Gautamiya Kavyam - Book Summary

"Gautamiya Kavyam" is a Jain text authored by Rupchandra Gani and Kanakvijay, published by the Devchand Lalbhai Pustakoddhar Fund. The book is presented with a commentary titled "Gautamīya-Prakasa" by Kshamakalyana Gani. The catalog link provided is https://jainqq.org/explore/003042/1.

Overview of the Text and its Content:

"Gautamiya Kavyam" is a poetic work that focuses on the theological and philosophical tenets of Jainism. The title suggests a focus on Gautama, likely referring to Indrabhuti Gautama, the chief disciple of Lord Mahavir. The text aims to elucidate these concepts through a beautiful and intricate poetic style.

Key Aspects Highlighted:

Integration of Anu-yogos: The "Adiwachan" (foreword) emphasizes that the "Gautamiya Kavyam" integrates the principles of Dravyanu-yoga (substance-based exposition) with Dharmanukalpa-yoga (religious narrative exposition). This combination makes the text a significant tool for acquiring the right scriptural knowledge as propounded by Lord Jin.
Four Anu-yogas: The text acknowledges the four primary Anu-yogas in Jainism: Dravyanu-yoga, Ganitanu-yoga (mathematics), Charana-karana-anu-yoga (conduct and ritual), and Dharmanukalpa-yoga. It highlights how these are interconnected and equally crucial for liberation.
Poetic Excellence: The "Adiwachan" praises the author's profound talent, natural poetic ability, and engaging narrative style. The work is described as a Mahakavya (epic poem) due to its use of various poetic meters, sophisticated language, and profound meanings.
Central Theme: The core subject matter of "Gautamiya Kavyam" is the refutation of doubts and misconceptions held by Indrabhuti Gautama and eleven other Brahmins by Lord Mahavir in Apapapuri. The text elaborates on this event using rich descriptions, contextual metaphors, and a harmonious blend of various sentiments (rasas).
Scholarly Commentary: The "Gautamīya-Prakasa" commentary by Kshamakalyana Gani is highly appreciated for its meticulous approach in simplifying the original author's profound and hidden meanings. The commentary also includes grammatical explanations and references to other Jain texts like "Abhidhan-Chintamani" to aid understanding.
Historical Context: The introductory notes also provide publication details, including the publisher (Seth Devchand Lalbhai Jaina Pustakoddhar Fund), the year of publication (1940 CE / 1996 VS), and the editors. The historical context of Jain literature in the 19th century is also touched upon, mentioning other prominent works and authors.
Author and Commentator Information: Rupchandra Gani, the author, is identified as a disciple of Shri Dayasingh Gani. Kshamakalyana Gani, the commentator, is a disciple of Shri Amritdharma Gani, who in turn was a disciple of Shri Jinabhakti Suri. The editor, Muni Kanakvijay, is a disciple of Acharya Shri Vijayaramchandra Suri.
Content of the Commentary (Gautamīya-Prakasa): The commentary is noted for its detailed explanations of difficult words and concepts, its attention to grammatical accuracy, and its references to standard Jain lexicographical works. It is considered a valuable resource for students and scholars seeking to understand the "Gautamiya Kavyam."

In essence, "Gautamiya Kavyam" is a significant literary and spiritual work in Jainism, offering a poetic rendition of core doctrines and historical events, made accessible through a scholarly and comprehensive commentary.