Collection Of Prakrit And Sanskrit Inscriptions

Based on the provided text, here's a comprehensive summary of the "Collection of Prakrit and Sanskrit Inscriptions" as presented in this Jain text:

This document appears to be a catalog or a listing associated with a project to digitize and preserve rare Jain religious texts, primarily in Prakrit and Sanskrit. The title "Collection of Prakrit and Sanskrit Inscriptions" is mentioned, but the content leans heavily towards a catalog of Jain philosophical and canonical works, rather than actual epigraphical inscriptions.

Key Information and Content:

• Project Goal: The primary aim of the initiative is the "Jirnoddhar" (restoration/preservation) of ancient and rare Jain books. This involves scanning and creating digital copies (DVDs) of these texts, making them available both online and through physical media. The motivation is to preserve the Jain scriptural heritage for future generations and to make these valuable, often rare, works accessible to scholars and students.
• The "Collection" as a Catalog: While the title suggests inscriptions, the majority of the provided pages (Pages 4-10) list books by their titles, authors/commentators, and sometimes page numbers. This indicates that the "Collection" is a catalog of manuscripts or printed books that have been digitized or are intended for digitization.
• Scope of Works: The catalog covers a wide range of Jain literature, including:
  • Sutras and Commentaries: Texts like the Nandi Sutra, Uttaradhyayana Sutra, and their commentaries are listed, indicating a focus on foundational Jain canonical works.
  • Philosophical and Logical Treatises: Works on Jain philosophy (e.g., Tattvasopanam, Anekanța Jayapataka), logic (Nyaya Pravesah, Nyayasarmuchchaya), and metaphysics are included.
  • Art, Architecture, and Iconography: Several titles deal with Shilpa Shastra (art and architecture), Vastu Vidya (science of building), Präsada Tilaka, Shilpa Ratna, etc., suggesting a broad interest in Jain material culture as well.
  • Jyotisha (Astrology) and Ayurveda: Books related to Jain astrology (Heerakālasha Jain Jyotisha) and Ayurvedic practices are also listed.
  • Historical and Literary Works: Texts like Kalikacharya Kathasangraha, Saptasandhana Mahakavyam, and various collections of inscriptions suggest an inclusion of historical and literary works related to Jainism.
• Editors and Contributors: The catalog lists prominent scholars and institutions involved in this preservation effort, such as P. Peterson (for "Collection of Prakrit and Sanskrit Inscriptions" and other works), P. Bhatta, B. Bhattacharya, Kumara K. Sabhastrav Shastri, Nandlal Chunilal Sompura, Prabhshankar Oghadbhai, Bechardas Jivraj Doshi, and various Muni Maharaj shree. The Bhavnagar Archaeological Department is mentioned as a publisher.
• Digitization Efforts: The project is organized into sets (Set No. 1, Set No. 2, Set No. 3), indicating a systematic approach to digitizing a large number of texts. The "Aho Shrutgyanam Granth Jirnoddhar" project is highlighted, with specific years like Samvat 2065 (2009), 2066 (2010), and 2067 (2011) associated with different sets.
• Specific Inscriptions Mentioned in Detail (Pages 10-71): While the bulk is a catalog, there's a detailed introduction and description of specific inscriptions, notably:
  • Asoka's Rock Edicts at Junagadh: These are extensively discussed, including their discovery, decipherment (crediting James Prinsep and Dr. John Wilson), contents, and moral/ethical teachings. This section aligns with the "Prakrit and Sanskrit Inscriptions" title.
  • Saka Dynasty Inscriptions: Details are provided for inscriptions of kings like Rudradaman, mentioning the repair of the Sudarsana Lake and providing historical context.
  • Gupta Dynasty Inscription: The inscription of King Skandagupta at Junagadh is described, relating to the Sudarsana lake repair again.
  • Valabhi Dynasty Grants: Several copper-plate grants are mentioned, detailing genealogies and land grants to Brahmacharis and monasteries.
  • Surya Dynasty, Gohila Dynasty, Solanki Dynasty: The catalog then lists numerous stone inscriptions and copper plates from these dynasties, detailing their genealogies, temple constructions, grants, and historical events.

Overall Purpose:

The document serves as a testament to a significant effort to preserve and make accessible the vast literary and historical heritage of Jainism. It highlights the importance of "Shruta Jnana" (knowledge of scriptures) and the dedication of individuals and institutions to this cause. The project aims to ensure that these ancient texts, particularly those in Prakrit and Sanskrit, are not lost to time and can be studied and appreciated by future generations. The initial pages also serve as an introduction and credit system for the patrons and organizers of this preservation endeavor, particularly the "Shri Ashapuran Parshvanath Jain Gyana Bhandar."