Bauddh Dharm Evam Darshan - Book Summary

This comprehensive summary is based on the provided Jain text, "Bauddh Dharm Evam Darshan" by Sagarmal Jain, focusing on its content related to Buddhism and its comparison with Jainism.

Overview of the Book:

"Bauddh Dharm Evam Darshan" (Buddhist Religion and Philosophy) by Dr. Sagarmal Jain is part of the "Sagarmal Jain Lekh Sangrah" (Collection of Articles by Sagarmal Jain), specifically Volume 7 focusing on Buddhist religion and philosophy. Published by Prachya Vidyapith, Shajapur, it is a compilation of scholarly articles by Dr. Jain, a renowned scholar of Jainology and Indian Indology. The book aims to explore and analyze various aspects of Buddhism in relation to Indian philosophical traditions, particularly Jainism.

Key Themes and Content:

The book delves into a comparative analysis of Jain and Buddhist philosophies, with a particular emphasis on epistemology (Pramana Mimansa), metaphysics, ethics, and their historical interactions. Several key articles and their central arguments are summarized below:

1. Buddhism and Jainism: A Comparative Perspective:

Shared Roots and Divergences: The book highlights that both Buddhism and Jainism originate from the ancient Shramana tradition of India, distinct from the Vedic tradition. While both traditions emphasize asceticism, liberation, and non-violence, they differ significantly in their metaphysical and epistemological frameworks.
Interaction and Mutual Influence: The text details the historical interaction between Jain and Buddhist traditions, noting mentions of each other in their respective scriptures. It points out how early Jain texts like Isibhasiaim and Sutrakritanga refer to Buddhist figures respectfully, while Buddhist texts mention Jains (Niganthas) and Ajivikas. This interaction led to critiques and counter-critiques of each other's philosophical tenets.

2. Pramana Mimansa (Epistemology): A Comparative Study:

Historical Development: The book traces the development of epistemological theories in both traditions, noting that early scriptures lacked detailed discussions on pramāṇas. The analysis begins with Nāgārjuna's critique of valid means of knowledge in Buddhism, followed by the contributions of Dignāga and Dharmakīrti in establishing Buddhist logic and epistemology.
Jain Critique of Buddhist Epistemology: The articles meticulously detail how Jain philosophers like Mallavādi, Akalanka, Vidyānanda, Vādisūri, and Hemachandra critiqued Buddhist theories, particularly the concepts of pratyakṣa (perception) and anumāna (inference) as propounded by Dignāga and Dharmakīrti. Specific points of contention include:
- Definition of Pramāṇa: The Buddhist definition of pramāṇa as 'avisaṁvādijñāna' (non-erroneous knowledge) and its emphasis on 'arthakriyāsthiti' (efficacy in action) are analyzed. Jain philosophers, while sometimes accepting the concept of non-erroneous knowledge, debated its precise meaning and scope.
- Nirvikalpaka vs. Savikalpaka Perception: A major difference lies in the Buddhist assertion that pratyakṣa is nirvikalpaka (without conceptualization), whereas Jainism maintains that both pratyakṣa and anumāna are savikalpaka (involving conceptualization) and vyavasāyātmaka (definitive).
- Apoha Theory: The Buddhist theory of apoha (exclusion), where words convey meaning by negating other concepts, is critiqued by Jain philosophers who advocate for a more positive and direct relationship between words and their referents.
- Anityata (Impermanence) and Pratityasamutpada (Dependent Origination): Buddhist concepts of impermanence and dependent origination are analyzed in relation to Jain metaphysics.
Jain Epistemological Contributions: The book highlights the unique Jain contribution to Indian epistemology, such as the theory of anekāntavāda (non-absolutism), syādvāda (conditional predication), and the classification of pramāṇas, which includes pratyakṣa, paraokṣa (which encompasses smṛti, pratyabhijñā, tarka, anumāna, and āgama). The Jain emphasis on anekāntavāda allows for a more nuanced understanding of reality, incorporating multiple perspectives.

3. Metaphysical and Ethical Doctrines:

Anātman (Non-Self) in Buddhism: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to understanding the Buddhist doctrine of anātman (non-self). The author clarifies that anātman in Buddhism does not negate the existence of consciousness but rather denies a permanent, unchanging soul or self. It emphasizes the impermanent and conditioned nature of all phenomena.
- Misinterpretations of Anātman: The articles address common misinterpretations of anātman, particularly the accusations of nihilism and annihilationism leveled against Buddhism. The author argues that Buddhist philosophy, when understood correctly, does not advocate for the complete destruction of existence but rather for the dissolution of ego-centric notions and the cycle of suffering caused by attachment.
- Comparison with Jain Soul (Jiva): The book contrasts the Buddhist concept of non-self with the Jain concept of jiva (soul), emphasizing Jainism's belief in an eternal, substantial soul that transmigrates through different births.
Critique of Buddhist Eternalism and Annihilationism: Following the Buddhist middle path, the author discusses how both Buddhism and Jainism reject extreme views of eternalism (ātmā is permanent) and annihilationism (ātmā is destroyed at death). However, their approaches differ. While Buddhism emphasizes impermanence and the absence of a permanent self, Jainism affirms the existence of a soul but emphasizes its constant change through modalities (paryāyas).
Vibhajyavāda (Analytical Method): The book explores the Buddhist concept of vibhajyavāda (analytical method) as a precursor to modern linguistic analysis. This method involves breaking down complex questions and providing relative answers from different perspectives to avoid dogmatism and one-sidedness. This is compared to Jain syādvāda and nayavāda.
Social Consciousness in Buddhism: The author argues that Buddhism, despite its emphasis on renunciation, possesses a strong social consciousness. The principles of pañcaśīla (five precepts) are presented as a foundation for ethical social conduct. The Sangha (monastic community) and the concept of bodhisattva (one who delays their own enlightenment for the benefit of all beings) are highlighted as expressions of Buddhist social engagement and universal compassion.
Mahayana Buddhism and Syncretism: The Mahayana tradition is discussed as a significant development in Buddhism that integrated elements of Vedic traditions, particularly in its emphasis on compassion, the concept of the bodhisattva ideal, and a more accommodating approach to household life. This syncretic tendency is also seen as contributing to Buddhism's assimilation into the broader Hindu fold in India.
'Paramasukh' (Supreme Bliss) and Vipassanā: The book examines the Buddhist practice of Vipassanā (insight meditation) as a path to achieving paramasukh (supreme bliss) or nirvāṇa. It explains that Vipassanā aims at understanding the impermanent and non-self nature of phenomena, leading to the cessation of suffering caused by attachment and craving. The author clarifies the distinction between nirvikalpa-sthiti (state of non-conceptualization) and nirvikalpa-bodh (insight into non-conceptualization), emphasizing that true liberation lies in the latter.

4. Scholarly Contributions of Dr. Sagarmal Jain:

Critical Analysis: Dr. Jain's approach is characterized by critical scholarship, meticulous research, and a deep understanding of both Jain and Buddhist philosophies. He often critiques earlier interpretations and provides nuanced analyses.
Comparative Studies: His work consistently emphasizes comparative studies, highlighting the similarities and differences between various Indian philosophical schools.
Preservation of Knowledge: The "Sagarmal Jain Lekh Sangrah" itself is a significant effort to compile and preserve the valuable academic output of Dr. Jain, making his research accessible to a wider audience.

Conclusion:

"Bauddh Dharm Evam Darshan" is a scholarly exploration of Buddhist philosophy from a Jain perspective. It provides a detailed comparative analysis of key doctrines, focusing on epistemology, metaphysics, and ethics. The book underscores the historical relationship between Jainism and Buddhism, their philosophical debates, and the profound influence they have had on Indian thought. Dr. Sagarmal Jain's work contributes significantly to the understanding of these traditions and their enduring relevance.