Dwadashparvi Vyakhyanam

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Dwadashparvi Vyakhyanam" by Kshamakalyan Upadhyay, based on the provided pages:

Title: Dwadashparvi Vyakhyanam (Twelve Chapters/Sections of Commentary) Author: Kshamakalyan Upadhyay Publisher: Kshamakalyan Upadhyay Context: Published under the auspices of the Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra, Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Gyanmandir. The text is intended for private and personal use.

Overall Purpose and Structure:

"Dwadashparvi Vyakhyanam" is a detailed commentary and explanation of twelve significant Jain festivals or observances. Each section of the book focuses on a specific observance, providing its significance, associated rituals, historical context, and illustrative stories (parables and anecdotes) to elucidate Jain principles. The commentary is presented in a scholarly yet accessible manner, aiming to deepen the understanding and practice of Jainism among devotees.

Key Themes and Content:

The text delves into the spiritual and ethical dimensions of Jain observances. It emphasizes:

• The Importance of Festivals: The book highlights that these festivals are not merely commemorative events but are crucial opportunities for spiritual growth, purification of the soul, and adherence to Jain principles.
• Ethical Conduct and Righteousness (Dharma): A central theme is the emphasis on righteous conduct, right faith (Samyak Darshan), right knowledge (Samyak Gyan), and right conduct (Samyak Charitra) as the path to liberation.
• The Twelve Observances Covered: The "Dwadashparvi" (Twelve Chapters) likely refer to twelve specific observances. Based on the provided pages, these include:
  • Chaturmasik Vyakhyan (Commentary on the Four-Month Period): This section likely explains the observances and practices during the Chaturmas period. It discusses avoiding sins, abstaining from certain foods (like leafy vegetables during specific seasons), and the importance of rituals like Samayika (meditation/equanimity), Avashyak (essential daily duties), Paushadh (fasting/vow observance), Devarchan (worship of deities), and Dana (charity). It also details various "atikramanas" (transgressions or breaches of vows) related to these practices, categorized for monks and laypeople.
  • Ashtahika Vyakhyan (Commentary on Ashtahika): This section describes the significance of the Ashtahika festival, a period of eight days dedicated to fasting and worship. It details the cosmology of Mount Nandiishwar, where devas perform Ashtahika rituals, and explains the importance of adherence to Jain principles during this time, particularly emphasizing Ahimsa (non-violence) and avoiding negative actions. It includes stories to illustrate these points, such as the story of Ardrakumar.
  • Deepavali Vyakhyan (Commentary on Diwali): This section discusses the significance of Diwali in Jainism, linking it to the liberation of Bhagwan Mahavir and the attainment of Keval Gyan by Bhagwan Gautam. It includes narratives about the spiritual importance of the festival, emphasizing practices like fasting and the reverence for the Tirthankaras. It also includes a detailed prophecy about future societal decline and the role of Jainism in restoring order.
  • Gyan Panchami Vyakhyan (Commentary on Knowledge Fifth): This section focuses on the observance of Gyan Panchami, dedicated to the veneration of knowledge. It explains the importance of knowledge in achieving liberation and uses stories to illustrate the consequences of neglecting or disrespecting knowledge, and the rewards of its pursuit.
  • Kartik Pournima Vyakhyan (Commentary on Full Moon of Kartik): This section elaborates on the significance of Kartik Purnima, often associated with the pilgrimage to Mount Shatrunjay (Vimalgiri). It recounts stories of Tirthankaras and other spiritually accomplished beings who attained liberation on this day, highlighting the merit of visiting sacred sites and practicing austerities.
  • Maun Ekadashi Vyakhyan (Commentary on Silent Eleventh): This section focuses on the observance of Maun Ekadashi, emphasizing silence and fasting. It relates stories to illustrate the spiritual benefits of these practices, including the story of Suvrata Sheth, who achieved spiritual progress through his adherence to the Ekadashi vow.
  • Poshadashami Vyakhyan (Commentary on Fasting Tenth): This section details the observance of Poshadashami, a day of fasting and spiritual reflection. It highlights the story of a devout Shravaka named Paras, whose devotion led to the discovery and consecration of a shrine to Lord Parshvanath. The narrative emphasizes the power of sincere devotion and the miraculous events that can result from it.
  • Mesha Trayodashi Vyakhyan (Commentary on the Thirteenth of Mesh): This section discusses the observance of Mesha Trayodashi, likely related to the month of Mesh. It presents a story about King Anantvirya of Ayodhya and his son Pingalraj, who was born with a disability due to past karma. The narrative highlights the karmic consequences of actions and the importance of righteous living.
  • Holika Vyakhyan (Commentary on Holi): This section critically examines the traditional Holi festival, contrasting its worldly, often riotous celebrations with the spiritual "Holika" of inner purification through austerity. It narrates stories to highlight the negative consequences of materialistic actions and the importance of adhering to Jain principles.
  • Chaitra Purnima Vyakhyan (Commentary on Full Moon of Chaitra): This section focuses on Chaitra Purnima, emphasizing its connection to pilgrimage and spiritual merit. It recounts stories of saints and kings who attained liberation or spiritual advancement through their devotion and practices on this day.
  • Akshaya Tritiya Vyakhyan (Commentary on Unchanging Third): This section details the significance of Akshaya Tritiya, a day of immense spiritual importance, particularly linked to the first Tirthankara, Bhagwan Rishabhdev, and his first meal after initiation. The story of Shreyans, who offered sugarcane juice to Rishabhdev, illustrates the concept of "sat-patra dan" (offering to a worthy recipient) and the immense merit gained from it.
• Karmic Theory: The text frequently references the Jain concept of karma, explaining how actions in past lives influence present circumstances and how specific observances can help mitigate negative karma and accumulate positive merit.
• Illustrative Stories: Each section is rich with stories (Katha, Drishtanta) that serve as moral exemplars and provide practical illustrations of Jain teachings. These stories often involve kings, queens, merchants, ascetics, and celestial beings, demonstrating the universality of karmic principles.
• Spiritual Practices: The commentary details various Jain practices, including:
  • Samayika: Cultivating equanimity and non-attachment.
  • Pratikraman: Confession and atonement for sins.
  • Paushadh: Fasting and observing specific vows.
  • Dana: Charity and selfless giving.
  • Tapa: Austerities and self-discipline.
  • Japa: Chanting mantras.
  • Svadhyaya: Study of scriptures.
  • Vrata: Observance of vows.
• Role of Acharyas and Gurus: The text acknowledges the importance of spiritual guidance from Acharyas and Gurus in understanding and practicing Jainism.

Historical and Publication Information:

• The book was published by Kshamakalyan Upadhyay.
• The publication date is mentioned as Vikram Samvat 1870 (corresponding to 1813 CE) and Veer Samvat 244.
• The commentary was composed under the guidance of Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri.
• Specific individuals are mentioned as patrons and supporters of the publication, including Ladubai, Acharajbai, Makkhubai, and Shri Sher Singh.
• The manuscript was likely revised and edited by Pandit Bhagwatilal Sharma.

Significance:

"Dwadashparvi Vyakhyanam" is a valuable resource for understanding the practical application of Jain philosophy in the context of its numerous festivals and observances. It provides a deep dive into the ethical, spiritual, and historical dimensions of these occasions, making them relevant and inspiring for modern adherents of Jainism. The detailed narratives and explanations serve to reinforce the core tenets of the faith.