Bruhat Paryushananirnay

This is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on its core arguments and structure:

Book Title: Bruhat Paryushananirnay Author: Munishri Manisagarji Maharaj Publisher: Jain Sangh (Published by Shri Abhaydev Suri Granthmala, Calcutta)

Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/020134/1

Overall Purpose and Context:

The book "Bruhat Paryushananirnay" (Great Decision on Paryushana) by Munishri Manisagarji Maharaj is a scholarly work aiming to resolve disputes and clarify misunderstandings concerning the observation of the Paryushana festival and related Jain principles. The author's primary motivation is to guide Jain followers towards Jina-mata (the teachings of the Jinas), emphasizing pure religious practices based on scriptural evidence rather than mere traditional adherence to a specific gaccha (sect). The text addresses numerous controversial points, particularly those arising from differing interpretations of calendars and the timing of festivals, exacerbated by the historical disruption of the Jain calendar.

Key Themes and Arguments:

The text is structured as a detailed exposition of various issues, primarily focused on the correct observance of Paryushana. Munishri Manisagarji Maharaj meticulously addresses and refutes what he perceives as misinterpretations and deviations from established Jain scriptural tradition. The core arguments revolve around:

1. Adherence to Jina's Teachings (Jina-mata) over Gacch Traditions: The author strongly advocates for understanding and following the core principles of Jainism as laid down by the Tirthankaras, rather than rigidly adhering to the practices and interpretations of specific gacchas (sects). He criticizes the sectarianism that has led to conflicts and confusion among Jains, urging them to critically examine their beliefs and practices based on scriptures.

2. Correct Timing and Calculation of Paryushana: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to establishing the correct timing of the Paryushana festival. The author engages in detailed discussions about:

   • The Jain Calendar vs. Secular Calendars: The text highlights the historical absence of a continuously maintained Jain astrological calendar (Jain Panchang) and the subsequent reliance on secular calendars. This discrepancy, especially concerning the intercalary month (Adhik Maas), leads to debates about the exact days for Paryushana.
   • Calculation of Paryushana: The author argues, based on various Jain scriptures like Nishith Churni, Brihat Kalpa Churni, Sthananga Sutra Vritti, and others, that Paryushana should be observed 50 days after the Ashadha Chaturmasi, regardless of whether an intercalary month occurs. He refutes the idea of observing it 80 days later, especially in cases of an intercalary Shravan or Bhadrapad. He also clarifies the duration of the monsoon period (Chaturmas) and its relation to the timing of festivals.
   • Intercalary Months (Adhik Maas): The text provides extensive scriptural evidence to support the inclusion of intercalary months in calculations for religious observances and the total length of years and epochs. He criticizes those who dismiss the intercalary month's significance, especially in relation to the Paryushana period.

3. The Six (Chhah) Kalyanakas of Lord Mahavir: The author addresses the differing views on the six auspicious events (Kalyanakas) of Lord Mahavir. He defends the scriptural basis for all six, including the Chyavan (descent into the womb) from Devanda's womb to Trishala's womb as the second Chyavan Kalyana. He refutes arguments that try to negate the status of Kalyanakas by labeling them as mere "objects" or "locations" rather than auspicious events. He emphasizes that the intent and significance (bhava) behind these events align with the concept of Kalyana.

4. The Samayika Ritual: A detailed argument is presented regarding the correct procedure for the Samayika (a meditation and vow observance ritual). The author strongly supports the tradition of reciting Karemi Bhante first, followed by Irya-pathiki (Irya-pathiki Varnanam – a ritual seeking forgiveness for any unintentional harm caused while moving). He refutes the practice of reciting Irya-pathiki before Karemi Bhante, citing numerous scriptures and the opinions of ancient Acharyas from various gacchas. He outlines seven potential flaws in the opposing practice.

5. Critique of Opposing Views and Authors: Munishri Manisagarji Maharaj directly addresses and refutes the arguments presented by other munis and authors, such as those found in works like Subodhika, Deepika, and Kiravali. He systematically deconstructs their interpretations, often citing specific scriptural passages to support his counter-arguments.

6. Emphasis on Truth and Scripture: Throughout the book, the author stresses the importance of verifying all claims against the original Jain scriptures (Agamas). He encourages readers to be discerning, to move beyond blind faith in tradition or personality, and to embrace the truth as revealed in the scriptures.

7. Call for Unity and Harmony: Despite his strong refutations of opposing views, the author's underlying goal is to foster unity and understanding within the Jain community. He aims to resolve disputes so that Jains can focus on spiritual practice and self-improvement rather than sectarian conflict.

8. Structure of the Book: The book appears to be divided into multiple parts, with this excerpt primarily covering the introductory sections. The author mentions that detailed explanations and solutions to various doubts will be found in the introduction, preface, and the main body of the text, particularly in the first and second volumes (Purvardha, Pratham-Dusra Khand) and forthcoming parts.

Key Figures and Texts Cited:

The author frequently refers to and quotes from a wide array of ancient Jain scriptures and commentaries, including:

• Nishith Churni
• Brihat Kalpa Churni
• Sthananga Sutra Vritti
• Kalpa Sutra (and its commentaries)
• Samavayaanga Sutra (and its commentary)
• Aacharang Sutra
• Dasha Shruta Skandha
• Panchasak
• Shravaka Dharma Prakaran Vritti
• Navapad Prakaran Vritti
• Shuddha Samachari
• Vandita Sutra Vritti
• Works by prominent Acharyas like Shri Jinadas Gani Mahattara, Shri Haribhadra Suri, Shri Abhaydev Suri, Shri Hemchandracharya, Shri Devendra Suri, Shri Jinavallabh Suri, Shri Kalaka Acharya, and many others from various gacchas.

Author's Tone and Approach:

Munishri Manisagarji Maharaj adopts a scholarly and authoritative tone. He is passionate about upholding the scriptural truth and is firm in his refutations of what he considers erroneous views. However, his stated intent is not to create new disputes but to resolve existing ones by presenting clear scriptural evidence and logical reasoning. He invites readers to engage with the text thoughtfully and critically.

In essence, "Bruhat Paryushananirnay" is a comprehensive treatise aimed at rectifying the understanding and practice of Paryushana and other Jain tenets by relying on the authority of the Agamas and the interpretations of ancient, revered Acharyas, advocating for scriptural adherence above all else.