Jain Nibandh Ratnavali 02 - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Nibandh Ratnavali 02" by Milapchand Katariya, published by Bharatiya Digambar Jain Sahitya. The book is a collection of 55 essays by the author, covering various aspects of Jain philosophy, history, culture, and practices.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content covered in the book, based on the provided pages:

1. Introduction and Context:

Book Details: The book is the second volume of "Jain Nibandh Ratnavali," with the first volume published in 1966.
Author: Pt. Milapchand Katariya, a scholar from Kekri (Ajmer, Rajasthan), who was also an active businessman.
Publisher: Shri Bharatvarshiya Digambar Jain Sangh, 84, Mathura.
Purpose: The collection aims to provide authentic knowledge on Jain literature, culture, history, principles, religion, and society.
Author's Approach: Katariya's essays are described as original, research-based, and critical, often employing comparative analysis. They cater to both general readers and scholars.
Scholarly Context: The book is presented within the context of other prominent Digambar Jain scholars of the era like Pt. Nathuramji Premi, Pt. Jugalkishore Mukhtar, Dr. A.N. Upadhyay, etc., highlighting Katariya's significant contribution.
Two Streams of Research: The introduction distinguishes between two approaches to historical and religious research:
- Stream 1: Relies on available evidence to support existing beliefs, sometimes leading to unsupported conclusions and deviating from scriptural principles.
- Stream 2: Adheres to scriptural authority (Jina Agama) as the ultimate truth, using logic and evidence to understand and validate it, rather than to contradict it. Katariya is identified as belonging to the second stream.

2. Content of the Essays (Nihandh Suchi):

The book contains 55 essays, with titles covering a wide range of topics, including:

Dietary Practices:
- Ratri Bhojan Tyag (Renunciation of night meals) - Discussing the religious and health reasons for this practice.
- Ailak ki Ahar Charya (The dietary practices of an Ailak) - Examining the rules and traditions.
- Sadhuon ki Aharcharya ka Samay (The time for monks' meals) - Discussing the appropriate timing for alms-gathering.
Festivals and Rituals:
- Panchkalyanak Tithiya aur Nakshatra (Panchkalyanak dates and constellations) - Critically examining the accuracy of dates and astronomical placements.
- Pratishtha Tilak Kar Neemicchandra ka Samay (The time period of Nemichandra, the author of Pratishtha Tilak) - A historical dating of a key ritualistic text.
- Murti-Nirman jo Prachin Riti (Ancient methods of idol creation) - Describing traditional craftsmanship.
- Peethikadi Mantra aur Shasan Dev (Peethika mantras and guardian deities) - Analyzing the scriptural basis and practice of deity invocation.
- Vastudev (The deity of Vastu/Architecture) - Discussing the concept and worship of Vastu Devta.
- Jain Dharm mein Mahima ki Vyakhya (Explanation of greatness in Jainism) - Exploring the concept of spiritual elevation.
Saints and Scholars:
- Pt. Todarmalji aur Shithilachari Sadhu (Pt. Todarmalji and lax monks) - Examining the issue of monastic discipline and the views of a prominent scholar.
- Chamundaray ka Charitramara (The essence of Chamundaray's character) - A biographical sketch of a significant historical figure.
- Pt. Ashadharji ka Vichitra Vivechan (Pt. Ashadharji's unique analysis) - Discussing the philosophical insights of another scholar.
- Bhattarak Sakalkirti ka Janmakal (The birth period of Bhattarak Sakalkirti) - Historical research on a specific monastic leader.
- Kya कभी Jaini Bhai bhi Vidwanon ka Aadar Karna Seekhenge? (Will Jain brothers ever learn to respect scholars?) - A critical commentary on societal attitudes.
Scriptural Interpretation and Analysis:
- Jain Dharm mein Jivon ka Paralok (The afterlife of beings in Jainism) - Exploring the concepts of reincarnation and the soul's journey.
- Kya Chandr Surya ka Maap Chote Yojano se hai? (Are the measurements of the moon and sun in small Yojanas?) - Discussing astronomical measurements and their interpretation.
- Jain Karm Siddhant (Jain theory of Karma) - A detailed exposition of the intricate karmic system.
- Kya 'Paumcharia' Digambar Granth hai? (Is 'Paumcharia' a Digambar text?) - A critical analysis of the authorship and sectarian affiliation of a text.
- Tirthankar Vansh (Genealogy of Tirthankaras) - Tracing the lineages of the Tirthankaras.
- Digambar Parampara mein Shravak Dharm ka Swaroop (The nature of Shravak Dharma in the Digambar tradition) - Defining the duties and practices of lay followers.
- Nandishwar Bhakti ka 18va Padya (The 18th verse of Nandishwar Bhakti) - An in-depth analysis of a specific devotional verse.
- Alabdhparyaptak aur Nigod (Those who fail to achieve complete development and the concept of Nigod) - Discussing subtle classifications of beings and their states.
- Havan Kund aur Agnitray (Havan Kund and the three fires) - Examining rituals and their scriptural basis.
- Dravyasangraha ka Karta Kaun? (Who is the author of Dravyasangraha?) - Research into the authorship of a key philosophical text.
- Parakaya Pravesh ek Satya Ghatna (Transference of consciousness into another body, a true incident) - Exploring paranormal phenomena within a spiritual context.
- Darshan Bhakti (Mathur Sanghi) ka Shuddh Path (The correct text of Darshan Bhakti (Mathur Sanghi)) - Correcting textual inaccuracies in devotional literature.
- Jain Khagol Vigyan (Jain cosmology and astronomy) - Explaining the Jain understanding of the cosmos.
- Kya Kabhi Jaini Bhai bhi Vidwanon ka Aadar Karna Seekhenge? (Will Jain brethren ever learn to respect scholars?) - A social critique of the community's attitude.
- Jinavani ko Bhramatmak Lekhon se Bachaiye (Save Jain scriptures from erroneous writings) - A call for textual purity and accurate scholarship.
- Jain Dharm mein Ahinsa ki Vyakhya (The explanation of Ahinsa in Jainism) - A profound exploration of the core principle.
- Jain Dharm Shreshtha Kyon Hai? (Why is Jainism superior?) - An argumentative essay on the distinctiveness of Jain principles.
- Kya 'Paumcharia' Digambar Granth hai? (Is 'Paumcharia' a Digambar text?) - A critical textual analysis.
- Kya Chandr Surya ka Maap Chote Yojano se hai? (Are the measurements of the moon and sun in small Yojanas?) - Astronomical measurements and their interpretation.
- Bhagvan Mahavir tatha Anya Tirthankaron ke Vansha (The lineages of Bhagvan Mahavir and other Tirthankaras) - Genealogical and historical research.
- Digambar Parampara mein Shravak Dharm ka Swaroop (The nature of Shravak Dharma in the Digambar tradition) - Defining the duties and practices of lay followers.
- Kya कभी Jaini Bhai bhi Vidwanon ka Aadar Karna Seekhenge? (Will Jain brethren ever learn to respect scholars?) - A social critique of the community's attitude.
- Upadhisth Doṣh Mīmānsā (Analysis of defects in adherence to rules) - A critical look at monastic practices.

3. Key Philosophical and Societal Themes Discussed:

Adherence to Scripture (Agam): The author strongly advocates for the authority of ancient Jain scriptures and warns against deviating from them or misinterpreting them.
Critique of Shithilachar (Laxity in Practice): Several essays address the perceived laxity in practices among some monks and lay followers, contrasting them with scriptural ideals. This includes discussions on diet, rituals, and personal conduct.
Importance of True Knowledge and Conduct: The author emphasizes that outward appearances or titles are less important than inner purity, adherence to principles, and genuine spiritual practice.
Correcting Misinterpretations: The essays aim to clarify misunderstood or misrepresented aspects of Jainism, such as the correct dates of Tirthankara events, the nature of certain rituals, and the authorship of texts.
Social Commentary: The book also includes social commentary, particularly on the need for greater respect for scholars and the need for the Jain community to uphold its rich intellectual heritage.
Historical Research: Katariya engages in historical research to determine the timelines of various scholars, texts, and events within Jain tradition.
Respect for Tradition and Principles: The author's work underscores the profound respect for Jain tradition and the meticulous study required to understand and uphold its principles.

4. Dedication and Acknowledgements:

The book is dedicated to the "Maestros of Jainism," including figures like Dr. Adinath Nemianath Upadhyay.
Acknowledgements express gratitude to various individuals and trusts for their financial support in publishing the book.

In essence, "Jain Nibandh Ratnavali 02" is a scholarly work that delves deeply into Jain scriptures and history, offering critical analysis, historical research, and philosophical insights. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding and preserving the authenticity of Jain teachings and practices.