Barasa Anuvekkha Review

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided text, which is a review of "Acharya Kundkund: Barasa Anuvekkha" by Willem B. Bollée, published in the International Journal of Jain Studies:

Overview of the Review:

This review, written by Willem B. Bollée, critically examines a 2003 edition of Acharya Kundkund's Barasa Anuvekkha (Twelve Contemplations), edited by M. K. Dharma Rāja and published by Kund Kund Bharati. Bollée expresses gratitude for the reprinted Sauraseni text, noting the rarity of such publications. He then proceeds to offer constructive feedback and suggestions for a potential third impression, primarily focusing on textual accuracy and metrical considerations.

Key Points and Criticisms:

• Textual Basis and Availability: Bollée acknowledges receiving assistance from several scholars who provided access to different editions and translations of the Barasa Anuvekkha. He notes that the Sauraseni text and Sanskrit versions in the reviewed edition and other sources are largely identical, with exceptions like stanza 5. He also mentions the difficulty in obtaining a Kannada edition for comparison due to insufficient publication details.

• Translation Accuracy and Challenges: Bollée generally finds the translation in the reviewed edition (referred to as "C") to be a "free rendering" that "hits the sense," similar to an earlier English translation by Brahmachari Shital Prasad ("D"). However, he highlights several instances where the translation and the underlying text present difficulties, often due to corruption or metrical issues that are not adequately addressed in the publication.

• Specific Stanza Critiques and Corrections: The bulk of the review is dedicated to detailed stanza-by-stanza critiques and proposed emendations. These are presented as suggestions for the editor to consider for future editions. Some of the notable points include:

  • Stanza 5: Bollée suggests restoring the metre by proposing alternative readings for corrupted words, aiming to convey the meaning of impermanence, similar to a water-bubble, lightning, and the splendor of the rainbow.
  • Stanza 7: He argues for a specific interpretation of the Pākrit phrase, suggesting it means the soul is distinct from the "splendor of gods, demons, and human kings," rather than simply "humans and the kings."
  • Stanza 8: A misprint is identified, and a correction is proposed based on other editions.
  • Stanza 10: A corrupt word is noted, and a possible interpretation is offered based on Sanskrit roots, suggesting a meaning related to "lamented death."
  • Stanza 11d: A proposed Sanskrit emendation is offered to clarify the meaning of the Pākrit phrase related to the soul being "without karma bound by the emergence of bonds."
  • Stanza 12ab: Corrections are suggested for the reading of names of important Jain figures (Siddhācārya, Upādhyāya, Ācārya, Sādhus, and Paramēṣṭhis).
  • Stanza 16c: A metrical adjustment is proposed.
  • Stanza 20: This stanza is identified as a śloka, suggesting it's a quotation.
  • Stanza 24: A slight reinterpretation of the English translation is offered to align with the original Pākrit, suggesting "fear of birth" rather than "fear" in general.
  • Stanza 28: A correction to a word is suggested.
  • Stanza 32e: An alternative reading is proposed as it fits the metre better and seems to be an explanation of a preceding word.
  • Stanza 34b, 37d, 38b/d, 41d, 43d, 45b, 47b, 49b, 52b, 61d, 62d, 69d, 70, 72d, 80d, 81b, 87a, 88c, 89b: A series of minor corrections and emendations are provided for various stanzas, often referencing other editions (A, B, D) or Sanskritized forms to ensure metrical accuracy and textual integrity.

• Editorial Suggestions: Bollée's primary goal is to help improve the text for future editions. His detailed suggestions highlight his deep engagement with the Pākrit language and Jain textual traditions. He hopes that the editor, Dharma Rāja, can address these points in subsequent impressions.

Conclusion:

The review is a scholarly and detailed examination of a specific edition of a significant Jain text. Bollée's work is characterized by meticulous attention to textual details, metrical analysis, and a desire to contribute to the accurate preservation and understanding of Jain scriptures. While acknowledging the value of the published edition, he provides valuable insights and corrections that would undoubtedly enhance a future iteration of the Barasa Anuvekkha.