Sagar Jain Vidya Bharti Part 4

This document is the fourth volume of the "Sāgara Jaina-Vidyā Bhārati" series, a collection of research articles by Prof. Sagarmal Jain. Published in 2001 by Parshvanatha Shodhpith in Varanasi, this volume, like its predecessors, aims to present serious scholarly work on various aspects of Jainology.

The "Prakāshakīya" (Foreword) section, written by Bhupendra Nath Jain, Secretary of Parshvanatha Vidyapitha, highlights the significance of Prof. Sagarmal Jain's contributions to Jain studies. It mentions that Prof. Jain's writings are considered timeless and that this volume is a continuation of a planned series to compile his articles, with previous volumes published in 1993, 1995, and 1997. The foreword notes that this volume includes both previously published articles and new research, covering dimensions of Jain philosophy, history, and literature, and expresses hope that it will be useful for researchers and readers alike.

The "Vishayānukramaṇikā" (Table of Contents) lists 14 articles, including:

1. A Critical Study of Narratives Related to Bhadrabahu: This article likely examines the historical and legendary accounts surrounding the influential Jain monk Bhadrabahu, addressing the discrepancies and traditions within both Shvetambara and Digambara lineages.
2. Jaina Life Perspective of Acharya Ramachandra Suri as Presented in 'Kaumudi Mitrananda': This piece focuses on the philosophical and ethical insights of Acharya Ramachandra Suri, as reflected in his drama 'Kaumudi Mitrananda', particularly from a Jain perspective.
3. Angavijja and the Developmental Journey of the Namaskara Mahamantra: This article explores the Angavijja text and its connection to the evolution and significance of the fundamental Jain mantra, the Namaskara Mahamantra.
4. Jivasamaas: A Study: This likely delves into the Jaina concept of Jivasamaas, which pertains to the classification and states of souls.
5. Technique of Studying Jaina Knowledge: This article probably discusses methodologies and approaches for effectively studying Jain scriptures and philosophy.
6. Kashaymukti: Kilmukti-reva (Freedom from Passions is indeed Liberation): This essay likely explores the Jain path to liberation through the conquest of passions (Kashayas).
7. Gems of Self-Study: This article probably offers insights or practical advice on the importance and practice of self-study in Jain tradition.
8. An Introduction to Acharya Haribhadra's Shravakdharmavidhiprakarana: This provides an introduction to a work by Acharya Haribhadra that details the conduct and duties of a Jain householder (Shravaka), with a special focus on Right Faith (Samyaktva).
9. Swayambhu, the Great Poet of Apabhramsha: Personality and Works: This article focuses on the life and literary contributions of Swayambhu, a significant poet in the Apabhramsha language, particularly within the Jain literary tradition.
10. Kashi in the Jain Tradition: This essay examines the historical and religious significance of the city of Kashi (Varanasi) within the Jain tradition, including its connection to Tirthankaras and Jain monasticism.
11. The Question of the Usefulness of Punyam (Merit): This article likely discusses the role and value of merit or good deeds (Punya) in Jain spiritual practice and philosophy, addressing whether it is ultimately beneficial or a hindrance to liberation.
12. Introduction to Dr. Charlotte Krause: Her Life and Literature: This provides an overview of the life and scholarly work of Dr. Charlotte Krause, a notable Indologist and Jainologist.
13. Foreword: Aparigraha - The Humane Solution: This is a foreword, likely by Prof. Sagarmal Jain, discussing the Jain principle of non-possession (Aparigraha) as a solution to modern societal issues.
14. Spiritual Foundation of Jainism: This article explores the core spiritual principles and philosophical underpinnings of Jainism.

The volume is dedicated to the memory of the revered Jain scholar, late Pt. Dalsukhbhai Malavania.

The subsequent pages provide detailed summaries and discussions of several of these articles, offering in-depth analysis of their respective topics. For instance, there are detailed discussions on the narratives surrounding Bhadrabahu, Acharya Ramachandra Suri's life perspective, the evolution of the Namaskara Mahamantra, the Jivasamaas, the techniques of studying Jain knowledge, the concept of freedom from passions, the importance of self-study, Acharya Haribhadra's work on Shravaka Dharma, Swayambhu's life and works, Kashi in Jain tradition, the concept of Punya, Dr. Charlotte Krause's contributions, the principle of Aparigraha, and the spiritual foundation of Jainism. The summaries within the text provide nuanced arguments, historical context, and scholarly analysis, often engaging with different interpretations and traditions within Jainism.