Jain Sahitya Sanshodhak Khand 01 Ank 01 To 02
Added to library: September 2, 2025

Summary
Here's a summary of the provided Jain text:
The text is the first and second issue of the "Jain Sahitya Sanshodhak" (Jain Literary Research) journal, published by the Jain Sahitya Sanshodhak Samaj, Pune. The journal is edited by Muniraj Shri Jinvijay.
The primary focus of these initial issues is to document and preserve Jain literature, particularly ancient and rare books that are otherwise difficult to access. The journal's mission is to make this valuable heritage available to a wider audience.
Here are the key aspects covered in the provided pages:
- "Aho Shrutgyanam": This phrase, meaning "Oh, the glory of scriptural knowledge!", sets the theme of the journal, emphasizing the importance of studying Jain scriptures.
- Grandha Jirnoddhar (Restoration of Old Texts): The journal highlights its efforts in scanning and creating DVDs of old and rare Jain books. This project aims to digitize and preserve these texts for future generations.
- List of Scanned Books (Sets 1-4): A significant portion of the document is dedicated to listing a comprehensive catalog of these restored books. This list includes:
- Book Title: A wide array of Jain scriptures, philosophical treatises, and works on Jain history, art, architecture, and various sciences.
- Author/Commentator/Editor: The names of the scholars responsible for these works.
- Page Count: The number of pages for each book.
- Language: The language of the original text or its translation.
- Publisher/Source: Information about the publishing entity.
- The catalog covers a vast range of subjects, including scriptures like Nandi Sutra, Uttaradhyayan Sutra, philosophical works like Arhaddgita, Nyayapravesh, Tattvarthadhisimha, and numerous texts related to Jain architecture, sculpture, astronomy, and art (e.g., Shilpa Ratnam, Prasad Tilak, Vastu Sar).
- Editorial Philosophy: The editorial section (page 11, 12) explains the purpose of the journal. It aims to bridge the gap between Jain literature and its potential readers, especially scholars. It acknowledges the difficulties in accessing and understanding ancient Jain texts and the need for critical editions and research. The editorial also expresses gratitude to donors and individuals supporting this preservation effort.
- Key Articles/Discussions:
- "Udbodhan" (Enlightenment): This section (pages 16-24) discusses the philosophical underpinnings of Jainism, particularly drawing from the Acharanga Sutra. It emphasizes the importance of self-knowledge, understanding the nature of reality (substance and form), and the path to liberation through right knowledge and conduct. It highlights the core Jain principles of Syadvada (non-absolutism) and Anekantavada (non-one-sidedness).
- "Siddhisen Diwakar aur Swami Samantabhadra" (Siddhisen Diwakar and Swami Samantabhadra): This significant article (pages 20-34) delves into the lives, philosophies, and contributions of two pivotal Jain Acharyas. It explores their roles in establishing Jain logic and philosophy, their intellectual debates with other schools of thought, and their impact on Jain literature. It also touches upon the historical context of Jainism during their time, including the influence of Buddhism and Brahmanism. The article highlights their independent thinking and the meticulousness of their work.
- "Haribhadra Suri ka Samaya Nirnaya" (Determination of the Time of Haribhadra Suri): This detailed article (pages 35-73) critically examines the historical period of Acharya Haribhadra Suri. It discusses various traditional accounts and scholarly estimations of his timeline, analyzing the evidence from inscriptions and existing literature to establish a more accurate chronological placement for this influential Jain scholar and commentator. It discusses his prolific literary output and his role in synthesizing and preserving Jain philosophy.
- "Jain Dharm ka Adhyayan" (The Study of Jainism): An article by Prof. C. V. Rajwade (pages 78-84) that discusses the importance of studying Jainism and the challenges faced by scholars, particularly in accessing Jain literature. It addresses the misconceptions about Jainism, comparing it with Buddhism and Brahmanism, and emphasizes the need for critical and impartial research.
- "Jain Agam Sahitya ki Mul Bhasha Kai?" (What is the Original Language of Jain Agam Literature?): This article by Pt. Bechardas Jivaraj (pages 79-97) explores the linguistic origins and evolution of Jain scriptures, specifically discussing the arguments for Ardhamagadhi as the original language. It analyzes the linguistic features of Jain Prakrit and its relationship with other Prakrit dialects and Sanskrit.
- "Shok Samachar" (Obituary): This section (pages 113-117) announces the unfortunate passing of prominent scholars: Dr. Satish Chandra Vidyabhushan and Prof. C. V. Rajwade, who were instrumental in the study and promotion of Jainism and related Indian traditions.
- "Chitra Parichay" (Picture Introduction): Introductions to images of significant Jain sites like the Pavapuri Jal Mandir and the Chittorgarh Jain Kirti Stambh, along with a note on the Parshvanatha Jain Mandir in Radhanpur.
- "Jainendr Vyakaran aur Acharya Devanandi" (Jainendra Grammar and Acharya Devanandi): This extensive section (pages 149-174) provides a detailed account of the Jainendra Vyakarana, its attributed author Acharya Devanandi (or Pujyapada), and the historical debates surrounding its origin and authenticity. It examines various manuscripts and scholarly opinions, highlighting the complexities in establishing a definitive timeline and authorship.
- "Gandhahasti Mahabhashya ki Khoj" (The Search for Gandhahasti Mahabhashya): This article (pages 175-182) discusses the legend of a massive commentary by Acharya Samantabhadra called "Gandhahasti Mahabhashya" on the Tattvartha Sutra. It chronicles the search for this lost text and critically analyzes the available evidence and historical claims, expressing skepticism about its actual existence in the form described by tradition.
- "Tirthayatra ke liye Nikalne wale Sanghon ka Varnan" (Description of Processions for Pilgrimage): This section (pages 96-107) details the historical and ritualistic aspects of Jain pilgrimage processions, emphasizing the community's involvement and the significant efforts undertaken by patrons to facilitate these journeys. It provides vivid descriptions of grand processions organized by historical figures like King Kumarpala and Seth Gunraj, highlighting the elaborate arrangements and the deep devotion involved.
- "Jesalmer ke Patvon ke Sangh ka Varnan" (Description of the Patwa Community's Procession from Jaisalmer): This section (pages 107-112) offers a detailed account of a specific historical Jain pilgrimage procession organized by the Patwa community from Jaisalmer, as recorded in an inscription. It provides names of individuals, expenses, and the grandeur of the event.
- Call for Support: The journal actively seeks support from the Jain community to sustain its publication efforts and expand its reach. It appeals for life memberships and donations to facilitate the preservation and dissemination of Jain literature.
In essence, "Jain Sahitya Sanshodhak" is a scholarly journal dedicated to the meticulous study, preservation, and dissemination of Jain literary heritage, with a particular emphasis on making ancient and rare texts accessible through modern means like digitization. It also serves as a platform for historical and philosophical discussions within Jainism.