Jain Sahitya Sanshodhak Khand 02 Ank 01 To 02 - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, which appears to be a collection of articles and an index from "Jain Sahitya Sanshodhak" (Research Journal of Jain Literature), Volumes 2, Issues 1-2, compiled by Jinvijay and published by Jain Sahitya Sanshodhak Samaj, Pune.

The text can be broadly divided into the following sections:

1. Introduction and Acknowledgements:

Journal Information: "Jain Sahitya Sanshodhak" Year-02, Issue 1-2.
Patronage: The publication is supported by "Dravya Sahayak" (Financial Assistant) from the proceeds of the "Gyankhata" (Knowledge Fund) of the devotees of Rukmणीben Upashray, Sabarmati, Ahmedabad, under the inspiration of Pujya Sadhvi Shri Suryayashashriji and Sadhvi Shri Siddhaprabhashriji, disciples of Gachhnayak P.P. Acharya Shrimad Vijay Kalaprabhsurishwarji M.S.
Compiler: Shah Babulal Saramel Bedawala.
Publisher/Location: Shri Ashapuran Parshwanath Jain Gyan Bhandar, Shah Vimlaben Saramel Javerchandji Bedawala Bhavan, Hirajain Society, Sabarmati, Ahmedabad-380005.
Year: Samvat 2068 (2012 CE).

2. Index of "Aho Shrutgyanam Granth Jirnya-uddhar" (Restoration of Ancient Texts): This section details a project to scan and create DVDs of old, rare, and inaccessible Jain books, making them available for download from a website. It lists numerous Jain texts with their authors, commentators, editors, and page numbers. The books cover a wide range of subjects within Jain literature, including: * Agamas: Nandi Sutra, Uttaradhyayan Sutra, Siddhahem Sutra (with commentary). * Architecture and Sculpture: Shilpa Ratna, Prasad Tilak, Kashyashilpa, Prasadamanjari, Rajavallabha, Jinprasad Martand, Jain Chitra Kalpadrum, Shilp Chintamani, Brihad Shilpa Shastra, etc. * Logic and Philosophy: Nyayapravesh, Anekanth Jayapataka, Saptabhangi Mimansa, Nyayavatara, Saptabhangi Nayapradeep, Vyaktiwad, etc. * Astronomy and Astrology: Hirakalash Jain Jyotish, Jyotirmhodaya, Samudrik Shastra. * General Literature and History: Jain Granthavali, Jain Lehk Sangrah, Jain Pratima Lekh Sangrah, Gujarat-na Aitihasik Lekho, etc. * Specific Works: Arhadgita (Bhagavadgita), Yukti Prakash Sutra, Manatunga Shastra, Aparajita Prachha, Vastusara, Deeparnava, Tilakamanjari, etc. * Journals: Jain Sahitya Sanshodhak (various volumes and issues are listed, indicating its own importance).

3. Articles: The journal includes several scholarly articles on Jain topics:

"Yoga Darshan" by Pt. Sukhlalji Nyayacharya: This extensive article explores the concept of Yoga in Indian philosophy, tracing its origins in Vedic and Jain traditions. It discusses the meaning of Yoga, its connection to spiritual development, its presence across cultures, and highlights India's contribution to its peak development. The article delves into the philosophical underpinnings of Yoga, its relationship with Indian civilization, and contrasts various schools of Yoga and their scriptures. It emphasizes Yoga's role in achieving the ultimate goal of liberation (Moksha). It also explores the development of Yoga literature within Vedic, Jain, and Buddhist traditions. The author highlights key figures like Haribhadra Suri and Hemchandracharya for their contributions to Jain Yoga literature. The article concludes with a discussion on the subject matter of Yoga Shastra, particularly Patanjali's Yoga Sutras, its subject divisions (Hehya, Heva-hetu, Hāna, Hānopāya), and its relationship with other Indian philosophical systems like Sankhya and Vedanta.
"Kunpal Sonpal Prashasti" by Banarasi Das Jain, M.A.: This article analyzes an inscription found in Agra from the time of Emperor Jahangir. It details the script, language (Sanskrit), and the historical context of the inscription, which commemorates the construction and consecration of a temple to Lord Shreyanshnath by two brothers, Kunpal and Sonpal. The article discusses the lineage of these brothers, their identity as Oswal Jains of Lodha gotra, and their association with the Mughal court. It also highlights discrepancies in the inscription regarding the date (day of the week) and discusses the importance of such inscriptions for reconstructing Jain history and genealogy.
"Somdev Suri-krit Nitivakyamrit" (Nitivakyamrit by Somdev Suri) - Introduction by Pt. Nathuramji Premi: This is a detailed introduction to a significant work on political science and statecraft by the Jain scholar Somdev Suri. It places Nitivakyamrit within the context of ancient Indian political literature, highlighting its importance as a summary of various existing texts. The article discusses the author's vast knowledge, evident in his references to various ancient scholars and scriptures, including those outside the Jain tradition. It explores the author's scholarly prowess, poetic talent, and deep understanding of Jain philosophy. The article also touches upon the historical context of the work, suggesting its creation during the reign of King Krishna Deva of the Rashtrakuta dynasty.
"Kiragramno Jain Shilalekh" (Jain Inscription from Kiragram): This section presents a Jain inscription found in the Shiva-Vaidyanath temple in Kiragram, Kangra district, Punjab. The inscription, written in Jain Nagari script, is about two merchants, Dolhan and Alhan, and the consecration of a Mahavir idol by Devabhadra Suri. It notes that the temple itself no longer exists, but the base stone with the inscription survived. The article discusses the likely Gujarati origin of the merchants and the consecrating Acharya, based on linguistic and genealogical clues. The inscription's date is identified as Vikram Samvat 1296.
"Mahakavi Pushpadant aur unka Mahapurana" (Mahakavi Pushpadanta and his Mahapurana) by Pt. Nathuramji Premi: This is an in-depth biographical and literary analysis of the renowned Jain poet Pushpadanta and his epic work, Mahapurana. It discusses Pushpadanta's life, his migration to Manyakheta, his patronage under King Krishna Raja, his multiple epithets, and his personal life as described in his works. The article details the structure and content of the Mahapurana, including the Adipurana and Uttarapurana, and mentions other works like Yashodhar Charitra. It also explores his linguistic style, his use of Apabhramsa language, and his emotional and philosophical expressions. The author highlights Pushpadanta's strong Jain faith and his critical commentary on societal issues of his time. The article also discusses the historical context of his writings, referencing kings like TudiGu, Shubhatungadeva, Bhairavnarendra, Vallabhanarendra, and Krishna Raja, and their possible connections to Pushpadanta's life and literary patronage. It also presents excerpts from his works and provides commentary on them.
"Prof. Lyuman ane Avashyak Sutra" (Prof. Lyuman and Avashyak Sutra): This article discusses the significant scholarly work of German Professor Ernst Leumann on Jain Agamas, particularly the Avashyak Sutra and its related literature. It highlights his extensive research, meticulous analysis, and the publication of his monograph on the topic. The article specifically details Leumann's work on the narratives within the Avashyak Sutra, including the "Ganadharavada" (Theological Debates of the Ganadharas). It translates and discusses a section of Leumann's work in Gujarati, focusing on the debates of the eleven Ganadharas with Lord Mahavir regarding concepts like soul, karma, rebirth, and liberation, and their reconciliation with Vedic and philosophical ideas. The article also touches upon the linguistic and textual analysis of the Avashyak Sutra literature.
"Niyayavali" (Lineage/Succession list): This section provides the succession list of the Upakesha Gachha (a Jain monastic lineage). It details the lineage of Acharyas, starting from Shri Parshva Jinendra and Shri Keshi Kumara Ganadhara, tracing the spiritual lineage down to contemporary figures. The text offers multiple interpretations of the name "Upakesha" and describes the historical establishment and development of the Upakesha Gachha, attributing its significant propagation to Acharya Shri Ratnaprabh Suri. It also mentions the historical events and practices associated with this lineage, including the founding of the Upakesha city and the consecration of idols.
"Shri Ratnaprabh Suri Stotram" (Hymn to Shri Ratnaprabha Suri): This is a devotional hymn praising Acharya Shri Ratnaprabha Suri, highlighting his spiritual achievements, his role in propagating Jainism, and his connection to the Upakesha lineage.

4. Editorial and Publisher's Notes:

Editor's Note: The editor, Muni Jinvijayji, apologizes for the delay in publishing the journal's issues, explaining the difficulties faced due to limited resources. He expresses gratitude to the few dedicated subscribers and urges for greater support to ensure the journal's regularity and growth. He also announces that the third issue is in progress and will feature important articles on the history of the Kharatara Gachha.
Publisher's Note: The publisher echoes the editor's sentiments about the challenges of publishing and requests more subscribers to sustain the journal.

Overall Theme: The "Jain Sahitya Sanshodhak" journal, particularly in these issues, showcases a deep commitment to researching, preserving, and disseminating Jain literature and history. It highlights the meticulous work of scholars like Jinvijay, Pt. Sukhlalji, Banarasi Das Jain, Pt. Nathuramji Premi, and the German scholar Prof. Leumann. The journal covers a broad spectrum of Jain knowledge, from foundational scriptures and philosophical concepts like Yoga to historical inscriptions, biographical accounts of great scholars and poets, and detailed analysis of monastic lineages and rituals. The emphasis on restoring and publishing rare manuscripts underscores the dedication to making this ancient wisdom accessible to a wider audience.