Jain Siddhanta Bol Sangraha Part 01 - Book Summary

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Book Title: Jain Siddhanta Bol Sangraha Part 01 (Meaning "Collection of Jain Principles/Statements, Part 01") Author: Bhairodan Sethiya Publisher: Jain Parmarthik Sanstha Bikaner Year of Publication: Vikram Samvat 1967 / Veera Year 2467 (corresponding to 1940 CE)

Overview:

"Jain Siddhanta Bol Sangraha Part 01" is the first volume of a multi-part series aimed at systematically compiling and explaining various fundamental principles and concepts of Jain philosophy and practice. The primary goal of the author, Shri Bhairondan Sethiya, is to present these principles in a clear, organized, and accessible manner for both personal spiritual refinement and the broader dissemination of Jain knowledge. This volume covers the "first five chapters" (बोल), which are foundational in understanding Jain doctrine.

Key Content and Structure:

The book is structured to guide the reader through essential Jain tenets, starting with the author's personal journey and the philanthropic endeavors that support this literary project.

Introductory Sections:
- Portrait of the Compiler: Features a picture of the author, Bhairodan Sethiya.
- Brief Life Introduction of the Compiler: Details the life of Shri Bhairondan Sethiya, highlighting his birth in VS 1623 (1566 CE), his education, mastery of languages and business, his observance of 12 vows of a Jain layperson (Shravak), his entrepreneurial success and subsequent renunciation of worldly pursuits to focus on spiritual and philanthropic activities. It mentions his significant role in establishing and promoting the Sethiya Jain Paramarthik Sanstha in Bikaner.
- Introduction to Sethiya Jain Paramarthik Sanstha: Explains the establishment and various branches of the Sethiya Jain Paramarthik Sanstha, founded by Shri Sethiya Ji and expanded significantly with the support of his elder brother, Shri Agarchand Ji Sethia. These branches include schools, a library, and a printing press, aimed at promoting knowledge and spiritual welfare. The text emphasizes Sethiya Ji's dedication to knowledge dissemination and his philanthropic commitment, including the donation of substantial property for the institutions' operations.
- "A Few Words" (Do Shabd): The author's personal reflection on the compilation of this work. He states that his primary objective is self-purification and spiritual growth in his old age. He views this effort as a means of attaining inner peace and engaging in religious contemplation. He also hopes for the knowledge to spread and benefit others. He notes the publication of a previous work, "Chattis Bol Sangraha" (Collection of 36 Principles), and highlights the advancements in style and content in the current "Siddhanta Bol Sangraha" due to increased experience and a better understanding of societal needs.
- Acknowledgement (Aabhar Pradarshan): Expresses gratitude to several revered Jain monks and scholars who reviewed the manuscript and provided valuable guidance. Special thanks are extended to Pt. Roshanlalji Chaplot, B.A., for his significant contribution to the writing, editing, and compilation of the text. Gratitude is also extended to Pt. Purnachandraji Dak and Pt. Shyamlal Ji Jain for their support.
- Foreword (Bhumika): This section delves into the philosophical underpinnings of the work, emphasizing the importance of Shruta Jnana (scriptural knowledge) for spiritual development and liberation. It explains that knowledge, along with faith and effort, is crucial for attaining Moksha (liberation). The foreword highlights the structure of the "Bol Sangraha," which is based on the Sthananga Sutra, presenting principles categorized by numbers (1 to 5 in this volume). It discusses the significance of understanding these principles from various Anuyogas (Jain scriptural disciplines) and emphasizes a non-sectarian approach, relying on scriptural evidence.
- Alphabetical Index (Akaraadyanukramanika): A detailed index listing all the "Bols" (principles) covered in the volume with their corresponding number, facilitating easy reference for readers.
The "Bols" (Principles/Chapters):
- The volume systematically presents definitions and explanations of Jain concepts, often referencing key Jain scriptures like the Sthananga Sutra, Samavayaanga Sutra, Tattvartha Sutra, Uttaradhyayana Sutra, Nandi Sutra, and Anuyoga Dwara Sutra. The "Bols" are presented numerically, forming the core of the content. Some examples of concepts covered in the initial "Bols" include:
  - Soul (Aatma): Defined as the entity that undergoes continuous change in knowledge and qualities.
  - Right Faith (Samyaktva): Explained as faith in the reality of soul and non-soul as expounded by the Tirthankaras, with various classifications based on origin (Naisargik, Adhigamik) and nature (Dravya, Bhava, Paudgalik, Apoudgalik).
  - Punishment/Danda: Described as actions that cause harm to living beings, with distinctions between material and emotional punishment.
  - Jambudvipa: A cosmological description of the central continent in Jain cosmology, its dimensions, and its divisions into Karma and Akarma lands.
  - Procedes (Pradesha): The fundamental constituent part of a substance, the indivisible unit.
  - Paramanu: The smallest indivisible particle of matter.
  - Matter (Pudgala): Described as a substance that undergoes change and has attributes like color, taste, smell, and touch.
  - The five types of knowledge (Jnana): Mati, Shruta, Avadhi, Manahparyaya, and Kevala Jnana.
  - The three types of souls (Jiva): Sanyati (controlled), Asanyati (uncontrolled), and Sanyatasanyati (partially controlled).
  - The five types of senses (Indriya): Sparsha, Rasa, Gandha, Chakshu, and Shravana.
  - Bondage (Bandha): The process by which karmic particles attach to the soul.
  - Karma: The actions and their consequences that bind the soul.
  - The four types of Karma: Ghatia (destroying the soul's qualities) and Agathia (not destroying the soul's qualities).
  - Mohaniya Karma: Karma that causes delusion and attachment, further divided into Darshan Mohaniya and Charitra Mohaniya.
  - Charitra: The conduct or practice of Jain principles.
  - Tapas: Austerities and self-discipline.
  - The importance of study (Swadhyaya): Emphasized as a crucial path to knowledge and spiritual progress.

Key Themes and Purpose:

Systematic Compilation: The book aims to create a comprehensive reference for Jain principles, organized logically according to scriptural classifications.
Spiritual Growth: It serves as a tool for self-reflection, purification, and spiritual advancement for the author and readers.
Knowledge Dissemination: Aims to spread authentic Jain teachings and make them accessible to a wider audience.
Scriptural Authority: Relies heavily on established Jain scriptures for definitions and explanations, providing scriptural references.
Clarity and Accessibility: The language and structure are intended to make complex philosophical concepts understandable.
Philanthropic Endeavor: The publication is a testament to the author's dedication to the propagation of Jainism through his charitable institutions.

In essence, "Jain Siddhanta Bol Sangraha Part 01" is a foundational text that lays out the building blocks of Jain philosophy and practice, presented with scholarly rigor and a sincere desire for spiritual upliftment and the perpetuation of Jain teachings.