Karpurprakar Ane Kadambgiri Bruhatkalp

The book "Karpur Prakar Ane Kadambgiri Bruhatkalp" authored by Vijaypadmasuri, published by Jain Granth Prakashak Sabha, is a significant Jain text that elucidals various aspects of Jain philosophy, conduct, and rituals. The text is based on the original work of Kaviraj Shri Harisen Muni, titled "Shri Kapur Prakar." This particular edition features a commentary in Gujarati, titled "Gauri Thika," by Tapagachhadhipati Acharya Shri Vijayanemipuriji. The commentary includes verse-based explanations, literal meanings, and clarified interpretations, making the profound teachings accessible to a wider audience.

Key Aspects of the Text:

• Karpur Prakar (The Camphor Process): This section of the book, originally authored by Shri Harisen Muni, is known for its 87 detailed descriptions of various matters, presented with illustrative examples. The text highlights the importance of the initial verses starting with "Vaba" for its widespread recognition. It is also known by the name "Suvar" based on its concluding verses. The commentary emphasizes the clarity and depth of the original work, noting that it has been subject to commentaries by scholars like Shri Jin Sagara Suri. The book aims to provide a clear understanding of this text to those who are proficient in Sanskrit as well as those who are not, by presenting the original verses, a commentary in Gujarati verse, literal meanings, and explanations.

• Kadambgiri Bruhatkalp: This part of the text likely delves into the significance and practices related to Kadambgiri, a holy site in Jainism. The title "Bruhatkalp" suggests it might be a comprehensive or extensive treatise on the "Kalpa" (rules or regulations) associated with this pilgrimage site.

• Commentary by Acharya Shri Vijaynemisurishwar and Acharya Shri Vijaypadmasurishwar: The book is enriched by the contributions of two prominent Jain scholars:

  • Acharya Shri Vijaynemisurishwar: Described as the "Shasan Samrat" (Emperor of the Doctrine), "Srichakravarti," and "Jagadguru," his life details are provided, including his birth, initiation, and attainment of various spiritual titles like Ganipath, Panyaspad, and Suripad, spanning from V.S. 1929 to 1964. He is recognized for his role in the restoration of pilgrimage sites.
  • Acharya Shri Vijaypadmasurishwar: He is credited with creating the "Chhandobaddh Gauri Thika" (a commentary in rhythmic Gujarati verses), providing the literal and clarified meanings of the verses. His life details are also given, showing his progression from V.S. 1955 to 1992, with significant achievements like obtaining the title of Upadhyayapad and Acharyapad. He is also noted as a "Sastra Visharada" (an expert in scriptures) and "Kavi Divakar" (a brilliant poet).

• Structure and Content: The book is meticulously structured, as indicated by the detailed "Anukramanika" (Table of Contents). It outlines 87 "Dwar" (chapters or sections), each covering a specific topic, ranging from basic invocations and names to complex philosophical concepts like "Naya" (logic/schools of thought), "Vinay" (respectful conduct), and "Vairagya" (detachment). It also covers ethical conduct for monks and lay followers (Sravaka Dharma), details various observances and festivals, and lists significant practices within the Jain tradition. The text also includes didactic stories and exemplars.

• Purpose of the Commentary: The commentary by Acharya Shri Vijaypadmasurishwar aims to elucidate the "true secret" of the "Shri Kapur Prakar" poem for both those who understand Sanskrit and those who don't. It is structured into:

  1. The original verse.
  2. A commentary in Harigeet meter (a rhythmic verse).
  3. Literal meaning.
  4. Clarified meaning.

• Inspirational Tone: The text is presented with an inspirational and devotional tone, aiming to guide individuals towards spiritual progress and liberation ("Moksha"). The preface expresses a heartfelt desire for readers to gain wisdom from the text, become discerning, and achieve eternal bliss.

• Support and Patronage: The publication of this work was made possible by the strong "Gyan Bhakti" (devotion to knowledge) and generosity of esteemed individuals like Share Dalal Jesinghbhai Kalidas, who subscribed to multiple copies. The efforts of Shah Parshottamdas Tolaal, Seth Jebhabhai Ugerchand, and others in printing and publication are also gratefully acknowledged.

In essence, "Karpur Prakar Ane Kadambgiri Bruhatkalp" is a scholarly work that meticulously explains Jain principles and practices through the original verses of Shri Harisen Muni and a detailed, devotional commentary by Acharya Shri Vijaypadmasurishwar, aiming to foster spiritual understanding and upliftment among its readers. The catalog link provided suggests it's part of a larger collection of Jain literature, indicating its importance within the Jain tradition.