Prashnottar Mohanmala

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Prashnottar Mohanmala" by Vijaydharmasuri, based on the provided pages:

Title: Prashnottar Mohanmala (A Garland of Questions and Answers)

Author: Acharya Dev Sri Vijaydharmasurisvarji Maharaj (with contributions from other esteemed Jaina scholars). The primary questioner was late Panyas Pravar Shri Khantivijayji Ganivarya, and the principal answerer was Jaina Acharya Shri Vijay Mohan Surishwarji Maharaj.

Publisher: Vijaykanakratnasuriji MS ( Published in Vikram Samvat 2044, corresponding to 1987 CE).

Overview:

Prashnottar Mohanmala is a compilation of questions posed by Jain scholars and practitioners and the detailed, authoritative answers provided by esteemed Jaina Acharyas. The book aims to clarify complex philosophical, doctrinal, and practical aspects of Jainism, offering solutions to doubts and promoting deeper understanding of the faith. The text is structured in a question-and-answer format, making it accessible for students, scholars, and lay followers.

Key Aspects and Content:

1. Compilation of Questions and Answers: The core of the book is the extensive collection of questions covering a vast range of topics within Jain philosophy and practice. These questions were raised by various individuals, including monks, nuns, and lay disciples, reflecting a genuine curiosity and desire for knowledge. The answers provided are rooted in the teachings of the Jinas and supported by references from numerous ancient Jaina scriptures.

2. Depth and Breadth of Topics: The questions and answers delve into a wide array of subjects, including:

   • Cosmology and Geography: Questions about the lifespan of figures like Bahubali, the nature of hellish beings, the reasoning behind the classification of realms (dandakas), and the specifics of celestial realms and their inhabitants.
   • Karma Theory: Detailed inquiries into the intricacies of karma, such as the nature of karma binding, its different types (bandha), the influence of passions (kashaya), the process of influx (ashrava), the stages of karma fruition (vipaka-udaya), and the mechanisms of karma mitigation (nirjara) through various means like penance (tapas).
   • Jaina Cosmology and Biology: Discussions on the creation of life, the stages of spiritual development, the characteristics of different types of beings (ekindriya, triyanch, human, divine), and the lifespan and rebirth of souls.
   • Practices and Rituals: Clarification on questions related to daily practices like fasting (upvas), dietary restrictions (abhakshya), the significance of rituals like fasting during Chaturmas, and the purity of actions.
   • Historical and Biographical Aspects: Inquiries about the lives and teachings of prominent figures like Tirthankaras, Vasudevas, and historical personalities, clarifying any discrepancies or doubts that might arise from different accounts.
   • Scriptural Interpretation: Questions regarding the size and content of specific scriptures like the Bhagavati Sutra, and the meaning of various terms and concepts within the Jaina canon.
   • Philosophical Nuances: Discussions on subtle points of Jain philosophy, such as the nature of soul, the cause and effect of actions, and the path to liberation.

3. Reference to Scriptures: A significant feature of the Prashnottar Mohanmala is the extensive citation of various Jaina scriptures to support the answers. The catalog at the end of the provided pages lists numerous authoritative texts like:

   • Aavashyak Churni and Niyukti
   • Dashashrut Skandh
   • Suryagadaang Vritti
   • Pannavanasutra
   • Karmagrantha
   • Shilanka's commentaries
   • Haribhadra Suri's works
   • Hemachandra Suri's historical and philosophical works
   • Bhagavati Sutra
   • Yoga Shastra
   • Tattvartha Sutra and its commentaries
   • Nishith Churni

4. Emphasis on Clarity and Accuracy: The compilation reflects a commitment to providing clear, accurate, and philosophically sound explanations. The answers are not merely superficial but aim to address the root of the questioner's doubt with scriptural backing and logical reasoning.

5. Purpose and Significance: The primary goal of Prashnottar Mohanmala is to serve as a resource for spiritual seekers, students, and scholars to deepen their understanding of Jainism. By addressing a wide range of questions, it aims to remove misconceptions, promote correct understanding of the doctrines, and ultimately aid individuals in their spiritual journey towards liberation. The dedication to reprinting this text, even when found in a damaged condition, highlights its perceived value and importance for the Jain community.

Structure (as inferred from the pages):

The text appears to be divided into sections, with the provided pages showcasing the "Pratham Shreni" (First Section) which contains 108 question-answer pairs. The subsequent pages indicate the beginning of the "Dwitiya Shreni" (Second Section), focusing on questions related to the Bhagavati Sutra, and then "Tritiya Shreni" (Third Section) which continues with further question-answer segments.

In essence, Prashnottar Mohanmala is a valuable encyclopedic work that serves as a repository of Jain knowledge, facilitating a more profound and comprehensive grasp of its rich philosophical and practical traditions.