Jain Tattva Mimansa Ek Pramanik Kruti

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text:

The text is a review of the book "Jain Tattva Mimansa: Ek Pramanik Kruti" (Jain Principle Investigation: An Authentic Work) by Manikchandra Bhisikar. The review is part of the Z_Fulchandra_Shastri_Abhinandan_Granth_012004.pdf, a commemorative collection honoring Pandit Phulchandra Shastri.

The reviewer praises the book as a highly original and exceptional work that illuminates the fundamental principles of Jain culture. It is described as a definitive and meticulously researched treatise that provides profound insights for both aspiring students of Jain philosophy and established scholars. The work is lauded for its ability to harmoniously integrate scriptural teachings (Agama) with spiritual realization (Adhyatma), clarifying complex Jain doctrines, dispelling misconceptions, and revealing the true essence of Jain principles.

The review highlights that the book is grounded in the authentic thought of previous Acharyas, lending it significant weight and credibility. By studying this single volume, readers can gain comprehensive foundational knowledge of Jain philosophy, absorbing the distilled wisdom of numerous extensive philosophical texts by earlier scholars.

The author, Pandit Phulchandra Siddhantashastri, is recognized as a highly accomplished scholar with profound insight into Jain Siddhanta. His extensive study and translation of ancient Jain texts like the Shatkhandagama, Kashayapahuda (Jayadhavala), and Mulachara underscore his expertise and the authority of his writing.

The review focuses on the second edition of "Jain Tattva Mimansa," published by Ashok Prakashan Mandir in Varanasi. Pandit Phulchandra Shastri notes in his "Self-Introduction" that this edition significantly expands upon the first, offering greater clarity and detail while incorporating much of the original content. It can be considered either a second edition or a second volume dedicated to a more detailed exploration of the subject.

The book is structured into twelve chapters, each offering unique value and contributing to a deep understanding of the core tenets of Jain philosophy. These chapters address:

1. Introduction to the Subject
2. Investigation of the Nature of Reality
3. Investigation of External Causes
4. Investigation of the Determined Cause (Nischaya-Upadana)
5. Investigation of Both Causes (Nischaya and Nimitta)
6. Investigation of the Agent and Action (Kartri-Karma)
7. Investigation of the Six Cases (Shat Karaka)
8. Investigation of the Determined Sequence of Modifications (Kram Niyamit Paryaya)
9. Investigation of the Nature of Right Destiny (Samyak Niyati)
10. Investigation of Nischaya and Vyavahar (Ultimate and Conventional Truth)
11. Investigation of anekanta-Siddhanta-Vada (Syadvada)
12. Investigation of the Nature of Omniscience (Keval-Jnana)

The reviewer emphasizes that the book effectively resolves doubts and corrects erroneous interpretations prevalent even among scholars, presenting well-supported arguments based on Jain scriptures and the teachings of previous Acharyas. The work is seen as fulfilling a crucial need for a systematic compilation and balanced exposition of these teachings.

Pandit Phulchandra Shastri himself states that the book presents only what he has gleaned from Jain scriptures, compiled to aid in understanding the path to liberation. He emphasizes that grasping these principles is vital to avoid distortions in understanding reality, causality, and distinctions, which can hinder spiritual progress even for learned individuals.

The author clarifies that the book is not intended for refuting other philosophies but rather for presenting the core principles of Jain philosophy (Paramartha Prarupana), while also demonstrating their practical application through conventional means (Vyavahar). He explains that the interplay between Nischaya (ultimate truth) and Vyavahar (conventional truth) is essential until one fully realizes the ultimate nature. The path of Nischaya and the path of auspicious worldly actions (Vyavahar) begin simultaneously, with the former guiding the latter. As one progresses in the Nischaya path, the reliance on the Vyavahar path diminishes.

The review notes that the first edition, published in 1960, was studied collectively with respected figures, confirming its originality and utility. While some critical books have been published against this work, the reviewer believes they often misrepresent the core principles, even undermining the foundations of Jain philosophy. Pandit Phulchandra Shastri expresses compassion for such criticisms, urging scholars to guide society according to scriptures.

The text further elaborates on the Jain understanding of pure, passionless religion (Vitaraag Dharma) as taught by Lord Arihant. The path to achieving the pure self is through diligently following the path of knowledge, even if it initially involves a blend of knowledge and karmic (passionate) flows. However, the knowledge stream is inherently liberating, while the karmic stream leads to further entanglement. Ultimately, the pure self is the only true path to liberation.

The book's author strives to clarify these complex Jain concepts based on scriptural evidence.

In the context of modern scientific progress and increasing intellectual curiosity, the book is presented as highly relevant. It addresses fundamental questions posed by rational thinkers: Why is an individual dependent? Is it due to their own weaknesses, external powers, or the strength of karma? And how can one achieve freedom and independence? The book provides fundamental solutions with detailed, rational, and scripturally supported answers, dispelling many misconceptions and offering a clear, mirror-like reflection of Jain principles.

The reviewer commends the Q&A style of the book, similar to Pandit Todarmalji's "Mokshmarg Prakashak," for its effectiveness in clarifying complex issues. "Jain Tattva Mimansa" covers essential topics requiring deep contemplation for contemporary scholars and students, fostering greater clarity and purity of thought. It is lauded for its simple and accessible language, representing a significant contribution that will be remembered by both seekers and scholars. The fact that the second edition is now out of print attests to its immense popularity and utility.

The review concludes by quoting Pandit Jagmohanlalji, who praises the book as a timely cultural and literary service, expressing confidence that society will benefit greatly from it for intellectual growth. The reviewer adds that the book is expected to aid practitioners not only in intellectual development but also in realizing the pure self.