Pratima Shatak Part 03

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Pratima Shatak Part 03" by Yashovijay Upadhyay, commented on by Pravinchandra Khimji Mota:

Overall Purpose and Context:

This book, "Pratima Shatak Part 03," is the third volume in a series that provides a detailed, verse-by-verse commentary (Shabdashah Vivechan) on the "Pratima Shatak," an original work by the revered Jain scholar Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj. This specific volume continues the meticulous analysis and clarification of the original text, aiming to elucidate its profound philosophical and devotional meanings within the Jain tradition. The commentary by Panditvarya Shri Pravinchandra Khimji Mota is highly regarded for its depth and adherence to Jain scriptures.

Key Themes and Content (Based on the provided pages):

The summary below is based on the content of the provided pages, focusing on the introductory sections, the table of contents (Anukramanika), and excerpts from the commentary.

1. Honoring the Author and Commentator:

   • The book is dedicated to the original author, Mahamahopadhyaya Shrimad Yashovijayji Maharaj, and the commentator, Panditvarya Shri Pravinchandra Khimji Mota.
   • It acknowledges the blessings and guidance of esteemed spiritual leaders like Acharyadevesh Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, Munipravar Shri Mohjitvijayji Maharaj, and the current scholar Acharya Shrimad Vijay Yugbhushan Surishwarji Maharaj.
   • Special mention is made of Sadhviji Chandanbalashri, disciple of Acharyadevesh Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj and Sadhviji Rohitashriji Maharaj, for her compilation and research efforts.

2. Publisher and Institution:

   • The publisher is Gitarth Ganga, operating from 'Shrutdevta Bhavan' in Ahmedabad.
   • The work is part of Gitarth Ganga's mission to reveal the secrets of Jain Shasan through various subjects.

3. Core Philosophy of Gitarth Ganga's Mission:

   • The introduction (Prakashakiy) emphasizes that merely attaining Jain Shasan is not enough; understanding its profound secrets through deep knowledge is crucial for liberation from suffering and sin.
   • Gitarth Ganga aims to collect, reconcile, and reveal hidden meanings from scattered scriptural verses on 108 primary and 10,008 subsidiary subjects.
   • The insights are often subtle and powerful, requiring careful digestion. Acharya Shrimad Vijay Yugbhushan Surishwarji Maharaj presents these secrets in accessible lectures, blending classical and modern perspectives.

4. Content of Pratima Shatak Part 03:

   • This volume focuses on verses 61 to 104 of the original Pratima Shatak.
   • A significant portion of the text (as per the Anukramanika) deals with the resolution of philosophical arguments and criticisms (Lumpakmat/Pratimalopak) regarding the worship of Jina images (Pratima Puja).
   • Key arguments and topics discussed in Part 03 include:
     • The analogy of the well (Koopdrishtanta) in relation to ritualistic worship (Dravya Stava) and the importance of devotion (Bhakti).
     • The invalidity of attributing divine essence (Brahma-mayi, etc.) to the idol itself, highlighting how devotion leads to perceiving the formless divine.
     • Refutation of the argument that Jina Puja leads to violence or is an "artha danda" (punishment in the form of wealth).
     • The authority of scriptures and logic in establishing the worshipability of Jina idols.
     • Detailed discussions on various scriptural passages (Agam-Prakaran Path) from texts like Suyagadaang, Aacharang, Upasakdashang, Aupapatika, Prashnavyakaran, Sthanang, Jnatadharmakatha, Kalpsutra, and Stava Parigyna to support the validity of Pratima Puja.
     • The inclusion of "Stava Parigyna," a significant treatise explaining Dravya Stava (external worship) and Bhava Stava (internal devotion), and how they lead to spiritual progress.
     • Discussions on the nature of devotion, the qualities of a true Sadhu, the essence of right faith (Samyaktva), and the systematic path to liberation.

5. Methodology of the Commentary:

   • The commentary follows a subject-wise order.
   • It meticulously explains the commentary (Tika), the meaning of the commentary (Tikarth), and provides further elucidation (Vishesharth).
   • The author notes that in Sanskrit texts, sometimes clarifications or elaborations are added for easier understanding, even if there's a slight repetition, to ensure the reader grasms the complete subject matter.
   • The commentary also addresses textual discrepancies, referencing available manuscripts for accuracy and providing notes where necessary.

6. Overall Goal:

   • The overarching goal of this work is to provide readers with a deep and accurate understanding of Jain principles, particularly concerning the significance and validity of idol worship (Pratima Puja) within Jainism, as expounded by the great acharyas.

In essence, "Pratima Shatak Part 03" is a scholarly and devotional work that delves into the intricate scriptural arguments and philosophical justifications for the worship of Jina idols in Jainism, emphasizing the role of devotion and correct understanding in the spiritual path.