Jain Shodh Samasya Aur Samadhan

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Jain Shodh: Samasya aur Samadhan" (Jain Research: Problems and Solutions) by Mahendrasagar Prachandiya:

The book "Jain Shodh: Samasya aur Samadhan" by Dr. Mahendrasagar Prachandiya addresses the challenges and potential solutions in the field of Jain research.

The author begins by emphasizing that knowledge without practice becomes like poison. He states that the scientific study and research of scriptural knowledge only becomes true research when it reveals originality. The author highlights the need for specialized interpretive methods for ancient scriptural language, as the meaning of words naturally evolves over time due to linguistic evolution.

He points out that the ancient form of scriptural tradition resides in Indian scriptural repositories, and the wealth of Jinavani (the teachings of the Jinas) is preserved in Jain manuscript collections. The study of the language and script of ancient Jain manuscripts requires a specific understanding. Therefore, transcribing and interpreting ancient handwritten literature into modern scripts, along with its intended meaning, is crucial.

While the author acknowledges that many doctoral and higher research degrees (Ph.D., D.Litt., etc.) are being awarded for research on Jain literature in various academic centers worldwide, he notes that this endeavor, while beneficial to some extent, has also led to significant misinterpretations and errors due to carelessness and ignorance.

Based on his review of such research works, Dr. Prachandiya observes that while many unique truths and new dimensions have been established in the field of Jain literary research, there have also been numerous instances of misinterpretation. He stresses that the study of Jinavani requires a specific methodology. A lack of proper understanding of the technical terminology used in Jinavani and the literature composed by Jain acharyas leads to grave mistakes and false beliefs in its interpretation and exposition. He provides an example of the words "samaya" and "darshan," whose common meanings differ significantly from their Jain usage, where they refer to the soul and donation, respectively.

A significant problem identified is the appointment of directors for university research who lack a proper understanding of Jain studies and scriptures. The author finds it ironic that researchers are required to complete their theses under their guidance. The examiners of these theses often share the same lack of expertise. Consequently, theses are passed through various means, and the negative consequences of such carelessness are embedded in the historical tradition of truth-seeking for the future, which the author considers a lamentable irony.

The author outlines the difficulties faced by contemporary researchers in undertaking scholarly studies on Jain subjects. The primary challenge is the unavailability of knowledgeable guides in the field. The scholars who are experts in the subject within the country often lack knowledge of research methodologies and do not meet university accreditation standards. Conversely, those who are qualified research directors under university regulations find Jain scriptures and teachings a headache. The struggle to discover lost manuscripts in Jain collections and the inability to understand paleography force researchers into moral compromises and the suppression of truth.

In such a difficult situation, the author poses a pertinent question about what should be done. He proposes two solutions:

1. Appointments in Universities: Universities should appoint rare scholars from across the country specifically for Jain studies.
2. Establishment of Social Research Institutes: Social research institutes should be established at academic centers, where the services of accomplished scholars from society can be made available. This would help alleviate the academic difficulties of researchers and prevent the propagation of erroneous and baseless claims in the field.

The author concludes by stating that Jain scriptures encompass the knowledge and science of the nation. Through proper study and research, this knowledge can lead to manifold scientific advancements. Therefore, the utility of such research is undeniably significant.