Nammala

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Book Title: Nammala (नाममाला) Author: Dhananjay Mahakavi (महाकवि धनञ्जय) Commentary Author: Amarkirti (अमरकीर्ति) Publisher: Bharatiya Gyanpith (भारतीय ज्ञानपीठ) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/090291/1

Overall Summary:

The book "Nammala" is a significant Jain text compiled by Mahakavi Dhananjay, a renowned lexicographer. It is presented with a valuable commentary by Amarkirti, a learned scholar. The work is further enriched by the editorial efforts of Pandit Shambhunath Tripathi. The Bharatiya Gyanpith published this work as part of its commendable initiative to preserve and promote ancient Indian literature, particularly from the Jain tradition.

The "Nammala" primarily consists of two parts:

1. Nammala (नाममाला): This section is a thesaurus or synonym dictionary of Sanskrit words, arranged in a poetic format. Dhananjay Mahakavi has creatively structured it by using root words and adding suffixes or prefixes to generate related terms, covering a wide range of vocabulary related to states, rulers, trees, and various other categories. It contains approximately 200 verses.
2. Anekarth Nighantu (अनेकार्थनिघण्टु): This section is a collection of words that have multiple meanings. It serves as a glossary for polysemous words, aiding in a deeper understanding of the nuances of Sanskrit.

A notable feature of this particular publication is the inclusion of Amarkirti's commentary on the "Nammala." Amarkirti meticulously explains the etymology (vyutpatti) of each word, citing various authoritative Sanskrit texts and authors to support his derivations. His commentary is recognized for its depth, accuracy, and at times, even surpasses the original explanations of earlier commentators. The editor, Pandit Shambhunath Tripathi, is highly praised for his diligent and scholarly work in compiling and presenting the entire volume, including detailed indices and annotations.

The preface highlights the philosophical underpinnings of understanding language and its significance in spiritual pursuit, emphasizing the need for precise knowledge of word meanings. It also touches upon the historical context of language development in India, the influence of Sanskrit, and the role of Jain and Buddhist scholars in its preservation and enrichment.

Key Features and Content:

• Thematic Arrangement: The "Nammala" is organized thematically, covering extensive vocabulary related to:
  • Nouns for Earth and related concepts.
  • Synonyms for mountains, kings, monkeys (derived from tree names).
  • Names of kings, trees, and various other entities.
  • Words with multiple meanings (Anekarth Nighantu).
  • The names of various natural elements like water, clouds, lightning.
  • Flora and fauna (trees, animals, birds).
  • Geographical terms (forests, rivers, oceans).
  • Human beings and their relationships (men, women, family members, servants).
  • Abstract concepts like love, anger, knowledge.
  • Attributes and actions.
  • Specific deities and celestial beings.
• Creative Etymology: Dhananjay Mahakavi's ingenuity lies in his method of creating synonyms by combining base words with affixes, making the text both informative and engaging.
• Amarkirti's Scholarly Commentary: Amarkirti's commentary is a significant contribution, providing grammatical explanations, etymological roots, and cross-references to a vast array of Sanskrit literature, including the Mahapurana, Yashastilak Champukavya, Mahabharata, and works by authors like Amarsimha, Ashadhar, and Hemachandra.
• Editorial Excellence: Pandit Shambhunath Tripathi's editorial work is highly lauded for its meticulousness, accuracy, and the inclusion of valuable appendices and footnotes.
• Historical and Linguistic Context: The preface and introduction discuss the importance of lexicography in understanding ancient Indian culture and the evolution of languages like Sanskrit and Prakrit, acknowledging the contributions of Jain and Buddhist traditions.
• Comprehensive Indices: The book features extensive indices, including word lists for the main texts and the commentary, lists of quoted works, and authors.

Significance:

The "Nammala" with Amarkirti's commentary is a valuable resource for scholars, students of Sanskrit, and anyone interested in Jain literature and Indian lexicography. It offers a rich vocabulary, insights into word formation, and a detailed exploration of the meanings and derivations of Sanskrit terms, making it a cornerstone for linguistic and cultural studies. The publication by Bharatiya Gyanpith ensures its accessibility and preservation for future generations.