Kalyan Samadhan Shuddhi Prakash Yane Shastriya Samadhan Sangraha

The book "Kalyan Samadhan Shuddhi Prakash Yane Shastriya Samadhan Sangraha" (कल्यण समाधान शुद्धी प्रकाश याने शास्त्रीय समाधान सग्रह) authored by Hansasagar (हंससागर) and published by Shasan Kantakoddharak Gyanmandir (शासन कंटकोध्दारक ज्ञानमंदिर), is a significant work in Jain literature. It addresses theological and philosophical questions from a Jain perspective, aiming to clarify and correct potentially misleading interpretations found in other Jain texts.

Here's a breakdown of the book's content and purpose based on the provided pages:

Core Purpose and Content:

• Correction of Misinterpretations: The primary goal of this book is to rectify and purify religious interpretations and solutions that have become erroneous, contrary to tradition, or fabricated ("kapolkalpit" - कपोलकल्पित) over time. The author specifically targets certain interpretations by Acharya Shree Labdhisuriji Maharaj (आ. श्री लब्धिसूरिजी म.) published in the monthly magazine "Kalyan Masik" (कल्याण मासिक).
• Scriptural Basis: Hansasagar meticulously examines 135 such questionable solutions and provides correct, scripturally-based explanations. He rigorously cross-references his corrections with various Jain scriptures, citing specific texts and passages to support his arguments.
• Scholarly Rigor: The book demonstrates a deep understanding of Jain philosophy, logic (Nyaya), grammar (Vyakarana), and various scriptures. The author's commitment to scriptural accuracy is evident in the detailed refutations and citations.
• Comprehensive Question-Answer Format: The book is structured as a collection of questions and their corresponding answers, addressing a wide range of topics related to Jain doctrine, practice, and history. The table of contents (Vishayanukramanika - विषयानुकमणिका) on page 9 onwards lists numerous such questions, covering aspects like:
  • Worship practices (e.g., of idols, symbols like the Sidhachakra).
  • Cosmology and geography (e.g., location of mountains, continents).
  • The nature of celestial beings and their rebirth cycles (e.g., Lokantik Devs).
  • Dietary rules and the concept of "sachitta" (living) and "achitta" (non-living) substances.
  • The conduct and definitions of lay followers (Shravaks).
  • The meaning of scriptural verses and their potential for misinterpretation.
  • The lives and actions of important figures in Jain history (e.g., King Shrenik, Ravana).
  • The nature of karmic bondage and liberation.
  • Rituals and practices like Samayika, Pratikraman, Jinapuja, and Upadhana.
  • The attributes of Tirthankaras and the essence of their teachings.
  • The understanding of complex philosophical concepts like the soul's journey and the attainment of salvation.

Key Figures and Support:

• Author: Acharya Shree Hansasagar Maharaj (आचार्य देव श्री चंद्रसगर सूरीजी पटप्रधापक शासन संरक्षक-शासनक कंटकोध्दारकपू. गणिवर्य श्री हंससागरजी महाराज), a disciple of Acharya Shree Chandrasagar Suriji and a respected scholar.
• Reviewer/Purifier: The book was reviewed and purified under the "sacred vision" (पवित्र दृष्टि) of Gachhadhipati Acharya Devesh Shree Manikysagar Surishwarji Maharaj (पू. गच्छधिपति आचार्य देवेशश्री माणिक्यसागर सूरीश्वरजी महाराज). This indicates a high level of approval and validation from a prominent Jain leader.
• Publisher: Shasan Kantakoddharak Gyanmandir (श्री शासन कंटकोध्दारक ज्ञानमंदिर), indicating a dedication to preserving and propagating correct Jain teachings.
• Support from Institutions and Individuals: The publication received support from various Jain Sanghs and individuals, as noted in the publisher's preface (Prakashakiy Nivedan - प्रकाशकीय निवेदन), including the Shree Thaliya Jain Sangh (श्री ठळीया जैन संघ).

Critique of "Kalyan Masik" and Acharya Labdhisuriji:

The "Prakashakiy Nivedan" (Publisher's Statement) on page 6 clearly outlines the contentious aspect of the book. It highlights that the "Kalyan Masik" published interpretations by Acharya Shree Labdhisuriji Maharaj that were considered:

• Contrary to Scripture (Shastra Viruddha - शास्त्रविरुद्ध): Directly opposing established Jain scriptural principles.
• Contrary to Tradition (Parampara Viruddha - परंपरा विरुद्ध): Deviating from accepted Jain practices and interpretations.
• Fabricated (Kapolkalpit - कपोलकल्पित): Based on unfounded theories or imagination rather than scriptural evidence.
• Harmful (Anarthakari - अनर्थकारी): Potentially leading to spiritual harm and misconceptions for future generations.

The author, Hansasagar, states that he tried for six years to explain these discrepancies to Acharya Labdhisuriji and the editor of "Kalyan Masik" but to no avail. As a last resort, he decided to publish these corrected interpretations with scriptural backing to protect the Jain community from the spread of erroneous doctrines. The extensive "corrections" (सुधारा - Sudhara) detailed from page 28 onwards demonstrate the author's thoroughness in dissecting and refuting the perceived errors.

Overall Significance:

"Kalyan Samadhan Shuddhi Prakash" is more than just a theological treatise; it's a critical analysis and purification of Jain teachings. It underscores the importance of adherence to scriptural authority and the critical role of learned scholars in maintaining the integrity of religious doctrine. The book serves as a valuable resource for those seeking to understand Jainism accurately and to safeguard it from misinterpretations.