Jin Mahatva Battrishi Ek Parishilan - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jin Mahatva Battrishi Ek Parishilan" by Chandraguptasuri, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Jin Mahatva Battrishi Ek Parishilan (An Examination of the Thirty-Two Verses on the Greatness of Jin) Author: Acharya Vijay Chandraguptasuri Publisher: Shri Anekant Prakashan

Overall Purpose and Context:

This text, "Jin Mahatva Battrishi Ek Parishilan," is a commentary and analysis of a collection of thirty-two verses (Battrishi) composed by Mahamahopadhyay Shrimad Yashovijayji. The "Battrishi" itself aims to elucidate the greatness of the Jinas (Tirthankaras), particularly their significance as guides. This particular commentary focuses on refuting arguments that diminish the greatness of the Jinas and establishing their supreme status.

The commentary builds upon a previous work by the same author which discussed the "path" (marga). This text, however, focuses on the "path-guiding" Tirthankara Bhagwan and their greatness. It acknowledges that understanding the text requires familiarity with the terminology of Nyaya (logic and epistemology) but also strives to make certain points accessible to a broader audience.

Key Themes and Arguments Explored in the Provided Pages:

The True Source of the Jina's Greatness:
- The text strongly argues that the greatness of the Tirthankaras is not derived from external glories like the three enclosures of the Samavasarana, the Indra-dhvaja, the three umbrellas, the Dharma-chakra, or the chamar (fly-whisk).
- These external attributes are considered superficial because similar phenomena can be observed in magical illusions or in the actions of "mayaavi" (those who create illusions), like illusory deities.
- The true greatness lies not in external paraphernalia but in their intrinsic qualities and principles that lead to spiritual liberation. The text emphasizes that equating greatness with external signs would lead to attributing similar greatness to illusionists.
The Importance of "Yuktimad Vachanam" (Reasonable Speech):
- The greatness of the Jinas is found in their teachings, their "Vachanam" (words or teachings), which are described as being "Nyaya-sangat" (in accordance with logic) and "Samvadi" (consistent or in agreement).
- These teachings are like "Suryanshu" (sunbeams) that dispel the "Kutarkadhvanta" (darkness of false reasoning).
- The author highlights that the teachings of the Jinas are rooted in the Syadvada doctrine, which is the essence of Jain logic and avoids extreme or one-sided assertions. This is contrasted with "Ekaantavaad" (one-sided arguments) which are considered fallacious and lead to logical contradictions (anavastha).
The Nature of "Mahatva" (Greatness) and its Basis:
- True greatness is defined as "Ananya-sadharana Guna-vastva" – possessing unique and unparalleled qualities.
- This greatness cannot be inferred from external possessions or transient glories, which are susceptible to "vyabhichara" (inconsistency or fallibility) as seen in illusionists.
- The greatness of the Tirthankaras is attributed to their inherent, unique qualities that are not found in others.
The Role of "Punyaudaya" (Meritorious Karma) and "Kshayika Bhava" (Attainments from Karma Destruction):
- While external glories are not the primary source of greatness, the text discusses how specific "pudgala" (material manifestations) arising from the "pudayudaya" of meritorious karma (like the Tirthankara Nama Karma) are associated with the Tirthankaras.
- These external qualities (like form, complexion, strength) become significant when associated with "Kshayika Bhava" – the state of complete destruction of karma, leading to omniscience and omnivision.
- The combination of specific external attributes (like excellent form) with intrinsic, soul-liberated qualities makes the greatness of the Jina distinct and non-illusory.
The Concept of Innate Nature ("Swabhava"):
- The text uses the analogy of "Jaatya-ratna" (a naturally excellent gem) versus "Ajaatya-ratna" (a gem that is not naturally excellent) to explain that the Tirthankara Bhagwan possesses an innate, inherent nature that makes them great. This difference in nature is profound and has existed since beginningless time, even through states of delusion.
- This inherent quality is the basis of their unique potential and destiny.
Refutation of Arguments Against the Jinas' Greatness:
- Argument 1 (External Glories): The text refutes the idea that external signs like the Samavasarana contribute to their greatness, arguing these are mere illusions.
- Argument 2 (Not Eternally Flawless): It addresses the claim that since the Jinas were not eternally flawless (they had to overcome karma), they are not truly great. The text counters this by stating that the attainment of perfection (nirvana) and freedom from karma is what makes them great, and their past struggles do not negate their ultimate state of perfection.
- Argument 3 (Imitation and Logic): The text discusses the philosophical nuances of "aatmavrutti nitya-nirdoshatva" (eternally flawless nature within the self) and how arguments attempting to diminish the Jinas' greatness based on logical fallacies (like "hetu asiddha" - unproven reason) are faulty.
- Argument 4 (Creator God): It tackles the concept of a creator God. The text argues against the inferential proofs for a creator deity, pointing out that the causal connections observed in the world are specific and do not necessarily point to a single, all-powerful creator. Furthermore, the Jain scriptures themselves do not posit a creator God.
- Argument 5 (Limited Donation): The text addresses the Buddhist claim that the Jinas' donation of wealth was finite and therefore indicative of a lack of greatness, unlike the supposedly infinite donations of Bodhisattvas. The commentary clarifies that the Tirthankaras' donations were limited by the lack of suitable recipients, not by their own inability or stinginess. The act of announcing the availability of boons ("Varam vrnutam...") itself demonstrates their generosity.
- Argument 6 (The "Good Mind" of the Buddha): It refutes the Buddhist notion of a "kusala chitta" (good mind) in the Buddha, which involves enduring the sins of others and transferring them to oneself. The text argues this is an impossible or illusory concept and not a true measure of greatness.
- Argument 7 (Relinquishing Wealth/Actions): The text explains that actions like giving away kingdoms or performing worldly duties (like marriage, arts) are not flaws for the Tirthankaras. Instead, these actions are undertaken to prevent greater harms (like conflict) or as part of their specific karma and spiritual practice, ultimately contributing to their role as guides.
The Role of Devotion and Practice:
- The text emphasizes that the true path to liberation is through the teachings and guidance of the Jinas.
- Devotion ("Bhakti") to the Jinas, which means adhering to their teachings and following their path, is considered the seed for ultimate bliss ("Paramananda").
- The Tirthankaras are presented as the sole means to attain the ultimate goal (Moksha). Their meditation and teachings are crucial for spiritual advancement.

Structure of the Commentary:

The commentary proceeds verse by verse (shloka by shloka), dissecting the arguments, providing logical proofs, citing scriptural authority, and refuting opposing viewpoints. It often employs the framework of Nyaya philosophy to analyze the validity of different claims.

In essence, the "Jin Mahatva Battrishi Ek Parishilan" aims to:

Establish the supreme and unique greatness of the Jinas (Tirthankaras).
Differentiate their greatness from superficial or illusory attributes.
Demonstrate that their greatness is rooted in their impeccable logic, truthful teachings, inner purity, and ultimate liberation.
Counter various philosophical and theological arguments that might undermine their status.
Guide the reader towards the path of devotion and adherence to the Jinas' teachings as the means to spiritual liberation.