Shabda Ratnakar

"Shabda Ratnakar" is a significant Jain text authored by Sadhusundar Gani, Hargovinddas Pandit, and Bechardas Doshi. Published by the Jain Shwetambar Sangh in Rangoon, Varanasi, it serves as a comprehensive lexicon and grammatical guide, meticulously compiled to preserve and disseminate Jain knowledge.

The text is structured into six "kandas" or sections, each dedicated to a specific category of words, facilitating a systematic understanding of Jain terminology. These sections are:

1. Ahrat Kand: This section focuses on words related to the Tirthankaras and other revered figures in Jainism, including their attributes, epithets, and associated concepts.
2. Dev Kand: This part deals with terms pertaining to the celestial beings, heavenly realms, and divine entities as described in Jain cosmology.
3. Manav Kand: This section comprises words related to human beings, their life stages, qualities, occupations, and societal aspects.
4. Tiryag Kand: This segment encompasses terms associated with animals, birds, and other living beings in the animal kingdom, as discussed in Jain scriptures.
5. Narak Kand: This part focuses on words related to hellish beings, infernal realms, and the punishments and experiences in the lower realms according to Jain philosophy.
6. Samanya Kand: This comprehensive section covers general vocabulary, grammatical terms, abstract concepts, and miscellaneous words that do not fit into the previous categories.

The compilation of "Shabda Ratnakar" reflects the authors' deep devotion to "Shrut-Gyan" (knowledge derived from scriptures) and their commitment to its preservation. The project was undertaken with financial assistance from the Jain Shwetambar Sangha of Rangoon and published with the support of Shah Harshchand Bhurabhai. The printing was carried out at the Art Printing Works in Benares City.

The preface highlights the scholarly background of the authors and their teachers, emphasizing their mastery of linguistic and scriptural knowledge. It mentions that Sadhusundar Gani was a disciple of Sadhukirti, who was a renowned scholar and teacher. The text itself is praised for its meticulous collection and arrangement of words, distinguishing it from other lexicons.

The "Shabda Ratnakar" is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in understanding the rich vocabulary and philosophical nuances of Jain literature. Its detailed index further enhances its utility, making it an accessible and indispensable tool for Jain studies. The text's revival and publication through initiatives like the "Aho Shrut Gyanam Granth Jirnyauddhar" project underscores its enduring importance in the preservation of Jain heritage.