Jain Tattvadarsha Purvardha - Book Summary

This comprehensive summary synthesizes the content of the provided Jain text, "Jain Tattvadarsha Purvardha" by Atmaramji Maharaj, as presented in the scanned pages.

Book Title: Jain Tattvadarsha Purvardha Author: Atmaramji Maharaj (also known as Jainacharya Shri 1008 Shri Vijayanand Surishwar) Publisher: Atmanand Jain Sabha

Overview and Purpose: The book "Jain Tattvadarsha Purvardha" (The Jain Philosophical Mirror, Part One) aims to explain the fundamental principles of Jainism in a clear and accessible language. The author, Atmaramji Maharaj, a prominent Jain Acharya of the 20th century, was deeply indebted to Punjab for its support and the honor of his birth. Although Punjab was to initially lead the centenary celebrations of his birth, unforeseen circumstances prevented them from being the first to organize. However, the Atmanand Jain Sabha of Punjab resolved to contribute in some way to the centenary, and one of their key initiatives was to republish this seminal work, "Jain Tattvadarsha," in a new, pure, and affordable edition. The book is considered highly valuable for both Jains and non-Jains.

Context of the Edition: This particular edition was published by the Atmanand Jain Sabha, Punjab, in commemoration of the birth centenary of the revered Acharya Atmaramji Maharaj, which was celebrated in Baroda in Samvat 1963 (Chaitra Shukla Pratipada). The Sabha expresses its gratitude to Pandit Hansrajji Shastri and Shri Hansrajji M.A. for their diligent work in revising and editing the book within a tight deadline of three months. The book, originally about 1200 pages, was priced at a mere eight annas, despite the actual cost being around one and a half rupees, all to ensure its wide dissemination.

Author and His Legacy: Acharya Atmaramji Maharaj is described as an epoch-making Acharya of the 20th century. His integrity, self-confidence, fearlessness, and brilliant intellect brought new life to the Jain community. He is credited with initiating much of the religious and social awakening seen in Jain society today. His teachings and writings are likened to a diligent gardener, sowing the seeds of independent thought and fostering a spirit of reform against entrenched dogma. Punjab takes pride in having given birth to this great soul who, while embodying the principles of non-violence, renunciation, and austerity, also used his inherent dynamism and profound intellect to effectively lead and influence the Jain community. He fearlessly defended Jainism against criticisms from opposing sects and championed the principle of idol worship in the face of strong opposition from Christian, Muslim, Arya Samaj, and Brahmo Samaj movements. His scholarly prowess is evident in his extensive writings, which demonstrate a deep understanding of both Jain and Vedic literature. His works are considered foundational for modern philosophical and spiritual research.

Content and Structure of the Book: The book is divided into twelve chapters, each focusing on specific aspects of Jain philosophy:

Chapter 1: Dev (Deity): Explores the nature of the divine in Jainism, defining the characteristics of an Arhant (a perfected being) as the true God, possessing twelve sublime qualities and being free from eighteen flaws. It details the eight magnificent attributes (Mahapratirayas) and four divine perfections (Mulaatisayas). It also elaborates on thirty-five perfections of speech and thirty-four other auspicious signs. The chapter systematically refutes the concept of an anthropomorphic creator God.
Chapter 2: Kudeo (False Deity): Critiques the characteristics of deities worshipped in other traditions, contrasting them with the true Jain concept of divinity. It argues against the notion of a creator God and explores various philosophical refutations of theistic creationism, addressing concepts from different schools of thought.
Chapter 3: Suguru (True Guru): Defines the qualities of a true spiritual guide in Jainism, emphasizing adherence to the five great vows (Mahavratas) and various spiritual practices like the twenty-five contemplations (Bhavanas), the seventy types of conduct (Charan Sattari), seventeen types of self-restraint (Sanyam), and ten types of respectful service (Vaiya-vruttya). It details the disciplines and conduct expected of ascetics.
Chapter 4: Kuguru (False Guru): Critiques false spiritual leaders and their misleading doctrines, presenting the philosophical arguments against various heterodox views such as Kriyavada (action-centric philosophy), Kalavada (time-centric philosophy), Ishwaravada (theistic philosophy), Atmavada (soul-centric philosophy), Niyativada (fatalism), Swabhavavada (naturalism), Yadrichhavada (chance), and Gyanavada (knowledge-centric philosophy). It also addresses Buddhist, Naiyayik, and Vaisheshik philosophies.
Chapter 5: Dharma (True Religion): Focuses on the true nature of religion, delving into the discussion of fundamental Jain principles like the soul (Jiva), non-soul (Ajiva), influx (Asrava), bond (Bandha), restraint (Samvara), cessation of karma (Nirjara), merit (Punya), demerit (Papa), and liberation (Moksha). It describes the six states of existence and the classification of souls.
Chapter 6: Samyag-Gyan (Right Knowledge): Elaborates on the concept of right knowledge, detailing the fourteen stages of spiritual progress (Gunsthanas) and their detailed interpretation.
Chapter 7: Samyag-Darshan (Right Faith): Explains right faith and related relevant topics.
Chapter 8: Samyak-Charitra (Right Conduct): Describes the nature of right conduct, including the types of complete and partial vows (Sarva-virati and Desha-virati), and the twelve vows of lay followers (Shravaka).
Chapters 9 & 10: Daily and Periodic Observances: Detail the daily rituals of lay followers (Shravaka), including worship, evening routines, and periodic observances like Pakshika, Chau-masi, and Samvatsari.
Chapter 11: History of Tirthankaras: Provides a brief history of the Tirthankaras from Lord Rishabhdev to Lord Mahavir.
Chapter 12: Disciples of Lord Mahavir: Discusses the philosophical contributions of Lord Mahavir's chief disciples (Ganadharas) like Gautam, and includes historical accounts of prominent Jain Acharyas after Lord Mahavir's nirvana.

Language and Style: The language of the book is described as a blend of refined and colloquial Hindi, reflecting the popular speech of about fifty years prior to its publication. It incorporates idioms and words from Punjabi, Gujarati, and Marwari, reflecting the author's wide-ranging influence and the linguistic environment of his time. The author notes that language and script evolve naturally, and this style does not diminish the book's importance. The writing style is also considered distinct from contemporary methods, reflecting the evolving approaches to subject exposition.

Authenticity and Utility: The book's authenticity is underscored by its reliance on the authentic scriptures of Jain Acharyas. Its content is derived entirely from ancient Jain texts, leaving no room for doubt regarding its reliability. The book's utility is highlighted in the context of its creation. Written during a period of intense sectarian conflict, it served to clarify and preserve the core principles of Jainism, which were being obscured by misinterpretations and propagated against. The book is deemed essential for understanding Jainism for both followers and those outside the faith, particularly in refuting opposing viewpoints with logical arguments.

Editors' Notes and Acknowledgements: The editors, Pt. Ramkumarji and Pt. Ishwaralalji, express their gratitude to various individuals and organizations who contributed to the publication:

The Atmanand Jain Sabha, Punjab, for entrusting them with the task.
Dr. Banarsi Das M.A., Ph.D., Professor, Oriental College, Lahore, for writing an article titled "Maharaj Sahib ki Bhasha" (The Language of Maharaj Sahib).
Donors who provided financial assistance, including Seth Naginchand Kapoorchand Ji Johari's wife, Smt. Rukmani Bahan, and several individuals from Jandiyala Guru.
The press for their dedicated efforts in completing the printing.

The editors apologize for any errors that may have occurred due to time constraints and the vastness of the work, particularly in the second part of the book. They explain that while the original language was maintained, minor grammatical adjustments were made for clarity, and incorrect quotes from Prakrit and Sanskrit texts were corrected based on original sources.

Key Themes and Arguments:

Jainism's Unique Theology: The book strongly distinguishes Jainism from other Indian religions by rejecting the concept of a creator God. It emphasizes that the perfected souls (Arhants) are the true objects of worship, possessing divine qualities through their own spiritual efforts, not through divine intervention.
Philosophical Debates: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to philosophical debates, particularly refuting theistic creationism and various other non-Jain philosophical systems. The author meticulously analyzes and counters arguments from various schools of thought to establish the validity of Jain principles.
Ethical and Ascetic Discipline: The text lays out a detailed exposition of the rigorous ethical and ascetic disciplines prescribed for Jain monks (Sadhus) and lay followers (Shravakas), including the five great vows, eleven stages of purity, and various practices for spiritual purification.
The Nature of Reality: The book touches upon the Jain understanding of reality, including the existence of soul (Jiva) and non-soul (Ajiva) as distinct eternal substances, and the cyclical nature of existence influenced by karma.
The Importance of a True Guru: The text strongly emphasizes the role of a genuine spiritual guide (Suguru) who adheres to the Jain path and disseminates true religious knowledge, as opposed to false gurus (Kuguru) who mislead with incorrect doctrines.

Overall Significance: "Jain Tattvadarsha Purvardha" serves as a foundational text for understanding Jain philosophy. It not only elucidates core Jain doctrines but also engages in critical analysis of other philosophical systems, demonstrating the depth and rationality of the Jain worldview. The effort to make this work widely accessible, even at a subsidized price, reflects the author's and the Sabha's commitment to spiritual education and the propagation of Jain teachings.

This summary aims to capture the essence and breadth of the provided text, highlighting its philosophical depth, historical context, and the profound legacy of its author.