, Avanti-vardhan 4 years, Avanti-shen 36 years), coinciding with Magadha rulers like Kenik and Udayi.
  • The Nand dynasty, whose rule in Avanti lasted 95 years (MN 60-155).
  • The Maurya dynasty, whose rule in Avanti is detailed in three phases, totaling 178 years (first phase 28 years from MN 155-184, second phase 61 years from MN 293-354, and third phase 135 years from MN 346-407).
  • The periods of anarchy (1 year from MN 293-294).
  • The reigns of Balmitra-Bhanumitra (22 years from MN 294-316), Pushyamitra (30 years from MN 316-346), and later Shaka/Shahi (3 years from MN 407-410).
  • The sequence leading to Vikramaditya (Khalmitra, Vikramsen) for 60 years (MN 410-470), followed by Vikramcharitra (Nabhsena) for 40 years (MN 470-510), and Bhalladitra for 35 years (MN 510-545).
  • The Andhra dynasty's rule for 60 years (MN 545-605).
• Reconciling Jain and Non-Jain Sources: The author highlights the inconsistencies and disputes arising from relying solely on one tradition. He references Vedic literature, Puranas, and Buddhist texts, attempting to integrate their accounts where possible and noting discrepancies. He specifically addresses the timeline of Magadha rulers like Bimbisara (Shrenik), Ajatashatru (Kenik), and Udayi, correlating their periods with Mahavir's nirvana.
• The Vikram Samvat Debate: Siddhimuni presents the three main views on the Vikram Samvat's origin relative to Mahavir's nirvana: 470 years (the prevailing tradition), 483 years, and his supported view of 410 years. He demonstrates how the 410-year gap resolves historical inconsistencies, including the simultaneous passing of Mahavir and Chandragupta, and the timelines of figures like Bhadrabahu and Chandragupta Maurya.
• Specific Historical Figures and Events: The text discusses the reigns and events related to various rulers and figures, including:
  • Cheta of Vaishali: A Jain monarch whose daughter Trisala was Mahavir's mother.
  • Chandragupta Maurya: His relationship with Chanakya, his rise to power, and his supposed Jain leanings are discussed.
  • Ashoka: The author analyzes Ashoka's religious affiliations, his policies, and his interactions with Jainism, highlighting potential discrepancies between Jain and Buddhist accounts.
  • Samprati: Presented as a great Jain emperor who promoted Jainism extensively, his reign and activities are detailed.
  • Shaka Rulers: The book addresses the presence and influence of Shaka rulers, particularly in Avanti, and the challenges in establishing their precise timelines and relationships with Indian dynasties like the Mauryas and Andhras.
  • Pushyamitra and Shunga Dynasty: The author examines the transition of power from the Mauryas to the Shungas, noting Pushyamitra's actions and the historical context.
  • Vikramaditya: The author delves into the historical figure of Vikramaditya, exploring the complexities of his identity, his connection to the Vikram Samvat, and reconciling conflicting accounts about his reign and religious affiliations, particularly his relationship with Jainism.
  • Kalaka and the Shakas: A significant portion discusses the influential Jain monk Kalaka, his exile, his interaction with the Shaka rulers, and how their narratives became intertwined in historical records.

Contribution and Significance:

"Avantinu Aadhipatya" is presented as a scholarly effort to provide a more coherent and historically consistent chronology within the Jain tradition. By proposing the MN 410 framework for the Vikram Samvat, the author aims to resolve numerous historical puzzles and provide a more accurate understanding of the political and religious landscape of ancient India, particularly focusing on the region of Avanti. The author emphasizes the importance of critical analysis of Jain and non-Jain sources to arrive at a truthful historical account. The book encourages further research and invites corrections from learned scholars, demonstrating a commitment to the pursuit of historical truth.

Overall Theme:

The overarching theme of the book is the pursuit of chronological accuracy in Jain history. It highlights the author's dedication to rigorous research and his attempt to synthesize diverse and often contradictory historical data to present a more plausible timeline for events and reigns, thereby strengthening the historical foundation of Jain traditions and understanding the political and religious milieu of Avanti and India during that critical period.