Lati Samhita

This comprehensive summary is based on the provided Jain text, "Lati Samhita" by Rajmall, published by Manikchandra Digambar Jain Granthmala Samiti. The summary draws from the introductory and explanatory sections, particularly the article about the author and the comparative analysis with the "Panchadhyayi."

Book Title: Lati Samhita Author: Rajmall Publisher: Manikchandra Digambar Jain Granthmala Samiti

Overview:

The Lati Samhita is a significant Jain text focusing on the principles of Śrāvakācāra (the conduct of lay followers). This particular edition is the 26th publication of the Manikchandra Digambar Jain Granthmala Samiti, edited and revised by Pandit Darbarilal Nyayatirtha. The book was published in Kartik, VS 2454 / VN 2454.

Author and Attribution:

The text is authored by Rajmall. A key point discussed in the introductory material is the likely authorship of both the Lati Samhita and the "Panchadhyayi," a renowned Jain philosophical work. Through comparative analysis, the editor/author of the introductory article strongly argues that both texts were written by the same learned scholar, Rajmall. This conclusion is supported by:

• Similar Writing Style and Content: Both works exhibit a consistent argumentative style (ūhapoha), similar vocabulary (use of words like kiñci, nanu, atha, etc.), and a comparable literary and philosophical approach.
• Shared Verses: A significant number of verses are found in both the Lati Samhita and the Panchadhyayi, indicating a common source or a single author.
• Author's Self-Identification: The Lati Samhita and Panchadhyayi both feature the author referring to himself as "Kavi" (poet/scholar). The Lati Samhita explicitly mentions "Kavirajmall."
• Chronological Considerations: The Panchadhyayi is dated to after the 12th century VS, while Rajmall is established as a scholar who lived later. The analysis points out that the Panchadhyayi quotes from Vasunandi's Śrāvakācāra, further pushing its date after the 12th century VS, making it contemporary with or later than Rajmall. The direct quoting of Amritchandracharya's work in the Panchadhyayi also suggests it's not by Amritchandracharya himself but possibly by a later scholar referencing him.

Rajmall's Life and Work:

• Talented Scholar: Rajmall is described as a highly talented and learned scholar.
• "Adhyatmakamalamartanda" and "Lati Samhita": Besides the Lati Samhita, he is credited with another work called "Adhyatmakamalamartanda."
• Completion of Lati Samhita: The Lati Samhita was completed by Rajmall in VS 1641, on the Ashwin Shukla Dashami (Sunday).
• Place of Composition: The Lati Samhita was composed while Rajmall was residing in the Jinalaya (temple) of the city of Vairat. The text describes Vairat (also known as Virat or Matsya-desh) as a prosperous city during the reign of Emperor Akbar, with a rich cultural and economic life, including copper mines and a vibrant Jain community.
• Patronage: The Lati Samhita was commissioned by Shahu Faman, a wealthy and scholarly individual from the Agravana lineage. The text provides details about Faman's family and his spiritual lineage, which followed the Kāṣṭhāsaṅgha tradition. Rajmall's association with this lineage and the scholar Talhu is also mentioned.
• Unfinished Panchadhyayi: The Panchadhyayi, although a significant work, is noted to be incomplete. The author speculates that Rajmall might have died before finishing it, which is why it lacks a clear division into chapters or a complete authorial name.

Key Content of Lati Samhita (as indicated by chapter titles and summary points):

The summary highlights the following:

• Śrāvakācāra: The primary focus is on the conduct of lay Jains.
• Chapters Covered: The provided text details the content of several chapters, including:
  • Kathamukh Varnanam (Chapter 1): Describes the city of Vairat and its prosperity, the reign of Emperor Akbar, the Kāṣṭhāsaṅgha lineage, and the patrons of the work.
  • Mulagunāṣṭaka Pratipāla Saptavyasananirodha Varnanam (Chapter 2): Focuses on the eight cardinal virtues (mūlaguṇas) and the prohibition of seven deadly vices (saptavyasanas). This section extensively details dietary restrictions, ethical conduct, and the avoidance of harmful practices.
  • Samyakdarśana Sāmānyalakṣaṇa Varnanam (Chapter 3): Discusses the characteristics of Right Faith (Samyakdarśana).
  • Samyakdarśana Varnanam (Chapter 4): Continues the discussion on Right Faith, elaborating on its virtues like niḥśaṅkitā (fearlessness), nirvicikitsā (non-derision), etc.
  • Prathamaṇuvrata Varnanam (Chapter 5): Explains the first vow (aṇuvrata), likely Ahimsa (non-violence), detailing its nuances and protections.
  • Aṇuvrata Catūṣka Śīlasaptaka Varnanam (Chapter 6): Covers the four vows (aṇuvratas) and the seven vows of conduct (śīlas).
  • Sāmāyikādi Pratima Varnanam (Chapter 7): Discusses various stages of lay practice, including the Sāmāyika (meditation) and other progressive stages of observance.
  • Author's Praise and Genealogy (Granthakartuḥ Praśasti): This section provides a detailed genealogy of the patrons and supporters of the work, concluding with blessings and affirmations of the book's enduring value.

Significance:

The Lati Samhita, as presented and analyzed, is a valuable resource for understanding Jain lay conduct and philosophy. The editor's comprehensive analysis, connecting it with the Panchadhyayi and highlighting Rajmall's scholarship, adds significant weight to its importance in Jain literature. The detailed exploration of virtues, vows, and ethical guidelines provides practical instruction for followers.