Jain Ayurved Parampara Aur Sahitya - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text:

Book Title: Jain Ayurved Parampara aur Sahitya (Jain Ayurveda Tradition and Literature) Author: Rajendraprasad Bhatnagar

This document explores the rich tradition and extensive literature of Ayurveda within Jainism. It highlights how the pursuit of good health was considered crucial for spiritual advancement and the fulfillment of life's goals in Jain philosophy.

Key Points:

Ayurveda's Importance in Jainism: The text emphasizes that in Indian culture, and specifically within Jainism, medical practice is highly esteemed. The principle of "no charity is greater than the gift of life" underscores the significance of healing. Jain Tirthankaras and Acharyas integrated the knowledge of medicine into their teachings alongside religious doctrines, recognizing that a healthy body is essential for spiritual practice. The "Upashrayas" (monastic dwelling places) often served as centers for healing.
"Pranavay" - The Jain Term for Ayurveda: In Jain Agam literature, the science of medicine is referred to as "Pranavay." This term is derived from the twelve Angas (limbs) of Jain teachings. The twelfth Anga, "Drishtivada," contains five sub-sections, the twelfth of which is "Pranavay." This section comprehensively discusses internal (mental/spiritual) and external (physical) health practices, including Yamas, Niyamas, diet, lifestyle, and medicines. It also details the treatment of various diseases caused by divine, physical, and mental factors.
Eight Angas of Ayurveda: The text mentions the eight traditional branches of Ayurveda: Kayachikitsa (Internal Medicine), Shalyatantra (Surgery), Shalakyatantra (ENT and Ophthalmology), Bhutavidya (Psychiatry/Demonology), Kaumarabhritya (Pediatrics), Agadatantra (Toxicology), Rasayana (Rejuvenation), and Vajikaran (Aphrodisiacs).
The "Pranavay" Tradition and its Decline: The tradition of "Pranavay" was established by Tirthankaras and passed down through generations of Ganadharas, Shrutakevalis, and Acharyas. However, with the passage of time, many of the original texts were lost. The text notes that the last knowledge of the "Purvas" (ancient Jain texts) resided with Shrutakevali Bhadrabahu. Later, the knowledge of ten Purvas was preserved by Acharyas up to Dharmasen, after which it declined. The reasons for the disappearance of these texts are attributed to the inclusion of various secular sciences and arts, which were deemed unsuitable for monks' strict vows of asceticism, leading to the gradual cessation of their study.
Ayurvedic Content in Jain Agam Literature: Even though "Pranavay" texts are largely lost, Ayurvedic references are found in various Jain Agam scriptures like the "Sthananga Sutra" and "Nishithachurni." These scriptures mention Dhanvantari as the originator of Ayurveda and identify "Mahavaidyas" (great physicians) who studied this science. They also refer to the eight branches of Ayurveda and the four key components of healing: the physician, the patient, the medicine, and the attendant. The text mentions treatments using Panchakarma, Vamana, Virechana, and chemicals.
Specific Diseases and Treatments: The "Acharanga Sutra" lists sixteen diseases, including goiter, leprosy, tuberculosis, epilepsy, eye diseases, stiffness, deformities, abdominal disorders, muteness, swelling, wasting diseases, tremors, lameness, and diabetes. The Agams also describe treatments for diseases and surgical procedures, including the management of snake and insect poisons, with gold being considered an excellent antidote. Surgical interventions for conditions like fistulas, wounds, and injuries, along with suturing, are also mentioned.
Ayurvedic Centers and Physicians: Jain Agam texts refer to "Arogyashalas" (hospitals or healing centers) that employed paid physicians and attendants. Physicians were called "Pranacharya," and skilled ones were known as "Dashtapathis" (those who have gained real knowledge through practical experience).
Jain Contribution to Ayurveda: The document highlights the significant contribution of Jain scholars, monks, and laypersons to the development of Ayurveda. While the ancient "Pranavay" tradition faded, Jain scholars continued to compose Ayurvedic texts. These texts, often in regional languages like Rajasthani, Gujarati, and Kannada, as well as Sanskrit, cover various aspects of medicine. The text mentions specific works like "Kalyanakaraka" by Ugaditya, which is an important surviving "Pranavay" text, and treatises by scholars like Pujyapada, Samantabhadra, and Hastiruchi Gani.
Geographical Distribution of Jain Ayurvedic Literature: A significant portion of Jain Ayurvedic literature is found in Western India, particularly in Rajasthan, Punjab, Gujarat, and Karnataka. Rajasthan is noted as a prominent region for such compositions.
Types of Jain Ayurvedic Works: Jain Ayurvedic texts were authored by Jain monks (voluntarily or at the behest of patrons), and independent Jain scholars and physicians. These works include comprehensive medical treatises, collections of remedies, and commentaries on existing Ayurvedic texts.
Key Features of Jain Ayurveda:
- Non-violence: Jain scholars discouraged surgical procedures and practices perceived as violent, leading to a decline in surgical knowledge.
- Emphasis on Rasa Yoga and Siddha Yoga: While surgical practices diminished, there was a significant increase in the use of "Rasa Yogas" (mercury-based preparations) and "Siddha Yogas" (potent medicinal formulations), which were believed to cure all diseases.
- Diagnostic Methods: Jain scholars highly valued diagnostic methods like pulse examination (Nadi Pariksha) and urine examination (Mutra Pariksha).
- Dietary Restrictions: Jain medical practices strictly adhered to their religious principles, prohibiting the consumption of alcohol, meat, and honey due to the violence involved.
- Use of Botanicals and Minerals: Jain scholars extensively utilized plants, minerals, salts, gems, and other substances in their medicinal preparations.
- Holistic Approach: The ultimate goal of Jain medicine was not just physical well-being but also spiritual health and liberation, achieved through adherence to dietary and lifestyle guidelines.

In conclusion, the document underscores that Jain scholars and practitioners, through their dedicated efforts in medical practice and literary composition, as well as the establishment of charitable hospitals and dispensaries by generous Jain patrons, have made a significant cultural and scientific contribution to the field of Ayurveda in India.