Nirgrantha Aetihasik Lekh Samucchaya Part 1

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Book Title: Nirgrantha Aetihasik Lekh Samucchaya (Collection of Historical Writings on the Nirgrantha Tradition) Author: Madhusudan Dhaky Publisher: Kasturbhai Lalbhai Smarak Nidhi, Ahmedabad Volume: Part 1 (Granthanka 4) Publication Date: February 2002

Overall Purpose and Scope: This book is a collection of scholarly articles by M. A. Dhaky, focusing on the historical aspects of the Nirgrantha (Jain) tradition. The articles, previously published in various journals and felicitation volumes, aim to shed light on the history of Jainism, its literature, personalities, and associated archaeological findings, particularly in the context of Gujarat and India. The collection seeks to make valuable but scattered research accessible to scholars and enthusiasts, addressing the often obscure and complex nature of Jain historical studies.

Key Themes and Contributions:

1. Establishing the Antiquity of Jainism in Gujarat: Dhaky meticulously uses both literary and archaeological evidence to argue that Jainism entered Gujarat much earlier than previously thought by some scholars, placing its presence potentially as early as the 2nd century BCE, certainly well before the 7th century CE. He refutes the idea that Jain religious traditions were only established in Gujarat later.

2. Chronology of Jain Ascetics and Authors: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to determining the historical periods and chronological placement of prominent Jain monks, scholars, and poets. Dhaky critically examines traditional accounts (anushrutik) and historical data to establish more accurate timelines for figures like:

   • Bhadrayacharyas and Darilacharya: Placed in the 5th century CE.
   • Swami Samantabhadra: Argued to be several centuries later than traditionally assumed, likely between 250-625 CE, emphasizing that this doesn't diminish his importance.
   • Vadi-Kavi Bappabhattisuri: A renowned debater and poet from North Gujarat, whose chronology is discussed extensively, highlighting discrepancies in tradition and proposing likely timelines around the Solanki era.
   • Padaliptasuri: Differentiates between multiple figures of this name, placing the author of Nirvanakalika in the 10th century CE.
   • Bhadreshwarasuri: The author of Kahavali, placed around 975-1025 CE.
   • Vajraswami: The author of Gautam-swami-stav, argued to be a later Vajraswami from around 1080 VS, not the early Aryavajra.
   • Vijayasurinsuri: Identified as Vijayasingha from Bhrugupura, likely in the 11th century CE.
   • Mallishena Suri's Guru Udayaprabhusuri: Dhaky argues that the guru of Mallishena Suri, author of Syadvada-manjari, was likely Udayaprabhusuri from Vardhamanasuri's lineage within the Nagendra gaccha, rather than the more famous Vijayaseanasuri's disciple Udayaprabhusuri.
   • Kavi Ramachandra and Kavi Sagarachandra: Discusses the existence of multiple poets with these names and attempts to differentiate them chronologically.
   • Jnatasuri: The author of Jnatasuri, likely from the 12th century CE, whose work is discussed in relation to historical context.
   • Amritaswami: The author of Amritaswami-charita, dated to 1225 VS (1168 CE).
   • Kapura-Prakara: Dated to 1086-1087 AD (Sakala).
   • Sanghamasuri: Author of Chaitya-Paripati-Stava, placed around 1315-1320 CE.
   • Jayanatilaka Suri: Author of Shri Girnar Chaitya-Paripadi, dated around the late 14th century CE.
   • Devapala: Author of Shatrunjaya-giri-stha-Khara-taravasahee-Gita, placed in the 15th century CE.
   • Gyanchandra: Author of Shri Raivata-giri-tirtha-stotra, likely from the 14th century CE.
   • Sagarachandra: Identified with Hemachandracharya's disciple, placed in the 12th century CE.

3. Analysis of Jain Texts and Concepts: Dhaky delves into the analysis of specific Jain texts and philosophical concepts:

   • Namaskara-Mangala (Navkar Mantra): Argues that initially, only the first two padas were prevalent, with the remaining three added later, possibly during the Shaka-Kushana period. He traces the evolution of the mantra and the misinterpretations of the term "Arhat."
   • 'Swabhava-Satta' (Inherent Existence): Examines quotes from three ancient Jain texts regarding this philosophical concept, tracing the origins of these ideas.
   • Nirvana-Kalika: Discusses the time and associated issues related to Padaliptasuri's work.
   • Stotra Literature: A significant number of articles focus on Jain devotional hymns (stotras), analyzing their composition, dating, and historical context. Dhaky highlights the characteristic of South Indian Jain traditions in composing hymns on topics like the birthplaces of Tirthankaras. He also examines specific hymns like Vairotyadevi Stava and Upsargahara Stotra.

4. Archaeological and Epigraphical Evidence: The book integrates findings from archaeology and inscriptions to support historical arguments. This includes:

   • Junagadh Caves: Discusses the Bawa Pyara caves and their association with the Nirgrantha tradition, contrasting them with Buddhist sites.
   • Akota Bronzes: Analyzes Jain metal images found at Akota, dating them to the 5th century CE and discussing the significance of inscriptions on them.
   • Idar Sculptures: Dates Jain sculptures found in Idar to the 6th century CE.
   • Dhank Jain Caves: Places these in the 550-600 CE period.
   • Mathura Jain Ayagapattas: Cites these as evidence for the early use of Ashtamangala.
   • Other Epigraphic Mentions: References inscriptions mentioning figures like Aryakshputa Khaphuta, Vadyamalladi, and the Jina Suvrat temple at Bhrugukaccha.

5. Historical Context of Solanki Era: Several articles shed light on the Solanki period, discussing:

   • Upekshit Patra (Overlooked Figures): Highlights three neglected royal figures during the reign of Solanki King Bhimadeva II: Dandnayaka Abhaya, Rajapradhana Jagadeva Pratihara, and Mahapratian Somarajadeva (author of Sangeetaratnavali).
   • Meenal Devi's True Name: Argues that the actual name of Siddharaja Jayasinh's mother was likely "Mailal Devi," based on Karnataka inscriptions, rather than "Minnaladevi" or "Mayanaladevi."
   • Sripal Family's Kuladharma: Critically examines the prevalent notion that the Sripala family was Jain, analyzing arguments from various scholars and presenting evidence that suggests they might have been Hindu. Dhaky emphasizes the need for concrete proof to overturn the traditional belief.
   • Kavi Ramachandra and Kavi Sagarachandra: Discusses the existence of multiple individuals with these names and attempts to date them.

6. Scholarly Rigor and Approach: The book consistently demonstrates Dhaky's rigorous methodology. He:

   • Critically evaluates sources: Carefully analyzes traditional accounts, inscriptions, and literary works, identifying discrepancies and potential biases.
   • Employs comparative analysis: Compares Jain and non-Jain traditions, languages, and scholarly works to establish historical connections and timelines.
   • Prioritizes factual evidence: Bases conclusions on concrete archaeological findings, epigraphic data, and early literary references, often challenging established chronologies.
   • Highlights unresolved issues: Acknowledges areas where definitive conclusions cannot yet be reached, inviting further research.
   • Emphasizes nuanced interpretation: Recognizes that names of scholars or concepts might have multiple individuals or evolve over time, requiring careful differentiation.

7. Dedication: The first volume is dedicated to the memory of Pt. Nathuram Premi, a renowned Digambara historian, acknowledging his scholarly integrity and impactful work.

Overall Significance: Nirgrantha Aetihasik Lekh Samucchaya Part 1 represents a monumental contribution to the study of Jain history. M. A. Dhaky's deep research, multi-faceted talent, and incisive analysis provide invaluable insights into a complex and often misunderstood religious tradition. His work is characterized by its thoroughness, impartiality, and a fearless pursuit of truth, making the book an essential resource for anyone interested in Jainism, Indian history, religion, and culture. The collection is seen as a milestone for researchers in the field.