Gujaratna Aetihasik Lekho - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Gujaratna Aetihasik Lekho" by Lalchandra B Gandhi, focusing on the critical review presented on page 1 of the linked catalog:

The text, "Gujaratna Aetihasik Lekho" (Historical Inscriptions of Gujarat), published in three parts by the Gujarati Sabha, Mumbai, and edited by Acharya Girjashankar Vallabhji B.A., M.R.A.S., is generally a valuable compilation of historical inscriptions from Gujarat. However, the author, Pandit Lalchandra Bhagwan Gandhi, expresses profound disappointment and concern upon critically examining its contents, particularly the third volume published in 1942 (Samvat 1998).

Gandhi highlights that while the book aims to present historical inscriptions from Gujarat with Gujarati introductions and translations, it suffers from serious and inexcusable errors in interpretation and inaccuracies. He warns that these mistakes could lead to misunderstandings for history enthusiasts and students of Gujarat, potentially misdirecting further research.

Specific Criticisms and Examples:

The review focuses on a particular inscription from Mount Abu, identified as number 206, titled "Vaghela Dynasty's Inscription: A Stone Inscription from the time of Raja Viradhavala on Delvada on Abu Giri." This inscription was previously published in the "Collection of Prakrit and Sanskrit Inscriptions" by the Bhavnagar State Department of Ancient Research.

Misinterpretation of the Inscription's Purpose: The "Gujaratna Aetihasik Lekho" book's introduction to this inscription states that it records "some repair and renovation work done in the temple of Adinath by the two ministers Vastupal and Tejpal." Gandhi finds this interpretation to be woefully ignorant. He argues that the inscription's true purpose, understood by knowledgeable individuals, is to describe the magnificent new Jin temple of Neminath constructed at Ulvada on Mount Abu by Minister Tejpal. This temple was adorned with devakulikas (small shrines) and a large elephant stable. The inscription includes a prashasti (eulogy) composed by the esteemed court poet Kavi Sameshvardeva, containing 74 verses, which describes this temple.
Incorrect Date: The book, along with its original Sanskrit text and Gujarati translation, dates the inscription to Samvat 1267 (1211 CE). However, based on other inscriptions and evidence, Gandhi asserts that the correct date should be Samvat 1287.
Errors in the Sanskrit Text: Gandhi points out a lack of skill and care in the printing of the original Sanskrit text, citing issues with vowel lengths, poetic meter, word division, and analysis. This has resulted in numerous errors, including misplaced or distorted letters and inconsistent spelling. He provides several examples of incorrect readings compared to the correct ones, such as "Sashripur" instead of "Muralpur," and "Virayachati" instead of "Krim."
Errors in the Gujarati Translation: The Gujarati translation is also deemed unsatisfactory and riddled with errors. Gandhi notes instances where names are misrepresented, such as "Shrarja" instead of "Adhiraja," and the mother of Kumara Kartikeya Swami being incorrectly identified as the mother of Kartavirya. He also points out misinterpretations of names like "Chandprasada" as "Chandprasada" and "Prahan" instead of "Prahadana."
Misinterpretation of the Mangalacharan (Invocation): Gandhi critically examines the translation of the second verse of the mangalacharan. He argues that the verse, which describes a figure who is calm yet fiery, and sightless yet all-seeing, refers to Neminath Bhagwan, not Ganesha as translated in the book. He explains that the prashasti is dedicated to Neminath's temple, Neminath's mother is named Shiva (Shivadevi) in Jain literature, and Neminath fits the description of being patient yet wrathful, calm yet controlling passions, and all-knowing despite being in meditation. The author believes the poet skillfully used antithetical figures of speech (virodhalankara) to convey the Jain philosophy of anekantavada and offer blessings through Neminath.
Gross Misrepresentation of Sisters as Wives: A particularly glaring error highlighted is the translation of a verse (Shlok 17) and its accompanying Gujarati translation. The verse lists seven sisters of the brothers Laniga, Malladeva, Vastupal, and Tejpal. However, the book's translation incorrectly identifies these seven individuals as the seven married wives of the brothers. This misinterpretation completely distorts the meaning of the verse and the historical context.
Further Errors in Textual Reading and Interpretation: Gandhi further details the misreading of names of the sisters, such as "Jalhu, Makhu, Saku, Dhanadevi" in the original inscription versus the book's "Jalu, Makku, Saku, Vandevi." He also points out the incorrect emendation of "Sarha" to "Sundari" by the editor, leading to a nonsensical interpretation. Gandhi asserts that the correct reading is "Soha," a plural form of sahedari (sister), indicating that the poet listed seven sisters of the four brothers.
Correct Historical Context of Sisters' Devakulikas: Gandhi clarifies that Minister Tejpal had seven devakulikas built in the temple of Neminath at Abu, each dedicated to a different Tirthankara, for the benefit of his seven sisters. These were consecrated in Samvat 1293 (1136 CE). He notes that these inscriptions are still extant and clearly mention this.
Acknowledgement of a Positive Aspect: Despite the numerous criticisms, Gandhi acknowledges that the editor's introductory historical commentary in the third volume, which includes a "Vastupal and Tejpal Family Tree," does correctly list the seven sisters as such.
Misinterpretation of the Translation of Verses 62-66: The translation of verses 62-66 is again criticized for misinterpreting the meaning, leading to bizarre statements. For instance, it mentions "ten daughters of the king, resembling clouds" and "ten stone statues of his daughters riding elephants." Gandhi provides the correct interpretation, which describes the achievements and lineage of the brothers Vastupal and Tejpal, their sons, and their architectural and philanthropic works, including the construction of various religious establishments.
Discrepancies in Guru Names: The translation of later verses also contains errors regarding the names of Acharyas (gurus), with names like "Chandramasuri" appearing instead of "Ananda," and "Meru Sunidhar" instead of "Shri Vijayasen Suri."

Concluding Remarks and Call for Further Research:

Gandhi concludes by urging serious history researchers to consult other publications for a comparative analysis of these inscriptions. He lists several other prominent publications where these inscriptions have been published, including "Asiatic Researches," "Epigraphia Indica," "Kirti Kaumudi," "Prachin Jain Lekh Sangrah," and "Abund Prachin Jain Lekh Sangrah." He expresses hope that accurate historical research and publication will bring forth the true history of Gujarat, which will bring joy to all.

In essence, this review by Lalchandra B. Gandhi serves as a stern critique of the editorial accuracy and interpretive depth of the "Gujaratna Aetihasik Lekho," particularly its third volume, highlighting significant errors that necessitate careful cross-referencing with other scholarly works for authentic historical understanding.