Jain Sahitya Ka Bruhad Itihas Part 3 - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of "Jain Sahitya Ka Bruhad Itihas Part 3: Agamik Vyakhyaen" by Dr. Mohanlal Mehta, based on the provided text:

Book Title: Jain Sahitya Ka Bruhad Itihas, Part 3: Agamik Vyakhyaen (A Comprehensive History of Jain Literature, Part 3: Commentaries on Agamas)

Author: Dr. Mohanlal Mehta

Publisher: Parshwanath Shodhpith, Varanasi

Publication Year: First Edition 1967, Second Edition 1989

Overview: This third volume of "Jain Sahitya Ka Bruhad Itihas" focuses on the extensive commentary literature written on the Jain Agamas (canonical texts). While the first volume provided an introduction to the Agamas themselves and the second covered the Angabahya Agamas, this volume delves deeply into the various types of interpretations and explanations that have been developed over centuries for these foundational Jain scriptures. The book aims to offer readers a complete understanding of the original Agamas and their diverse commentaries.

Categorization of Commentaries: Dr. Mehta categorizes the Agamic commentaries into five main classes:

Niryuktis (निर्यक्तियाँ): These are metrical, poetic commentaries written in Prakrit. They primarily focus on explaining technical and philosophical terms rather than a verse-by-verse explanation of the entire text.
Bhashya (भाष्य): Similar to Niryuktis, Bhashyas are also metrical commentaries, primarily in Prakrit. Some are based on Niryuktis, while others directly comment on the original Sutras. They aim to elaborate on the meanings embedded in the technical terms explained in the Niryuktis.
Churnis (चूर्णियाँ): These are Prakrit or Sanskrit-mixed Prakrit commentaries, often serving as more detailed prose explanations than Niryuktis or Bhashyas. They are generally more expansive in their scope.
Sanskrit Tika (संस्कृत टीका): As the influence of Sanskrit grew, Jain scholars began composing commentaries in Sanskrit. These Tikaas utilize the material from earlier Niryuktis, Bhashyas, and Churnis, often reinforcing them with new arguments and logical reasoning.
Commentaries in Vernacular Languages (लोकभाषाओं में विरचित व्याख्याएँ): In later periods, to make the Agamic teachings accessible to a wider audience, commentaries were also written in contemporary folk languages.

Key Sections and Content:

Introduction (Prakashakiya/Prakastavika): The introductory sections detail the purpose of the book, acknowledge the editorial contributions of Pt. Dal Sukh Malvaniya, and highlight the history and activities of the Parshwanath Vidyashram Research Institute in Varanasi, which aims to promote research in Prakrit and Jainology. The financial support for the publication is also acknowledged.
Niryuktis and Niryuktikars:
- Purpose: Niryuktis are primarily metrical Prakrit explanations of key terms found in the Agamas.
- Author: The renowned Acharya Bhadrabahu (distinct from the earlier Chhed Sutrakar Bhadrabahu) is credited with composing Niryuktis for ten Agamic texts.
- Key Texts Covered: The book discusses Niryuktis for important texts like the Avasyak, Dashavaikalik, Uttaradhyayan, Acharang, Sutrakritang, Dashashrutaskandh, Brihatkalpa, and Vyavahar. It also mentions that Niryuktis for Suryaprajnapti and Rishibhashit are unavailable.
- Nirikshik Bhadrabahu: The text clarifies that the author of these Niryuktis is a different Bhadrabahu from the famous fourteenth Purvadhar, Acharya Bhadrabahu. This Bhadrabahu is believed to be the brother of the famous astrologer Varahamihira and lived around the 6th century CE.
- Niryuktikaran Style: The Niryuktis are characterized by the "Nikshepa" (निक्षेप) method, a systematic approach to analyzing words by exploring their various possible meanings and then selecting the most appropriate one based on context.
- Detailed Discussion of Key Niryuktis: The book provides detailed summaries of the content of the Avasyak Niryukti (highlighting its extensive coverage of topics like the life of Rishabhdev and Mahavir, knowledge systems, and social practices), Dashavaikalik Niryukti (mentioning discussions on ethics, grammar, and classifications of grains, gems, animals, and desires), Uttaradhyayan Niryukti, Acharang Niryukti, Sutrakritang Niryukti, Dashashrutaskandh Niryukti, Brihatkalpa Niryukti, and Vyavahar Niryukti.
Bhashyas and Bhashyakars:
- Purpose: Bhashyas are metrical Prakrit commentaries that elaborate on the Niryuktis or directly on the Sutras, providing more detailed explanations.
- Key Texts Covered: Bhashyas exist for Avasyak, Dashavaikalika, Uttaradhyayan, Brihatkalpa, Panchakalpa, Vyavahar, Nishitha, Jita Kalpa, Ogh Niryukti, and Pinda Niryukti.
- Prominent Bhashyakars: The text highlights two main Bhashyakars: Acharya Jinabhadragani Kshamashraman (known for Vishheshavasthak Bhashya and Jita Kalpa Bhashya) and Sanghadāsagani (author of Brihatkalpa Laghu Bhashya and Panchakalpa Mahabhashya).
- Detailed Analysis of Major Bhashyas: The book offers extensive summaries of:
  - Vishheshavasthak Bhashya: This is considered a highly important text for understanding Jain Agamas, offering detailed philosophical discussions and comparative analyses with other Indian philosophical schools. It covers topics like knowledge systems (Gyanapanchak), the nature of Samaayika (Samyak Charitra), the discussions between Mahavir and his Ganadharas, and critiques of various heterodox philosophies (Nihnavavada).
  - Jita Kalpa Bhashya: This commentary on the Jita Kalpa Sutra primarily focuses on expiations and penances, detailing their various aspects and the qualifications for administering them.
  - Brihatkalpa Laghu Bhashya: This commentary on the Brihatkalpa Sutra is significant for its detailed insights into Jain monastic conduct, social customs, and various aspects of life during that period. It includes extensive discussions on the conduct of Jinakalpiks and Sthavirakalpiks, rules for monastic travel, dwelling places, and the specific disciplines for monks and nuns.
  - Panchakalpa Mahabhashya: This commentary on the Panchakalpa Niryukti elaborates on the five types of Kalpas, including detailed classifications and rules related to conduct and practice.
  - Vyavahar Bhashya: This commentary focuses on the conduct of ascetics, detailing various rules, disciplinary actions, and the concept of penance. It includes rich discussions on societal structures and political aspects through analogies of kings and their administration.
  - Ogh Niryukti Bhashyas (Laghu & Brihad): These commentaries on the Ogh Niryukti cover various aspects of monastic discipline, ascetic practices, and the classification of various concepts.
  - Pinda Niryukti Bhashya: This commentary offers a brief discussion on Shraman Dharma, focusing on topics like Pinda (alms) and Eshanā (means of sustenance).
Churnis and Churnikars:
- Nature: Churnis are Prakrit or Sanskrit-mixed Prakrit prose commentaries that provide detailed explanations, often following the structure of Niryuktis or Bhashyas.
- Prominent Churnikar: Jinadasagani Mahattar is highlighted as a key Churnikar, credited with composing Churnis for several important Agamas like Nishitha-Vishesh, Nandi, Anuyogadvara, Avasyak, Dashavaikalik, Uttaradhyayan, Acharang, and Sutrakritang.
- Other Churnikars: The text also mentions Siddhasen Suri (for Jita Kalpa) and Pralamb Suri (for Brihat Kalpa).
- Chronology: Jinadasagani's period is placed between Acharya Jinabhadragani and Acharya Haribhadrasuri (approx. 650-750 CE), supported by internal references and citation patterns.
- Detailed Analysis of Key Churnis: The book provides summaries of Nandi Churni, Anuyogadvara Churni, Avasyak Churni (noting its extensive content, historical narratives, and use of Sanskrit verses), Dashavaikalik Churni (by Jinadas), Uttaradhyayan Churni (by Jinadas, clearly indicating its prior composition to Haribhadra's Vritti), Acharang Churni, Sutrakritang Churni, Jita Kalpa-Brihat Churni (by Siddhasen Suri), Dashavaikalik Churni (by Agastyasinha), and Nishitha-Vishesh Churni (by Jinadasagani).
Tikaas and Tikaakaars:
- Purpose: Sanskrit commentaries that offer detailed, reasoned, and often philosophical elaborations on the Agamas, building upon earlier works.
- Prominent Tikaakaars: The section details the contributions of scholars like Jinabhadragani (for his Vishheshavasthak Bhashya-Swopagyavritti, considered the earliest Sanskrit Tika), Haribhadrasuri (known for his extensive commentaries on Nandi, Anuyogadvara, Dashavaikalik, etc.), Shilankasuri (commentaries on Acharang and Sutrakritang), Vadivetal Shantisuri (on Uttaradhyayan), Abhayadevasuri (Navaangi Vruttikar), Malayagiri (extensive commentaries on various Agamas), and Maladhari Hemachandra (commentaries on Avasyak, Anuyogadvara, Vishheshavasthak Bhashya, etc.).
- Biographical and Chronological Information: For key Tikaakaars like Haribhadrasuri and Abhayadevasuri, the book provides biographical details, historical context, and approximate periods of their activity. The text also addresses potential confusions regarding the identities of Acharyas with similar names.
- Analysis of Major Tikaas: The book provides detailed summaries and analyses of important Tikaas, including:
  - Jinabhadragani's Vishheshavasthak Bhashya-Swopagyavritti: Highlighting its status as the earliest Sanskrit commentary and its structure.
  - Haribhadrasuri's Tikaas: Discussing his prolific output and his commentaries on Nandi, Anuyogadvara, Dashavaikalik, Avasyak, etc., noting their scholarly depth and the inclusion of narratives.
  - Shilankasuri's Tikaas: Focusing on his commentaries on Acharang and Sutrakritang, noting their detailed analysis and the author's clarity.
  - Vadivetal Shantisuri's Uttaradhyayan Tika: Highlighting its linguistic richness and its extensive use of Prakrit narratives.
  - Abhayadevasuri's Tikaas: Detailing his monumental work on the Nava Angas and other texts, emphasizing their systematic approach and extensive scholarship.
  - Malayagiri's Tikaas: Describing his significant contribution with extensive commentaries on numerous Agamas, noting his scholarly rigor and linguistic prowess.
  - Maladhari Hemachandra's Tikaas: Discussing his commentaries, particularly the comprehensive commentary on Vishheshavasthak Bhashya, and noting his extensive Granthasangraha.
Commentaries in Vernacular Languages:
- The book notes the trend of writing commentaries in folk languages for wider accessibility. It mentions Muni Dharmasinha (18th century) who wrote commentaries (Balaavbodhs/Taba) in Gujarati for 27 Agamas (excluding Bhagavati, etc.).
- It also mentions Hindi commentaries by Muni Hastimal and Upadhyay Atmaram.
Diversity of Content in Agamic Commentaries:
- The summary emphasizes that these commentaries are not merely linguistic or semantic but also contain rich material related to:
  - Acharashastra (Code of Conduct): Detailed rules and regulations for monastic life.
  - Darshanashastra (Philosophy): Discussions on metaphysical concepts, epistemology, and various schools of thought.
  - Gyanavad (Theory of Knowledge): Elaborations on different types of knowledge.
  - Pramanshastra (Logic and Epistemology): Analysis of valid means of knowledge.
  - Karmavad (Theory of Karma): Discussions on the mechanisms and implications of karma.
  - Psychology and Yoga: Insights into the workings of the mind and spiritual practices.
  - Kama Shastra (Erotics): Discussions related to desire and conduct.
  - Sociology and Civil Science: Observations on social structures, governance, and civic duties.
  - Geography: Descriptions of regions and places.
  - Politics: Discussions on statecraft and administration.
  - Historical Characters: Biographies and anecdotes of important figures.
  - Culture and Civilization: Glimpses into the cultural practices and lifestyle of the time.

Overall Significance: "Jain Sahitya Ka Bruhad Itihas, Part 3" serves as an indispensable resource for anyone studying Jain literature and philosophy. It meticulously details the evolution ofcommentarial traditions, the key scholars involved, and the vast repository of knowledge contained within these invaluable texts, providing a comprehensive historical and analytical survey of the Agamic interpretive literature. The book demonstrates the depth and sophistication of Jain scholarship in understanding and preserving their core scriptures.