Chaturthstuti Nirnay - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Chaturthstuti Nirnay" by Atmaramji Maharaj, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Chaturthstuti Nirnay Author: Atmaramji Maharaj (Anandvijayji Maharaj) Publisher: Shravak Bhimsinh Manek (Published by Nimsi Manek) Publication Year: Samvat 1944 (1888 AD) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/003675/1

Core Issue Addressed: The central purpose of this text is to clarify and defend the Jain practice of reciting four stutis (praises or verses) in the Chaityavandan (temple worship) during Pratikraman (repentance rituals). It directly addresses and refutes the arguments of monks Ratnavijayji and Dhanvijayji, who advocated for reciting only three stutis, thus introducing a new sect or opinion contrary to established tradition.

Background and Motivation: The introduction (Prastavana) by the publisher highlights that Jainism, a sacred and ancient religion, has faced challenges in the current era due to the influence of negative cosmic influences and the rise of ignorance and delusion. This has led to many souls being misled by misconceptions and adherence to falsehoods. The text aims to correct these misconceptions and guide people back to the true path of Jainism.

The Controversy: The core of the dispute revolves around the practice of reciting stutis in Chaityavandan, a part of Pratikraman.

The Traditional Practice: Reciting four stutis in Chaityavandan is the established and ancient practice within the Jain tradition.
The Opposing View: Ratnavijayji and Dhanvijayji introduced the practice of reciting only three stutis. This was seen as an "utsootra" (contrary to scripture) and an introduction of a new sect, causing confusion and division among the Jain community, particularly in regions like Malwa and Jalor.

The Genesis of the Text: The book was initiated by requests from the Jain community.

Initial Encounter in Ahmedabad: During his Chowmas (monsoon retreat) in Ahmedabad, Maharaj Atmaramji was approached by Ratnavijayji, who sent him a letter with questions. Maharaj Atmaramji invited Ratnavijayji for a debate on the issue of stutis, but Ratnavijayji and Dhanvijayji refused.
Community Appeal: Subsequently, letters arrived from places like Sadri, Ranakpur, and Shivganj, reporting that Ratnavijayji had claimed victory in Ahmedabad, which led to misinformation spreading. In response, the Ahmedabad Sangh, with the consent of many followers, sent a letter to other congregations, clarifying that the three-stuti view was not accepted by the Ahmedabad community. This letter, signed by prominent merchants, is reproduced in the text.
Further Request from Radhanpur: Later, while Maharaj Atmaramji was in Mamal, a prominent layman from Radhanpur, Godidas Motichandji, informed him about Ratnavijayji's arrival in Radhanpur and his pronouncement of reciting only three stutis and not the fourth. Godidasji requested Maharaj Atmaramji to visit Radhanpur to address this issue, as Ratnavijayji had challenged him for a debate.
The Call for a Scholarly Work: When Ratnavijayji had moved on, the Radhanpur Sangh, led by Seth Shrichandji and Godidasji, approached Maharaj Atmaramji with a formal request. They emphasized that the traditional practice of reciting four stutis in Chaityavandan had been followed since ancient times according to scriptures. They urged Maharaj Atmaramji to compile a text that would cite the scriptural basis for reciting four stutis, thereby dispelling the doubts and correcting the misconceptions created by Ratnavijayji and Dhanvijayji. This would also help preserve the purity of Jain practices for the benefit of the fourfold Jain community (monks, nuns, male lay followers, and female lay followers).

Maharaj Atmaramji's Response: Moved by the community's earnest plea and recognizing the need to uphold the true teachings, Maharaj Atmaramji agreed to write the book. He had already heard about the previous disputes and misdeeds of Ratnavijayji and Dhanvijayji and felt compassion for the souls being misled. He aimed to guide them and prevent them from further deviations from Jain principles.

Key Scriptural Arguments and Rebuttals: The book meticulously analyzes various Jain scriptures to support the four-stuti practice and refute the three-stuti proponents.

Analysis of Kalpasutra: The text extensively discusses the interpretation of verses from the Kalpasutra, particularly the verse: "Nissakkada m'nissakkada, che esavahi thui tinni. Velan cheshyani, vina ekkakiya vavi." While some interpret this to imply only three stutis, the text argues that this verse primarily addresses the rules for dwelling in temples and not the definitive number of stutis in all contexts. It highlights that the verse is meant for specific situations like temple etiquette and doesn't negate the practice of four stutis.
Panchashaka and its Interpretations: The text delves into the Panchashaka and its commentaries by scholars like Anudev Suri. It presents different interpretations of Chaityavandan (jaghanya, madhyama, utkrushtha) and argues that the four-stuti practice is indeed supported by scriptural evidence, either directly or as an elaboration of the traditional practice.
Importance of Acharya's Tradition (Acharaṇa): A significant portion of the text emphasizes the importance of Acharaṇa (practice or tradition passed down by enlightened souls) as a valid source of Jain knowledge, alongside scripture. It cites works like Jivanushasana Vrittau by Dev Suri and Pravachanasaroddhara Vritti by Simhasen Suri, stating that Acharaṇa clarifies scriptural teachings and is essential for understanding and practicing Jainism correctly. The text asserts that the four-stuti practice is supported by such Acharaṇa.
Clarification of "Arvachin" (Recent/Modern): The text addresses the argument that the fourth stuti might be considered "arvachin" (recent). It explains that "arvachin" in this context refers to practices that are derived from or clarified by Acharaṇa, not necessarily a recent invention. It argues that even practices clarified by Acharaṇa are valid and rooted in the original teachings.
Scriptural Citations: The book cites numerous other Jain texts and commentaries, including Mahānishitha, Vicharamrita Sangraha, Dharmaratna, Uttaradhyayana, Sanghachara, Yogashastra, Shraddhavidhi, Pratikramanarthadipika, Vidhiprapa, and many others, to demonstrate the widespread acceptance and scriptural basis for the four-stuti practice.
Refutation of the Three-stuti Claim: The author systematically debunks the claims made by Ratnavijayji and Dhanvijayji, showing how their interpretations are either based on misreadings, selective quotes, or a disregard for the broader scriptural context and established traditions. The text argues that their refusal to accept the established four-stuti practice is a form of utsargapravritthi (promoting a new, unauthorized practice) and utsootra.
Focus on Ritual Purity: The text emphasizes that adhering to the correct number and sequence of stutis is crucial for the purity of rituals and the proper veneration of deities.

The Publisher's Intent: The publishers (Shravak Bhimsinh Manek) state their intention is to make the truth accessible to the Jain community. They believe this text will help dispel doubts, prevent the spread of erroneous views, and uphold the true Jain doctrine for the spiritual benefit of all. They also express their intent to publish this work widely for the benefit of monks and lay followers.

The Author's Position: Maharaj Atmaramji (Anandvijayji Maharaj) presents himself as a scholar dedicated to preserving the sanctity and authenticity of Jain practices. He expresses his motivation as compassion for those misled and a duty to uphold the teachings of the Tirthankaras and the tradition of the preceding Acharyas. He calls for critical thinking and adherence to scriptural evidence and tradition over personal opinions or sectarian narrowness.

Conclusion: "Chaturthstuti Nirnay" is a scholarly and passionate defense of a specific Jain ritualistic practice. It aims to correct a deviation from tradition and restore the correct understanding and practice of Chaityavandan based on a deep analysis of Jain scriptures and commentaries. The text highlights the importance of respecting the established lineage of Acharyas and their interpretations to maintain the integrity of the Jain faith.