Jain Nyayano Vikas

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on the development of Jain logic (Nyaya):

Book Title: Jain Nyayano Vikas (The Development of Jain Logic) Author: Munishri Dhurandharvijay Publisher: Unknown Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/034522/1

This work, by Munishri Dhurandharvijay, traces the significant development of Jain logic and philosophical argumentation from 1000 to 1700 Vir Nirvana Samvat. It highlights key figures and their contributions in establishing and refining Jain reasoning within the broader Indian philosophical landscape.

Early Period: The Dominance of Faith and the Need for Logic

The text begins by describing a past era where Shraddhavad (faith-based reasoning) was highly prevalent. People were told that the words of a Muni (ascetic) were beyond logic and questioning. Scriptures, like the Vedas and the dharma prescribed by Manu, were considered divinely ordained and unquestionable. This blind faith led to a situation where critical thinking was discouraged, and those who employed logic (Tarkvad) found it difficult to survive, often being ostracized by the faithful.

This era of unquestioning faith, while not inherently bad, was exploited by self-interest, leading to practices like violent rituals (Yagya) and animal sacrifices, even human sacrifices (Naramegh Yagya), resulting in rivers of blood and skin. The text emphasizes the dire need for logic to address these societal ills.

Lord Mahavir and the Dawn of Logic (Yukti-vad)

The emergence of Lord Mahavir is presented as a pivotal moment. He is credited with ushering in an era of Yukti-vad (logic-based reasoning), encouraging proponents of logic, and acting as a pioneer for rational thought. Even followers of the Vedas, like Indrabhuti and others, who had doubts about the soul, heaven, merit, demerit, and the afterlife due to the lack of logic in Vedic pronouncements, found clarity and stability in Mahavir's teachings, which were firmly rooted in reason. Mahavir's teachings were deliberately made logic-सिद्ध (logic-proven). He encouraged questioning, with Gautam Swami famously asking "Why, O Bhagavan?" This approach validated the rational inquiry into spiritual truths.

Mahavir himself stated that a path of logic combined with scriptural guidance (Nyayukt Aagam) is beneficial. He likened these two aspects to the wheels of a chariot, essential for its movement. However, he also cautioned that some, despite hearing the logical path (Nyayayukt Marg), remained bound by faith, highlighting the persistent influence of traditional belief. This led to the insightful critique that if something is flawless (like pure gold), why should it fear examination? Just as a goldsmith tests gold with various methods, ascetics were encouraged to test Mahavir's words through examination, not just through reverence.

The Establishment of Jain Logic (Nyaya)

Following Mahavir, his disciples and later scholars organized his teachings into scriptures, systematically incorporating the principles of logic.

• Umaswati: Considered the first great proponent of the Nyaya style in Jain philosophy, Umaswati, in his Tattvartha Sutra, stated that true knowledge arises from Pramana (valid means of knowledge) and Nyaya (logic).
• Siddhasen Diwakar: A prominent figure in Jain logic, Siddhasen Diwakar authored significant works like Sanmatitarka and Nyayavatara. He is praised for his adherence to logic and his role in establishing Jain epistemology. He encouraged the study of the teachings of Buddhist logicians like Dinaga.
• Mallavadi: Another important logician, Mallavadi authored Naya Chakravala and successfully debated with Buddhists, upholding the banner of Jainism.

The Golden Age of Jain Logic (Vir Nirvan Samvat 1000-1700)

The period from 1000 to 1700 Vir Nirvana Samvat is described as the "midday" of Jain logic. During this time, various schools of thought like Buddhism and Vedanta posed challenges, attempting to obscure the brilliance of Jain logic. This era saw the rise of numerous scholars who defended and illuminated Jain reasoning.

Key Scholars and Their Contributions:

The text then introduces several influential Jain logicians from this period:

1. Haribhadra Suri: Active around the 6th century Vikram era, he was a Brahman by birth who converted to Jainism. He was a master of 14 Vidya (disciplines) and a formidable debater who defeated Buddhists. He authored many Jain logic texts, including Anekaantavaada Pravesh, Anekaantajayapataka, and Darshana Samuchchaya. His writings are characterized by their clarity and ability to deeply penetrate the reader's understanding. His works engage with and refute the arguments of other philosophical schools.
2. Vakrabhatisuri: Flourishing around Vikram Samvat 800-895, he was known for his immense intellect and memory. He was revered by kings and earned the title "Vadikonjarasari" for his debates.
3. Silanka Acharya: In the 10th century Vikram era, he wrote comprehensive commentaries on the 11 Angas (Jain scriptures), focusing on logic and scriptural interpretation.
4. Siddharshi Suri: Active around Vikram Samvat 962, he authored the allegorical story Upamiti Bhava Prapancha. He also had a deep engagement with Buddhism and was greatly influenced by Haribhadra Suri's Lalitavistara. He wrote a commentary on Siddhasen Diwakar's Nyayavatara.
5. Pradyumna Suri: In the 11th century Vikram era, he was a skilled debater who defeated Digambara scholars in the court of King Allu.
6. Abhayadeva Suri: Also in the 11th century, he authored a vast commentary on Siddhasen Diwakar's Sanmatitarka, known as Vadamaharnava or Tattva Medhividhayini. His method of argumentation involved systematically refuting opposing viewpoints before establishing his own. He also extensively engaged with Mimamsa philosophy.
7. Dhaneshvara Suri: Contemporary of King Munja in the 11th century, he was a successor to Abhayadeva Suri and a guru to the king.
8. Shanti Suri: His demise is recorded in Vikram Samvat 1096. He was highly respected by Kings Bhima and Bhoja of Gujarat and Malwa, respectively. He was renowned as "Kavi" and "Vadichakravarti" and won debates for significant monetary rewards, which were then used for religious purposes.
9. Jineshwara Suri: Active around 1082-1095, he wrote a commentary on Haribhadra Suri's Ashtaka Prakarana and authored the logic text Praman Lakshana.
10. Suresacharya: In the late 11th and early 12th centuries, he was proficient in grammar, logic, and literature. He was known for his strict teaching methods.
11. Abhayadeva Suri (Newangitikacharya): Receiving the title of Acharya at 16 in 1088, he lived to about 1139. He composed commentaries on nine Angas, as only two were previously available. His commentaries are noted for their scholarly depth and clarity, stimulating further thought.
12. Chandraprabha Suri: Present in 1149, he authored Darshan Shuddhi and Prameya Ratna Kosha.
13. Viracharya: In the latter half of the 12th century, he was highly regarded by King Siddharaja of Patan. He engaged in debates with Buddhists and other opponents, gaining recognition and royal honors.
14. Munichandra Suri: Passing away in 1178, he was a strict ascetic and a prolific writer, known for his commentaries on Haribhadra Suri's works. He was a master debater.
15. Chandra Suri: Active around 1169, he wrote a commentary on Dinaga's Nyaya Pravesh.
16. Maldhari Hemachandra Suri: A disciple of Maldhari Abhayadeva Suri, he was a former minister who became a renowned scholar and orator. He authored numerous works, including a significant commentary on Visheshavashyakabhashya and other philosophical texts, all in a logical style.
17. Vadideva Suri: Born in 1143, he became an Acharya in 1174 and passed away in 1226. He was a student of Munichandra Suri and gained immense fame by defeating the Digambara scholar Kumudchandra in a significant debate in Siddharaja's court. This victory led to his epithet "Vadideva Suri" and resulted in the construction of a Jain temple. His work Pramana Nayatattvalokalankaara and its commentary Syadvadaratnakara are seminal texts in Jain logic. 18-19. Amarchandra Suri and Anand Suri: In the 12th century, these scholars received titles like "Simha Shishuk" and "Vyaghra Shishuk" from Siddharaja for their early brilliance in debates.
18. Devabhadra Suri: At the end of the 12th century, he authored a commentary on Nyayavatara.
19. Malayagiri: In the early 13th century, he was a profound commentator and also an expert in astrology. His commentary on Dharma Sangrahani showcases his logical prowess.
20. Shomasprabha Suri: In the 13th century, he demonstrated immense logical ability, with his works on logic being frequently cited.
21. Kalikal Sarvajna Hemachandra Suri: A renowned scholar of his time, he was proficient in poetry and philosophy. His works, including Pramana Mimamsa and Anvayayoga Vyacheddika, are known for their clarity and forceful arguments, deeply rooted in Jain principles. 24-25. Ramachandra Suri and Gunachandra Suri: Disciples of Hemachandra Suri in the 13th century, they were scholars of literature and logic, co-authoring Dravyalaṅkāra.
22. Padyumna Suri: In the 13th century, he authored Vadastal, refuting arguments against the worship of Jina images.
23. Ratnaprabha Suri: Active in the 12th-13th centuries, he was a distinguished disciple of Vadideva Suri and a master of logic. He collaborated on Syadvadaratnakara and wrote Ratnakaravatārika as an introduction to it.

Conclusion

The author concludes that the period from 1000 to 1700 Vir Nirvana Samvat truly represented the zenith of Jain logic. The scholars of this era, by dispelling the clouds of opposing arguments, ensured the continued radiance of Jain reasoning. Their contributions remain accessible through their written works, allowing us to benefit from their insights and find solace from ignorance. The article acknowledges its reliance on various historical texts for its compilation.