Jain Dhatu Pratima Lekh Part 1 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Dhatu Pratima Lekh Part 1" by Buddhisagar, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Jain Dhatu Pratima Lekh (Collection of Inscriptions on Metal Jain Images) Author: Acharya Shrimad Buddhisagar Surishwarji Publisher: Shri Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/008585/1

This book, the 42nd in the Shrimad Buddhisagarji Granthamala series, is a historical compilation of inscriptions found on metal Jain images. The author, Acharya Shrimad Buddhisagar Surishwarji, is lauded for his extensive knowledge and unique writing style, making spiritual and philosophical concepts accessible to all.

Key Themes and Content:

Historical Significance: The book draws from inscriptions dating from the 12th to the 16th century, providing invaluable insights into the grandeur of the Jain community during those periods. It sheds light on the prominent Jains of that era, their Acharyas, various sects (Gachhas), merchant communities (Gnatiyos), cities, and villages. Historians and scholars are expected to find this book particularly useful for understanding Jain history.
Inscriptions on Metal Images: The core of the book is the collection and analysis of inscriptions on metal images of Jain Tirthankaras and other deities. These inscriptions provide direct evidence of the patronage of Jainism by various communities and individuals.
Social and Economic History: The inscriptions reveal details about the religious practices, social structures, and economic activities of the Jain people. They mention the names of various Jain merchant castes, their geographical locations, and their contributions to the construction of temples and the commissioning of images.
Religious Practices and Sects: The book details the names of various Gachhas (Jain monastic lineages) and Acharyas who performed the consecration (Pratishtha) of these images. It explores which Gachhas were authorized to perform these rituals and which Gachhas are still extant today.
Caste and Community Studies: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to discussing various Jain castes, their origins, their historical presence, and their evolution. The author meticulously traces the lineage and contributions of communities like:
- Ladua Shrimali: Originally following Jainism, they were later identified as distinct from Lad Vanis and Ladua Vanis. Their involvement in commissioning Jain texts, temples, and images from the 14th century onwards is highlighted.
- Chayada (Vayad) community: Originating from the village of Vayad near Patan, these merchants were significant patrons of Jainism. Their history is found in texts like Vivekvilas and Balabharat. The chapter also discusses the etymology of the name "Vayad" and the historical shifts in religious affiliation within this community.
- Oshwal (Upkesh) community: Their origins are linked to the city of Osha, and their significant role in various religious activities, including temple construction and the upkeep of pilgrimage sites like Siddhachal, is emphasized. Their historical prominence in administrative roles in Marwar states is also noted.
- Shrimali community: Originating from Bhinmal Nagar in Marwar, this community's ancestors were rulers. The book discusses the lineage divisions (Visha Shrimali, Dasha Shrimali) and the reasons behind them, often linked to social customs and the influence of other religious movements. The influence of figures like Vastupal and Tejpal is also mentioned.
- Disawal community: Originating from the village of Disa, their adherence to Jainism is traced through various inscriptions. The influence of Vallabhacharya's sect on some members of this community is also discussed.
- Nagar community: This community is presented as having originally followed Jainism, with many inscriptions indicating their patronage. The book discusses their historical religious affiliations and the eventual decline of their Jain identity due to external pressures.
- Gurjar community: Linked to the historical region of Gujarat, these merchants also played a significant role in Jainism, with inscriptions dating up to the 16th and 17th centuries. The later adoption of Vaishnavism by some is also noted.
- Porwad community: Their historical connection to ruling dynasties is discussed, as well as their conversion to Jainism and their significant role in Jain art and architecture, including the famous Dilwara temples.
- Other communities: The book also briefly mentions and lists other communities like Uchhal, Pallival, Shrimall Gurjar, Modh, Humbad, Kapol, Sitkesh, Nimavanik, and others, indicating their presence in Jain history.
Inscriptions and Their Interpretations: The author meticulously presents the inscriptions, transliterating them and providing detailed interpretations. The book explains what can be learned from these inscriptions, covering aspects like the identity of the patron, the lineage and sect of the consecrating Acharya, the location of the temple, and the specific Tirthankara or deity for whom the image was created.
Digambara Images: The book also includes inscriptions from some Digambara images, suggesting a period of potential shared temple spaces or the protection of Digambara idols by Shvetambara Jains in certain regions.
Preservation and Future Work: The preface acknowledges that many inscriptions remain unpublished. The release of future volumes depends on continued support from patrons. The publisher, Shri Adhyatma Gyan Prasarak Mandal, is commended for keeping the prices low to make these valuable texts accessible, and for their efforts in promoting spiritual knowledge.
Call for Collaboration: Readers are encouraged to send in any suggestions or corrections for future editions or volumes, acknowledging the importance of scholarly input.
List of Gachhas and Acharyas: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to listing various Jain Gachhas and the Acharyas associated with them, along with their estimated periods. This serves as a valuable resource for understanding the historical development of Jain monastic traditions.
Geographical Data: The book includes extensive lists of villages and cities mentioned in the inscriptions, providing a historical map of Jain settlements and their activities.
Artistic and Craftsmanship: The introduction notes the importance of Jain craftsmanship, particularly in metal images, and highlights the exemplary artistry found in temples like those at Abu and in cities like Ahmedabad and Patan.

In essence, "Jain Dhatu Pratima Lekh Part 1" is a monumental work that serves as a primary source for the study of Jain history, society, religious practices, and art. It is a testament to the author's dedication to preserving and disseminating invaluable Jain heritage.