Prashnottar Prakash Part 02

This document is the second part of "Prashnottar Prakash" (Questions and Answers of Light) authored by Muni Shri Sagarachandraji Maharaj. The book was published by Gokaldas Mangaldas in Ahmedabad in VS 1989 (1932 CE).

The preface and introductory pages reveal the context and purpose of this publication. It appears that a prominent Jain personality, Sukh Lal Khubchand, publicly posed 25 questions to Muni Sagarachandraji in the "Veer Shasan" newspaper on May 13, 1932.

Muni Sagarachandraji felt it necessary to provide explanations to these questions to prevent public misunderstanding. He sent his detailed replies to the editor of "Veer Shasan" via registered post on July 13, 1932, requesting their prompt publication. However, after waiting for several issues and receiving no response, he sent a reminder on August 2, 1932, expressing concern that his explanations had not been published. He even arranged for a Jain brother from Khambhat to meet the editor in person.

During this meeting, the editor of "Veer Shasan" refused to publish the explanations, stating that they only publish content from one side and do not print opposing views. When suggested that the newspaper should at least publish a statement explaining this policy, the editor refused that as well.

It is in this context that "Prashnottar Prakash Part 02" was published. The author's intention was to present the answers to Sukh Lal Khubchand's questions to the Jain public, ensuring they were not left in the dark due to the newspaper's one-sided policy.

The book also acknowledges the financial support received from Chaudhary Shubhkarana of Nagor, facilitated by Chaudhary Kesharichand Pannalal, for its publication. The author encourages others to contribute to the propagation of Jain literature.

The subsequent pages contain the author's detailed answers to the 25 questions posed by Sukh Lal Khubchand. These questions and answers primarily revolve around historical and scriptural interpretations within Jainism, with a significant focus on the dates and practices related to Paryushana (the main Jain festival of repentance) and the role of historical figures like Acharya Kalikacharya and Devarddhigani. The author meticulously cites scriptures and commentaries to support his arguments, often refuting or clarifying the claims implied in the questions.

The text delves into specific points such as:

• The timeline of the commentator of the Nishith Sutra (Nishith Churnikar) in relation to Acharya Kalikacharya.
• The date of Paryushana (whether it was celebrated on the 4th or 5th of Bhadrapada month) and its historical evolution.
• The interpretation of specific scriptural terms like "vrutti" (tradition/practice) and their application in different contexts.
• The authority and interpretation of various Jain Acharyas and their commentaries.
• The concept of "Yugpradhan" (leader of an era) and the adherence to the teachings of such figures.

The author consistently defends his interpretations by referring to original scriptures and commentaries, arguing against selective quoting or misinterpretation. He emphasizes the importance of adherence to the original teachings of Lord Mahavir.

The book concludes with devotional verses and hymns dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras, particularly Parshvanath and Ajitnath, as well as a tribute to his Guru, Muni Sagarachandraji. It also includes a list of other available Jain books published by the same publisher.

In essence, "Prashnottar Prakash Part 02" is a scholarly and polemical work that addresses specific religious and historical debates within Jainism, presented in a question-and-answer format, driven by a desire for clear and accurate dissemination of Jain teachings in the face of what the author perceived as an unfair editorial stance.