Shantidevacharya Ane Adhyapaka Kaushamibiji

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on Shantidevacharya and Adhyapaka Kaushambiji:

The text is a discourse on the Buddhist scholar Shantidevacharya and the insights of Professor Kaushambiji, as presented by the author, Sukhlal Sanghavi.

Shantidevacharya:

• Identity and Era: Shantidevacharya is identified as a resident of Saurashtra, according to Tibetan historian Taranatha. While precise biographical details are scarce, he is estimated to have lived around the 7th century CE.
• Major Works: Sanghavi is familiar with two of Shantidevacharya's works:
  • Shiksha Samuccaya (Compendium of Instruction): This work is described as a rich compilation of quotations and references from numerous Mahayana Sanskrit texts. Sanghavi considers it evidence of Shantidevacharya's vast learning and his exceptional scholarship within the Mahayana tradition.
  • Bodhisattvacharyavatara (Introduction to the Path of Enlightenment): This is a metrical composition, with the commentary by Prajnakaramati being the only known printed edition. The work is structured into ten chapters and is characterized by its flowing Sanskrit verse. The commentary by Prajnakaramati is praised for its scholarly depth, significantly enhancing the work's importance.
• Key Philosophical and Ethical Contributions:
  • View on Meat Consumption for Monks: The text highlights Shantidevacharya's nuanced view on meat consumption within the Buddhist monastic community. While acknowledging the debate within Buddhist traditions (Theravada supporting it, some Mahayana opposing it), Shantidevacharya, in Shiksha Samuccaya, suggests that meat consumption could be permissible as an exception, like medicine, for a monk on an extraordinary path of meditation if it helps him avoid contamination. However, he asserts that generally, meat should be considered forbidden. This demonstrates his conciliatory approach.
  • Mahayana Philosophy and Universal Compassion: Shantidevacharya is presented as a proponent of the Mahayana ideal, which emphasizes seeking the liberation and well-being of all sentient beings, not just one's own spiritual advancement. He famously states that if beings are plunged in suffering and experiencing torment in hells, he has no need for nirvana. This underscores his commitment to universal compassion and the principle of equanimity, advocating for viewing all beings as oneself and striving for their happiness.
  • The Bodhisattva Ideal: His poetry in the Bodhisattvacharyavatara, though often associated with Buddhist figures like the Buddha and Bodhisattvas, is considered to have a universal, non-sectarian appeal. The work guides practitioners on developing virtues and living an evolving life, offering practical inspiration. The paramitas (perfections) described by Shantidevacharya are presented as achievements that any human can strive for.

Adhyapaka Kaushambiji:

• Connection to Buddhism and Peace: Professor Kaushambiji is described as a unique scholar of the Theravada Buddhist tradition and a profound scholar of Pali literature. However, Sanghavi notes a remarkable similarity between Kaushambiji's deep sense of compassion and peace and the very ideals espoused by Shantidevacharya. This resemblance led Kaushambiji to focus on the Bodhisattvacharyavatara.
• Translation Work: Kaushambiji translated the Bodhisattvacharyavatara into Marathi around 1909. Later, around 1924, he published excerpts of the work with Gujarati translations in the journal "Puratatva." The current publication is a new edition of these Gujarati translations, making them more accessible.
• Personal Relationship and Intellectual Collaboration: Sanghavi recounts his long-standing and deep association with Kaushambiji. Their interactions began in 1917 and continued through Kaushambiji's involvement with Gujarat Vidyapith. Sanghavi studied Buddhist scriptures under Kaushambiji, benefiting from his vast knowledge, keen historical and research perspective, and his forthright nature. They engaged in extensive discussions on Buddhist philosophy, comparing it with Jain and Vedic traditions. Kaushambiji's exceptional memory and intellect were evident during these sessions.
• Kaushambiji's Life and Struggle: The text touches upon Kaushambiji's life, highlighting his resilience in overcoming personal hardships and his dedication to scholarship. It mentions his writing of "Hindi Sanskriti aur Ahimsa" (Indian Culture and Non-violence) and the challenges faced in its publication due to its critical analysis of various traditions.
• The Fast and Determination: A significant portion details Kaushambiji's resolve to undertake a fast unto death in his later years, believing his life's work was complete. Despite the efforts of his friends and appeals from prominent figures like Gandhi, he remained steadfast in his decision. Ultimately, out of respect for Gandhi's plea, he broke his fast on the nineteenth day, though he had initially resolved to die by it.
• Final Years and Legacy: Kaushambiji spent his final days at Sevagram with Vinoba Bhave, where he received complete care. He entrusted Sanghavi with his two unpublished Marathi works, "Parshvanathacha Chaturyam Dharma" and "Bodhisattva Natak," ensuring their safekeeping. These works were later published and are considered valuable, with their Hindi and Gujarati translations being deemed essential. Kaushambiji's progeny are also described as talented and supportive.

Overall Significance:

The text emphasizes the enduring value of Mahayana principles, particularly compassion and the pursuit of universal well-being, as exemplified by Shantidevacharya. It highlights how these universal ideals have influenced various Indian traditions, including Jainism, as seen in the work of Haribhadra Suri. The author suggests that in the current era, where narrowness is detrimental, the expansive Mahayana spirit is crucial for both religion and society, finding resonance in the philosophies of Gandhi and Vinoba Bhave. The publication of these texts is seen as timely and significant for bringing these universal ethical and spiritual teachings to a wider audience.