Jaisalmer Patradhara

This document, "Jaisalmer Patradhara," compiled by Punyavijay and published by Punyavijayji, is a collection of letters detailing the author's extensive work in examining and restoring ancient Jain manuscripts found in the Jaisalmer library. The letters, addressed to Shri Ratilal Dipchand Desai and Muni Shri Jambuvijayji, span several dates in 1950.

The core theme of the document is the meticulous and challenging process of reconstructing and cataloging fragmented and scattered Jain manuscripts. The author describes this work as akin to reuniting long-separated family members, where individual pages and even fragments are painstakingly analyzed and categorized based on script, paper type, numbering, calligraphy, and subject matter to identify the original texts. This process is presented as a marvel, capable of surprising even seasoned scholars.

Key points highlighted in the text include:

• The Challenge of Fragmented Manuscripts: The author details the arduous task of sifting through vast collections of mixed manuscript pages and fragments. Many texts are in disarray, with pages from multiple works jumbled together, making identification and reconstruction incredibly difficult. The author notes that some fragments are so small that they are almost unusable.
• Reconstruction and Preservation Efforts: The text emphasizes the dedication to piecing together these damaged manuscripts. The author mentions successfully reconstructing entire texts from scattered fragments and increasing the value of seemingly unusable pieces.
• Identification of Lost and Unknown Texts: Through detailed analysis, the author aims to identify texts that are missing from existing catalogs or that have been misidentified. The author criticizes previous cataloging efforts, like that of C.D. Dalal, for being incomplete or based on superficial examination.
• Significance of the Jaisalmer Collection: The Jaisalmer collection is highlighted as a treasure trove of ancient Jain literature, with many manuscripts dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. The author stresses the importance of these ancient manuscripts for accurate textual research and comparison.
• Specific Manuscript Discoveries and Studies:
  • The author discusses the discovery of fragments from various significant Jain texts like Bhagavati Sutra, Kalpa Churni, Vyavahara Churni, Karma Prakriti, and even secular works like Vakroktijeevitam by the poet Kutak and its commentary by Vachaspati Misra.
  • Two specific texts, Aayachika Granthas, authored by Pradyumna Suri and Jinapati Suri, are discussed for their differing views on the venerability of Jain idols at Ashapalli.
  • The author laments the significant loss and deterioration of philosophical Jain texts, noting that many references made by eminent scholars like Vadideva Suri, Acharya Malayagiri, and Acharya Hemchandra are now untraceable.
  • The author expresses gratitude for the preservation of this literature, albeit in a damaged state, attributing it to the "knowledge devotion" (gyanabhakti) of the Jain community.
  • The importance of ancient palm-leaf manuscripts of Jain Agamas, dating back to the first half of the 13th century, is underscored as crucial for research.
  • The author mentions the acquisition of important manuscripts like Visheshavashyak Bhashya, emphasizing its potential for understanding the original language of the commentary and the evolution of Brahmi script.
  • Other significant texts mentioned include Edhaniya Yukti's Brihad Bhashya, Kalpa Mahabhashya, Anuyogadvara with Haribhadriya Vritti and Maldhari commentaries, Jyotish Karadaka, and Surya Prajnapti.
  • The author notes the presence of valuable Prashastis and Pushpikas that shed light on the reverence for texts in ancient times.
• The Importance of Jain Knowledge Devotion (Gyanabhakti): The text acknowledges that while Jain devotion to knowledge has led to preservation, it has also, through sometimes uncritical handling, contributed to the disarray and damage of manuscripts. However, the overarching sentiment is one of pride in the Jain community's dedication to preserving a vast and diverse body of literature.
• The Jaisalmer Collection's Unique Value: The author argues that the Jain Bhandars are unique in their comprehensive collection of diverse texts. The Jain community's pursuit of knowledge is characterized by an absence of narrow-mindedness, a dedication to collecting and preserving knowledge regardless of its origin, which is presented as a praiseworthy attribute.
• The Author's Dedication and Work Plan: The author details their commitment to completing the cataloging and restoration work, including making photocopies and microfilms of valuable manuscripts. They also express a desire to establish a scholarly group dedicated to manuscript research.
• Travel and Observations: The letters also document the author's travel experiences, including journeys to Jaisalmer, encounters with fellow workers, and observations of the local environment and cultural sites, particularly the architecture and sculptures in Jaisalmer.
• Call for Collaboration and Preservation: The author implicitly calls for greater diligence and careful handling of these precious manuscripts, urging for a more systematic approach to preservation and research.

In essence, "Jaisalmer Patradhara" serves as a testament to the dedication of scholars like Punyavijay in preserving and revitalizing Jain heritage. It offers a glimpse into the intricate world of manuscript studies, highlighting the challenges, discoveries, and the profound historical and religious significance of these ancient texts.