Avashyak Niryukti Part 01

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Avashyak Niryukti Part 01," based on the scanned pages:

Book Title: Avashyak Niryukti Part 01 Author(s): Sumanmuni, Damodar Shastri Publisher: Sohanlal Acharya Jain Granth Prakashan Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/004277/1

Core Content and Purpose:

The "Avashyaka Niryukti" is a foundational Jain canonical text. It is an ancient commentary in Prakrit verses (gathas) on the "Avashyaka Sutra," which itself holds a prominent place in Jain scripture. The "Avashyaka Sutra" outlines six essential daily activities that ascetics must diligently perform: Samayika, Caturvimsati-stava, Vandana, Pratikramana, Kayotsarga, and Pratyakhyana.

This particular volume, "Avashyak Niryukti Part 01," focuses on the introductory portion (Purva-Pithika) of the Niryukti. It specifically covers 79 gathas of the Niryukti along with the Sanskrit commentary by Acharya Haribhadra Suri, an eminent Jain Acharya of the 8th century AD. The primary aim of this edition is to make this profound and voluminous work accessible to a wider audience through Hindi translation and detailed explanations.

Authorship and Tradition:

• Original Author of Niryukti: The Niryukti is traditionally attributed to Acharya Bhadrabahu. However, there's a scholarly debate regarding which Bhadrabahu authored it. One tradition identifies him as Bhadrabahu-I (Shrutakevali, Chaturdash Purvadhara, possibly 3rd-4th century BC), while others suggest Bhadrabahu-II (5th-6th century AD). Scholars generally lean towards Bhadrabahu-II, believing that the Niryukti in its current form may have incorporated additions over time and was potentially completed by him. The text acknowledges that some gathas of the Niryukti and Bhasya are intermixed, and additions may have occurred even after Bhadrabahu-II.
• Commentator: The accompanying Sanskrit commentary is by Acharya Haribhadra Suri (8th century AD), renowned for his vast literary output and deep understanding of Jain philosophy.
• Translators and Editors: The Hindi translation and annotation are by Prof. Dr. Damodar Shastri. The project was spearheaded and meticulously edited by Muni Suman Kumarji 'Prajnamaharshi' (Uttar Bharatiya Pravartak).

Content of this Volume (Part 01 - Purva Pithika):

This volume presents an introductory section of the Niryukti, which delves into detailed discussions concerning the five categories of knowledge (Panchavidh Jnan). The included text covers:

• Gathas 1-79 of Avashyaka Niryukti: These gathas, along with Acharya Haribhadra Suri's Sanskrit commentary, form the core of this volume.
• Focus on Categories of Knowledge: The introductory portion is dedicated to explaining the nuances of the five Jain categories of knowledge.
• Translation and Explanation: Both the original Niryukti gathas and Haribhadra Suri's Sanskrit commentary have been translated into Hindi. Detailed explanations are provided wherever deemed necessary for clarity.

Key Features and Significance:

• Accessibility: The translation into Hindi aims to bridge the gap for readers who may not be proficient in Prakrit or Sanskrit, fulfilling a long-felt need in Jain literature.
• Historical Context: The book provides insights into the historical and scholarly context of the Niryukti, including the debate around its authorship and the evolution of its text.
• Comprehensive Introduction: This volume serves as an introduction to the vast treatise of Avashyaka Niryukti, covering its foundational aspects related to knowledge.
• Spiritual and Philosophical Value: The text is considered a valuable resource for understanding essential Jain principles and practices, as it elaborates on the core "Avashyaka" duties crucial for ascetic discipline and spiritual progress.
• Project Collaboration: The publication highlights the collaborative effort involving respected Jain scholars, spiritual leaders, and philanthropic individuals, underscoring a commitment to preserving and disseminating Jain knowledge.

Overall:

"Avashyak Niryukti Part 01" (Purva Pithika) is a significant publication that makes a crucial Jain canonical text, the "Avashyaka Niryukti," along with its esteemed commentary, accessible through Hindi translation. It focuses on the introductory discussions about the categories of knowledge, offering a gateway for a deeper understanding of Jain philosophy and practice. The volume is a testament to the dedicated efforts of the editors, translators, and publishers in enriching Jain literature.