Jain Paramparano Itihas Vol 2

The provided text is the second volume of the "History of Jain Traditions" (Jain Paramparano Itihas Vol 2) by Munishri Darshanvijayji, Munishri Gyanvijayji, and Munishri Nyayvijayji. This book, published by Charitra Smarak Granthmala, delves deeply into the historical lineage of Jain traditions, focusing on the various monastic lineages (Gachhas) and prominent ascetics.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects covered in the provided sections, primarily focusing on the introduction and the detailed lineage of Acharya Udyotanadi (આ ઉદ્યોતનસૂરિ) and related historical figures and Gachhas:

Introduction and Scope:

• The book is a continuation, with Volume 2 aiming to provide a comprehensive history of Jain traditions.
• The authors express their intention to bring to light the valuable historical gems embedded in Jain Agamas and scriptures, a request often made by scholars from both the East and West.
• They had previously published "Pattavali Samucchay" (Volumes 1-2) and now intend to present a continuous history of the Jain tradition spanning 2500 years.
• This history aims to include information about Jain Acharyas, monks, nuns, kings, queens, merchants, scholars, donors, various lineages, their literary contributions, periods of composition and writing, holy sites (Tirthas), and significant events.
• The intended structure of the history was planned in multiple volumes, covering different periods and important Gachhas (monastic lineages). Volume 1 covered the period from the Nirvana of Lord Mahavir up to 1000 VS. Volume 2 (this book) focuses on the period from 1000 VS to 1600 VS, with Volume 3 covering 1600 VS to 2000 VS. Subsequent volumes were planned for indexes and family trees.
• The publication of Volume 2 faced significant challenges due to the health of the authors: Muni Nyayvijayji passed away, Muni Gyanvijayji developed diabetes, and Muni Darshanvijayji suffered from low blood pressure and the risk of paralysis.
• Despite these hardships, the authors express gratitude for the divine grace and the support of several individuals and institutions that enabled the publication, including Dr. Nanalal Bhilal, Seth Manubhai Jesinghbhai, Pandit Vikashvijayganiji, Muni Chandroday vijayji, Sadhvi Manjulaji, Sadhvi Madhukanta, Sadhvi Madhulata, Pandit Ambalal Premchand Shah, Pandit Ratibhai, Pandit Balabhai (Jaybhikshu), and Jayantilal Ghelabhai Dalal of Vasant Press.

Key Historical Content and Lineages Discussed (Volume 2): The majority of the provided text focuses on detailing various Jain monastic lineages (Gachhas) and their prominent Acharyas, primarily from the period of Vikram Samvat (VS) 1000 onwards. The text is structured as a detailed exploration of these lineages, including their origins, key figures, and their literary or historical contributions.

Here are some of the major lineages and figures discussed in detail within the provided text, indicated by the chapter and page numbers in the Table of Contents (Page 16 onwards):

• Nagendra Gachha (and its sub-branches): This is a significant focus, detailing the lineage starting from Acharya Vir, Chandra, Abhayadev, Vijayasen, Udayaprabha, Mallikheṇa, and many others, along with their associated literary works and historical events. The influence of Siddhsen Diwakar's Gachha and the complexities of tracing direct lineage are also noted.
• Nagendra Jnati: Discussion on the formation of Gachhas and their connection to the origin of Jain castes like Oswal, Shrimali, Porwal, Pallival, etc.
• Purnatal Gachha (also called Punamiya Gachha): Tracing the lineage from Acharya Amradev, Datta Suri, Yashobhadra Suri, Pradyumna Suri, Gunasen Suri, Devachandrasuri, Pradyumna Suri, Hemchandrasuri (Kālikāl Sarvajña), Chandrasuri, and Shantisuiri. The influence of prominent patrons like Mahamatya Vastupal and Tejpal is highlighted.
• Manadevgachha: This section details the lineage starting from Acharya Manadevasuri, his influence in Prakrit literature, and his successors like Manatunga Suri, Buddhisagarsuri, Pradyumnasuri, and Devachandrasuri.
• Chandragachha: Discussed in relation to its connection with Rajgachha, Sangi Shakha, Tharapadra Gachha, Purnima Mat, Manadev lineage, and Sarvalgachha, noting the confusion in tracing these lineages.
• Rajgachha: Traces the lineage from Acharya Nanna Suri, who was a king, and describes the development of the "Rajgachha." It highlights the contributions of figures like Ajit Yashdev Suri, Sahadev Suri, Pradyumna Suri (who reportedly won 84 debates), Abhaydeva Suri (Kālikālsarvajña Hemchandrasuri's contemporary), and Dhaneshwar Suri (originally King Kardam). The text elaborates on Dhaneshwar Suri's influence and the 18 Shakhas that emerged from his disciples.
• Chauhan Dynasty (Nagada): Discusses the lineage from Raja Nanna, emphasizing their patronage of Jainism.
• Various other Gachhas and Dynasties: The text extensively covers numerous other Gachhas like Tharapadra Gachha, Chulkgachha, Purnatal Gachha, Nagari Tapagachha, Maruwanchha, Mandhata Mat, Humbad, etc., along with their respective Acharyas, historical events, and the rulers they interacted with.
• Prominent Historical Figures: The text extensively covers the lives and contributions of various historical figures, including kings like Vanraj Chavda, Siddharaj Jaysinh, and Kumarpal, as well as influential ministers like Vimal Shah and Tejpal. It details their patronage of Jainism, the construction of temples, and their role in the propagation of Jain teachings.
• Literary Works and Scholars: The text lists numerous Jain scholars and their literary works, providing insights into the rich intellectual and religious heritage of Jainism.
• Development of Jain Monasticism: It discusses the evolution of Gachhas, the differences in their practices (e.g., Caityavasi vs. Vanavasi), and the impact of certain historical events or individuals on the proliferation of these lineages.
• Social and Economic Aspects: It touches upon the socio-economic contributions of Jain communities, particularly the Oswal and Porwal Jains, and their role in trade and prosperity.

Overall, the text of "Jain Paramparano Itihas Vol 2" is a monumental work aimed at providing a systematic and detailed historical account of Jain monastic lineages, their prominent figures, literary contributions, and the historical context in which they flourished. It highlights the intricate relationships between Jain Acharyas, ruling dynasties, and the development of Jain philosophy and practices over centuries.

Due to the nature of the text, which is a historical chronicle of lineages, it's impossible to provide a single narrative summary. Instead, the summary above focuses on the structure, scope, and the major historical elements that are extensively detailed within these pages. Each section delves into specific Gachhas and Acharyas, providing their biographical details, literary works, and historical significance within the broader context of Jain tradition.