Sanmatitarka Ane Tenu Mahattva - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Gujarati text, "Sanmatitarka ane Tenu Mahattva" (Sanmatitarka and its Importance) by Sukhlal Sanghavi, focusing on the key points and arguments presented in the text:

Book Title: Sanmatitarka ane Tenu Mahattva Author: Sukhlal Sanghavi Publisher: Z_Darshan_ane_Chintan_Part_2_004635.pdf

Core Argument and Introduction:

The text emphasizes the immense importance of the Sanmatitarka within Jain scripture and philosophy. It begins by highlighting the reverence for scripture (shrut) within the Jain community, attributing the preservation of Jain knowledge to this devotion. The author states that while much Jain scripture has been lost, the surviving portions are a testament to this devotion. The text aims to explain what Sanmatitarka is, why it is important, and its place in comparison to other Jain works.

The Name "Sanmatitarka":

The author clarifies that the correct name is likely "Sanmatitarka," not "Sammatitarka."
This is supported by the fact that Sanmati is listed as one of Lord Mahavir's names in the Dhananjaya Namamala.
Therefore, it is suggested that Acharya Siddhasen Divakar named his work Sanmatitarka after Lord Mahavir, implying that his arguments were not his own but the logic of Lord Mahavir himself.

Comparison with Pravachanasara:

The text draws a comparison between Sanmatitarka and Pravachanasara by Kundakundacharya, noting external similarities:

Language: Both are in Prakrit.
Structure: Both are divided into three parts (known as Kandas in Sanmatitarka and Shrutaskandhas in Pravachanasara).
Verse Form: Both are composed in verse, specifically the Arya meter.
Number of Verses: Sanmatitarka has 167 verses, while Pravachanasara has 275.

However, the text delves into significant internal differences:

Pravachanasara focuses on: Character, the distinction between direct and indirect knowledge from a Jain perspective, and the explanation of the Seven-fold Predicate (Saptabhangi) with a mention in passing. It also discusses the development of spiritual outcomes like good, bad, and pure results.
Sanmatitarka focuses on: The entire Kanda dedicated to the discussion of Nayas (standpoints/perspectives). It offers a full and detailed explanation of Saptabhangi, which is not touched upon in Pravachanasara. It presents a unique argument, not found elsewhere, that there is no difference between omniscience (Kevalajnana) and omnividence (Kevaladarshana). It critically examines all existing theories of knowledge up to its time. It describes the nature of soul (Jiva) from a Jain perspective, gently refuting opposing viewpoints.

Style of Presentation:

Pravachanasara style: Primarily follows the scriptural (Agamic) style, with a touch of logical reasoning. It often includes admonitions and preachings, creating a sense of listening to a sermon in a religious place.
Sanmatitarka style: Primarily uses a pure logical style. Acharya Siddhasen Divakar presents his ideas through sharp logic and rigorous intellectual scrutiny, without any trace of preaching.

Purpose of Composition:

The author identifies two main purposes for Siddhasen Divakar's Sanmatitarka:

To cultivate intellectual power and logical strength within the Jain monastic order: The text criticizes the state of the monastic community, which had become rigid and resistant to new interpretations, clinging to scriptural words rather than their essence. Siddhasen aimed to encourage deep thought, logical reasoning, and the development of wisdom to make Jain principles more expansive and adaptable.
To establish the fundamental principles of Jainism among scholars of non-Jain philosophies: Siddhasen wanted to present Jain tenets to a wider intellectual audience and provide cogent answers to critics of Jain philosophy. His analysis of Nayas and the systematic placement of various philosophical schools within the framework of Syadvada (the doctrine of manifold perspectives) clearly demonstrate this goal. He aimed to show the limitations of one-sided arguments and the profound significance of the Naya doctrine in philosophical discourse.

Comparison with Non-Jain Texts:

The text notes that Siddhasen Divakar's work shows the influence of studying various non-Jain philosophies:

Samkhya: Similarities in the logical presentation of subject matter are noted with Ishvarakrishna's Karikas.
Buddhism: Comparisons are made with Nagarjuna's Madhyamakakarika (Shunyavada) and Vasubandhu's Vishikha and Trishika (Vijnanavada), suggesting mutual influence.
Vaisheshika and Nyaya: The study of Vaisheshika Sutras and Nyaya Darshana particularly inspired Siddhasen. The primary similarity lies in the application of pure logical reasoning, despite differences in language and meter.

Influence and Legacy:

Siddhasen Divakar's influence extended beyond his own tradition, attracting the admiration of learned scholars from other Jain sects.
His work, Sanmatitarka, is described as having a profound impact, even influencing Digambara scholars like Jinachandra (first), Jinachandra Suri (second), Anantavijaya, and Laxmibhadr.
The text suggests that Akalank Bhatt's Laghiyastraya might be a reflection of Sanmatitarka.
Despite its importance, the author notes that Sanmatitarka has not achieved the widespread popularity of Pravachanasara. The reasons cited include its novel approach to explaining principles, which may have been difficult for the traditionalist elements to accept, and the overwhelming nature of its commentary (Abhayadeva's commentary is 25,000 verses long for a 167-verse text).
The lack of accessible translations into vernacular languages is also highlighted as a major factor in its limited reach.

The Commentary of Abhayadeva:

Abhayadeva Suri's commentary is presented as the sole accessible key to understanding Sanmatitarka.
This commentary is not merely an explanation but a vast independent work, incorporating a comprehensive discussion of various Indian philosophical topics up to the 9th century.
Abhayadeva's goal was to present all these discussions from a Jain perspective and establish the doctrine of Anekantavada.
His commentary is praised for its logical rigor, clear language, and its role in consolidating and synthesizing vast amounts of philosophical knowledge.

Gujarat's Contribution:

The text highlights Gujarat's significant role in the preservation, creation, and dissemination of Indian literature, including Jain works.

Gujarat's contribution in literature, art, and philosophy is presented as distinct and, in many aspects, superior to other regions.
The emphasis is on the intellectual prowess of Jain scholars from Gujarat who contributed significantly to philosophical and logical discourse.
The extensive library system in Gujarat is credited with preserving countless manuscripts, including multiple copies of Sanmatitarka, on paper and palm leaves.
The publication of the critical edition of Sanmatitarka by the Gujarat Puratatva Mandir, with the support of the Vidyapith, is praised as a significant endeavor to bring this important work to light.

The Need for Translation and Dissemination:

The author concludes by stressing the critical need for accessible translations of Sanmatitarka into Gujarati, Hindi, and other languages.

Just as Upanishads and Vedic scriptures have gained popularity through translations, Sanmatitarka can achieve a similar status.
Siddhasen Divakar's original intent was to make Jain literature as popular and accessible as Vedic and Buddhist literature.
The author believes that the time has come to overcome the limitations of this profound work and its scholarly apparatus through translation and critical editions.
True "knowledge worship" lies not just in venerating the texts themselves, but in reaching their "conscious soul" through understanding.

Examples of Siddhasen Divakar's Verses (from the Dwātrinśikās):

The text includes selections from Siddhasen's verses (from Vādopaniṣad, Vādadvātriṃśikā, and Nyāyadvātriṃśikā) that illustrate his profound devotion to Lord Mahavir, his sharp critical analysis of debate and philosophical systems, and his nuanced understanding of Jain principles like Anekantavada and karma. These verses showcase his intellectual brilliance, his critique of rigid adherence to scripture without understanding, and his deep respect for the teachings of the Tirthankaras.

In essence, "Sanmatitarka ane Tenu Mahattva" is a scholarly exploration of a seminal Jain text, highlighting its philosophical depth, its historical context, its comparison with other significant works, and its enduring relevance, while also lamenting its relative lack of widespread accessibility and advocating for its broader dissemination.