Pattavali Parag Sangraha - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Pattavali Parag Sangraha" by Kalyanvijay Gani, based on the provided catalog link and page excerpts.

Book Title: Pattavali Parag Sangraha (पट्टावली - परागसंग्रह) Author/Editor: Pandit Kalyanvijay Gani (पं० कल्याण विजय गणि) Publisher: Shri K. V. Shastra Sangrah Samiti, Jalor (Rajasthan) (श्री क. वि. शास्त्रसंग्रहसमिति श्री जालोर (राजस्थान)) Publication Year: V.S. 2023 (Vikram Samvat), E.S. 1966 (Christian Era)

Overview:

"Pattavali Parag Sangraha" is a significant Jain compilation that gathers and presents various "Pattavalis" (genealogies of spiritual lineage or succession) and "Guravalis" (lists of teachers and their succession). The work aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the lineages of different Jain gacchas (sects or sub-sects) and their historical development. The title "Parag Sangraha" (essence collection) suggests that the text focuses on the core essence of each pattavali rather than transcribing them verbatim.

Structure and Content:

The book is divided into four main sections or "Parichhedas":

First Parichhed (Sauotra Pattavaliyan - सौत्र पट्टावलियाँ): This section deals with the pattavalis mentioned in the Jain sutras. It includes:
- Kalpa-Sthaviravali (कल्प-स्थविरावली): This refers to the lineage of elders mentioned in the "Paryushana Kalpa Sutra" (a chapter within the Dashashrutaskandha). The text discusses the historical compilation of this lineage, noting differences between brief and extensive versions. It also delves into the antiquity of this sthaviravali and its connection to the Nandi Sutra's lineage of Acharyas.
- Discussion of Digambara Sect Pattavalis: Following the sutra-based pattavalis, the author briefly discusses some pattavalis from the Digambara sect. This section also touches upon the origins and history of the Digambara sect, discussing figures like Kundakunda and Bhaṭṭaraka Virasena.
- Nandi Sthaviravali (नन्दी स्थविरावली): This section includes the lineage of Acharyas mentioned in the Nandi Sutra, particularly focusing on the tradition of Anuyogadaras (scholars who expound Jain scriptures). The text includes detailed discussions on the antiquity of these lineages, the nature of "Gana" (school/group), "Shakha" (branch), and "Kula" (lineage), and the evolution of these terms over time, eventually leading to the modern term "Gachchha."
- Historical Context and Chronology: The author critically examines Jain chronological methods, particularly the discrepancies between Mathuri and Valabhi traditions, and discusses the importance of understanding these to accurately place historical figures. It also touches upon the challenges of maintaining accurate timelines due to the itinerant nature of Jain monks and the impact of famines on oral traditions.
Second Parichhed (Tapagachchhiya Pattavaliyan - तपागच्छीय पट्टावलियाँ): This section is dedicated to the Tapagachchha, a prominent Jain sect. It features:
- Main Tapagachchha Pattavali: The core lineage of the Tapagachchha, as documented by Upadhyaya Dharmasagar Upadhyaya, is presented.
- Branches and Sub-sects: It details various branches and sub-sects within the Tapagachchha, including those of the Tapagachchha Kamal Kalash Shakha and Rajvijay Suri Shakha.
- Other Gachchhas: The section also includes pattavalis of other "Prakirṇaka Gachchhas" (miscellaneous or independent sects), such as Brihad Poushadshalik, Laghu Poushadshalik, Anchal Gachchha, Shramana Poushadshalik, etc.
- Detailed Analysis and Critiques: The author provides critical commentary on the presented pattavalis, highlighting potential exaggerations and historical inaccuracies found in some accounts. The objective is not to refute or establish any particular lineage but to present the actual situation.
Third Parichhed (Khartaragachchha Pattavaliyan - खरतरगच्छ की पट्टावलियाँ): This section focuses exclusively on the Khartaragachchha, another important Jain sect. It includes:
- Collection of Khartaragachchha Pattavalis: A compilation of 12 pattavalis and guravalis of the Khartaragachchha is presented.
- Detailed Guravali: A comprehensive guravali from Vardhamanasuri up to Jinpadmasuri is provided, including extensive analysis and discussion of its merits and demerits.
- Historical Sources: The author discusses the sources of these pattavalis, including manuscript pattavalis and their historical context, and even the genealogies of Solanki kings and the origin of the "Khartara" title.
Fourth Parichhed (Loukagam, Dvavish Sampraday, and Kadva-mat Pattavalis - लौंकागच्छ, बाईस सम्प्रदाय और कडवामत की पट्टावलियाँ): This section covers the pattavalis of:
- Louka-gachchha (लौंकागच्छ): This sect is noted as being founded by a layperson named "Lakkha." The text discusses the origins and beliefs associated with this group.
- Twenty-Two Sampradayas (बाईस सम्प्रदाय): This likely refers to a group of 22 distinct traditions within Jainism.
- Kadva-mat (कड़वा-मत): This sect is described as being led by a layperson, often referred to as "Shahji," with its remnants still present in places like Tharad.

Key Themes and Characteristics:

Comprehensive Collection: The book stands out for its sheer volume, containing as many as 64 pattavalis in a single volume, covering a wide range of Jain traditions.
Critical Analysis: The author, Kalyanvijay Gani, doesn't merely present the pattavalis but also engages in critical analysis. He points out exaggerations, historical discrepancies, and offers his own interpretations, while aiming for factual accuracy.
Historical Depth: The work attempts to trace the origins of various gacchas and their associated individuals, delving into the social and historical context in which these traditions emerged.
Focus on "Parag" (Essence): The title itself suggests a distillation of the essential information from each pattavali, making it accessible and focused.
Chronological Discussions: The book grapples with the complexities of Jain chronology, highlighting the differences between various traditions and the challenges in establishing definitive timelines.
Scholarly Approach: The author's intention was not to refute or establish any particular sect but to present factual information, allowing readers to draw their own conclusions.

Significance:

"Pattavali Parag Sangraha" serves as a valuable resource for researchers and scholars interested in the history, development, and diversity of Jain traditions. It provides a rich tapestry of information about the lineage, organizational structures, and historical narratives of various Jain gacchas, offering insights into the evolution of Jainism over centuries. The critical approach taken by the author adds significant value, making it more than just a compilation but a scholarly work of analysis.

Note on Printing Quality: The preface (Page 6) acknowledges potential inaccuracies due to the author's eyesight and reliance on proofreaders, as well as the use of worn-out types, which might have contributed to errors that are addressed in an errata sheet.