Lokprakash Part 02 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of "Lokprakash Part 02" (क्षेत्रलोक, पूर्वार्द्ध) by Acharya Shri Vijay Padmachandrasuri, based on the provided text:

Book Title: Lokprakash Part 02 (क्षेत्रलोक, पूर्वार्द्ध) Author: Mahopadhyaya Shri Vinayvijay Ganivarya (Original Text) / Acharya Shri Vijay Padmachandrasuri (Hindi Translator) Publisher: Shri Nirgranth Sahitya Prakashan Sangh

This volume of Lokprakash, "Kshetra Lok (Purvardha)," covers chapters 12 to 20 of the original work. It is a profound Jain text that delves into the intricate details of the Jain cosmological universe, focusing specifically on the geographical and spatial aspects of the Kshetra Lok (Realm of Space).

Key Concepts and Content Summary:

The text meticulously describes the structure and dimensions of the universe (Lok) according to Jain cosmology. It breaks down the Lok into distinct realms and provides precise measurements and descriptions. The summary can be understood through the following points, corresponding to the progression of the chapters:

I. Overall Structure of the Universe (Lok)

Dimensions: The text begins by describing the Lok as having a specific, eternal, and self-existent form, without any external support. It is compared to a man standing with feet apart, or to stacked bowls.
Realms (Lokas): The Lok is divided into three main parts:
- Adho Lok (Lower World): Primarily the seven Naraka Bhumiyana (hellish realms).
- Madhya Lok (Middle World): The realm of humans, islands, oceans, and mountains, including Jambu Dwipa and other continents.
- Urdhva Lok (Upper World): The celestial realms, including various Vimanayanas (celestial abodes) up to the Siddhashila.
Measurements (Raju): The concept of a 'Raju' is introduced, which is a fundamental unit of measurement in Jain cosmology. The text elaborates on how the Lok is measured in terms of Rajus, describing the extension of these measurements through different realms.
Trasa Nadi: The concept of 'Trasa Nadi' is explained, which is a vital celestial artery or pathway that spans the entire Lok and is the abode of mobile beings (Trasa Jivas). Its dimensions are given in terms of 'Khandukas' (a smaller unit of measurement).

II. Detailed Description of the Middle World (Madhya Lok)

Jambu Dwipa: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the description of Jambu Dwipa, the central continent of the Madhya Lok.
- Dimensions and Shape: Its immense size is described, along with its circular shape and the measurements of its circumference.
- Jagati: The text details the 'Jagati,' a massive fortification or rampart made of jewels that encircles Jambu Dwipa.
- Gardens and Palaces: The beautiful gardens, lotuses, and opulent palaces of the deities residing there are described, along with their symbolic representations.
- Sacred Sites: The location of the Meeru mountain, the abode of Anadhrut Dev, and other significant places like the Siddh-Ayatan (places of liberated souls) and the sacred sites related to the birth of Tirthankaras are mentioned.
Divisions of Jambu Dwipa: The text explains how Jambu Dwipa is divided by rivers and mountains.
- Rivers: Ganga, Sindhu, Krishna, Rokita, Sheeta, Sheatoda, and their tributaries are described.
- Mountains: The description includes mountains like Kuru, Mander, Gandhamadan, Malyaavan, Nilwan, Rishabhgiri, and the central Mount Meru, along with their dimensions and formations.
- Vedas: The concept of 'Vedas' is introduced, which are the four divisions of the Middle World that are divided by rivers and mountains. These are described as having different widths and heights.
- Cities and Deities: The text mentions the cities of the deities like Vijayadev, and the residences of celestial beings.
Detailed Descriptions of Regions:
- Bharat Ksheta: The southern part of Jambu Dwipa is described in detail, including its geographical features, cities, rivers, and the lineage of Tirthankaras, Chakravartis, and Vasudevas born there.
- Airavat Ksheta: The northern part of Jambu Dwipa is described, mirroring Bharat Kshetra in many aspects.
- Mahavideh Ksheta: This central realm is described as being divided into multiple Vijayas (regions) by rivers and mountains. The text mentions the birth of Tirthankaras, Chakravartis, and Vasudevas in these regions, and the presence of celestial beings.
- Dev Kuru and Uttar Kuru: These are described as the northern realms, known for their pleasant climate, abundant resources, and the peaceful existence of their inhabitants.

III. Other Realms and Celestial Bodies

Naraka Bhumiyana (Hellish Realms): The text describes the seven Naraka Bhumiyana, detailing their structure, dimensions, the types of beings residing there (naraka jivas), and the intense sufferings they endure due to their karma. It mentions the specific features of each Naraka, including the hellish lords (Naraka-indra), their palaces, and the nature of their suffering.
Vyantara Devas: The text describes the Vyantara Devas, who reside in the lower part of the Madhya Lok. It details their various species (Asura, Naga Kumar, Suvarna Kumar, etc.), their kings (Indras), their palaces, their lifespans, and their characteristics. Their celestial abodes and their interactions with the Jambu Dwipa are also touched upon.
Jyotishka Devas: The text also provides information about the celestial bodies, including the Sun and Moon, their respective Mandalas (spheres or orbits), their movements, and their inter-distances. The concept of eclipses and the influences of planets and stars are also briefly alluded to.

IV. Author and Translator:

The original text is attributed to Mahopadhyaya Shri Vinayvijay Ganivarya, a renowned Jain scholar. The Hindi translation is by Acharya Bhagwant Shrimad Vijay Padmachandrasuri, who is part of a revered spiritual lineage tracing back to Acharya Shrimad Vijay Vallabh Suri. The dedication of the book to his spiritual mentors highlights the respect and reverence within the Jain tradition.

V. Philosophical and Scientific Aspects:

Jain Cosmology: The text is a foundational text for understanding Jain cosmology, which is based on detailed mathematical and spatial calculations, emphasizing the vastness and complexity of the universe.
Karma and Rebirth: The descriptions of the Naraka realms implicitly link the beings' suffering to their past karma, a core Jain principle. The text also hints at the transmigration of souls.
Mathematical Precision: The text is notable for its attempt at precise (albeit immense) mathematical descriptions of the universe's dimensions, which reflects a sophisticated understanding of mathematics within ancient Jain literature.

In essence, Lokprakash Part 02 provides a detailed astronomical and geographical map of the Jain universe, with a particular focus on the spatial organization of the Middle World and the subterranean hellish realms. It is a testament to the comprehensive and meticulous nature of Jain philosophical and scientific thought.