Bhavan Vibhavan

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Book Title: Bhavan Vibhavan (ભાવન-વિભાવન) Author: Kumarpal Desai (કુમારપાળ દેસાઈ) Publisher: Jaibhikkhu Sahitya Trust (શ્રી જયભિખુ સાહિત્ય ટ્રસ્ટ)

Core Theme: The book, "Bhavan Vibhavan," is a detailed exploration and tribute to the profound literary and scholarly contributions of Acharya Hemchandracharya (કળિકાળસર્વજ્ઞ હેમચંદ્રાચાર્ય), a pivotal figure in Jainism and Gujarati literary history. Kumarpal Desai presents Hemchandracharya not just as a religious scholar but as a polymath who significantly shaped Gujarat's cultural, linguistic, and social landscape during the Solanki era. The book delves into the various facets of Hemchandracharya's life and his "sahityasadhan" (literary pursuits).

Key Aspects of Hemchandracharya's Work and Influence:

1. A "Jyotirdhar" and "Yugpravartak": Hemchandracharya is portrayed as a guiding light and a trendsetter who illuminated all aspects of contemporary public life in Gujarat. His influence extended to literature, politics, social customs, language, civilization, and spirituality. He is credited with laying the foundation for Gujarat's identity and is considered a benchmark for Gujarati scholarship.

2. Multifaceted Genius: The book highlights the sheer breadth of Hemchandracharya's genius, posing questions about whether he should be called a great scholar, an artist of life, a philosopher with a holistic vision, or a leader who awakened the dormant spirit of the Gujarati people. He is lauded with various epithets by scholars and literary figures, including "Ocean of Knowledge" (Dr. Peters), "Living Dictionary" (Pandit Becherdas Doshi), and "Embodiment of Sadvaad" (Muni Punyavijayji).

3. Literary Contributions:

   • Linguistic Mastery: Hemchandracharya's contributions to grammar, particularly his "Siddhahem Shabdānushāsan" (સિદ્ધહેમશબ્દાનુશાસન), are extensively discussed. This monumental work covered Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Apabhramsha, establishing him as the "Panini of Apabhramsha." The book details how "Siddhahem" revolutionized grammatical studies, making complex subjects accessible and establishing a new standard for linguistic analysis. Its influence is noted to have reached even non-Jain scholars.
   • Lexicography: His work in creating dictionaries like "Abhidhan Chintamani" (અભિધાનચિંતામણિ), "Anekarth Sangrah" (અનેકાર્થસંગ્રહ), and "Nighantu Shesh" (નિઘંટુશેષ) is highlighted for their value in understanding Sanskrit vocabulary and their contribution to philology and cultural studies.
   • Poetics and Metrics: "Kavyanushasan" (કાવ્યાનુશાસન) and "Chhandanushasan" (છંદોનુશાસન) are presented as seminal works in Sanskrit poetics and metrics, demonstrating his command over literary theory and practice.
   • Epic Poetry: The "Dvyashraya" (દ્વયાશ્રય) Mahakavya, a significant work in both Sanskrit and Prakrit, is discussed as a historical narrative of the Solanki dynasty and a testament to Hemchandracharya's ability to weave history, grammar, and poetry together. It served as an example for the grammar rules in "Siddhahem."
   • Biographical and Historical Works: "Trishashtishalakapurushacharit" (ત્રિષષ્ટિશલાકાપુરુષચરિત), a vast compendium of the lives of 63 illustrious individuals in Jain tradition, and "Parishisht Parva" (પરિશિષ્ટ પર્વ), a continuation of historical accounts, are recognized for their immense historical and narrative value.
   • Philosophical and Yogic Texts: His work on logic and philosophy, such as "Pramana Mimansa" (પ્રમાણમીમાંસા), and his treatise on Yoga, "Yogashastra" (યોગશાસ્ત્ર), are mentioned, showcasing his deep understanding of spiritual and philosophical concepts.

4. Holistic Approach to Life and Dharma: Hemchandracharya is depicted as a sage who understood and propagated "Jivanadharma" (the dharma of life), "Lokadharma" (the dharma of the people), "Rajadharma" (the dharma of kings), and even "Yuddhadharma" (the dharma of war), advising kings and commoners alike. Despite being a detached monk, he was highly practical and involved in public life, using his knowledge to uplift the people's consciousness and culture.

5. Influence on Gujarat's Identity: The book asserts that Hemchandracharya was instrumental in awakening Gujarat's consciousness and culture. His embrace of Ahimsa (non-violence) and Anekanta (non-absolutism) principles laid the groundwork for modern figures like Mahatma Gandhi. The Solanki era is often referred to as the "Hemayug" (Hemchandra's era) due to his pervasive influence.

6. Support from Rulers: The text mentions the crucial patronage and support received from kings like Jayasinh Siddharaj and Kumarpal, which facilitated Hemchandracharya's extensive literary work.

7. Legacy and Enduring Impact: The book concludes by emphasizing that Hemchandracharya's literary output continues to influence Gujarati culture and language. His ability to integrate diverse knowledge streams, his profound scholarship, his ethical conduct, and his political acumen made him an unparalleled figure whose legacy continues to inspire.

Author's Perspective: Kumarpal Desai's writing demonstrates deep admiration and reverence for Hemchandracharya. He meticulously analyzes the vast scope of his work, using quotes and references from various scholars to paint a comprehensive picture of this historical and literary giant. The book aims to showcase Hemchandracharya's profound impact on shaping not just Jain philosophy but the very essence of Gujarati identity and intellectual tradition.