Pravachansara Anushilan Part 2

This document is the second part of the commentary and analysis of the Jain text "Pravachanasara", titled "Pravachanasara Anushilan Part 2", authored by Hukamchand Bharilla and published by Todarmal Granthamala Jaipur. This work provides a detailed exposition of the original text, verse by verse, offering insights into the profound teachings of Jain philosophy.

The book, spanning from page 4 to page 474, is structured around the "Gyeyatatva Pragyapan Mahadhikar" (The Great Chapter on the Elucidation of the Knowable Essence) of the Pravachanasara, covering verses (Gathas) from 93 to 200. It delves into critical concepts of Jainism, including the nature of substances (dravya), their attributes (guna), and states of being (paryaya).

Key Themes and Concepts Discussed:

• The Nature of Reality (Dravya, Guna, Paryaya): The text extensively explains that all substances are composed of substance, attributes, and states of being. It elaborates on how these three aspects are intertwined, with substances being qualitative, substances being comprised of substance, and states arising from both substance and attributes.
• The Distinction Between Self and Non-Self (Paramarha and Parasamaya): A significant portion of the text focuses on differentiating the true self (Paramarha) from external or perceived realities (Parasama). It explains how attachment to external states or perceptions leads to being termed 'Paramasamy' or 'Mithyadarshani' (one with wrong faith).
• The Concepts of Swasamaya and Parasama: The commentary meticulously explains the concepts of 'Swasamaya' (one's own true state) and 'Parasama' (external or deluded state). It highlights that attachment to transient states (paryaya) and external objects leads to delusion and suffering, while dwelling in one's inherent nature (Atmasvarupa) leads to liberation.
• The Nature of Substances (Dravya): The text defines 'Dravya' as that which, without abandoning its inherent nature, possesses origination (utpada), destruction (vyaya), and permanence (dhrauvya), along with attributes and states. It explores the two types of existence: Swarupastitva (inherent existence) and Sadrashyastitva (similar existence).
• The Nature of Existence (Astitva): The book differentiates between Swarupastitva (inherent existence) and Sadrashyastitva (existence due to similarity). It argues that while Swarupastitva is unique to each substance, Sadrashyastitva highlights the commonality of existence across all substances.
• The Concept of Substance and Its Qualities: The text elucidates that substances are characterized by their attributes, and these attributes, in turn, manifest as states. It emphasizes that the fundamental nature of a substance is inseparable from its attributes and states.
• The Principles of Syadvada and Anekantavada: The commentary implicitly and explicitly discusses the Jain philosophical framework of Syadvada (conditional predication) and Anekantavada (multi-perspectivism), particularly in the context of understanding the complex nature of reality.
• The Nature of Knowledge (Jnana) and the Knowable (Geya): The text distinguishes between the knower (jnata - the self) and the knowable (jeya - objects of knowledge). It clarifies that the self is the pure consciousness that knows, while all else is knowable.
• The Doctrine of Causality: The text explores the subtle interplay of causes and effects, particularly in the context of karma and its influence on transmigration and the manifestation of states. It distinguishes between direct causes (Pradhana Upadana) and indirect causes (Nimitta).
• The Soul's Journey (Atma): A central theme is the soul's journey from worldly bondage (samsara) towards liberation (moksha). This involves understanding the self, realizing its inherent purity, detaching from external substances and passions, and ultimately attaining the state of pure consciousness.
• The Role of Nayas (Perspectives): The commentary highlights the importance of understanding reality from different perspectives (nayas) to grasp the multifaceted nature of truth, particularly in differentiating between the absolute (Nishchaya) and the relative (Vyavahara).
• The Concept of Bandha (Bondage) and its Cessation: The book extensively explains the nature of bondage, its causes (primarily Moha-Raga-Dvesha), and the path to liberation through the cessation of these passions and the realization of the self's true nature.

Structure and Content:

The book systematically analyzes each Gatha from 93 to 200, providing the original Sanskrit/Prakrit verse, its Hindi translation, and the author's detailed commentary. The commentary draws upon established Jain scriptures and commentaries like Tatva Pradipika and Tātparyavṛtti, and also incorporates interpretations from revered Jain saints like Shri Kanji Swami. The author, Dr. Hukamchand Bharilla, is lauded for his scholarly depth and ability to explain complex philosophical concepts in a clear and accessible manner.

The author's prolific writing career, including over 7,000 pages of original material and 10,000 pages of edited work, is highlighted, showcasing his significant contribution to Jain literature. The popularity of his works, translated into multiple languages and with millions of copies distributed, is also mentioned. The text is interspersed with valuable quotes and explanations that illuminate the path of self-realization according to Jain teachings.

Overall Significance:

"Pravachanasara Anushilan Part 2" serves as an invaluable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of Jain philosophy, particularly the intricate teachings on the nature of the soul, karma, liberation, and the path to spiritual enlightenment as expounded in the Pravachanasara. It is a scholarly yet spiritually oriented work, aiming to guide readers towards self-awareness and spiritual welfare. The publication is a testament to the dedication of the Pandit Todarmal Smarak Trust in preserving and disseminating Jain knowledge.