Navtattvasangraha Tatha Updeshbavni - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Navtattvasangraha tatha Updeshbavni" in English, based on the provided information:

Book Title: Navtattvasangraha tatha Updeshbavni Author: Acharya 1008 Shrimadvijayanandsurishwar (Shrimat Atmaramji Maharaj) Editor/Compiler: Prof. Hiralal Rasikdas Kapadia, M.A. Publisher: Hiralal R. Kapadia First Edition: V.S. 1988 / Vira Samvat 2458 / C.E. 1931 Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/003176/1

Overall Summary:

"Navtattvasangraha tatha Updeshbavni" is a collection of two significant Jain works compiled and edited by Prof. Hiralal Rasikdas Kapadia, with the primary text, "Navtattvasangraha," authored by the renowned Jain Acharya 1008 Shrimadvijayanandsurishwar (also known as Shrimad Atmaramji Maharaj). The book also includes "Updeshbavni." This work serves as a foundational text for understanding core Jain principles, particularly the "Nine Truths" (Navatattvas) and moral guidance.

The preface highlights the significant contribution of Acharya Shrimadvijayanand Surishwar to the Jain faith, noting his role as a prolific author and founder of numerous Jain institutions. It also acknowledges the efforts of the editor, Prof. Kapadia, in bringing this valuable scripture to light, including the challenges faced due to unforeseen circumstances that led to the delay in publication. The preface also details the source manuscript, which is approximately 74 pages and believed to be handwritten by the author himself, noting the use of yellow pigment and some corrections made by the author.

The book is structured into two main parts:

Navtattvasangraha (The Collection of Nine Truths):
- This section delves into the essence of the nine fundamental tattvas (truths) of Jainism, which are crucial for understanding the path to liberation.
- The text meticulously explains the nature of each tattva:
  1. Jiva (Soul): This is a detailed exploration of the soul, its various classifications (based on senses, species, birth, abode, and consciousness), and the diverse forms of life found in the universe according to Jain cosmology. It includes extensive lists of creatures and beings, often drawing from ancient Jain scriptures like the Pannavanna Sutra. The text meticulously details the types of hellish beings, various categories of earth-bodied, water-bodied, fire-bodied, air-bodied, and plant-bodied souls, as well as the different types of two-sensed, three-sensed, four-sensed, and five-sensed beings. It further elaborates on the classifications of humans, celestial beings (Bhavanapati, Vyantar, Jyotishi, Vaimanika), and the intricate details of their existence, lifespans, and classifications. The text also delves into complex numerical calculations and classifications related to the number of beings in various realms, often referencing concepts like 'Dandak' (a classification system related to suffering and existence).
  2. Ajiva (Non-soul): This section covers the non-living entities in Jain cosmology, including Pudgala (matter), Dharma (medium of motion), Adharma (medium of rest), Akasha (space), and Kala (time). The book elaborates on their nature, characteristics, and interactions. The text presents intricate diagrams and classifications related to the structure of the universe, the nature of space, time, and the subtle interactions between different types of matter.
  3. Punya (Merit): This covers actions and states that lead to positive karmic results, contributing to happiness and favorable rebirths. The text describes the various ways merit is accumulated and experienced.
  4. Papa (Demerit): This section details actions and states that lead to negative karmic results, causing suffering and unfavorable rebirths. It elaborates on the concept of demerit and its consequences.
  5. Asrava (Influx of Karma): This explains the channels through which karmic particles attach to the soul, driven by passions, senses, and actions. The text delves into the specific influxes related to different types of karma.
  6. Samvara (Stoppage of Karma): This focuses on the practices and principles that prevent the influx of new karma, such as ethical conduct, self-control, and detachment. The book details the various types of samvara, including the vows (vratas) and their classifications, as well as the practices of the five samitis (carefulness) and three guptis (restraints).
  7. Nirjara (Shedding of Karma): This explains the process of shedding accumulated karma through austerities, penances, and spiritual practices, leading to purification of the soul. The text outlines various types of austerities and their efficacy in eliminating karma. It provides a detailed explanation of the twelve types of nirjara, both external (bahya) and internal (abhyantara), and the significance of austerities like fasting, reduced intake, begging, renunciation of taste, physical hardship, and meditation. The text also categorizes various forms of meditation (dhyana) and their impact on spiritual progress.
  8. Bandha (Bondage): This section discusses the causes and mechanisms of karmic bondage, explaining how karma binds the soul. It elaborates on the concept of Bandha, including the different types of karma, their duration, intensity, and the specific causes that lead to their bondage. The text presents complex tables and analyses of how various karmic particles attach to the soul based on conduct, passions, senses, vows, and other factors. It delves into the intricate details of the influx and outflow of karma and their impact on the soul's journey.
  9. Moksha (Liberation): This ultimate goal of Jainism is explained, describing the state of liberation from karma and the cycle of birth and death, leading to the soul's inherent purity and omniscience. The text details the path to Moksha, emphasizing the role of right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct, and the ultimate cessation of all karmic bondage. It describes the characteristics of liberated souls (Siddhas) and their eternal state of bliss.
- Key Features of Navtattvasangraha:
  - Scholarly Compilation: The text emphasizes the compilation of scriptural verses from various Agamas, such as the Bhagavati Sutra.
  - Yantras (Diagrams): It includes numerous yantras (diagrams) that visually represent complex concepts and classifications, enhancing the text's clarity and depth. These diagrams cover a vast range of topics, including the structure of the universe, the types of souls, karmic processes, celestial abodes, and the subtle workings of karma. The book contains intricate charts illustrating the permutations and combinations of karmic bondage, species, time, and psychological states, often expressed through numerical data.
  - Multilingualism: While primarily in Hindi, the text incorporates Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Gujarati terms, and even some Punjabi words, reflecting the linguistic richness of Jain tradition.
  - Detailed Analysis: The book provides exhaustive detail on numerous Jain concepts, including the subtle aspects of karma, the nature of senses, the lifespans of various beings, and the specific conditions that lead to bondage and liberation.
Updeshbavni (A Treasury of Precepts/Teachings):
- This part offers moral and ethical guidance, likely in a poetic or aphoristic style, to help followers live a virtuous life aligned with Jain principles.
- The preface mentions that its inclusion was at the suggestion of Acharya Shri Vijayvallabh Suri, indicating its value as a complementary text for spiritual instruction.

Life of Acharya Shrimadvijayanand Surishwar:

The book includes a detailed biography of Acharya Shrimadvijayanand Surishwar, highlighting his extraordinary life and contributions:

Birth and Early Life: Born in V.S. 1823 in Punjab, he showed remarkable intellectual prowess from a young age.
Spiritual Journey: He initially followed the Dhundhak (Sthanakvasi) sect, taking initiation at the age of 17. However, through his extensive study and contemplation, he realized the truth of the Shvetambar Jain Dharma and renounced his previous affiliations.
Intellectual Prowess: He was known for his ability to memorize thousands of verses daily, mastering various philosophical and grammatical texts.
Dissemination of Jainism: Acharya Shrimadvijayanand Surishwar traveled extensively throughout Punjab and other parts of India, engaging in debates, propagating Jain principles, and guiding countless individuals toward the righteous path.
Acquisition of Acharya Title: In V.S. 1943, at Siddhachala (Palitana), he was bestowed the honorific title of 'Acharya' and named Shrivijayanand Suri by the Jain Sangh, recognizing his profound scholarship and spiritual leadership.
Literary Contributions: He authored numerous books on Jain philosophy and practice, the book lists 16 of his major works, including the Navtattvasangraha and Updeshbavni.
Influence and Legacy: His teachings and pure conduct left a lasting impact, inspiring many. He is remembered for his dedication to the propagation of Jainism, his efforts in restoring and establishing Jain temples, and his profound influence on the spiritual landscape of India, particularly Punjab.

Overall Significance:

"Navtattvasangraha tatha Updeshbavni" is a vital resource for Jain scholars, practitioners, and anyone interested in delving into the philosophical depths and practical guidance of Jainism. It embodies the profound wisdom and spiritual teachings of Acharya Shrimadvijayanand Surishwar, meticulously preserved and presented for the benefit of future generations. The detailed yantras and the comprehensive biographical account make it a valuable addition to Jain literature.