Pramukh Jain Grantho Ka Parichay

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Pramukh Jain Grantho Ka Parichay" (Introduction to Major Jain Texts), compiled and edited by Prof. Veersagar Jain, published by Bharatiya Jnanpith:

Book Title: Pramukh Jain Grantho Ka Parichay (Introduction to Major Jain Texts) Compiler & Editor: Prof. Veersagar Jain Publisher: Bharatiya Jnanpith Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/023269/1

Overall Purpose and Significance:

This book, "Pramukh Jain Grantho Ka Parichay," serves as an accessible gateway to the vast and profound world of Jain literature. Recognizing that many important Jain scriptures are written in ancient languages like Prakrit, Sanskrit, and Apabhramsha, making them difficult for the general public to access, this compilation aims to bridge that gap. The book introduces 25 major Jain texts in a simple and understandable language, providing their essence and importance. It is presented as a humble effort to open the doors to the rich treasure trove of Jain knowledge, which was previously accessible mainly to scholars.

Structure and Content:

The book aims to cover representative works from all four traditional divisions (Anuyogas) of Jain literature:

1. Pratham-anuyog (Primary Exposition): Deals with narratives, history, and biographical accounts, primarily of Tirthankaras and other significant figures.
2. Karan-anuyog (Computational Exposition): Focuses on cosmology, astronomy, mathematics, and chronological cycles.
3. Charan-anuyog (Conduct Exposition): Encompasses rules of conduct for ascetics (monks) and householders (laypeople), ethical principles, and practices.
4. Dravya-anuyog (Substance Exposition): Delves into the philosophical and metaphysical aspects, explaining the nature of reality, soul, karma, and liberation.

The book introduces 25 key Jain texts, providing a brief overview of their significance, authors, and the subjects they cover. The selection aims to be representative of the breadth and depth of Jain literature across these four Anuyogas.

Key Texts Introduced (as evident from the table of contents and early pages):

The book systematically introduces prominent Jain works, categorized by their Anuyoga. The summary highlights the importance and general content of each text.

• Pratham-anuyog (Narrative/Historical Exposition):

  • Mahapurana (Adipurana & Uttarapurana): Described as the crown jewel of Jain Puranic literature, it chronicles the lives of the 63 Salaka Purushas (distinguished individuals like Tirthankaras, Chakravartis, etc.). It emphasizes karma over birth and presents Jain cosmology, social structures, and moral examples. The text highlights key distinctions from Vedic Puranas, such as the emphasis on karma and the birthless nature of the soul. It also clarifies concepts like the caste system's origin according to Jain tradition and the role of Lord Rishabhadeva.
  • Padma Purana: Focuses on the life story of Lord Rama, who is considered a Vasudeva (one of the 63 Salaka Purushas) in Jain tradition. It distinguishes the Jain narrative of Rama from other traditions, particularly concerning characters like Hanuman and Sita. The text also discusses concepts like the nature of Vanaras and Rakshasas from a Jain perspective.
  • Harivansh Purana: This text centers on the lineage of Krishna and the Yadava dynasty, as well as the Kauravas and Pandavas. It highlights the lives of two major figures from this lineage: the 22nd Tirthankara, Lord Neminath, and Krishna, the 9th Narayana. It also touches upon the origins of Diwali.

• Karan-anuyog (Cosmological/Mathematical Exposition):

  • Tiloypannatti (Triloka Prajnapti): A significant work in Karan-anuyog, this Prakrit text details the structure, geography, and dimensions of the three worlds (Jaladhara, Kalodadhi, etc.) and celestial bodies. It is also noted for its comprehensive coverage of Jain mathematics, including concepts of numbers, measurements, and cosmological calculations. The text details the structure of the universe, the characteristics of various celestial beings, and the cosmic cycles.

• Charan-anuyog (Conduct Exposition):

  • Ratnakaranda Shravakachara: Considered the foundational and most accessible text on lay conduct (Shravakachara). Authored by Acharya Samantabhadra, it is praised for its concise yet profound explanation of the three jewels (Samyakdarshan, Samyagnana, Samyakcharitra) and the duties of a householder, including virtues, vows (Anuvratas, Gunavratas, Shikshavratas), and the practice of Sallekhana (voluntary fasting towards death). Its simple language and use of illustrative stories make it highly popular.
  • Purusharthasiddhi-upaya: Authored by Acharya Amritchandra Suri, this text elegantly synthesizes the concepts of Nischaya (ultimate) and Vyavahar (conventional) truths, explaining the path to spiritual liberation for laypeople. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the soul's true nature and the practical application of Jain principles in daily life.
  • Shatdhalā (Six Sections): A foundational text for the Charana-anuyog, this work is mentioned as being highly influential for subsequent works in this category.
  • Dharmamrita: A comprehensive text by Pandit Ashadharji, covering both ascetic (Angar) and householder (Sagar) conduct. It is lauded for its vast scope, detailed explanations of conduct, and emphasis on compassion, righteous living, and the importance of understanding Jain principles and rituals.
  • Moolachar: Considered the primary text on the conduct of Jain monks (Muni), authored by Acharya Vattakera. It details the 28 Mulgunas (fundamental virtues) and the daily conduct of ascetics. Its foundational nature for monastic discipline is highly emphasized.
  • Bhagavati Aradhana: Authored by Acharya Shivaraya, this text is central to the concept of "Aradhana" (devotional practice, spiritual discipline, or a well-conducted life ending in a peaceful death). It expounds on the four types of Aradhana (Samyakdarshan, Samyagnana, Samyakcharitra, Samyaktap) and offers detailed guidance on practices like Sallekhana (intentional fasting towards death) and the different types of death.
  • Kartikeyano-preksha: Authored by Acharya Kartikeya, this work focuses on the twelve Anuprekshas (contemplations), which are crucial for developing detachment and understanding the transient nature of the world, essential for spiritual progress. It is considered a text that fosters detachment.
  • Niyamsara: A profound text by Acharya Kundakunda, considered a "heart" of his teachings. It emphasizes the core principles of Jainism, focusing on the path to liberation through Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct (Rattnatraya). It is presented as a direct path to realizing the soul.
  • Sattaraloka (likely a typo for Sattatva/Seven Tattvas): Mentioned in the context of Niyamsara, suggesting a focus on the seven fundamental truths of Jainism.

• Dravya-anuyog (Metaphysical Exposition):

  • Gommatsara: A highly revered text by Acharya Nemichandra Siddhantachakravarti, divided into Jivakanda and Karmakanda. It is considered a key to understanding Jain metaphysics, karma theory, and the soul's journey through different states of existence (Gunasthana) and pathways (Margana). It is based on the foundational texts like Shatkhandagama and Panchasangraha.
  • Tattvartha Sutra: Authored by Acharya Umaswami, this is considered the most important and universally accepted text in Jainism, serving as a foundational scripture for both Digambara and Shvetambara traditions. It succinctly covers all major Jain philosophical principles, cosmology, conduct, and the path to liberation in a sutra style. Often referred to as the "Gita of Jainism."
  • Dravyasamgraha: A concise yet comprehensive work by Acharya Nemichandra Siddhantachakravarti, encapsulating the essence of Jain philosophy, especially the six Dravyas (substances) and their properties, in just 58 verses. It is highly praised for its scientific approach and accessibility.
  • Samaysara: A paramount spiritual text by Acharya Kundakunda, revered as the "essence of time" or "essence of the soul." It is a deep exploration of the soul's true nature, contrasting it with the external world and guiding the reader towards self-realization and liberation through pure spiritual contemplation.
  • Panchastikaya: Another significant work by Acharya Kundakunda, explaining the five Astikayas (constituent substances of the universe) – Jiva, Ajiva (further divided into Pudgala, Dharma, Adharma, Akasha, and Kala). It provides a systematic understanding of the Jain worldview.
  • Niyamsara: (Also covered under Charan-anuyog).
  • Shatkhandagama: Considered one of the two most ancient and authoritative Jain scriptures, originating directly from the teachings of Lord Mahavir. It is a complex and profound text dealing with karma theory, soul states, and spiritual progress, primarily on which later commentaries like Dhavala, Mahadhavala, and Jayadhavala were written.
  • Kashayapahud (with Jayadhavala commentary): The second most ancient and authoritative scripture, focused on the nature and overcoming of passions (Kashayas). The Jayadhavala commentary by Acharya Virasena and Jinanasena provides immense elaboration on this complex text.
  • Jnana-arnava: A significant work on meditation and yoga by Acharya Shubhchandra. It details various stages of meditation, the importance of controlling the mind and senses, and the path to spiritual liberation through these practices.

• Inspirational/Devotional Texts:

  • Bhaktamara Stotra: A highly popular and devotional hymn authored by Acharya Manatunga. It is renowned for its exquisite poetry and the belief that chanting it can alleviate suffering and bring auspicious results. The text recounts the story of Manatunga's own liberation from imprisonment through devotion.

Key Themes and Contributions:

• Accessibility: The primary goal is to make Jain scriptures understandable to a wider audience, regardless of their background in ancient languages.
• Comprehensiveness: The book covers a wide range of important Jain texts, representing the four Anuyogas, thus offering a holistic introduction to Jain literature.
• Simplification: The language used is deliberately kept simple and accessible to facilitate understanding for both Jain followers and those new to Jainism.
• Spiritual Depth: While simplifying, the book does not compromise on conveying the profound spiritual and philosophical insights contained within the original texts.
• Holistic Understanding: By presenting texts from different Anuyogas, it encourages a comprehensive view of Jain philosophy, ethics, cosmology, and history.
• Preservation and Promotion: The compilation by Bharatiya Jnanpith and the efforts of Prof. Veersagar Jain contribute to the preservation and promotion of Jain heritage.

Overall Impact:

"Pramukh Jain Grantho Ka Parichay" is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to explore Jainism's rich literary tradition. It empowers readers to connect with foundational Jain texts, understand their core messages, and potentially be inspired to delve deeper into the original scriptures. It stands as a testament to the enduring relevance and profound wisdom embedded within Jain literature.