Jain Dhatu Pratima Lekh Part 1

This document is the first part of "Jain Dhatu Pratima Lekh" (Jain Metal Image Inscriptions) compiled and edited by Muni Kantisagar, published by Jindattsuri Gyanbhandar. It is part of a larger project initiated by the Shri Ashapuran Parshvanath Jain Gyanbhandar to restore and preserve ancient Jain texts, referred to as "Aho Shrut Gyanam" (Oh, Knowledge of the Scripture) Granth Jirnodhar.

The book is dedicated to the revered scholars, Suri Ram-Mahoday-Hemabhushan Suribhyo. The project aims to digitize and make accessible rare and old Jain manuscripts and books. This particular volume, "Jain Dhatu Pratima Lekh Part 1," contains inscriptions found on Jain metal images, which are crucial for understanding the history of the Shraman tradition, Jain sects, families, and geographical locations.

Key aspects highlighted in the document:

• Purpose: To collect and preserve inscriptions from Jain metal images, which serve as vital historical records.
• Significance of Inscriptions: The editor emphasizes that these inscriptions are essential for understanding Jain history, particularly the traditions, lineage, and geographical spread of the Shraman community. He notes that Jain monks have historically been diligent in documenting history, often more so than Brahmins.
• Material and Development of Jain Sculptures: The text briefly touches upon the evolution of Jain sculpture, starting with stone, then moving to wood, and later to metal. It highlights the artistic development of metal sculptures from the Gupta period onwards, noting that while early inscriptions were brief, later ones provided more detailed information about donors, preceptors, and dates.
• Scope of the Collection: The book contains inscriptions from various locations and time periods, spanning from ancient times to the 19th century. The editor notes that while the collection primarily focuses on Shvetambara inscriptions, the art and inscription styles are broadly representative of Jain art.
• Challenges and Preservation: The editor laments the loss of historical material due to carelessness and the ongoing destruction of ancient artifacts. He stresses the importance of preserving such valuable resources.
• Personal Journey of the Editor: Muni Kantisagar shares his personal motivation and journey in collecting these inscriptions, starting from a young age and collaborating with scholars like M.D. Desai and Muni Jinvijayji. He details his efforts to document inscriptions from temples in Mumbai and other regions.
• Support and Acknowledgement: The publication is supported by the generosity of the Golechha family of Jabalpur, and thanks are extended to them and the printing press for their contribution in bringing this work to light.
• Inscriptions: The majority of the document consists of a detailed list of inscriptions found on Jain metal images, presented with their respective Samvat (Jain era) dates, names of Tirthankaras, donor details, and the lineage of Jain monks who consecrated the images. These inscriptions are numbered from 1 to 368, covering a vast range of historical periods and locations.
• Appendix: The document includes an appendix with a "Puratan Dainandinini" (Ancient Diary) from the 19th century. This diary offers insights into the history of Jain monastic lineages, disputes within the community (specifically mentioning a division in the Kharatara Gacch between Bikaner and Jaipur), and details about ancient Jain sites and their inscriptions. It also includes personal reflections and observations of the monastic scribe.

In essence, "Jain Dhatu Pratima Lekh Part 1" is a meticulous compilation of historical epigraphs from Jain metal artifacts, serving as a critical resource for scholars and enthusiasts interested in Jain art, history, and religious practices. It highlights the dedication of Jain scholars and patrons in preserving this invaluable heritage.