Gyanbhandar Prashasti

Here is a comprehensive summary of the "Gyanbhandar Prashasti" by Acharya Vijaypradyumnasuri, based on the provided text:

The "Gyanbhandar Prashasti" by Acharya Vijaypradyumnasuri is a scholarly work that highlights the historical and cultural significance of various inscriptions and records found in Jain literature. The author emphasizes that these records, such as ancient stone inscriptions, prashastis (eulogies or commendatory verses) within texts, colophons of author's writings, land grants, and notes of manuscripts dedicated to Jain libraries (Gyanbhandars), are crucial for understanding history. They provide insights into the social context of the time, offer a broader philosophical perspective, and serve as a source of inspiration for future generations.

The text then focuses on a specific and important type of prashasti: the "Chitkosh Prashasti," which refers to the eulogy of an entire library or a collection of manuscripts. The author mentions that Muni Jinavijayji had previously referred to such a prashasti in the introduction to the first edition of "Vigyaptitriveni."

The main subject of this "Gyanbhandar Prashasti" is a magnificent library or collection of manuscripts commissioned by a devout follower named Pasvir (also referred to as Parikshak Pasvir). This undertaking took place in the Bhandar of the Vimalgachha Jain Upashray in Patan Bhabhana Pada.

Key details of the commissioning and creation of this library are as follows:

• Inspiration and Guidance: The library was initiated on the advice of Shri Hemvimalsurishwarji Maharaj, a famous Acharya of the Tapagachha Lahaḍī Poṣāl, and his disciple Shri Jinhansa and his disciple Ananthansa.
• Patron: The primary patron was a wealthy and devout layperson named Pasvir. He was known for his discerning eye and was highly respected as a "Parikshak" (examiner or critic). He also commissioned the construction of a magnificent temple dedicated to Lord Jineshwar.
• Completion by Son: The work was initiated by Pasvir and completed by his virtuous son, Ram, after Pasvir's passing.
• Scale of the Library: The library contained an astounding six lakh and thirty-six thousand verses worth of scriptures.
• Accuracy and Quality: A dedicated scholar named Shubhabhushan was employed to ensure the accuracy and purity of the written texts. The manuscripts themselves were beautifully crafted with ornate front and back covers.
• Scribes: The extensive and intricate work of writing was skillfully executed by Vasa, son of Madh, of the Trasvadi clan, along with his brother Govind.
• Timeline: The initiation of this significant project is dated to Vikram Samvat 1557.
• Ancestry of Pasvir: The text traces the lineage of Pasvir, starting from Palhansingh and his wife Palhanadevi in the village of Bhiladi in Banaskantha. Their son was Doongar, whose wife was Sa. Doongar and Sa had two sons, Shidhar and Shobhak. These brothers moved to Anhilpur Patan and became renowned "Parikshak"s. Shidhar's wife was Kapuri, a woman of great virtue. Shidhar and Kapuri's son was Pasvir.
• Lineage of Acharyas: The text also lists the esteemed lineage of Jain Acharyas who guided this endeavor, including Shri Somavindrasuriji Maharaj, Munisundarsuriji (known as Sahasravadhani), Jayachandrasuriji, Ratnashekharsuriji, Lakshmisagarsuriji, Sumatisadhusuriji, and finally, Acharya Shri Vimalsuriji, Shri Jinamanikya, and Shri Ananthansa, who provided the final impetus for the library's creation.
• Pasvir's Family: Pasvir was married to Putlibai, who was known for her devotion to God and the Guru. They had three sons: Ram, Devak, and Vardhaman. Ram's wives were Kiki and Mani. Devak's wife was Ramai, and Vardhaman's wife was Hansi. Devak's son was Jagpal, and Vardhaman's son was Soorchand.
• Linguistic Notes: The author notes that the Sanskrit prashasti itself, consisting of 24 verses, is aesthetically pleasing. He also points out that the words "Farangi" and "Katifak" in the 21st verse appear to be of Persian origin and expresses a desire for their meaning to be elucidated by language experts.

Conclusion:

The author concludes by stating that the 16th century was a significant period for manuscript production in Jainism. A large portion of the ancient manuscripts found today date back to this century, including many "Suvarnakshari" (written in gold ink) manuscripts of texts like "Shrikalpasutra." The existence of approximately 45-50 such gold-ink manuscripts, all from the 16th century, testifies to this era's prolific output. This achievement is attributed to the immense devotion to knowledge and the inspirational teachings of the preceptors, suggesting that this "Gyanbhakti" (devotion to knowledge) was a driving force.