Laghu Kshetra Samsas Granth - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Laghu Kshetra Samsas Granth" by Charitrashreeji, based on the provided text:

Book Title: Laghu Kshetra Samsas Granth ( श्री लघु क्षेत्र समास ग्रन्थ ) Author: Charitrashreeji ( સા. ચારિત્રશ્રીજી ) Publisher: Kumudchandra Jesingbhai Vora ( કુમુદચંદ્ર જેસિંગભાઈ વોરા )

Overall Purpose and Content:

The "Laghu Kshetra Samsas Granth" is a Jain text that provides a detailed geographical and cosmological description of the Jain universe, often referred to as "Jain Geography." It is based on the original work by Acharya Ratneshekhar Suri ( શ્રીમદ્ રત્નશેખરસૂરિ ). This specific edition is a revised and expanded version, aiming to make the complex subject matter accessible to a wider audience through Gujarati translations, explanations, illustrations, and detailed commentaries.

Key Aspects and Themes:

Jain Cosmology and Geography: The book elaborates on the structure of the Jain universe, including the various continents (dvipa) and oceans (samudra) within the different lokas (realms). It details the measurements, dimensions, and characteristics of these geographical entities.
Detailed Descriptions: The text delves into specific geographical features such as:
- Dwipas and Samudras: The book enumerates and describes the numerous dwipas (continents) and samudras (oceans) in the universe, starting with Jambudvipa and moving outwards. It explains their cyclical nature and measurements.
- Mountains: It describes the Meru mountain, the various Kulgiri mountains (like Himavant, Shikhari, etc.), and other mountain ranges like Gajadanta and Rishabhakuta, providing their dimensions and locations.
- Rivers and Lakes: The text details major rivers like Ganga and Sindhu, as well as significant lakes like Padmadraha and its surrounding lotuses, including their source, flow, and mythological associations with deities.
- Cities and Habitats: It describes the cities and habitats of deities and beings residing in different realms and geographical locations.
- Celestial Bodies: The book touches upon the movements and characteristics of the sun and moon, and the concept of mandalas (orbits).
- Special Features: It discusses unique features like the eternal Jina temples (Shashvat Jinabhavana), the concept of Meru mountain's tiers, and the mythical Patalakalashas (underworld pots).
Mathematical and Astronomical Calculations: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the mathematical and astronomical aspects of Jain cosmology. It involves intricate calculations of distances, dimensions, areas, and volumes, presented in a way that is intended to be understandable through the provided diagrams and explanations.
Illustrations and Diagrams: The text is noted for its inclusion of colorful illustrations and diagrams (Yantras and charts) to explain complex concepts, making the subject more visual and easier to grasp for the reader. These are meticulously listed in the "List of Diagrams and Tables" within the book.
Commentary and Explanation: The book includes detailed commentaries (Vistararth), word meanings (Shabdarth), and specific annotations to clarify the original verses (Mulagatha) by Ratneshekhar Suri. This is crucial for understanding the sophisticated terminology and concepts.
Dedication and Gratitude: The book is dedicated to the author's revered guru, Sw. Sa. Shri Champakshriji ( સ્વ. સા. શ્રી ચંપકશ્રીજી મ.), highlighting the lineage of spiritual teachers and the author's deep respect and gratitude towards them. The preface also expresses profound thanks to the inspirations and supporters of the publication.
Comparison with Modern Science: The text also engages in a subtle or implicit comparison between Jain cosmology and modern scientific understandings of the universe, particularly concerning the shape of the Earth and celestial movements. It highlights the importance of faith in the scriptures when scientific proofs are not readily available or understood by ordinary minds.
Structure and Scope: The "Laghu Kshetra Samsas Granth" is organized into six main sections (Adhikars): Jambudvipa, Lavana Samudra, Dhatakikhanda, Kalodadhi Samudra, Pushkaradvipa, and Avashishta Prakirna (Miscellaneous). The content covers a vast array of geographical and cosmological details.

Significance:

This work is considered significant for its systematic compilation and explanation of Jain geography, a complex but essential aspect of Jain philosophy. It serves as a valuable resource for students and scholars of Jainism seeking to understand the intricate structure of the Jain universe as described in ancient scriptures. The effort to make this knowledge accessible through Gujarati translation and detailed commentary by Charitrashreeji, under the guidance of revered Acharyas, is also a notable aspect of this edition.

In essence, the "Laghu Kshetra Samsas Granth" is a comprehensive Jain treatise on cosmology and geography, meticulously detailing the structure, dimensions, and inhabitants of the Jain universe, enriched with commentaries, illustrations, and historical context.