Dravya Gun Paryayno Ras Dravyanuyog Paramarsh Part 01

This Jain text, titled "Dravya Guna Paryayno Rasa" (Meaning: The essence of Substance, Qualities, and Modes) and part of the "Dravyanuyog Paramarsh" series by Mahamahopadhyaya Shri Yashovijayji, is a profound exploration of Jain ontology and metaphysics, specifically focusing on the concepts of Dravya (Substance), Guna (Quality), and Paryaya (Mode). This is the first part of a multi-volume work.

Core Concepts:

• Dravya (Substance): The text emphasizes the fundamental concept of Dravya as the unchanging, eternal essence of reality. It is the underlying reality that persists through all changes. The six Dravyas (Jiva, Ajiva, Dharma, Adharma, Akasha, Kala) are introduced, with a particular focus on the pure soul (Shuddhatmadravya) as the ultimate substance.
• Guna (Quality): Qualities are described as characteristics or attributes that inhere in the substance. They are co-existent with the substance and define its nature. The text differentiates between general qualities (like existence, knowability) and specific qualities inherent to each substance.
• Paryaya (Mode/State): Paryayas represent the changes or modifications that a substance undergoes over time. They are states of being that arise and pass away, while the substance itself remains eternal. The text explains the concept of modes as sequential (kramabhavi) and simultaneous (sahabhāvī) changes.

Methodology and Commentary:

• Dravyanuyoga: The book is rooted in Dravyanuyoga, which is the logical study of ultimate realities. It aims to provide a clear understanding of these fundamental Jain principles.
• Comprehensive Exposition: The work meticulously explains the characteristics and diversities of Dravya, Guna, and Paryaya as accepted by both major sects of Jainism (Śvetāmbara and Digambara).
• Commentary: The book includes the original text of "Dravya-Guna-Paryayano Rasa" by Mahamahopadhyaya Shri Yashovijayji, along with his own commentary called 'Stabaka' (or 'Tabo'). It further expands on this with a Sanskrit commentary named 'Dravyanuyoga Paramarsha' and an extensive Sanskrit commentary on that, 'Dravyanuyoga Paramarsha Karnika', both authored by Panyasa Shri Yashovijayji. Finally, a Gujarati exposition titled 'Dravyanuyoga Paramarsha Karnika Suvasa' provides clarification and deeper insight into the commentary.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: The commentary (Karnika) is noted for its extensive cross-referencing, drawing not only from Jain scriptures (Agamas) of both Śvetāmbara and Digambara traditions but also from various philosophical schools like Nyaya, Vaiśeṣika, Sāṅkhya, Buddhism, Vedānta, and Mīmāṁsā. This interdisciplinary approach aims to provide a comprehensive understanding by comparing and contrasting different viewpoints.
• Critique of Other Schools: The work also offers cogent criticism of certain views presented by the Digambara sect and other philosophical schools, particularly highlighting inconsistencies in their treatment of various subjects.
• Spiritual Message: A key feature of the commentary is the inclusion of a spiritual message at the end of each verse's explanation, offering guidance for practical application in life, bridging the gap between mere knowledge (Jñana Yoga) and experiential realization (Bhāvanā Yoga).

Author and Lineage:

• Mahamahopadhyaya Shri Yashovijayji (Original Author): Revered as a highly intellectual scholar, he composed the original "Dravya-Guna-Paryayano Rasa" approximately 350 years ago in Old Gujarati. He was renowned for his mastery of logic and philosophical systems.
• Panyasa Shri Yashovijayji (Commentator): The modern commentary and expanded works are attributed to Panyasa Shri Yashovijayji, a disciple of Panyasa Shri Vishvakalyanavijayji, who was himself a disciple of Acarya Shri Bhuvanabhanusurishwarji. Panyasa Shri Yashovijayji's work is praised for its subtle logical power, meditative thinking, and deep scriptural perception, which have made complex concepts of Dravyanuyoga accessible.

Structure and Content:

The original work is divided into 17 chapters (dhāls) with 284 verses. The current published work is presented in seven volumes. Volume 1, as indicated by the provided pages, covers foundational aspects and the glory of Dravyanuyoga, introducing the core concepts and the author's approach. The included index (Vishay Margadarshika) lists various topics covered, demonstrating the book's extensive scope, including discussions on different philosophical schools, nuances of Jain logic (Naya), and critiques of opposing views.

Significance:

This work is considered a monumental contribution to Jain philosophy, elucidating complex metaphysical concepts from a logical and spiritual perspective. It aims to popularize and clarify the intricate ideas of Dravyanuyoga for a wider audience, fostering a deeper understanding of Jain tenets and guiding seekers towards spiritual realization and liberation.

The text is published by Shreyaskar Andheri Gujarati Jain Sangh, Mumbai.