Sanmati Tirth Varshik Patrika - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Sanmati Tirth Varshik Patrika," authored by Nalini Joshi and published by Sanmati Tirth Prakashan Pune, based on the provided pages:

Overview of Sanmati Tirth and its Annual Journal

The document is the "Sanmati Tirth Varshik Patrika" (Sanmati Tirth Annual Journal) for the year 2012, marking its 11th year of publication. Sanmati Tirth is identified as a "Jainvidya Adhyapan evam Sanshodhan Sanstha" (Jain Studies Teaching and Research Institute) located in Pune, Maharashtra, India, registered in 1986. The institute has been dedicated to bringing various aspects of Jain knowledge to the academic sphere for over 25 years.

Key Activities and Publications of Sanmati Tirth

The journal highlights Sanmati Tirth's extensive engagement in promoting Jain studies. This includes:

Publication of Jain Literature: A comprehensive list of 27 publications is provided, covering a wide range of Jain scriptures, philosophical texts, historical accounts, and literary surveys in Prakrit and Jainology. These include works like "An Introduction to Ardhamagadhi," "Shrimad Rajchandra," "Tatvartha," various "Agam" (scriptural) courses (Acharyanga, Shrutaskandha, Sthananga, Samavayanga), and research papers.
Educational Programs: Sanmati Tirth offers various courses for different age groups and levels of study:
- For Adults:
  - Sequential Courses: Prakrit (5 years), Jainology (5 years).
  - Advanced Courses: Jain-Tattvaprakash, Tatvarthasutra, Patanjali Yoga Darshan, Shrimad Bhagavad Gita.
  - Agam Study Circles: Acharyanga, Shrutaskandha, Sthananga, Samavayanga, Bhagavati.
- For Children: Jainology (Prathama to Panchami), New Objective Course: Jainology Introduction (1 to 4).
Special Initiatives:
- Lectures: Organizing lecture series in various regions.
- Exams and Results: Conducting annual examinations, with the 2011-2012 results showing over 800 successful students.
- Teacher Training: Providing information and courses for teachers.
Academic Collaboration: Joint initiatives with the Jain Adhyasan at Pune University.

The 2012 Annual Journal: A Special Issue on Shrutaskandha (I)

The central theme of the 2012 issue is a special edition focused on Shrutaskandha (I) of the Shrutaskandha (the second Ang of the Jain Agamas). This issue is based on research papers and essays written by students of Sanmati Tirth.

Content of the Journal (Selected Highlights):

The journal features a detailed index of articles, providing insights into the diverse topics covered:

Focus on Shrutaskandha (I) - Diverse Dimensions:
- Student Research Papers: The core of the issue comprises approximately 70 short research papers written by students who have studied Ardhamagadhi Agamas throughout the year. These papers are presented after selection and editorial refinement.
- Key Themes Explored in Student Papers:
  - "Stri Parigna" (Womanhood/Female Conduct): A significant number of papers focus on this theme, analyzing its various aspects within the Shrutaskandha.
  - "Grantha" (Study): This theme, related to the discipline of study and the role of a teacher, is also well-represented.
  - "Dharma" (Dharma/Religion): Papers explore the concept of Dharma, including the five Mahavratas.
  - "Adaniya" (Worthy of Respect/Reverence): Studies on this aspect are also highlighted.
  - "Narak" (Hell): Papers discuss whether hell is a reality or a concept, examining contradictions within the study of its depiction.
  - Language and Interpretation: Some students explored the original meanings of specific words in Prakrit, and presented their thoughts through poetry.
  - Philosophical Analysis: An analysis of Shrutaskandha from the perspective of Shrimad Rajchandra is featured.
  - Social and Ethical Aspects: Discussions on ideals of teachers, the concept of "samavsaran" (assembly), and the essence of Shrut-Dharma are included.
- Specific Article Examples:
  - "Andha Vishayak Drushtant" (Blind Person Parables): An article by Kumudini Bhandari analyzes the use of parables of blind people in Shrutaskandha to represent ignorance and lack of spiritual vision, critically examining the Jain perspective on disability.
  - "Sur Mannai Appanam" (The Brave Ones): An article by Sumatilal Bhandari explores a verse from Shrutaskandha and its layered meanings, interpreting "sur" (brave) in relation to self-confidence, facing adversity, and the ego.
  - "Vad-Vivadh Sangam: Ek Sameeksha" (Debate Confluence: A Review): Shakuntala Chordiya reviews the debates and differing philosophical viewpoints discussed in Shrutaskandha, highlighting the Lord Mahavir's approach to addressing them.
  - "Jalasambandhi Vichar" (Water-Related Thoughts): Manisha Kulkarni compares Vedic and Jain perspectives on water and purity, critiquing the ritualistic use of water in Vedic traditions and emphasizing the Jain emphasis on internal purity and non-violence towards water-bodied organisms.
  - "Adarsh Adhyapak in 'Grantha' Study": Balchand Malu outlines the qualities of an ideal teacher based on the "Grantha" chapter of Shrutaskandha, emphasizing wisdom, pedagogical skills, and adherence to Syaadvada.
  - "Narak: Vastav Ya Sankalpana?" (Hell: Reality or Concept?): Sangita Munot argues for the reality of hell based on Jain scriptures and contrasts it with scientific limitations.
  - "Stri Parigna: Ek Pratikriya: Kya Bhagvan Aap Bhi!" (Womanhood Study: A Reaction: Lord, You Too!): Jyotsna Mutha expresses surprise and questions the portrayal of women in the "Stri Parigna" chapter of Shrutaskandha, highlighting the contributions of women in Jain history and questioning the perceived bias.
  - "Shrutaskandha ka Darshanik Vishleshan: Shrimad Rajchandra ke Anusar" (Philosophical Analysis of Shrutaskandha: According to Shrimad Rajchandra): Hansa Nahar analyzes Shrutaskandha's philosophical discourse through the lens of Shrimad Rajchandra's teachings, comparing various philosophical schools.
  - "Upasargaparigya mein Parshvasthon ka Stri-Sang Vishayak Drishtikon" (Viewpoint of Those Standing Aside Regarding Woman-Man Contact in Upasargaparigya): Arjun Nirvana examines the negative portrayal of women as obstacles (upasargas) in Shrutaskandha and critically analyzes the underlying attitudes.
  - "Paani Ki Ek Boond" (A Drop of Water): Chanda Samadadiya presents a poem from the perspective of a water droplet, highlighting its importance, the need for conservation, and the Jain reverence for life in water.
  - "Shrutaskandhatil Teen Shabdache Mul Arth" (Original Meanings of Three Words in Shrutaskandha): Chanda Samadadiya explores the original meanings of "Samavasaran," "Brahmacharya/Gurukulvas," and "Samayika" within the context of Shrutaskandha.
  - "Viratthui ke Antarang mein" (In the Inner Heart of Viratthui): Dr. Nalini Joshi's lecture discusses the "Viratthui" (Praise of Mahavir) chapter of Shrutaskandha, its historical context, and its significance as an early form of devotional poetry.
  - "Samavasaran: Ek Parishilan" (Samavasaran: A Review): Dr. Nalini Joshi examines the term "Samavasaran" as it appears in Shrutaskandha, contrasting the scholarly understanding of it as a place for philosophical debate with the later, more elaborate descriptions of a divine assembly.
  - "Shrutaskandha mein Shrut-Dharma": Dr. Nalini Joshi discusses the essence of Shrut-Dharma as presented in Shrutaskandha, emphasizing Ahimsa and the importance of understanding the true nature of Dharma.
  - "Shrutaskandha mein 'Gurukulvas' ek Adarsh Shiksha-Pranali": Dr. Nalini Joshi analyzes the concept of "Gurukulvas" (residential schooling) in Shrutaskandha as an ideal educational system.
Other Articles:
- "Bahaaradaar Vaktritva Spardha" (A Flourishing Elocution Competition): A report on an elocution competition organized by the Jain Adhyasan, Pune University, with the theme "Proudly Say, We Are Jain."
- "Jain Adhyasan: Bhaktamara-Stotra Adhyayan Upakram" (Jain Studies: Bhaktamara Stotra Study Program): A report on a study program focusing on the Bhaktamara Stotra, including lectures and student essay readings.
- "Jainvidya ke Vividh Aayaam" (Diverse Dimensions of Jain Studies): Dr. Nalini Joshi's address at Mahavir Jain Vidyalaya, outlining the multifaceted nature of Jainology, its historical significance, philosophical underpinnings, ethical principles, rich literature, artistic contributions, and comparative studies.
- "Shrikrishna: Ek Parakrami, Mutsaddi Tattvadnya" (Shri Krishna: A Valiant, Shrewd Philosopher): Dr. Sadanand More's lecture analyzing the complex personality of Lord Krishna from various perspectives, including Jain and Buddhist interpretations.
- "Sanmati Tirth ke Pariksha Parinaam 2012" (Sanmati Tirth's Examination Results 2012): A detailed list of successful students in various Jainology and Prakrit courses, along with their grades and study centers.
- "Shikshak evam Adhyapan Kendra" (Teachers and Teaching Centers): A list of teachers for Jainology and Prakrit, and a separate list of teachers for children's classes.

Underlying Philosophy and Mission

The journal and the activities of Sanmati Tirth reflect a commitment to:

Preserving and Propagating Jain Knowledge: Making ancient Jain scriptures and philosophies accessible to a wider audience through academic study and publication.
Promoting Critical Thinking: Encouraging students to engage with the texts, analyze them, and present their findings.
Bridging Tradition and Modernity: Connecting ancient Jain wisdom with contemporary issues and the intellectual curiosity of younger generations.
Holistic Education: Offering comprehensive educational programs that cater to intellectual, ethical, and spiritual development.
Community Engagement: Organizing events and competitions to foster a sense of pride and engagement within the Jain community.

In essence, the "Sanmati Tirth Varshik Patrika" serves as a testament to the vibrant academic and educational endeavors of Sanmati Tirth, highlighting their dedication to the study, research, and dissemination of Jain knowledge, particularly through a deep engagement with the foundational texts like the Shrutaskandha.