Dhavala Jaydhavala Ke Sampadan Ki Visheshtaye

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on the special features of the editing and translation of the Dhavala and Jayadhavala texts by Pandit Phoolchandra Shastri:

Summary of "Dhavala Jaydhavala ke Sampadan ki Visheshtaye" by Dr. Phoolchandra Jain 'Premi'

This article, penned by Dr. Phoolchandra Jain 'Premi', highlights the exceptional qualities of Pandit Phoolchandra Shastri's work in editing and translating the monumental Jain texts, Dhavala and Jayadhavala. Pandit Phoolchandra Shastri is recognized as a singular scholar who has dedicated nearly half a century to the scholarly pursuit of editing, revising, and translating Jain Agamas. Even in his advanced age, he continues to be remarkably diligent in his editorial endeavors.

The author emphasizes Pandit Phoolchandra Shastri's deep engagement with the Shauraseni Jain Agamas since 1939. His primary focus has been on the extensive commentaries of the Shatkhandagama and Kashayapahuda, namely the Dhavala, Jayadhavala, and Mahadhavala. The article notes that the fifteenth volume of Jayadhavala was recently published, and Pandit Shastri has already revised volumes 1 through 6 of Dhavala. The first edition of Dhavala's first volume was published in 1973, with six volumes now in print. The first volume of Jayadhavala was published in 1944, with Pandit Phoolchandra Shastri, Pandit Kailashchandra Shastri, and Pandit Mahendrakumarji as editors. All fifteen volumes of Jayadhavala were published in Mathura, with Pandit Phoolchandra ji being the primary editor and translator into the national language (Hindi).

Dr. Premi recounts his personal experience of observing Pandit Shastri's work, noting that the entire text and its subject matter seemed to be readily accessible to him, as if he possessed an intuitive understanding. The original text and its commentary felt as familiar to him as his mother tongue. The author praises Shastriji's ability to explain complex subjects in simple terms, a rare talent. He also mentions Shastriji's meticulous personal proofreading to ensure accuracy in subject matter, language, and technical terminology.

The article then enumerates the specific, unique features of Pandit Phoolchandra Shastri's editing work:

• Utilization of Multiple Sources: Both printed editions and handwritten palm-leaf manuscripts were consulted.
• Restoration of Textual Integrity: Where textual discrepancies were observed, the ideal manuscript and Prakrit grammar were used as guides.
• Consistency in Textual Variations: Great care was taken to maintain uniformity across different textual readings.
• Accurate Interpretation of Script Errors: Any errors arising from misreading Kannada script or the inattentiveness of scribes were resolved by cross-referencing with the primary texts before making textual distinctions.
• Reconstruction of Missing Text: Missing or damaged portions of the original text, due to the deterioration of palm leaves, were inferred and provided in parentheses based on their meaning and the context of the passage.
• Correction of Inconsistent Passages: Passages that appeared inconsistent in meaning or context with the original were corrected in the main text and explained in footnotes on the same page.
• Correction of Positional Errors: When the original text and the ideal manuscript exhibited errors in the sequence of passages, these were corrected, and the proper sequence was provided in the footnotes.
• Grammatical Correction of Vowels: Vowel inaccuracies were corrected according to grammatical rules.
• Standardization of Orthography: Where the ideal manuscript contained both corrected and uncorrected usage, uniformity was established across all instances.
• Completion of Sentences/Words: Missing words or sentences were indicated by dots and filled in as necessary.

The article also highlights the distinctive quality of the translation work itself. While maintaining simplicity, the language is appropriate to the subject matter. The "Vishesharth" (special explanations) are deemed particularly crucial, as they elucidate complex sutras that are otherwise difficult to comprehend without a thorough study of the principles. An extensive example is provided from the eighth book of Jayadhavala, explaining a complex concept related to the transmission (sankrama) of twenty-one Prakritis (categories of karmas) in relation to Mithyatva (false belief). The explanation details how the author's insightful clarifications resolve potential doubts and contradictions, demonstrating a deep understanding of the underlying principles.

The author further points out that when the original text briefly hints at a question and provides its solution, the translation presents this as a separate "Shanka" (Doubt) and "Samadhan" (Solution), thus making these important dialogues clearer. The explanations often involve comparative notes and contextual details to elucidate the subject matter. An example is given regarding the temporal aspects of various spiritual states (Upasham samyagdrishti, Sasamadan samyagdrishti, etc.) and their relation to karma categories, with precise explanations of minimum and maximum durations based on different perspectives.

Dr. Premi concludes by expressing immense admiration for Pandit Phoolchandra Shastri's monumental contribution. He states that unraveling the profound mysteries of Bhagwan Bhootabali and presenting them in simple language is a significant and commendable achievement. He acknowledges the profound and intricate nature of the subject matter, stating that individuals with limited intellect can only offer limited commentary on the presentation. He asserts that in terms of concept, meaning, editing, and doctrinal study, Pandit Phoolchandra Shastri has set a remarkable precedent by revealing the true essence of texts like Dhavala and Jayadhavala. He marvels at the sheer volume of work accomplished by a single individual in a relatively short period, which would typically require the combined efforts of many scholars from a well-established institution over an extended era.

The article suggests that Pandit Phoolchandra Shastri, in the fields of Jain principles, Agamas, and spirituality, is akin to a living encyclopedia. He has become an important link in the tradition through his work. The author also notes Shastriji's readiness to seek assistance from any available source to enhance his editing, translation, and explanatory endeavors, citing his acknowledgement of the contributions of Ratanachandra Mukhtar and Nemichandra Vakil in the editorial of Mahabandha.

In essence, the article celebrates Pandit Phoolchandra Shastri as a profound scholar whose meticulous editing and insightful translation of the Dhavala and Jayadhavala texts have made these complex and vital Jain scriptures accessible and understandable to a wider audience. His dedication, scholarly rigor, and ability to simplify intricate doctrines are lauded as an invaluable service to the Jain tradition, ensuring that his contributions will be remembered by present and future generations.