Jain Vastu Vidya - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Vastu Vidya" by Gopilal Amar, based on the provided content:

"Jain Vastu Vidya" (Jain Architecture and Science) by Dr. Gopilal 'Amar', published by Kundkund Bharti Trust, is a foundational text that explores the principles of Vastu Shastra from a Jain perspective. The book aims to present an authentic and accessible guide to Jain architectural principles, bridging ancient wisdom with modern understanding.

Core Concepts and Significance:

Vastu Vidya: The book defines Vastu Vidya as the art and science of building and architecture. It emphasizes its spiritual and ethical dimensions, linking it to Jain philosophy and practices. The text highlights that Vastu is not merely about aesthetics or structure but about creating harmonious environments conducive to spiritual growth and well-being.
Integration with Jain Principles: A central theme is the deep connection between Vastu principles and Jain teachings, particularly ahimsa (non-violence), purity of dravya (substance), kshetra (space), kala (time), and bhava (intent). The construction of temples (Jinalaya) is seen as a paramount duty, a direct manifestation of spiritual devotion and a representation of the Samavasharana (divine assembly of Tirthankaras).
Holistic Approach: Vastu Vidya is presented as an integral science, intertwined with other disciplines like shilpa shastra (sculpture and craftsmanship), chitrakala (painting), dharmashastra (religious law), arthashastra (economics), and samajashastra (sociology). It underscores the importance of considering dravya (material), kshetra (site), kala (time/auspicious moments), and bhava (intent/attitude) in all construction activities.

Key Sections and Content:

Meaning and Importance of Vastu Vidya:
- Explains Vastu Vidya as the art of building, equating it to Sanskrit terms like Sthapatya and Prakrit's Vatthu-vijja.
- Traces its historical significance, noting its deep roots in ancient Indian culture and its evolution from ancient principles to modern applications.
- Highlights the relevance of Vastu in contemporary times, where it is gaining recognition as a scientific discipline.
Vastu and Related Disciplines:
- Discusses the symbiotic relationship between Vastu Vidya and sculpture (Shilpa Kala), emphasizing how they developed together to create masterpieces in Indian art and architecture.
- Explores the interplay of Vastu Vidya and painting (Chitrakala), noting how artistic embellishments enhance architectural spaces.
- Details the integral role of Dharmashastra in guiding Vastu practices, from site selection to auspicious rituals, ensuring ethical and spiritually beneficial construction.
- Examines the connection between Vastu Vidya and Arthashastra, acknowledging how economic viability and resource management are crucial aspects of architectural planning.
- Discusses the influence of Vastu Vidya on Samajashastra, as it shapes social structures, administrative centers, and community spaces.
Literature on Vastu Vidya:
- Traces the origin of Vastu Vidya to Vedic literature, particularly the Atharvaveda, and its subsequent development in Puranas, Jyotisha, and Pratishtha texts.
- Highlights the significant contribution of Jain scriptures, particularly the Karananuyoga texts and the Chullas (subdivisions of scripture), to Vastu Vidya. Texts like Tiloyapannatti, Jambudvipaprajnapti, and Trikal-sar are mentioned for their detailed descriptions of cosmic structures, cities, and buildings.
- References key Jain texts that specifically deal with Vastu, such as Pandit Ashadhar's Pratishtha-Saroddhara and Thakkar Pheru's Vatthu-Sar-Payaran (Vastu-Sar-Prakaran), the latter being highlighted as a rare independent Jain text on Vastu.
- Mentions the importance of Pratishtha-prakarana texts in preserving Vastu knowledge, often integrating it with idol consecration ceremonies.
- Discusses modern contributions and the need for further research in Jain Vastu Vidya, advocating for a comprehensive encyclopedia on the subject.
Environmental Harmony and Purity:
- Emphasizes the paramount importance of environmental suitability (Paryavaran ki Shuddhta) in architectural planning.
- Discusses the significance of the five elements (Panchamahabhuta: Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Ether) and their balance in creating healthy living spaces.
- Highlights the role of vegetation (Vanaspati-jagat) in maintaining ecological balance and providing natural benefits.
- Stresses the purity of dravya (materials) and tools, advocating for ethically sourced materials and high-quality craftsmanship.
Site Selection and Preparation:
- Details the meticulous process of selecting land (Desh aur Kshetra ka Chayan), including geographical, climatic, and social considerations.
- Explains methods for land testing (Bhumi Pariksha), including checks for soil stability, water presence, and environmental suitability.
- Discusses the importance of land shape and orientation (Bhumi ka Aakar aur Sthiti).
- Outlines purification rituals (Shalya-shodhan Yantra) to remove any negative energies or imperfections from the land.
Directional Principles and Time Calculations:
- Explains the significance of directional principles (Disha ka Vivek) and their alignment with nature's energies.
- Highlights the importance of the Vaastu Purush Mandala and other directional charts like the Sheshnag Chakra and Vatsa Chakra for determining auspicious placements.
- Details the role of astrology (Jyotish) in determining auspicious timings (Muhurta) for various construction phases.
Purity of Intent and Conduct:
- Emphasizes the crucial role of Bhava ki Shuddhta (purity of intent and attitude) of the builder, artisans, and occupants.
- Discusses the qualities of skilled artisans (Karigaron ki Nishtha) and the importance of respecting their contributions.
- Highlights the virtues of an ideal architect (Sthapati) such as scriptural knowledge, skill, wisdom, and ethical conduct.
- Stresses the need for honoring the Pratishthacharya (consecration priest) and other artisans involved in the construction process.
Design and Layout:
- Explains the creation of Layout Plans and architectural drawings (Rekha-chitra aur Naksha), incorporating Vastu principles.
- Discusses the significance of Ayaadi Shadvarga (sixfold principles of income, stars, planets, expenditure, etc.) for optimizing auspiciousness.
- Details the importance of matching the house's astrological attributes with those of its owner (Griha aur Griha-swami ki Rashi aadi ka Milan).
Types of Residences and Architectural Elements:
- Describes various types of residential buildings (Avas Grihon ke Prakar) based on their layout, number of rooms, and directional placement of elements.
- Explains the functions and ideal placement of different parts of a house (Avas Grihon ke Ang), including entrances (Singh-dwar), kitchens, bedrooms, storerooms, and worship areas.
- Discusses the importance of the main entrance (Singh-dwar ki Disha) and its relation to the overall house design.
- Provides guidance on the ideal dimensions of doors and windows.
- Explains the concept of Veda-dosha (architectural defects) and how to avoid them.
Temples and Sacred Spaces:
- Explains the concept of a Jain temple (Mandir ki Avadharna) as a sacred space dedicated to the Tirthankaras, often symbolizing the Samavasharana.
- Details the various parts and classifications of Jain temples (Mandir ke Ang aur Vibhag, Jain-Mandir ka Ek Shastriyarup).
- Discusses different architectural forms like Choubisi Mandir (temples dedicated to all 24 Tirthankaras), Griha-Mandir (home shrines), and Nishidika (memorial structures).
- Highlights the architectural significance of Stupas in Jain tradition, referencing their depiction on Ayag-pattas.
Urban Planning and Restoration:
- Explores the principles of Nagar-vinyas (urban planning) as reflected in Jain literature, citing examples like the city of Vaishali.
- Discusses the methods and importance of restoration and renovation (Jirnoddhar ka Vidhan) of religious structures, emphasizing the preservation of original architectural integrity.

Overall Contribution:

"Jain Vastu Vidya" serves as a vital bridge between ancient Jain Jainosophy and modern architectural practices. It empowers readers with the knowledge to construct buildings that are not only structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing but also spiritually uplifting and harmonious with the environment, aligning with the core values of Jainism. The book is a valuable resource for architects, builders, scholars, and anyone seeking to understand the profound integration of spirituality and architecture in the Jain tradition.