Prashnottar Chatvarinshat Shatak

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Prashnottar Chatvarinshat Shatak" by Buddhisagar, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Prashnottar Chatvarinshat Shatak (प्रश्नोत्तर चत्वारिंशत् शतक) Author: Buddhisagar Gani (बुद्धिसगर गण) Publisher: Paydhuni Mahavir Jain Mandir Trust Fund (पांयधुनी महावीर जैन मंदिर ट्रस्ट फंड) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/035209/1

Context and Purpose:

This book is presented as a "reply" or "response" (प्रत्युत्तर) to a text titled "Tapa-Kharatar Bhed" (तपा-खरतर भेद), which was compiled and published by Jambusuri. The preface (निवेदन, Page 3) clearly states that the publication of this book was necessitated by the "wordy attacks" (शब्दप्रहारे) made by the editor of "Tapa-Kharatar Bhed" on the revered predecessors of the author's own sect (gachh).

The author, Buddhisagar Gani, explicitly states that his intention is not to malign any great souls from any gachh who have served the Jain faith and promoted Dharma, nor does he harbor any ill will towards them. Instead, his aim is to shed light on the truth in the quest for it. He expresses profound gratitude to Acharya Jinratnasuri and Upadhyay Labdhimuni for their guidance in writing the commentary. He also thanks Gulab Muni for his efforts in securing financial aid and reviewing the text.

The preface highlights the contentious nature of the "Tapa-Kharatar Bhed" text, describing its language as "impolite and hatred-filled" (अशिष्ट और द्वेषमूलक). The author criticizes the earlier text for not only defending its own practices but also for refuting the principles of others with what he calls "wildness" (जंगलीपन) by labeling the Kharatar gachh as liars, weaponless, heretics, and violators of scriptures. The preface argues that the Kharatar gachh has made significant contributions to Jainism by converting many people to the faith, a service unmatched by other gachhs, except perhaps the Tapa gachh.

The author's core objective is to provide a scholarly and evidence-based answer (शास्त्रीय दृष्टिसे अत्यन्त सुन्दर व प्रमाणिक उत्तर) to each question posed in the "Tapa-Kharatar Bhed" (Page 9). He aims to clarify points from a perspective of synthesis and highlight inconsistencies or views that are against general public or scriptural understanding (as mentioned on Page 9).

Key Themes and Content:

The book is structured as a question-and-answer (Prashnottar) format, addressing various differences in practices and interpretations between the Tapa Gachh and the Kharatar Gachh. The summary of the questions and answers covers a wide range of Jain practices and historical/doctrinal points:

• Poshadh Vrat (Fasting): The text clarifies when the Poshadh fast is to be observed, refuting the idea of daily observation and emphasizing observance on specific festival days (Page 23-26).
• Other Gachh Differences: The summary touches upon differences related to the timing of certain observances (like Irıyavahi Pratikraman before Samayik, Page 26), differing interpretations of festival dates (Page 26), the permissibility of bathing in homes with recent births/deaths (Page 27), the role of female monks in giving sermons to men (Page 27), and the origin and validity of certain practices like the Snātra (ritualistic bathing of idols, Page 28).
• Historical and Doctrinal Debates: A significant portion of the text delves into historical disputes, particularly concerning the Kharatar Gachh, its origins, and the titles and recognition received by its prominent acharyas (like the 'Kharatar' title given by King Durlabhraj, Page 29). It aims to refute claims made in the "Tapa-Kharatar Bhed" regarding the history of the Kharatar gachh and its founders like Abhaydev Suri and Jinvallabh Suri (Page 30-34).
• Scholarly and Scriptural Basis: The author consistently refers to various Jain scriptures and commentaries (like Niyukt's, Churnis, Vrittis, Tīkās) to support his arguments and to refute the claims made in the opposing text. The extensive index (Pages 14-40) lists numerous Jain texts and concepts discussed, indicating the depth of the scriptural references.
• Emphasis on Scriptural Adherence: The text stresses the importance of adhering to the original scriptures and the traditions of the gitārthas (learned monks) of all gachhs.
• Rejection of Adharma (Unrighteousness): The preface criticizes practices that lead to attachment and hatred, emphasizing that true religion lies in detachment and renunciation of these negative emotions.
• Critique of Bias and Misinterpretation: The author explicitly accuses the authors and proponents of the "Tapa-Kharatar Bhed" text of malice and misinterpretation, driven by prejudice (Page 7).
• Call for Objective Inquiry: The text encourages readers to examine Jain acharyas, monks, and texts with an open mind and discernment, recognizing that religion lies in tolerance and harmony, not in rigid sectarianism.
• Concept of Anekaant (Many-sidedness): The preface touches upon Anandghanji Maharaj's poetry, which exemplifies the concept of unity in diversity and the synthesis of various philosophical schools, highlighting the Jain principle of anekānt.
• Specific Rituals and Practices: The text also addresses specific ritualistic practices such as the number of Navkars recited at certain points, the use of muhapaṭṭi (mouth cloth), the correct way of performing pratikramaṇa (confession/repentance), and the use of religious implements like rājoharaṇa (broom-like cloth) and kaṭāsaṇa (mat).
• Focus on Intent and Conduct: The author emphasizes that the true essence of Jainism lies in virāgata (detachment) and the abandonment of rāga-dveṣa (passion and aversion), and any practice that leads towards these is not truly religious.

Author's Stance and Tone:

Buddhisagar Gani presents his arguments in a scholarly yet firm tone. While aiming for factual accuracy and scriptural grounding, he does not shy away from criticizing what he perceives as errors, bias, or intentional misrepresentations in the opposing text. His primary goal is to uphold the truth and the correct understanding of Jain principles and history.

Overall Significance:

"Prashnottar Chatvarinshat Shatak" serves as a significant response and counter-argument to a specific doctrinal dispute within the Svetambara Jain tradition. It aims to clarify historical and scriptural points that were allegedly misrepresented or attacked in the "Tapa-Kharatar Bhed" text. The book underscores the importance of rigorous scriptural research, historical accuracy, and objective analysis in understanding and practicing Jain Dharma. It also highlights the existence of different traditions and interpretations within Jainism, emphasizing the need for respectful dialogue and the pursuit of truth. The extensive list of scriptures cited suggests a deep engagement with Jain literature to address these differences.