Dictionaries Tantrashastra

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Dictionaries of Tantrashastra" by Ramkumar Rai, based on the scanned pages:

Book Title: Dictionaries of Tantrashastra or The Tantrabhidhanam Author: Ram Kumar Rai Publisher: Prachya Prakashan, Varanasi Series: Indological Reference Series No. 2 Edition: Second Edition, 1984

Overview:

"Dictionaries of Tantrashastra" is a compilation and English translation of various Sanskrit lexicographical works related to Tantric studies. The book's primary aim is to provide tools for deciphering the complex and often veiled language of Tantric texts, which are essential for understanding Tantric practices (Sadhanā). The author emphasizes that Tantra is a practical science, and while initiation from a Guru is ideal, these dictionaries serve as crucial aids for Sadhakas, especially in an era where worthy teachers are scarce.

Core Purpose and Importance:

The preface highlights that Tantra literature is not always straightforward. To fully grasp its intricacies and the meaning of Mantras, understanding the relationship between words (Śabda) and their meanings (Artha) is paramount. These dictionaries, known as Abhidhānas and Koṣas, are vital for this purpose. Without comprehending the significance of Mantras, their recitation is considered fruitless. The book provides examples of how seemingly unintelligible words in Tantric texts are decoded through these specialized dictionaries, enabling a deeper understanding of their spiritual and ritualistic import.

Contents:

The "Dictionaries of Tantrashastra" includes the following key texts, all edited and translated into English by Ram Kumar Rai:

• Mantrabhidhanam: A dictionary of Mantras.
• Prakārāntara Mantrābhidhāna: Another dictionary of Mantras, reportedly a part of the Rudrayāmala Tantra.
• Ekākṣarakosa: A dictionary of single-lettered words (Mantras or concepts).
• Bījanighantu: A glossary of Bīja (seed) syllables, derived from the Bhūtaḍāmara Tantra.
• Matṛkānighaṇṭu: A dictionary of Matrikas (alphabetical letters) and their associated meanings, often referring to deities or concepts.
• Prakārāntara Mātṛkānighantu I and II: Further glossaries of Matrikas, providing alternate meanings.
• Prakārāntara Varnanighantu: A dictionary of phonetic descriptions and their associated meanings.
• Bījābhidhana of Bhūtaḷāmara Tantra: A glossary of Bīja syllables from the Bhūtaḷāmara Tantra.
• Mantrārthābhidhāna of Varada Tantra: A dictionary explaining the meanings of Mantras from the Varada Tantra.
• Mudrānighantu: A dictionary of Mudras (symbolic hand gestures) used in Tantric rituals.
• Varṇabījakosa: A comprehensive glossary containing the meanings of approximately five thousand Tantric words.

Key Themes and Contributions:

• Deciphering Tantric Language: The book is a crucial resource for understanding the specialized vocabulary and symbolism employed in Tantric literature.
• Mantra Significance: It underscores the necessity of knowing the exact meaning of Mantras to derive their benefits, rather than mere recitation.
• Bīja Syllable Meanings: It delves into the meanings of Bīja syllables, which are considered potent representations of deities and cosmic principles.
• Matrika Importance: The glossaries of Matrikas illustrate how individual letters of the alphabet can represent multiple deities, concepts, or energies.
• Practical Application: The inclusion of Mudrānighaṇṭu points to the practical, ritualistic aspect of Tantra, providing guidance on symbolic gestures.
• Preservation of Knowledge: The work aims to make accessible valuable Tantric dictionaries, many of which are otherwise lost or difficult to obtain.

Methodology:

Ram Kumar Rai explains that these dictionaries often present meanings in a "covert form" or "mystified form." The book aims to bring clarity by providing original texts (in Devanagari) alongside their English translations, allowing scholars and practitioners to engage with the material directly. The examples provided in the preface, like deciphering the Mantra "Śrīm" from a combination of Bīja elements, illustrate the book's utility.

Target Audience:

The book is intended for "Sadhakas" (practitioners of spiritual disciplines) and scholars interested in Tantraśāstra, particularly those seeking to deepen their understanding of Mantras, Bījas, and the underlying symbolism.

Publisher's Note:

The publication is marked as "For Private and Personal Use Only." The book is part of the "Indological Reference Series" and has undergone a second edition in 1984. The price of the 1984 edition was Rs. 50.00.

In essence, "Dictionaries of Tantrashastra" is a scholarly compilation that serves as an indispensable guide for anyone delving into the profound and complex world of Tantric knowledge, bridging the gap between cryptic texts and practical understanding.