Paumchariyam Part 01

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Paumchariyam Part 01," based on the pages you've shared:

Book Title: Paumchariyam Part 01 (पउमचरियं प्रथमो विभागः) Author: Viracharya Vimal (आचार्य विमल) (original author) / Munishri Parshvaratnavijay (मुनि पार्श्वरत्नविजय) (compiler, reviewer, editor) Publisher: A. Omkarsuri Aradhana Bhavan, Surat (आ. ॐकारसूरी आराधना भवन, गोपीपुरा, सुरत)

Overall Context:

This volume is the first part of the "Paumchariyam" (Padma Charitra), a significant Jain epic poem that recounts the life story of Rama. The text is presented with a Sanskrit commentary (छाया), indicating an effort to make this ancient Prakrit work accessible and understandable to a wider audience, particularly those familiar with Sanskrit. The publication is part of the "A. Omkarsuri Gyanmandir Granthavali" series.

Key Information Presented on the Initial Pages:

• Page 1 & 2: Title Page and Publication Details

  • The book is attributed to Acharya Vimal (आचार्य विमल), described as a descendant of the Sirināilavansa Dinarahusuri lineage (सिरिनाइलवंसदिणयरराहुसूरिपसीसेण) and a former scholar (पूर्वहर).
  • It is enriched with a Sanskrit commentary (सक्कयछायासमलंकियं).
  • Munishri Parshvaratnavijay (मुनि पार्श्वरत्नविजय) is credited as the photographer, reviewer, and editor (छायाकार-संशोधक-संपादकश्च).
  • This is the First Part (प्रथमो विभागः).
  • The publisher is A. Omkarsuri Aradhana Bhavan (आ. ॐकारसूरी आराधना भवन) and A. Omkarsuri Gyanmandir (आ. ॐकारसूरि ज्ञानमंदिर) in Gopipura, Surat.
  • Dr. Herman Jacobi (डॉ. हर्मन जेकोबी) is mentioned as a former editor (पूर्व सम्पादक) of a previous edition.
  • Munishri Punyavijay (मुनिपुण्यविजय) is noted as a reviewer and re-editor (संशोधकः पुनःसम्पादक्श्च).

• Page 3: Publication and Pricing Information

  • The book title is Paumchariyam (with Sanskrit commentary) (पउमचरियं (संस्कृत छाया सह)).
  • It is the First Part (प्रथम भाग).
  • The publication year is Samvat 2068 (सं. २०६८).
  • The price is Rs. 300/- (मूल्य : ३०० रूपये).
  • The print run is 500 copies (प्रत : ५००).
  • It lists various places of acquisition (प्राप्तिस्थान), including the publisher's offices in Surat and Ahmedabad, and other book distributors.
  • It mentions that 'Akhyanak Manikosha' (आख्यानक मणिकोश) with Sanskrit commentary will be published in 4 parts in the coming days.
  • The printer is Kirit Graphics, Ahmedabad.

• Page 4: Dedication

  • The book is dedicated with reverence to Acharya Shrimad Vijay Bhuvan Bhanusurishwarji Maharaj Saheb (आचार्यप्रवर श्रीमद्विजय भुवनभानुसूरीश्वरजी म. सा.) on his birth centenary (जन्मशताब्दि वर्षे).

• Page 5: Publisher's Note (प्रकाशकीय)

  • The publisher expresses joy in releasing this "colossal" (महाकाय) work as part of their book series, inspired by Acharya Bh. Shri Arvind Suri M.S. and Acharya Bh. Shri Yashovijay Suri M.S.
  • Munichandra Suri M.S. (मुनिचन्द्रसूरि म.सा.) inspired and guided Munishri Parshvaratnavijay M.S. for the publication of the four parts of 'Paumchariyam'.
  • Sadhvi Mahayashashriji (साध्वीश्री महायशाश्रीजी), a disciple of late Sādhvī Shri Satyarekhashriji, is commended for her diligent work in proofreading and other tasks related to the text, driven by devotion.
  • The publisher hopes that readers will engage in the study of this literature for their spiritual welfare.

• Page 6: Editorial Note from a Previous Edition (by Munishri Punyavijay)

  • Munishri Punyavijay refers to the earlier edition edited by Dr. Herman Jacobi, based on manuscripts from Patan and Jaisalmer (dating back to Vikram Samvat 1458 and 13th century respectively).
  • He explains that his own revision aimed to incorporate readings from the Jaisalmer manuscript, which was discovered later.
  • He notes that the complete scholarly edition will be realized with further appendices containing detailed textual variations.
  • The first volume is being published without waiting for the completion of the entire project, to facilitate understanding through Hindi translation.
  • He describes two manuscripts from his personal collection (now dedicated to the Shri Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Bharatiya Sanskriti Vidyamandir, Ahmedabad):
    1. Manuscript No. 2085: Estimated to be from the latter half of the 16th century Vikram, it's beautifully written, though 13 folios are missing. It contains 16 lines per page, with 56-60 characters per line. A central space is left blank in the middle four lines of each page.
    2. Manuscript No. 4178: This manuscript, containing 219 folios, has 69-128 folios missing. It has 15 lines per page with 50-58 characters per line. A central octagonal space is left blank in the middle five lines of each page. This manuscript is considered less accurate than the previous one. It includes a colophon indicating it was written in Vikram Samvat 1648 by Ojhā Rudra.
  • He thanks Pandit Dalsukhbhai Malvania for his proofreading assistance.

• Page 7 & 8: Introduction to Jain Literature and 'Paumchariyam's' Significance

  • The importance of scriptures (Agamas) for monks (साधु) as their "eyes" (नेत्र) is highlighted, quoting from the Pravachanasara.
  • It explains the classification of Jain literature into four Anu-yogas (अनुयोग): Charana-Karana, Dharma-Katha, Ganita, and Dravya, as done by Aryarakshit Suri.
  • It mentions the Digambara tradition also has four divisions: Prathama-nu-yoga (containing Purana Charita), Karana-nu-yoga (astronomy, geography, Karma Siddhanta), Charana-nu-yoga (conduct), and Dravya-nu-yoga (essence of substances).
  • The text notes that the lives of Chakravartis, Baladevas, Vasudevas, etc., are found in the Gandika-nu-yoga, a part of Drishtivada, but this literature is now unavailable due to the passage of time.
  • Only the name "Sati Sita" is mentioned in the 10th Anga, Prashnavyakaran. The Thana and Samavaya Sutras list Baladeva and Vasudeva with their parents' names, but not the history of Rama and Lakshmana (who were Baladeva and Vasudeva).
  • It expresses good fortune that the 'Paumchariyam' by Acharya Nabhilavanshi Shri Vimal Suri (नाइलवंशीय श्री विमलसूरिजी) is still available. The inscription indicates its composition in Veer Nirvana 530 (वीरनिर्वाण ५३०).
  • It claims 'Paumchariyam' is the oldest Ramayana in Jain tradition (सबसे प्राचीनतम राम चरित्र), predating works by Raviṣeṇa, Svayambhu, Shilanka, and Hemachandra.
  • It points out that previous editions (including Hindi translation) had inaccuracies, sometimes leading to misinterpretations (e.g., the interpretation of 'aṭṭhakamma-rahia-ss' in relation to Keval Gyan).
  • Dr. K.R. Chandra's book is mentioned for highlighting these inaccuracies. The need for correction using extant manuscripts is emphasized, calling it a great service to Jain literature.
  • The Sanskrit commentary (छाया) is noted as a new contribution by Munishri Parshvaratnavijay M.S., praised for its effort within a short time.
  • Munishri Vitaraag Vallabh Vijayji M.S. is thanked for revising 49 chapters of the first part.
  • Acharya Bh. Shri Munichandra Surishwarji M.S. is highly appreciated for dedicating his valuable time to the editing and publication aspects.
  • The text is described as highly engaging due to its depiction of the severe consequences of eating after sunset and the unparalleled benefits of Jin Pooja.
  • Reading it is expected to provide knowledge of the ideals of great individuals, which readers are encouraged to emulate for eternal happiness.
  • The note is signed by Acharya Yashoratnasurishwarji M.S., disciple of Acharya Bh. Shri Gunaratnasurishwarji M.S., dated 14-12-2011.

• Page 9: Continuation of Introduction

  • It reiterates that 'Paumchariyam' is a unique work in Prakrit, meaning the story of Rama. It is the oldest Jain Ramayana.
  • It mentions previous publications by Herman Jacobi (1914, Bhavnagar) and Munishri Punyavijay (Hindi translation with Prakrit, 1962 and 1968).
  • It discusses scholarly opinions on the author's time and sect, noting Vimal Suri's clear details.
  • It quotes Vimal Suri's inscription: "Five hundred thirty years of the Dushama era, combined with thirty years; after Virya attained Nirvana, this character was composed." (पंचेव य वाससया दुसमाए तीसवरिससंजुत्ता । वीरे सिद्धिमुवगए तओ निबद्धं इमं चरियं ॥११८-१०३ ॥) and the lineage "Rahusuri, shining like the sun in the Nail family, his disciple Vijaya, rejoicer of the Nail lineage." (राहु नामायरिओ ससमयपरसमयगहियसहभावो । विजओ य तस्स सीसो नाइलकुलवंसनंदियरो ॥११८-११७ ॥) and states the work was composed in summary after hearing the characters of Narayana (Vasudeva) and Baladeva in the previous era. (सोऊणं पुव्वगए नारायण-'सीरिचरियाई ॥११८-११८ ॥ सुत्ताणुसारसरसं रइयं गाहाहि पायडफुडत्थं । विमलेण पउमचरियं संखेवेण निसामेह ॥१-३१॥). The concluding part of the praise mentions Vimalacharya, the foremost scholar from the Nail lineage. (इइ नाइलवंसदिणयरराहुसूरिपसीसेण महप्पेण पुव्वहरेण । विमलायरियेण विरइयं सम्मत्तं पउमचरियं ॥११८॥).
  • It mentions that Acharya Udyotansuri cited 'Paumchariyam' in his Kuvalayamala (778 CE), implying 'Padma Charitra' (a Sanskrit expansion of 'Paumchariyam') existed before the 7th century CE.
  • It provides the author's details about Rahusuri, his disciple Vijaya, and Acharya Vimal who composed 'Paumchariyam' 530 years after Mahavir's Nirvana, based on hearing about Narayan and Baladeva.
  • It highlights evidence for Vimal Suri being of the Shvetambara tradition, though some Digambara views are also found, possibly due to later alterations. It discusses variations in the number of Kula-karas (ancestral patriarchs), referencing a manuscript from Jaisalmer and paper manuscripts, pointing to potential Digambara influence in the latter.
  • It also mentions the use of terms like 'Seyambar' (सेयंबर) as proof of Shvetambara affiliation and the language being Maharashtri Prakrit, common in Shvetambara literature but not Digambara.
  • It discusses debates on the composition date, with scholars like Herman Jacobi suggesting Vikram Samvat 530, K.H. Dhruv suggesting 678-778 CE, and Pt. Kalyanvijayji suggesting 274 CE.
  • It argues that the presence of words like 'Shak', 'Surang', 'Yavana', 'Dinar' and Greek influence on planetary names are not strong evidence for a later date, citing their earlier usage.

Content Overview of Chapters (from the Granth-anukram):

The table of contents (ग्रंथानुक्रमः) provides a detailed breakdown of the 16 chapters covered in the first part, listing the key themes and narratives. Some of the prominent sections include:

• Chapter 1: Sutra Vidhan (सूत्रविधान): Starts with mangala (auspicious verses) invoking various Tirthankaras, beginning with Rishabhadeva. It outlines the purpose of the text and the author's intent.
• Chapter 2: Shrenik Chinta Vidhan (सेणियचिंताविहाणो): Discusses the prosperity of the Magadha kingdom and the city of Rajagriha. It introduces King Shrenik and his contemplation. It also recounts the birth and consecration of Lord Mahavir.
• Chapter 3: Vidyadhar Lok Varnan (विज्जाहरलोगवण्णणो): Describes the realm of Vidyadharas, mentioning various cities, the lineage of Vidyadharas, and the creation of the city of Kiskindhi. It touches upon the stories of Indra, Malli, and Keshava.
• Chapter 4: Lokasthiti-Rishabh-Mahan Adhikara (लो गठिइ-उसभ-माहणाहियारो): Explains the structure of the cosmos and the origin of the Kula-karas, focusing on Rishabhadeva's life and virtues. It discusses the concept of Yajna (sacrifice) and the origin of Brahmins, highlighting the importance of righteous conduct.
• Chapter 5: Rakshasa Vamsha Adhikara (रक्खसवंसाहियारो): Details the lineage of the Rakshasas, tracing their origins and mentioning characters like Ravana, Kumbhakarna, and their ancestry. It also discusses the history of the Vanara dynasty.
• Chapter 6: Rakshasa-Vanara Pravrajya Vidhana (रक्खस-वाणरपव्वज्जाविहाणो): Continues the narrative of Rakshasas and Vanaras, including stories of their renunciations (Pravrajya) and the path to liberation. It also describes the conflicts and lives of various Rakshasa heroes and their subsequent spiritual journeys.
• Chapter 7: Dashamukh Vidya Sadhana (दहमुहविज्जासाहणं): Focuses on Ravana's acquisition of various powers and skills, his conflicts, and the stories of his lineage, including his marriage and the consequences of his actions.
• Chapter 8: Dashamukh Puri Pravesh (दहमुहपुरिपवेसो): Describes Ravana's entry into a city, his interactions with its inhabitants, and the ensuing events, including battles and political maneuvering.
• Chapter 9: Vali Nirvana Gaman (वालिनिव्वाणगमणो): Narrates the story of Vali, his life, his conflict with Ravana, his renunciation, and ultimately his attainment of liberation (Nirvana). It also touches upon the lives of Sugriva and Hanumanta.
• Chapter 10: Dashamukh-Sugriva Prasthana-Sahasrakirana-Anaranya Pravrajya Vidhan (दहमुहसुग्गीवपत्थाण-सहस्सकिरणअणरणपव्वज्जाविहाणो): This chapter seems to cover the journeys and renunciations of various characters, including Ravana, Sugriva, Sahasrakirana, and Anaranya.
• Chapter 11: Masya Yajna Vidhvansan - Janapadanuraga Adhikara (मस्यजण्णविद्धंसण-जणवयाणुरागाहियारो): This chapter deals with the destruction of a sacrificial ritual (Yajna) possibly involving fish or meat, and the subsequent love story and devotion of people. It also discusses the origins of Brahmins and the importance of righteous conduct.
• Chapter 12: Vaitadhya Gamana-Indra Bandhan-Lanka Pravesha (वेयड्डगमण-इन्दबंधण-लंकापवेसणो): This chapter covers Ravana's journey to Mount Vaitadhya, his encounter with Indra, and his entry into Lanka. It includes narratives about the Vidyadharas and their relationships.
• Chapter 13: Indra Nirvana Gaman (इन्दनिव्वाणगमणो): This chapter details Indra's renunciation, his spiritual path, and eventual liberation, highlighting the impermanence of worldly pleasures and the importance of following the path shown by Jinas.
• Chapter 14: Anantvirya Dharma Katha (अणंतविरियधम्मकहणो): This chapter seems to focus on the teachings of Anantvirya, discussing Dharma (righteous conduct), its types (Sakara and Nirakara), the importance of knowledge, the consequences of actions (karma), and the path to liberation. It also elaborates on the virtues of true devotion and the rewards of meritorious deeds.
• Chapter 15: Anjanasundari Vivah Vidhana (अंजणासुन्दरीवीवाहविहाणाहियारो): This chapter describes the marriage of Anjanasundari. It traces the lineage of characters like Pawananjaya and Anjanasundari, their past lives, and the circumstances leading to their union. It also delves into the concept of Kamavega (desires) and their impact.
• Chapter 16: Pawananjaya-Anjanasundari Bhoga Vidhana (पवणंजयअंजणासुन्दरीभोगविहाणो): This chapter focuses on the life and experiences of Pawananjaya and Anjanasundari, detailing their pleasures, relationships, and the spiritual insights gained through their lives. It touches upon the consequences of karma and the path to renunciation.

This summary provides a structural and thematic overview based on the information available in the provided pages. The detailed narrative of the 'Paumchariyam' itself would be contained within the body of the text.