Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir Ni Deshna Part 8 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir ni Deshna Part 8" by Trilokmuni, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir ni Deshna Part 8 (Translated roughly as "Sweet Sweet is Mahavir's Discourse, Part 8") Author: Trilokmuni Publisher: ZZZ Unknown (Jainaagam Navnit Prakashan Samiti, Surendranagar is mentioned later) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/004931/1

Overall Content:

This book is the eighth part of a series titled "Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir ni Deshna," which aims to present the teachings of Lord Mahavir in an accessible and pleasant manner. Part 8 is titled "Parishisht - Anubhav Ark" (Appendix - Essence of Experience) and primarily contains historical discussions, essays, and dialogues related to Jain Agamas and traditions. The book is edited and compiled by Agam Manishi Shri Trilokmuni Maharaj Sahib.

Key Themes and Sections:

The book is structured into several key sections, largely presented in a question-and-answer format, with "Jignesh" asking questions and "Gnanchand" (or other knowledgeable figures) providing answers. The core of the book delves into the history, authenticity, and interpretation of Jain scriptures and practices.

1. Historical Context and Agamas:

Compilation of Agamas: The book discusses the compilation of Jain Agamas, noting the presence of 32 or 45 Agamas in different traditions. It references the Nandi Sutra's list of 72 (or 59) Sutras, clarifying that some are derived from others.
Authorship and Time Periods: It delves into the authorship of various Agamas and commentary works (Niryukti, Bhashya, Churni, Teeka), tracing their development over centuries after Lord Mahavir's Nirvana. It highlights the gradual evolution of scriptural commentary.
Authenticity and Evolution: A significant theme is the discussion of the authenticity of various scriptures. The text critically examines Puranic accounts, historical narratives, and lineage traditions (Pattavalis), often questioning their historicity and grounding in the original Agamas. It suggests that many later texts might be influenced by other traditions or reflect later interpretations and additions.
Critique of Later Texts: The author is particularly critical of texts like Kalpa Sutra and Mahanishith Sutra, suggesting they contain later interpolations or are not entirely original. The concept of "Prakshipta" (interpolated) material is frequently raised.

2. Specific Scriptural Discussions and Debates:

Language and Style: The book addresses the differences in language and style found in different Agamas, arguing that this doesn't necessarily indicate different authors or time periods, but rather the adaptive style of the scriptures.
The 'Namosthunam' (ણમોત્થણં) Mantra: This section thoroughly analyzes the 'Namo-tthunam' mantra, particularly its presence in Rajprashniya Sutra. It concludes that the inclusion of names of Tirthankaras and specific descriptions of images in the context of eternal (Shashvat) statues is a "Prakshipta" (interpolation). The author argues that eternal statues cannot belong to individuals like Tirthankaras, and the mantra's context is often misinterpreted or added later.
Manuscript Errors and Interpolations: The text acknowledges that errors (Lipi dosha) and interpolations (Prakshipta) have crept into scriptures over time due to scribes or intentional additions by some ascetics for their own motives.
The Mahanishith Sutra: The book critically examines Mahanishith Sutra, labeling it as a "Prabandh" (a narrative or treatise) rather than an original Sutra due to its self-contradictory statements and internal criticisms.
The Concept of 'Pattavali': The book questions the authenticity and historical accuracy of Pattavalis (lineages of spiritual leaders), suggesting that their formation largely began in the 12th-13th centuries, not in earlier periods as often claimed.
Ancient Bhadrabahu and Later Bhadrabahu: A crucial distinction is made between the 14 Purvi (possessor of 14 Purvas) Bhadrabahu Swami, considered the author of the three Ched Sutras, and a later Bhadrabahu Swami (brother of Varahamihira), who authored Niryuktis and Bhadrabahu Samhita. This distinction is vital for understanding the dating of various Jain literature.
Temple and Idol Worship: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to refuting the practice of temple and idol worship. It argues that in the time of Lord Mahavir, idol worship was not prevalent. The text traces the introduction of these practices to later periods, influenced by other religions, and criticizes them as against the core principles of Jainism, particularly Ahimsa (non-violence), due to the inherent violence in their rituals. It highlights how later texts and interpretations have been manipulated to support these practices.
Mukhvastrika (Face Cloth): The book discusses the proper use of Mukhvastrika, emphasizing its placement over the mouth for protecting microscopic life, as per Agamas. It critiques the practice of holding it in hand or wearing it loosely, deeming it against the Agamic teachings and the very purpose of the Mukhvastrika.
Daya-Dan and Vegetarianism: The text touches upon the concept of compassion and its application, including the proper understanding of vegetarianism and the strict adherence to principles in food consumption.
Theera Panth and Stanakvasi Traditions: The book touches upon the origins and beliefs of different Jain sects like the Therapanth and Stanakvasi traditions, often contrasting them with what the author considers the more authentic Agamic practices.
Sthanakvasi Dharma: It explains the re-emergence of the pure Jain Dharma by Mahatma Lokashah after 2000 years following Lord Mahavir's Nirvana, emphasizing the principles of strict adherence to Agamas, non-violence, and opposition to idol worship and excessive rituals.
Sponsorship and Editorial Information: The book is published by Jainaagam Navnit Prakashan Samiti, Surendranagar. It thanks various donors and supporters. The principal editor is Shri Trilokmuniji M. Sa. The Gujarati translation is by Ishita Ravindra Kumar Shah.

Key Arguments and Critiques:

Rejection of Later Traditions: The author, guided by Agam Manishi Shri Trilokmuniji, strongly advocates for adhering to the original Agamic teachings and critically examines later traditions and interpretations that deviate from them.
Emphasis on Original Agamas: The book stresses the primacy of the original Agamas and suggests that many later texts, interpretations, and practices are either influenced by other religions or are later developments that have diluted the core principles of Jainism.
Critique of Idol Worship and Temples: The text presents a detailed argument against idol worship and temple construction, citing Agamic verses and historical analysis to support the view that these practices are contrary to the teachings of the Tirthankaras.
Importance of Viveka (Discernment): A recurring theme is the importance of "Viveka" (discretion, wisdom) in interpreting scriptures and practices, encouraging readers to analyze information critically rather than blindly following traditions.
Historical Accuracy: The book critically analyzes historical claims, especially regarding the timelines of various Acharyas, the formation of scriptures, and the emergence of different sects. It highlights inconsistencies and potential interpolations in later historical accounts.

Overall Tone:

The book adopts a scholarly and critical tone, aiming to clarify the historical and scriptural aspects of Jainism based on rigorous analysis of the Agamas. While respectful of the tradition, it does not shy away from pointing out deviations and potential inaccuracies in later practices and interpretations. The author's aim is to guide the reader towards a purer understanding of the teachings of Lord Mahavir.

In essence, "Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir ni Deshna Part 8" serves as an appendix and experience-based commentary on Jain scriptures and history. It offers a deep dive into the nuances of Jain texts, addressing controversial topics like idol worship, the authenticity of scriptures, and sectarian differences, all through the lens of rigorous Agamic analysis and historical scrutiny.