Logassasutra Swadhyay - Book Summary

Certainly! Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Logassasutra Swadhyay" by Amrutlal Kalidas Doshi, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Logassasutra Swadhyay (also known as Chaturvishati Jina Stava Sutra) Author: Amrutlal Kalidas Doshi Publisher: Shrutratnakar, Ahmedabad Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/001996/1

Overview:

"Logassasutra Swadhyay" is an extensive treatise on the Logassa Sutra, a fundamental and revered scripture in Jainism. The book aims to provide a comprehensive exploration of this important text, drawing from ancient Jain scriptures and commentaries. It is presented as a devotional and scholarly work intended for the study and practice of Jain principles.

Key Contents and Themes:

The book is structured to cover various aspects of the Logassa Sutra, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and practitioners. Its key components and themes include:

The Logassa Sutra Itself: The book presents the original text of the Logassa Sutra, including its Sanskrit transliteration (Sanskrita Chhaya).
Comprehensive Commentary and Explanation: It offers a detailed commentary (Vivarana) on each verse and word of the sutra, explaining its meaning and significance based on ancient Jain texts.
Question and Answer Section: A section dedicated to questions and answers (Prashnottari) addresses common queries and deeper inquiries related to the sutra's teachings, providing scripturally accurate responses.
Compilation of Meanings (Artha Sankalana): The book synthesizes the collective understanding and interpretation of the sutra's meaning by various scholars.
Annotations (Tippan): Explanatory notes and annotations are provided to clarify difficult terms, concepts, and references.
Miscellaneous Information (Prakirnak): This section includes a wealth of supplementary information, such as:
- Synonyms for the Logassa Sutra: Different names and appellations of the sutra are listed with their origins.
- Usage in Rituals: Details on when and how the sutra is recited or remembered during various Jain rituals like Sāmāyika, Pratikramaṇa, Kāyotsarga, Devavandana, and Paushadha.
- Structural Analysis: Information on the composition of the sutra, including its verses (padas), syllables (aksharas), and overall structure.
- Comparative Study: A comparison of the sutra with similar devotional hymns and texts.
- Transliterations and Translations: Mention of translations in various languages.
- Literary Context: Information about the sutra's place within the broader Jain scriptural tradition.
Ascetic Practices and Observances (Tapa Upadhana): The book provides essential information regarding the Upadhana (a specific ritualistic practice) for initiating the study and recitation of the Logassa Sutra, including the necessary rituals and procedures.
Structure and Meter (Deh Rachana): A detailed analysis of the sutra's poetic structure, including the meters (chandas) used, the arrangement of verses, and the rhythmic recitation patterns.
Yantras and Hymns: It includes Panchashashthi Yantra-associated hymns (Chaturvimsati Jina Stotras) and diagrams (Yantras). This section explores the intricate geometric and mystical diagrams that are often used in Jain devotional practices and are linked to the praise of the twenty-four Tirthankaras. It explains the composition of these yantras and their potential benefits.
Appendices (Parishishta): The appendices offer further valuable information, including:
- A table listing the twenty-four Tirthankaras with details about their parents, birthplaces, symbols (Lanchana), physique, complexion, and lifespan.
- A comparative study of how different Jain sects (e.g., Shvetambara and Digambara) interpret or use the Logassa Sutra.
- The Logassa Kalpa, a ritualistic guide related to the sutra.
- A Phalaphal Vishayak Prashnapatra (a kind of fortune-telling or astrological questionnaire), which offers insights into potential outcomes based on specific practices or inquiries.

Significance of the Logassa Sutra:

The book emphasizes the profound importance of the Logassa Sutra, describing it as:

The Second Obligatory Practice (Aavashyak): It is considered the second of the six essential daily practices (Aavashyaka) in Jainism, following Samayika.
Essence of Darshana Vishuddhi: The sutra is believed to purify one's right faith (Samyak Darshana), which is the cornerstone of Jain spiritual progress. It is stated that by reciting the Chaturvimsati Stava (the Logassa Sutra), one attains purification of faith.
A Path to Spiritual Upliftment: The sutra is not just a devotional hymn but a profound teaching that, when understood with scriptural knowledge, contemplation, and devotion, leads to spiritual purification and liberation.
The Centrality of Samayika: The book highlights that the six Aavashyakas are all ultimately aimed at establishing Samayika—equanimity and a state of spiritual equilibrium. The Logassa Sutra, by praising the Tirthankaras who preach Samayika, is seen as a vital tool in this process.
The Importance of Namaskar and Stuti: The text delves into the significance of reciting the names of the Tirthankaras and praising their virtues, explaining how this practice purifies the mind, attracts auspiciousness, and ultimately leads to spiritual attainment.
Naya and Niskhepa Analysis: The book provides detailed explanations using Jain philosophical concepts like Naya (perspective) and Niskhepa (classification) to understand the multifaceted nature of the Tirthankaras and their names (Nam Niskhepa, Sthapana Niskhepa, Dravya Niskhepa, and Bhava Niskhepa).

Methodology and Scholarship:

Amrutlal Kalidas Doshi, in collaboration with the researchers Acharya Shri Vijayvikramsurishwarji and Munishri Tattvanandvijayji, has meticulously compiled and analyzed a vast amount of Jain literature. The book relies on numerous ancient texts and commentaries, indicating a thorough research process. The publication is also noted for its careful attention to detail, aiming to present an accurate and pure rendition of the sutra and its associated lore. The inclusion of illustrations and comprehensive indices further enhances its scholarly value.

Target Audience:

This book is intended for all those interested in understanding and practicing Jainism, particularly the devotional and scriptural aspects related to the Logassa Sutra. It serves as a guide for spiritual seekers (sadhakas) aiming for self-realization and liberation.

In essence, "Logassasutra Swadhyay" is a monumental work that aims to illuminate the depth, beauty, and spiritual efficacy of the Logassa Sutra, presenting it as an indispensable part of the Jain path to salvation.