Samattam

The provided text is a comprehensive Jain religious and scholarly work titled "Samattam" (Samyaktvam), authored by Bhanuben Satra and published by Ajaramar Jain Seva Sangh. This work is a doctoral dissertation (Mahāgranth) prepared for the University of Mumbai, focusing on the concept of Samyaktvam (Righteousness/Faith) in Jainism, based on the "Samakit-sar Ras" composed by the Jain poet Rishabhdas.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of the text:

1. Core Subject: The central theme of the book is "Samattam" or "Samyaktvam," a fundamental principle in Jainism. Samyaktvam refers to Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct, which are considered the gateway to liberation (Moksha). The book delves deeply into the meaning, importance, and practice of Samyaktvam.

2. Foundation and Structure:

• Inspiration: The dissertation is based on the 17th-century Jain poet Rishabhdas's seminal work "Samakit-sar Ras."
• Dissertation Format: It is structured as a PhD dissertation, indicating a rigorous academic and scholarly approach to the Jain concept of Samyaktvam.
• Academic Merit: The text highlights Bhanuben Satra's dedication and hard work in achieving a PhD on this topic, recognizing the significance of such research, especially from a community that might not traditionally be heavily involved in academic research.

3. Content and Scope: The book appears to cover a wide range of topics related to Samyaktvam and Jainism, as indicated by the chapter titles and introductory materials:

• Medieval Gujarati Literature and Jain Literature: The initial chapters likely contextualize Rishabhdas's work within the broader historical and literary landscape of medieval Gujarat and Jain literature.
• Poet Rishabhdas: A significant portion is dedicated to the life and literary contributions of Rishabhdas, a significant Jain poet from the medieval period, who represented the layman (Shravak) tradition in Jain literature.
• "Samakit-sar Ras" Analysis: The core of the work involves a detailed study, editing, and analysis of Rishabhdas's "Samakit-sar Ras," including its 45 chapters (Dhāls).
• Comparative Study: It includes a comparative study of Samyaktvam as discussed in Jain scriptures (Āgams) and other Jain literature, as well as in comparison with concepts in non-Jain philosophies (like Vedanta and Yogadarshana), highlighting both similarities and distinctions.
• Detailed Exposition of Samyaktvam: The text meticulously explains the concept of Samyaktvam through various lenses:
  • Sixteenfold Classification: This might refer to sixteen aspects or stages related to spiritual understanding.
  • Sixty-six Principles (Bols): A detailed explanation of the sixty-six principles associated with Samyaktvam is presented, likely derived from sources like Haribhadra Suri's "Samyaktva Saptati."
  • Five Types of Samyaktvam: The text categorizes Samyaktvam into five types: Upashamik (tranquil), Sāsvādan (taste of the fruit), Kshayopashamik (destructive-obstructive), Vedak (experiential), and Kshāyik (purely destructive).
  • Five Causes for Samyaktvam: Explains the contributing factors to acquiring Samyaktvam.
  • Six Āgār (Exceptions/Concessions): Discusses situations where certain deviations from strict religious practice might be permissible under specific conditions.
  • Eight Prabhavak (Influencers): Explains the eight types of individuals who contribute to the propagation and understanding of Jainism.
  • Five Bhūṣaṇ (Adornments/Qualities): Details the five essential qualities that adorn and sustain Samyaktvam.
  • Five Dūṣaṇ (Defects): Outlines the five vices or impurities that can corrupt or destroy Samyaktvam, such as skepticism, desire, disgust, ignorance, and bad company.
  • Mithyātva (False Belief): A thorough analysis of the five types of Mithyātva that act as obstacles to true Samyaktvam.
  • Nine Tattvas: The foundational principles of Jain philosophy are discussed, likely in relation to how they are understood and practiced through Samyaktvam.
  • Three Guptis and Five Samitis: These are crucial aspects of Jain conduct for monks and nuns, likely discussed in the context of maintaining Samyaktvam.
  • Panchāchār (Five Conducts): Jñānāchār (Right Knowledge), Darshanāchār (Right Faith), Chārithrāchār (Right Conduct), Tapāchār (Austerity), and Vīryāchār (Right Effort) are fundamental pillars of Jainism.
  • The Importance of Guru and Divine Beings: The text emphasizes the role of the Guru and the significance of devotion to Tirthankaras (Sudeval) as essential for realizing and maintaining Samyaktvam.
  • Karmic Law and Rebirth: The text likely touches upon the Jain concepts of Karma, rebirth, and the soul's journey, explaining how Samyaktvam influences these processes.
  • Influence of Jain Philosophy on Other Traditions: The book seems to explore the presence of similar ethical or spiritual principles in other Indian philosophical traditions, suggesting a comparative approach.
  • Practical Application of Samyaktvam: The text likely concludes with the practical relevance of Samyaktvam in daily life and its role in achieving spiritual liberation.

3. Key Contributors and Influences: The text acknowledges the contributions of several spiritual and academic figures:

• Rishabhdas: The poet whose work forms the basis of the study.
• Bhanuben Satra (Shah): The author of the dissertation.
• Dr. Abhay Doshi: The guiding professor from the Department of Gujarati, Mumbai University.
• Various Acharyas and Mahāsatīji's: Blessings and commendations from spiritual leaders of the Limdi Ajaramar Sampradaya, including Pu. Gurudev Shri Bhaskerjee Swami, Muni Aadarsh, Muni Bhaskerji Swami, Sadhvi Zarnakumari Mahasatiji, and others, are included, highlighting the reverence and support for the author's work.
• Satra Family: The Sōtra family, particularly Matushri Nanbai Virji Valji Satra, provided financial support, emphasizing the community's role in promoting Jain knowledge.

4. Significance and Contribution: The book represents a significant academic contribution to Jainology, specifically focusing on the philosophical and practical aspects of Samyaktvam. It aims to make this profound concept accessible to a wider audience through detailed explanation and relevant examples. The author's successful completion of a PhD on this topic is presented as an inspiration, particularly for women in the community, to pursue higher education and contribute to religious scholarship. The publication is presented as an effort to spread Jain knowledge and ensure the availability of such profound spiritual texts.

In essence, "Samattam" is a detailed scholarly work that meticulously examines the Jain concept of Samyaktvam, grounding its research in classical Jain literature while also seeking to present it in a way that is relevant and inspiring for contemporary readers.