Kundakundadeva Acharya

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Kundakundadeva Acharya" by Rajaram Jain and Vidyavati Jain, based on the provided catalog link and the text excerpts.

Book Title: Kundakundadeva Acharya Author(s): Rajaram Jain, Vidyavati Jain Publisher: Prachya Bharti Prakashan Year: 1989

Overview:

This book is a detailed exploration of the life, teachings, and literary contributions of Acharya Kundakunda, a highly revered figure in Jain tradition. The authors, Rajaram Jain and Vidyavati Jain, present Kundakunda not just as a spiritual leader but also as a profound scholar, philosopher, linguist, and cultural historian. The book aims to showcase Kundakunda's multifaceted personality and the enduring relevance of his work for all sections of society, transcending sectarian boundaries. It highlights his role as a torchbearer of the ancient Shraman tradition and his significant contributions to Jain philosophy, ethics, culture, and language.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Introduction and Authors' Vision:

   • The book begins with a dedication to Acharya Shri Vidyananda Ji Maharaj, acknowledging his inspiration.
   • The authors express their intent to present Kundakunda's work to a wider audience, dispelling the misconception that his teachings are only for Jains. They view Kundakunda as a universal benefactor and a thinker of international repute.
   • The publication is a result of personal savings, demonstrating a deep commitment to disseminating this knowledge.

2. The Legacy of Tirthankaras and Acharyas:

   • The text emphasizes the contributions of Tirthankaras, starting with Rishabadeva, who laid the foundation for societal development through teachings on defense, language, agriculture, crafts, service, and commerce.
   • Jainism, based on non-violence, truth, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession, is described as a "Sarvodaya-dharma" (religion for the welfare of all), inspiring modern leaders like Gandhi, Nehru, and Vinoba Bhave.

3. Acharya Kundakunda: A Preeminent Figure:

   • Kundakunda is presented as a great saint, scholar, and successor to the Tirthankara tradition. He is recognized as an early author in the Shraman tradition who wrote in the popular dialect of his time (Shauraseni Prakrit).
   • His writings are seen as a "sea of invaluable knowledge" that continues to provide inspiration and peace across ages.
   • He is credited with profound contributions to spirituality, ethics, philosophy, culture, and linguistics.

4. The Search for Kundakunda's Life and Times:

   • The book discusses the challenges in reconstructing the lives of ancient spiritual figures, including Kundakunda, due to their general aversion to public fame and lack of detailed personal accounts in their works.
   • It highlights the methods used by scholars to gather information: inscriptions, Pattacharyas, copper plates, references in literature, and inscriptions by commentators.
   • The efforts of scholars like Pt. Nathuram Premi, Pt. Jugal Kishore Mukhtar, Dr. K.V. Pathak, and European scholars in publishing Kundakunda's works and determining his era are mentioned.
   • The dating of Kundakunda remains a subject of debate among scholars, with estimates ranging from the 1st century BCE to the 3rd century CE, though some evidence points to him being a disciple of Bhadrabahu, which places him earlier.

5. Kundakunda's Names and Birthplace:

   • While Kundakunda is his most known name, the text mentions other names attributed to him, such as Padmanandi, Vakragriva, Elacharya, and Gridhpiccha, based on commentary by Shrutsagar Suri and inscriptions.
   • The prevailing scholarly opinion, supported by inscriptions, suggests he was from South India, with Koṇḍakundapura (also known as Kurumarai) in Andhra Pradesh being his birthplace. His father was Karmandu and mother was Shrimati.

6. Miraculous Accounts and Kundakunda's Powers:

   • The book touches upon traditional accounts of miracles associated with Kundakunda, such as achieving Charana-Riddhi (the power of walking in the air) and traveling to Purva-Videha to meet Simandhara Swami for clarification on Jain scriptures.
   • A significant incident mentioned is his supposed involvement in the debate at Girnar mountain, where he is said to have animated a stone idol to declare the Digambara tradition ancient. This incident is debated by scholars, with some suggesting a connection to a later Padmanandi.

7. Kundakunda's Literary Works:

   • Kundakunda's known literature is categorized into three types:
     • Uncontested and Published Works: Panchastikayasangraha, Pravachanasara, Samaysara (or Samayapahud), Niyamasara, Ashtapahuda, Dvadasanupreksha, and Dashabhaktyadi Sangraha.
     • Contested but Published Works: Ratnasara, Mulachara, and Kuralakavya.
     • Contested and Unpublished Works: The commentary named 'Parikarma' on the first three sections of the Shatkhandagama, which is currently unavailable.
   • Detailed Descriptions of Key Works:
     • Panchastikayasangraha: Written for disciples like Shivakumar Maharaja, it elucidates the primary knowledge of Jainism through 173 verses, covering the nature of substances and the pure soul.
     • Pravachanasara: A popular work in simple language, it explains the essence of Jinendra's teachings, focusing on pramana (means of knowledge) and prameya (knowable objects), divided into sections on knowledge, knowables, and conduct.
     • Samaysara (or Samayapahuda): Considered an extraordinary work, this is described as the "eternal eye of the world" and the essence of scriptures, providing a profound discourse on the nature of the soul. It is divided into ten chapters.
     • Niyamasara: This work outlines the conduct for householders (Sagar) and ascetics (Anagar) in 12 chapters.
     • Pahuda Literature (Ashtapahuda): Written in a simple, colloquial language for the common people, this literature serves as guidance and admonishment, addressing societal issues and conduct. It includes 8 'pahudas' (gifts or offerings) like Darshanapahuda, Sutrapahuda, etc.
     • Dvadasanupreksha (Twelve Reflections): This work focuses on cultivating detachment and contemplation of twelve principles (anitya, asharana, etc.).
     • Bhaktisangraha (Collection of Devotional Hymns): This work demonstrates devotion to the enlightened beings and is considered significant for its use of prose in Jain Shauraseni Prakrit, providing insights into the language's development.
     • Ratnasara: This book explains the various aspects of conduct for householders and ascetics in a simple and engaging manner.

8. Poetic Excellence and Linguistic Analysis of Kundakunda's Literature:

   • Kundakunda is lauded not only as a spiritual figure but also as a great linguist, litterateur, and authentic scholar of Indian culture.
   • His language is identified as Jain Shauraseni Prakrit, which has distinct characteristics compared to classical Shauraseni.
   • The book details linguistic features found in his works, such as the assimilation of consonants, elision, vowel changes, and the use of specific grammatical endings, drawing comparisons with Maharashtri Prakrit.
   • Literary Devices: The text explores the use of various literary devices in Kundakunda's works, including metaphors, similes, alliteration (anupras), personification (aprastutaprasamsa), and illustrative examples (udaharana). The examples provided are often novel and creatively used to explain philosophical concepts.
   • Mysticism and Cryptic Language: The book notes the presence of mystical undertones and occasionally cryptic verses (kuta-pada) in his writings.

9. Kundakunda's Contribution to National Emotional Unity and Integrity:

   • The authors highlight Kundakunda's role in fostering national unity through:
     • Use of Popular Dialect: His consistent use of Shauraseni Prakrit made his literature accessible to a broad audience, transcending regional linguistic barriers. This also influenced the development of later dialects like Braj Bhasha, making him a foundational figure for Hindi literature.
     • Promotion of Sarvodaya Culture: Kundakunda championed a culture of renunciation and self-discipline, emphasizing the importance of ethical conduct, compassion, and the principle of "Live and let live." He believed in the development of inner virtues through association with virtuous people and study of spiritual teachings.
     • Efforts for National Unity: By using a common dialect and promoting universalistic values, Kundakunda effectively unified diverse regions and communities, leaving a lasting impact on national identity.

10. Cultural Evaluation of Kundakunda's Literature:

    • The book delves into the cultural context of Kundakunda's writings, analyzing references to contemporary Indian geography and ancient Jain pilgrimage sites.
    • It notes the detailed geographical information provided in works like the Nirvana-Kanda, mapping out significant locations across India from the 1st century BCE.
    • Connections are drawn between Kundakunda and other cultural figures like Kalidasa, highlighting shared literary themes and the influence of historical events on their works.
    • References to political rulers and systems of the time (Samprati, Kharavel, Shungas, Shakas) are discussed, indicating Kundakunda's awareness of socio-political landscapes.
    • The text also provides insights into various aspects of contemporary life, including clothing styles, educational systems, prevalent philosophical schools, types of suffering, medical practices, exercises, food and beverages, industries, and forms of entertainment.
    • Kundakunda's literature is analyzed for its sources of narrative seeds and ethical injunctions, including regulations on theft, robbery, and punishment systems.

11. Kundakunda in the Light of Modern Physical Science:

    • This section is particularly significant as it draws parallels between Kundakunda's philosophical concepts and modern scientific discoveries.
    • Substance (Dravya) Theory: Kundakunda's classification of substances into Jiva (soul) and Ajiva (non-soul) is discussed. His descriptions of Jiva and Pudgala (matter and energy) are highlighted as being remarkably advanced, with some scholars suggesting parallels with concepts like the 'quark model' and atomic theory.
    • Jiva (Soul) and Modern Science: The book explores the Jain understanding of the soul as eternal, unchanging, and distinct from the body, drawing comparisons with scientific attempts to understand consciousness. The historical dialogue between King Pradeshi and Muni Keshi is recounted as a significant philosophical exchange on the nature of the soul and the afterlife.
    • Pudgala (Matter and Energy): The Jain concept of Pudgala, described as matter and energy, is analyzed in relation to modern physics, including theories of atomic fusion and fission, and the properties of elements like Uranium and Radium.
    • Dharma and Adharma Dravyas (Principles of Motion and Rest): The book discusses the Jain concepts of Dharma (medium of motion) and Adharma (medium of rest) and attempts to find parallels in modern scientific concepts like the 'Ether of space' and 'Field of Gravitation.'
    • Akasha Dravya (Space): The Jain understanding of space as infinite and all-pervading is discussed.
    • Kala Dravya (Time): The Jain perspective on time as a substance that facilitates change is presented, with comparisons to modern scientific understanding of time as a dimension.
    • Scientific Replicability: The authors express the opinion that while modern science explores the physical world, Jain philosophy offers insights into the subtler aspects of reality, suggesting that a study of Jain texts could be beneficial for scientific research.
    • Praise for Jain Scientists: The text acknowledges the contributions of modern Jain scientists who have attempted to bridge the gap between Jain philosophy and contemporary science.

12. Wisdom from Kundakunda's Teachings (Selected Verses):

    • The book includes insights from Kundakunda's verses, covering:
      • The importance of the Triple Gem (Ratnatraya - Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct) for spiritual liberation.
      • The principle of practicing dharma according to one's capacity.
      • The superiority of good character over external factors like caste, beauty, or age.
      • The transient nature of worldly possessions and relationships.
      • The definition of a true ascetic (shramana) as one who is equanimous in all situations.
      • The importance of donating to worthy recipients and the purity of intention.
      • The characteristic of an atom (paramanu) as indivisible and imperceptible to the senses.
      • The concept of the interdependence of substance and its qualities.
      • The principle that all transformation is in qualities and manifestations, not in the substance itself.
      • The nature of the soul as consciousness, distinct from the body.
      • The idea that attachment (raga) is the root cause of bondage.
      • The categorization of actions as causing bondage or liberation.
      • The importance of guru devotion.
      • Prohibitions for ascetics regarding livelihood through astrology, medicine, or performing rituals for gain.
      • The destructive nature of animalistic tendencies in humans.

Conclusion:

The book "Kundakundadeva Acharya" provides a comprehensive and insightful tribute to one of Jainism's most significant luminaries. It successfully presents Acharya Kundakunda as a timeless thinker whose philosophical, ethical, and linguistic contributions continue to resonate. The authors' diligent research and accessible presentation make the book valuable for scholars, students, and general readers interested in Jainism, Indian philosophy, and cultural history. It underscores the enduring relevance of Kundakunda's teachings for spiritual upliftment and the betterment of society.