Paiavinnankaha Part 01

The provided text is the first part of "Paiavinnankaha" (Prakrit Vividh Vyakhyan Katha - Prakrit Knowledge Stories), authored by Kastursuri and edited by Somchandrasuri, published by the Rander Road Jain Sangh. This book is part of a series (27th in the "Shri Nemi-Vigyan-Kastur Suri Granth Shreni").

The work is dedicated to the renowned Jain Acharya Shri Vijay Kastursurishwarji Maharaj Saheb, a scholar of Prakrit and a torchbearer of Dharma. It is published with the blessings of Acharya Shri Vijay Chandrodayasurishwarji Maharaj Saheb and Acharya Shri Vijay Ashokchandrasurishwarji Maharaj Saheb, and edited by Acharya Shri Vijay Somchandrasuriji Maharaj Saheb.

The text begins with invocations and acknowledgments, including a deep reverence for various Jain Tirthankaras and spiritual gurus. It highlights the importance of stories (Katha) in Dharma Shastras for understanding and strengthening spiritual principles. The introduction emphasizes that stories, like those found in the Ramayana and Mahabharata, captivate audiences of all ages and convey profound lessons.

Key Themes and Content:

• The Power of Stories (Katha): The text stresses that stories are essential for explaining and solidifying the tenets of Dharma Shastras. They are universally appealing and provide peace through listening, recitation, and contemplation.
• Jain Agama and Kathanu-yoga: It references the four "Anu-yogas" (branches of knowledge) in Jainism: Dravyanu-yoga, Ganitanu-yoga, Charan-karananu-yoga, and Dhanma-kathanu-yoga. Kathanu-yoga is highlighted for its benefit to everyone. The text mentions specific Jain scriptures like the Acharanga Sutra, Sutrakritanga Sutra, and Bhagavati Sutra, which contain detailed narratives of past lives and events.
• Prakrit Jain Literature: The compilation acknowledges the vast sea of Jain literature written in Prakrit, Sanskrit, Ardhamagadhi, and Apabhramsa. It specifically praises Prakrit literature for its uniqueness within Jain philosophy and its presence in Sanskrit dramas (excluding female characters). The text credits Jain Acharyas for creating extensive Prakrit literature, starting from Vimala Suri's "Padmacharita" to various commentaries and biographies.
• Contribution of Acharya Vijay Kastursuriji: The work celebrates Acharya Vijay Kastursuriji for his significant contribution to modern Prakrit literature, especially during a time when new Prakrit literary creations were rare. He dedicated his life to reviving Prakrit, recognizing its importance as the "mother tongue" of Jains.
• Biography of Acharya Vijay Kastursuriji: A concise biography is provided, detailing his birth in Ahmedabad, his initiation into the monastic order (diksha) in Vikram Samvat 1976, and his rise through various spiritual ranks, culminating in the title of Suri in Vikram Samvat 2001. His passing is noted at Shri Shatrunjay Tirth in Vikram Samvat 2032.
• Literary Works: A list of works by Acharya Vijay Kastursuriji is presented, including "Prakrit Rupmala," "Prakrit Vigyan Pathmala," "Prakrit Gadya Padya Mala," "Karunaras Kadambak," and contributions to texts like "Abhidhan Chintamani."
• "Prakrit Vigyan Katha" (the current work): The text describes the origin and style of this collection of stories. It mentions that the stories were collected from various sources and presented in a simple, engaging, and accessible style. The aim is to provide knowledge of Prakrit grammar and vocabulary to young learners. The stories are designed to be captivating from beginning to end, offering moral and practical guidance at the conclusion of each narrative.
• The Stories Themselves: The book contains 55 stories (Katha 1 to 55), each with a title and a moral or teaching derived from the narrative. The initial stories in the provided pages include:
  • Katha 1 (Phalsala): About the virtue of humility and its rewards.
  • Katha 2 (Mukkha): Emphasizing the importance of controlling the tongue and the consequences of its misuse.
  • Katha 3 (Vudamanti): Illustrating the wisdom of experienced advisors.
  • Katha 4 (Vudda): Discussing the significance of inner purity and intentions.
  • Katha 5 (Jindasa): Highlighting the results of charity and the impact of past karma.

The text also includes details about the various individuals and institutions that supported the publication, such as the Shri Rander Road Shwetamber Murtipujak Jain Sangh, Surat, and individuals involved in typesetting, graphics, and printing. The book is noted to be the second edition, published in Vikram Samvat 2061 (2005 CE).

In essence, "Paiavinnankaha Part 01" is a collection of edifying stories in Prakrit, compiled and presented with the aim of promoting Jain teachings and the Prakrit language, honoring the legacy of Acharya Vijay Kastursuriji.