Shadavashyak Balavbodha

Summary of "Shadavashyak Balavbodh" by Merusundargani, Edited by Dr. Niranjana Shwetketu Vora

The book "Shadavashyak Balavbodh" (also transliterated as "Shatavashyak Balavbodh") is a scholarly edition and research of a Jain text by Merusundargani, edited and researched by Dr. Niranjana Shwetketu Vora. Published in 2006, this work focuses on explaining the six essential daily duties (Shadavashyak) prescribed in Jainism, making them accessible to a broader audience.

Key aspects of the book include:

• Author and Text: The original text, "Shadavashyak Balavbodh," was composed by Merusundargani in the 16th century. He created this "Balavbodh" (explanation for children or beginners) based on the "Avashyak Sutra" and a Balavbodh composed by Tarunprabh Suri. Merusundargani was a disciple of Vacanacharya Ratnamurtigan, who himself was a disciple of Jinachandrasuri of the Kharatar Gachchha. The composition date is noted as Vikram Samvat 1575 (1519 CE) on the 4th day of Shravan Sud.

• Editor and Research: Dr. Niranjana Shwetketu Vora, a specialist in Old Gujarati and Prakrit languages, meticulously studied a manuscript of Merusundargani's work housed at the L.D. Institute of Indology in Ahmedabad. Her editorial work involves deciphering the manuscript, presenting the complete text, and providing a critical analysis.

• Content and Structure:

  • Introduction: The book begins with an introduction that delves into the significance of the "Avashyak Sutra" in Jain Agam literature, mentioning earlier commentaries by scholars like Acharya Bhadrabahusuri, Acharya Jinvadrasuri, and Hemchandra.
  • Analytical Information: Dr. Vora provides analytical information about the "Shadavashyak Karma" (the six essential duties).
  • Critical Review: The book includes a critical exposition of Merusundargani's "Shadavashyak Balavbodh."
  • Core Text: The main body of the book is the edited text of Merusundargani's "Shadavashyak Balavbodh."
  • Appendices: The appendices are a significant feature, containing:
    • The original "Shadavashyak Sutra" text in Prakrit.
    • A Sanskrit translation (Chhaya) of the Sutra.
    • Devotional hymns and stotras related to the Shadavashyak Karma.
    • Illustrative stories (Drishtant Kathas) associated with the Shadavashyak.
    • A list of existing manuscripts of the "Shadavashyak Balavbodh."

• Significance of Balavbodh Literature: The preface highlights the importance of "Balavbodh" literature in medieval Gujarati literature. These texts aimed to simplify complex Sanskrit and Prakrit philosophical and religious works, making them understandable through the vernacular language. The book notes that "Balavbodh" compositions also covered a wide range of subjects beyond Jain philosophy, including prosody, rhetoric, yoga, Ayurveda, mathematics, astrology, physiognomy, and even tantric sciences.

• Merusundargani's Contribution: Merusundargani's "Shadavashyak Balavbodh" holds a special place in medieval Gujarati literature. Dr. Vora's scholarly editing and research are considered a significant contribution to the field of medieval Gujarati language and literature, especially given the scarcity of scholars adept at deciphering and studying old manuscripts. Merusundargani's work is noted for its detailed explanation of the six essential duties (Samayika, Stavana, Vandana, Pratikramana, Kayotsarga, and Pratyakhyana) and his unique approach, despite being influenced by earlier commentaries. His language is described as simple, fluent, and conversational, making the text accessible to seekers.

• The Six Essential Duties (Shadavashyak): The book systematically explains the six essential daily observances in Jainism:

  1. Samayika: Equanimity and meditation, abstaining from sinful activities and cultivating universal love.
  2. Stavana: Praise and adoration of the Tirthankaras and other enlightened beings.
  3. Vandana: Showing respect and humility to elders and spiritual guides.
  4. Pratikramana: Repentance and atonement for past wrongdoings.
  5. Kayotsarga: Renunciation of bodily attachment and self-control through meditation and posture.
  6. Pratyakhyana: Renunciation of specific actions, objects, or desires for a set period.

• Academic Value: The edition provides valuable insights into medieval Gujarati language, literature, and Jain religious practices. It is considered a vital resource for researchers and scholars in these fields. The preface also thanks various institutions and individuals who supported the publication, including the Gujarat Sahitya Akademi for financial assistance.

In essence, "Shadavashyak Balavbodh" by Merusundargani, as meticulously edited by Dr. Niranjana Vora, is a vital scholarly work that preserves and elucidates a significant Jain text, offering a comprehensive guide to the fundamental practices of Jainism in a historically and linguistically rich context.