Laghiyastrayadisangrah

This document is a comprehensive compilation of several important Jain texts, published by the Manikchand Digambar Jain Granthamala Samiti. The collection, titled "Laghiyastrayadisangrah" (Collection of Laghiyastraya and other works), aims to preserve and propagate ancient Jain literature, particularly in Sanskrit and Prakrit. This initiative is a tribute to the memory of the late Seth Manikchand Hirachandji J.P.

The collection includes the following key works:

1. Laghiyastrayam (लघीयस्त्रयम्) by Bhatta-Akalaṅka-Deva. This is the central text, and the volume includes its commentary, Tātparyavr̥tti (तात्पर्यवृत्ति), by Ananta-Kīrti.
2. Svarūpasambodhanaṁ (स्वरूपसम्बोधनम्) by Bhatta-Akalaṅka-Deva. This work focuses on self-realization and understanding the true nature of the soul.
3. Laghu Sarvajñasiddhiḥ (लघु सर्वज्ञसिद्धिः) and Br̥hat Sarvajñasiddhiḥ (बृहत् सर्वज्ञसिद्धिः), both authored by Ananta-Kīrti. These treatises are dedicated to establishing the existence and nature of omniscience (Sarvajñatva) according to Jain philosophy.

Key Highlights and Context:

• Inauguration and Purpose: The publication was initiated to honor the legacy of Seth Manikchand Hirachandji, a philanthropist and a strong advocate for Jain literature. The goal is to make rare and ancient Sanskrit and Prakrit texts accessible and promote them among scholars, students, and the general public.
• Editorial and Publishing Details: The book was meticulously revised by Pandit Kallappa Bharmappa Nitave. The publication was managed by the Manickchandra D. Jain Granth Mala Samiti in Bombay. The printing was carried out by Ratan Parkhi and Co. Art Press (cover) and Jainendra Press, Kolhapur, and Laxmi Narayan Press, Bombay. Nathuram Premi served as the Honorary Secretary.
• Financial Model: The texts are sold at the cost of publication, with the hope that widespread readership and donations will sustain the Granthamala. The organizers encourage patrons to purchase multiple copies for donation to Jain institutions, students, the needy, and scholars from all communities, thereby aiding in the revival of numerous endangered Jain manuscripts.
• Content Overview (Based on the provided text):
  • Introduction to Bhatta-Akalaṅka-Deva: The text begins with a biographical sketch of Bhatta-Akalaṅka-Deva, highlighting his significant contributions to Jain logic, his debates with other philosophical schools, and his role in revitalizing Jainism. It mentions his association with various rulers and academies, emphasizing his intellectual prowess. The text lists some of his other important works like Aṣṭaśatī, Rājavārtikālaṅkāraḥ, Nyāyavinischayaḥ, and Nyāyacūlikā.
  • Commentary by Abhaya-Candra-Sūri: The commentary on Laghiyastrayam by Abhaya-Candra-Sūri is discussed, noting its later composition compared to Ananta-Kīrti's Tātparyavr̥tti.
  • Ananta-Kīrti: The biographical information for Ananta-Kīrti is also provided, placing him before Vādirāja Sūri and mentioning his authorship of Jīvasiddhi.
  • Detailed Philosophical Arguments: The bulk of the text comprises detailed philosophical discussions and refutations of various heterodox philosophical systems (like Buddhism, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Samkhya, etc.) concerning the nature of reality, knowledge (Pramanas), logic (Nayas), and the proof of omniscience. The text delves into the nuances of perception (Pratyaksha), inference (Anumana), scripture (Agama), and other sources of valid knowledge. It rigorously defends the Jain perspective on anekāntavāda (non-absolutism) and the existence of omniscient beings.
  • Structure of Knowledge: The text explains the Jain classification of knowledge into Pratyaksha (direct perception) and Paroksha (indirect knowledge), further subdividing them into various categories based on their means and objects.
  • Arguments for Omniscience: The Sarvajñasiddhiḥ sections focus on establishing the logical necessity and possibility of omniscience within Jainism, often through elaborate syllogisms and the refutation of arguments against it. They discuss how an omniscient being would possess knowledge of all subtle, distant, and past/future phenomena, and how this knowledge is not contradictory to the nature of reality or the soul.

This compilation is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the depth and sophistication of Jain epistemology, logic, and metaphysics, as articulated by prominent Digambara Jain scholars.