Jeev Vichar Ras Ek Adhyayan

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jeev Vichar Ras - Ek Adhyayan" by Dr. Parvati Nenshi Khirani, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Jeev Vichar Ras - Ek Adhyyan Author: Dr. Parvati Nenshi Khirani Publisher: Saurashtra Kesri Pranguru Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/022850/1

Overview:

This book is a scholarly study (Ek Adhyyan) of the "Jeev Vichar Ras," a religious poem (Ras) composed by the Jain layman poet Rushabhdas. The work, originally prepared as a doctoral dissertation for Mumbai University in March 2009, delves into the profound Jain concept of "Jeev" (soul/life) as explored by the 17th-century poet Rushabhdas. The author, Dr. Parvati Nenshi Khirani, presents a detailed analysis of the poem's philosophical content, its literary aspects, the poet's life and times, and the broader context of Jain literature.

Key Aspects Explored in the Study:

1. The Author's Journey and Dedication:

   • Dr. Parvati Nenshi Khirani's academic pursuit led her to pursue a Ph.D. in Jain Literature, a path inspired by her dedication to Jainism and its teachings.
   • The book is a revised version of her doctoral thesis, aiming to make this research accessible to a wider audience.
   • The work is dedicated to her late father, Nenshi Vijpar Raghavji Khirani, highlighting his encouragement and support for her intellectual and spiritual journey.

2. The "Jeev Vichar Ras" and Poet Rushabhdas:

   • The study focuses on Rushabhdas, a layman poet from the 17th century, known for his significant contributions to Gujarati Jain literature.
   • "Jeev Vichar Ras" is identified as an important, yet previously unpublished, philosophical work by Rushabhdas.
   • The poem's central theme is the nature and classification of "Jeev" (life/soul) according to Jain philosophy, exploring the different stages of life, from one-sensed beings (Ekendriya) to five-sensed beings (Pahendriya), encompassing the four states of existence (Chaar Gati).

3. Scholarly Approach and Methodology:

   • Dr. Khirani's research is extensive, referencing 208 books and 10 periodicals.
   • She has studied 46 granths (texts) of Jinagam and its commentaries and interpretations, demonstrating a deep engagement with Jain scriptures.
   • The study includes the original manuscript of "Jeev Vichar Ras," which was obtained from the library of Acharya Kailashsagar Suri in Koba.
   • The author emphasizes the importance of preserving and studying ancient manuscripts, highlighting the efforts of scholars like Shree Harivallabh Bhayani.
   • The text includes a comparative study of "Jeev Vichar Ras" with other significant Jain texts such as "Jeev Vichar Prakaran" by Acharya Shantisuri, "Pannavna Sutra," "Jeevaabhigam Sutra," "Dashavaikalik Sutra," and "Siddh Panchashika," among others. This comparative analysis showcases the depth of Jain philosophical thought across different texts.

4. Content of "Jeev Vichar Ras":

   • Philosophical Aspects (Tattvik Paksha/Bhav Paksha): The study systematically breaks down the philosophical concepts discussed in the Ras. It covers:
     • The nature of Jeev (soul/life) and its various classifications (e.g., based on senses, stages of existence).
     • The concept of "Jeev" in comparison to other Indian and Western philosophies.
     • Detailed explanations of the six Jivakayas (six categories of living beings: earth-bodied, water-bodied, fire-bodied, air-bodied, vegetation-bodied, and multifarious-sensed beings).
     • The influence of Karma, the cycle of rebirth, and the path to liberation (Moksha).
     • Exploration of concepts like senses, consciousness (chetan), kashay (passions), leshya (subtle matter coloring the soul), qualities of the soul, lifespan, and the states of existence.
     • The spiritual journey from the worldly (Bahiratma) to the inner (Antaratma) and ultimately the supreme soul (Paramatma).
     • A detailed section compares Jain philosophical concepts with those of other Indian traditions like Buddhism, Sankhya, and Vedanta, as well as Western philosophy (e.g., Plato, Aristotle, Descartes, Hume, Kant, Leibniz).
     • The scientific perspective on life, consciousness, and the existence of life in elements like earth, water, fire, and air is also discussed, noting how Jainism predates scientific discoveries in these areas.
   • Literary Aspects (Kalapaksha/Sahityik Paksha): The study analyzes the literary merits of the Ras:
     • Structure: The Ras is analyzed for its poetic structure, including the use of Doha, Dhal, Chopai, and other meters. The typical structure of medieval Ras literature, including mangalacharan (invocation), subject introduction, poet's details, and phalashruti (benefits of reading), is examined.
     • Language and Style: Rushabhdas's language is described as simple, eloquent, and accessible, making complex philosophical ideas understandable. The study notes the blend of Gujarati with Sanskrit, Prakrit, and even some Arabic-Persian words, reflecting the linguistic milieu of the time.
     • Literary Devices: The use of various literary devices like alankars (figures of speech), suprabhashitos (wise sayings), and vivid descriptions of nature, cities (like Khambhat), and human emotions is highlighted.
     • Poetic Skill: The author praises Rushabhdas's skill in conveying profound spiritual truths through engaging narratives and accessible language.

5. The Context of Jain Literature and Manuscript Culture:

   • The study underscores the rich tradition of Jain literature, particularly the "Ras" genre, which flourished in medieval Gujarat.
   • It highlights the importance of Jain manuscripts preserved in libraries and the ongoing efforts to discover and make them accessible.
   • The publication itself is presented as a contribution to enriching Gujarati literature and preserving the Jain literary heritage.

6. Key Themes and Contributions:

   • Jeev Delineation: A significant portion of the research is dedicated to explaining the Jain concept of Jeev, its origins, its various forms (from subtle to gross), its transmigration through different lifeforums, and its ultimate goal of liberation (Moksha).
   • Comparative Philosophy: The study offers a valuable comparative analysis of Jain philosophy with other major Indian and Western philosophical schools, highlighting both similarities and differences in their understanding of the soul and consciousness.
   • Literary Value: It recognizes the literary merit of Rushabhdas's Ras, appreciating its poetic qualities, narrative style, and its role in disseminating Jain teachings to the masses.
   • Preservation of Heritage: The work contributes to the preservation of a significant Jain literary manuscript, bringing it to light through scholarly analysis.
   • Author's Scholarship: Dr. Khirani's meticulous research, detailed analysis, and comprehensive understanding of Jain philosophy and literature are evident throughout the book.

In essence, "Jeev Vichar Ras - Ek Adhyyan" is a thorough academic exploration of a significant Jain literary work, offering insights into Jain philosophy, the poet Rushabhdas, and the rich tradition of Jain literature and thought, contextualized with broader Indian and Western philosophical perspectives.