Sammatitarka Prakaranam Part 1

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sammatitarka Prakaranam Part 1" based on the provided pages, focusing on the content and context of the book'The Sammatitarka Prakaranam Part 1' is a foundational text in Jain philosophy and logic, authored by the esteemed Jain scholar Acharya Shrisiddhasena Divakarasuri. The text, particularly this first part focusing on the 'Prachin Vibhag' (Ancient Section), is a profound exploration of the principles of Jaina dialectics and epistemology.

The book is recognized for its importance in establishing the Jaina perspective on truth and reality, especially through its detailed exposition of the theory of 'Syadvada' (conditional predication) and 'Anekantavada' (non-one-sidedness or manifold aspects of reality).

Key aspects highlighted in the introductory pages include:

• Authorship and Lineage: The primary author is Acharya Shrisiddhasena Divakarasuri, described as a "Shrutakevali" (one who has comprehensive knowledge of scriptures) and a great philosophical luminary. The text is enriched with the commentary of Acharya Shrimad Abhayadevasuri, known as "Tarkapanchanana" (Lion of Logic), and mentions other commentators like Acharya Shri Haribhadrasuri and Pujya Mahamahopadhyay Shri Yashovijaygani. The compilation and editing were overseen by Acharya Shrivijaykeertiyashsurishvara.
• Purpose and Significance: The Sammatitarka Prakaranam is considered a crucial text for understanding the Jaina viewpoint on philosophical and logical debates. It aims to clarify the true nature of reality and the Jaina path to liberation, particularly by refuting opposing viewpoints and establishing the validity of Jaina principles. The introductory notes emphasize the goal of presenting such profound philosophical works to make them accessible for study.
• Content Focus (Part 1 - Prachin Vibhag): While the full scope of the Sammatitarka Prakaranam covers various philosophical arguments, this first part, focusing on the ancient section, likely delves into the fundamental principles of Jaina logic, the nature of reality (dravya), the theory of viewpoints (nayas), and the application of Syadvada to understand these concepts. The index (Anukramanika) provided reveals a detailed breakdown of the text into three kandas (sections), covering topics like:
  • Kanda 1 (Naya Kanda): Focuses on the fundamental Jaina concepts of Naya (viewpoints) and their classification (Dravyanayika and Paryayanayika), discussing their interrelationships and the nature of reality as understood through these Nayas. It also touches upon the concept of Saptabhangi (sevenfold predication).
  • Kanda 2 (Upayoga Kanda / Gyana Kanda): Deals with the nature of consciousness and knowledge (Upayoga), particularly the distinction between Darshana (perception) and Gyana (knowledge) in both the conditioned (Chhadmastha) and liberated (Kevali) states. It engages in debates about the simultaneous or sequential nature of these faculties.
  • Kanda 3 (Sheya Kanda): Explores the nature of reality itself, discussing concepts like cause and effect, the relationship between substance (dravya) and qualities (guna), and the ultimate reality. It likely continues the dialectical approach of establishing the Jaina viewpoint.
• Philosophical Depth: The text is described as having profound and serious meaning, despite its sweet and simple Prakrit language. It emphasizes the core Jaina principle of Anekantavada, arguing that deviations from or incomplete understandings of this principle lead to incorrect views (mithya darshana). The text aims to demonstrate the supremacy of Jaina philosophy by presenting logical arguments and refutations.
• Editorial Context: The publication is part of a series, "Pu. A. Shri Vijay Ramchandrasuri Smriti Sanskrit-Prakrit Granthamala," highlighting a commitment to preserving and disseminating classical Jain literature. The publisher, Sanmarg Prakashan, is recognized for its role in bringing such valuable texts to light.

In essence, 'Sammatitarka Prakaranam Part 1' is a cornerstone text for understanding Jaina logic and metaphysics, laying the groundwork for a nuanced comprehension of reality through the lens of Anekantavada and Syadvada, authored by a revered lineage of Jaina acharyas.