Scope Of Research In Jain Studies

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided text from "Scope of Research in Jain Studies" by Jagdishchandra Jain:

The text begins by emphasizing humanity's inherent nature as a seeker and investigator, driving the foundation of research. This is illustrated through examples from ancient Vedic Aryans grappling with natural phenomena and early humans developing tools like the potter's wheel. The author highlights that research requires a commitment to truth, objective thinking, and logical deduction, rather than emotional attachment to beliefs. Jain scholar Haribhadrasuri's quote underscores the importance of allowing intellect to follow reason, even if it challenges preconceived notions.

The author then shifts to the significant contributions of foreign scholars, particularly from Germany, in the field of Jain and Prakrit studies. This section details the work of several key figures:

• F.M. Maxmuller: A prominent figure in Comparative Religion, Maxmuller edited the "Sacred Books of the East" series, which included important Indian texts. His lectures in England, published as "India What It Can Teach Us," aimed to instill an appreciation for Indian culture in young English men serving in India, countering their prejudiced views. This spurred the establishment of Indology chairs in several German universities.

• Hermann Jacobi: Considered a pioneer in Jain and Prakrit studies, Jacobi, a student of A. Weber, was the first to establish Jainism's independence from and antiquity relative to Buddhism. His trip to India in search of Jain manuscripts led to his translation of important Jain Sutras for the S.B.E. series and his monumental work, "Ausgewaehlte Erzaehlungen in Maharashtri." He was honored with the title "Jain Darshan Divakar" and his influence was such that a bronze plaque in his honor is preserved at the University of Kiel.

• Richard Pischel: Specialized in Prakrit studies, Pischel authored "Grammatik der Prakrit-Sprachen," a foundational work that had to be based on handwritten manuscripts. His work was later translated into English and Hindi. Despite reaching India to lecture, he unfortunately passed away due to ear trouble.

The text also mentions other significant German Jain scholars like E. Leumann, W. Schubring, Johannes Hertel, Helmuth von Glasenapp, L. Alsdorf, and K. Bruhn, many of whom made substantial contributions without necessarily visiting India, the land of their academic interest.

The author, Dr. Jagdishchandra Jain, recounts his own experience as a research scholar and teacher at the University of Kiel, where he interacted with some of these scholars and observed their independent research methodologies, often supported by excellent facilities and libraries. He specifically highlights L. Alsdorf, who succeeded his guru Schubring and made extensive tours in India, interacting with Jain scholars like Muni Shri Punyavijaya Maharaj. Alsdorf's fascination with the Vasudevahindi led him to present a scholarly paper on it at an International Oriental Congress. Dr. Jain's own work, "The Vasudevahindi--An Authentic Jain Version of the Brhatkatha," published in 1977, is presented as a follow-up to Alsdorf's interest.

Finally, the text concludes by emphasizing the vast scope for research in Jain Studies and Prakrit. It calls for diligent work to understand the conditions under which the principle of Ahimsa became central to Mahavira's teachings and how it can be applied to foster peace and harmony in the present world.