Jain Sahitya Samaroha Guchha 4

This document is the fourth volume (Guchha 4) of the "Jain Sahitya Samaroh" (Jain Literature Festival) series, edited by Ramanlal C. Shah and published by Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalay. It contains reports and essays presented at various Jain Sahitya Samaroh events.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the content, based on the provided pages:

Overall Purpose and Context:

• The "Jain Sahitya Samaroh" is an initiative by Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalay to promote and study Jain literature and research.
• These festivals, held annually across different locations in India since 1977, bring together scholars and enthusiasts to present and discuss research papers on various aspects of Jainism.
• This volume (Guchha 4) compiles selected essays from the 13th Jain Sahitya Samaroh held in Rajgir, Bihar, in March 1995, as well as some papers from earlier events.

Key Sections and Content:

1. Title Pages & Publisher Information:

   • Clearly states the title "Jain Sahitya Samaroh," the series number "Guchha 4," the editor (Ramanlal C. Shah), and the publisher (Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalay).
   • Mentions the first edition was in October 1995.
   • Includes the price (Rs. 50-00) and printing details.

2. List of Jain Sahitya Samarohs:

   • A chronological list of 13 Jain Sahitya Samarohs held from 1977 (Mumbai) to 1995 (Rajgir).
   • It lists the prominent scholars who presided over these events, such as K.K. Shastri, Dalshukhbhai Malvania, Dr. Bhogilal Sandesara, and others. This highlights the academic caliber of the events.

3. Foreword (Prakashakiya):

   • Explains the vision of the Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalay's founders, aiming to provide education, accommodation, and promote Jain literature and research.
   • Highlights the Vidyalay's significant contribution to Jain literature through writing and publication, including its rich library and manuscript collection.
   • Mentions the important project of researching and publishing Agama Granthas (Jain scriptures), inspired by Muni Punyavijayji Maharaj and continued by Muni Jambuvijayji Maharaj.
   • Details the inception of the "Jain Sahitya Samaroh" during the Vidyalay's Diamond Jubilee in 1977 and its continuation, with Guchha 4 being the latest publication.
   • Acknowledges the editor, Dr. Ramanlal C. Shah, and other contributors for their efforts.

4. Editorial (Sampadakiya):

   • The editor, Dr. Ramanlal C. Shah, expresses joy in releasing Guchha 4, noting the delay in publication of Guchhas 3 and 4 due to the irregular conduct of the Samarohs previously.
   • He thanks Shri Vasanjibhai Lakhamshi Shah, Chairman of the Vidyalay, for revitalizing the Samaroh activities.
   • Clarifies that Guchhas 1 and 2 covered the first seven Samarohs, Guchha 3 covered the 8th to 12th, and Guchha 4 covers the 13th Samaroh (Rajgir, 1995).
   • States the editorial principle of usually including only one essay per author to manage costs and space.
   • Acknowledges that not all essays meet the highest standard, but a good number are publishable, which is encouraging.
   • Mentions challenges faced during compilation, such as the length of some articles, overlapping topics, unavailability of some articles, and some authors recalling their manuscripts.
   • Suggests that while an institutional framework is not yet formalized, the informal development of the Samaroh is beneficial for nurturing new writers and providing valuable research.

5. Reports and Essays:

   • "Report of the Thirteenth Jain Sahitya Samaroh" by Chimanlal M. Shah 'Kaladhar':

     • Details the venue: Veerayatan, Rajgir (Bihar), a significant Jain pilgrimage site associated with Lord Munisuvrataswami and Lord Mahavir.
     • Highlights the auspicious presence of Pujya Darshanacharya Shri Chandnaji and the scholarly leadership of Dr. Sagarmal Jain as the president.
     • Describes the inauguration on March 12, 1995, with a welcome address by Dr. Ramanlal C. Shah emphasizing the objective of promoting Jain literature and knowledge.
     • Key speakers and their themes:
       • Shri Joharimal Parekh (inaugurator): Spoke about the decline of character and the need for spiritual leadership.
       • Prof. Tarabehn R. Shah: Emphasized the importance of knowledge as a lamp dispelling ignorance, and discussed the concept of "Madhyasth Bhavna" (Equanimity).
       • Shri Nemichand Gala: Shared experiences on how such events encourage writing and stressed the eradication of ignorance and cultivation of knowledge.
       • Dr. Sagarmal Jain (President): Critiqued the lack of practical adherence to Jain principles despite extensive knowledge, the division created by sectarianism, and the need to focus on achieving "Samattva" (equanimity) as the ultimate goal. He also lamented the lack of financial support for Jain literature.
       • Pujya Shri Chandnaji: Expressed joy in interacting with literary figures in Rajgir and stressed that literature is an important part of life and societal progress.
     • Session Reports: Details the presentations in various sessions, including:
       • First Session: Prof. Tarabehn R. Shah on "Madhyasth Bhavna" (Equanimity) and Shri Nemichand Gala on "Nyayasampanna Vaibhav" (Prosperous Wealth through Justice).
       • Second Session: Dr. Ramanlal C. Shah on "Vijay Shekhar's Nal-Damyanti Ras," Dr. Hansabehn Suresh Shah on "The Glory of Holy Places," Shri Chimanlal 'Kaladhar' on "Kavi Rishabhdas - A Study," and Prof. Utpalabehn Kantilal Modi on "Moksha" (Liberation).
       • Third Session: Dr. Sagarmal Jain on "Leshya" (Jain doctrine related to the karmic influence of mental states), Pujya Sadhvi Shri Yashaji on "The Contemplation of Upadhyay Shri Amarmuniji," Dr. Prakash Panday on "Tattvartha Sutra - Author, Time, and Tradition: A Study," and Shri Jayendrabhai M. Shah on "A Virtuous Rajagrihi."
       • Fourth Session: Dr. Sagarmal Jain on "Gunsthan Siddhant: Origin and Development," Shri Joharimal Parekh on "Jain Economics Thoughts," Dr. Ramanlal C. Shah on "Siddha Paramatma" (The Siddha Soul), Prof. Malukchand Ratilal Shah on "Vicharyacharya, Brahmacharya, Anandacharya," and Dr. Shilpa Nemichand Gala on "Samattva" (Equanimity).
     • Mentions that the President, Dr. Sagarmal Jain, provided learned critiques after each scholar's presentation.
     • Lists essays received but not presented due to the authors' absence.
     • Concludes with the felicitations of key figures and the subsequent pilgrimage to various Jain sites like Pavapuri, Kundalpur, Nalanda, Sametshikhar, etc.

   • Essays (Abhyas Lekho):

     • 1. "Swarup Mantra" by Pt. Pannalal Jagjivan Das Gandhi: This detailed essay discusses the profound significance of the Namaskar Mahamantra, its role in eradicating ego, developing virtue, and its connection to karma yoga, bhakti yoga, and jnana yoga. It delves into the philosophical and spiritual aspects of the mantra, explaining how it leads to self-realization.
     • 2. "Siddha Paramatma" by Ramanlal C. Shah: This essay elaborates on the concept of the "Siddha Paramatma" (Perfected Souls) in Jainism, explaining their nature, attributes, the path to Siddhahood (Karmakshaya), and their significance in the Navkar Mantra. It touches upon their qualities like infinite knowledge, vision, bliss, and power, and their existence in the Siddhashila.
     • 3. "Tamil Jain Literature - 'Naladiyar'" by Nemichand Gala: This essay provides an overview of Jain influence on Tamil literature, focusing on the "Naladiyar" text. It discusses the antiquity of the Tamil language, the arrival of Jainism in South India, the significant contribution of Jain monks and scholars to Tamil literature (including three of the five great epics), and the philosophical and practical teachings within "Naladiyar," comparing it to "Tirukkural." It also recounts the legend of how Naladiyar came to be compiled.
     • 4. "Madhyasth Bhavna" by Tarabehn R. Shah: This essay explores the concept of "Madhyasth Bhavna" (equanimity or impartiality) as a key virtue in Jainism. It discusses the four bhavanas (Maitri, Pramod, Karuna, Madhyastha), their importance for spiritual progress, and the challenges of practicing equanimity, especially in difficult situations. It draws upon scriptural references and examples, including the story of Lord Mahavir and Chandkoushik.
     • 5. "Introduction to the Prosody of Jain Literature" by Kavin Shah: This essay surveys the various metrical forms (chhandas) used in Jain literature, distinguishing between Vedic and Laukik chhandas. It discusses the influence of Charani literature and highlights specific chhandas like Jhulana and Bhujangi prevalent in Jain works. It mentions examples of works like "Ranmall Chhand," "Ambika Chhand," "Bhavani no Chhand," "Rao Jetasi no Chhand," and several chhandas dedicated to Tirthankaras and deities.
     • 6. "The Concept of Brahmacharya in Acharya Hemchandracharya's 'Yogashastra'" by Pannalal R. Shah: This essay delves into the Jaina understanding of Brahmacharya (celibacy/righteous conduct) as presented in Hemchandracharya's "Yogashastra." It differentiates between the broad definition of complete self-control and the narrower one of avoiding sexual intercourse. It discusses the "kriyā-mārga" (path of action/rules) and "jnana-mārga" (path of knowledge/meditation) for achieving Brahmacharya, the psychological approach in Jain texts, and the perceived bias against women in certain scriptural descriptions, while also highlighting the contributions of women like Rajimati and Koshā.
     • 7. "A Virtuous Rajagrihi" by Jayendrabhai M. Shah: This essay provides a historical and spiritual account of Rajagriha (Rajgir), a significant ancient city in Jain and Buddhist traditions. It details its various names, geographical features (the five hills), its importance as a political and religious center during the time of Bimbisara and Ajatashatru, and its association with Lord Mahavir (14 chaturmas) and Lord Munisuvrataswami (birthplace). It recounts the stories of several influential figures and events that took place there, such as Arjunmali, Rohineya, Abhaykumar, Shalisibhadra, Prasannachandra, Meghakumara, Punyashravaka, Chellana, and the religious congregations held there. It also describes the existing Jain temples and pilgrimage sites on the hills surrounding Rajgir.

Overall Significance:

This volume serves as a record of the discourse and research happening within the Jain community. It showcases the breadth of topics covered in Jain literature, from philosophical concepts like equanimity and Brahmacharya to historical accounts of pilgrimage sites and studies of classical Jain texts in various languages. The inclusion of reports from the festivals provides context and highlights the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Jain heritage.