Shastra Sandesh Mala Part 05 - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of "Shastra Sandesh Mala Part 05" by Vinayrakshitvijay, based on the provided catalog link and page content.

Book Title: Shastra Sandesh Mala Part 05 Author: VinayrakshitvijSujin Publisher: Shastra Sandesh Mala Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/004455/1

This volume, the fifth in the "Shastra Sandesh Mala" series, is a compilation of works by the esteemed Jain Acharya Shri Yashovijay Gani. It is specifically dedicated to his writings. The compilation is credited to the disciples of Acharya Shri Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji, namely Panyas Shri Bodhiratna Vijayji M.Sa. and his disciple Shrutilak Vijayji M.Sa., with the significant contribution of M.Shri Vijayratnavijayji M.Sa.

Key Information and Contents:

Compilation and Authorship: The series aims to present the profound philosophical and scriptural heritage of Jainism. This particular volume focuses on the prolific works of Acharya Shri Yashovijay Gani, a pivotal figure in Jain literature and philosophy. The specific compiler is M.Shri Vijayratnavijayji M.Sa., under the guidance of Panyas Shri Bodhiratna Vijayji M.Sa., who is a disciple of the renowned Acharya Shri Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji.
Content Overview: The book contains a collection of 20 works, including several by Acharya Shri Haribhadrasurishwarji M.Sa. and the aforementioned Acharya Shri Yashovijayji M.Sa. The remaining 13 books are subject-wise compilations of commentaries and treatises by various authors.
Editorial Rigor: A significant emphasis has been placed on the accuracy and purity of the texts. The venerated Acharyas and scholars listed have undertaken the task of reviewing and authenticating each book. Notably, Pandit Shri Ratibhai Chimanlal Doshi, a respected figure among Jain scholars, meticulously checked the entire content of the 20 volumes.
Contributors and Support: The publication of this series, particularly parts 1 to 20, has been made possible through the generous financial support from the "Gyan Dravya" (knowledge fund) of the Shri Surat Tapgachh Ratnatrayi Aradhak Sangh. The text acknowledges their invaluable contribution and expresses gratitude.
Printing and Production: The typesetting was handled by Payal Printers (Radhanpur) and Shriji Graphics (Ahmedabad). Shivkrupa Offset Printers (Ahmedabad) managed the printing, title printing, and binding with great care.
Featured Works (as per Table of Contents on Page 8-9): The volume includes a diverse range of philosophical, theological, and devotional texts, likely in Prakrit and Sanskrit. Some prominent titles include:
1. Gurutattvavinishchayaḥ (On the Principle of the Guru)
2. Bhasharahasyam (Mystery of Language)
3. Kupadrishtantavishadikaranaṁ (Clarification of the Well Analogy)
4. Dharmapariksha (Examination of Dharma)
5. Margaparishuddhiḥ (Purity of the Path)
6. Bandhetudayabhangaprakaranasaptigat [Dve Prakarane] (Treatise on the Causes and Effects of Bondage)
7. Jnāṇārṇavaḥ (Ocean of Knowledge)
8. Nayopadeshaḥ (Instruction on Nayavāda - Theory of Standpoints)
9. Adhyātmika Mataparikṣā (Examination of Spiritual Doctrines)
10. Aṣhṭādhaśhasīlaṅgāirahā (Possibly related to the 18 virtues or self-purification)
11. Shri Shankheshvara Parshvajinastotraṁ-1
12. Shri Shankheshvara Parshvastotram
13. Shri Goḍīpārśvastavanaṁ
14. Vāṇārasyāṁ Kṛtaṁ Shri Pārśvanāthastotraṁ (Stotra of Shri Parshvanath composed in Varanasi)
15. Shri Shankheshvara Parshvanāthastotraṁ-2
16. Shri Shankheshvara Parshvanāthastotraṁ-3
17. Shri Anekāntavyavasthāprakaraṇasya Maṅgalapraśhastī (Auspicious invocation for the treatise on Anekānta)
18. Shri Puṇḍarīkatīrthapatistoṭram (Stotra of Shri Pundarika, Lord of the Tirtha)
19. Ainḍrastutayaḥ (Hymns of Indra)
20. Siddhaṣahasranāmakoshaḥ (Treasury of a Thousand Names of Siddhas)
21. Ārṣabhīya Charita Mahākāvya (Epic Life of Rishabhadeva)
22. Vijayollāsa Mahākāvya (Epic of Joy of Victory)
23. Vijayaprabhasurī Swādhyāyaḥ (Contemplation on Vijayaprabhasuri)
24. Vijayaprabha Kṣamāṇaka Vijñapti (Request for Forgiveness related to Vijayaprabha)
25. Nyāya Khaṇḍakhādya AparaNāmā Mahāvīrastavaḥ (A portion of Nyāya Khaṇḍakhādya, also known as the Stotra of Mahavira)
26. Paramajyotiḥ Pañcaviṁśhatikā (Twenty-five verses on the Supreme Light)
27. Paramātma Pañcaviṁśhatikā (Twenty-five verses on the Supreme Soul)
28. Pariśhiṣṭa-1 (Appendix-1)
Key Themes and Philosophical Content:
- Gurutattva Vinishchayaḥ: The beginning of the text, particularly pages 10-13, delves into the significance of a Guru, emphasizing devotion, the attainment of eightfold siddhis through the Guru's grace, and the transformative power of spiritual guidance. It discusses the importance of both conventional (Vyavahar) and ultimate (Nishchaya) truths and practices in spiritual progress. Citing verses from sacred texts like the Mahānishīth, it highlights the concept of the Guru as the embodiment of the highest truth and the necessity of following their teachings. The text also touches upon the distinction between the Guru in name and the Guru in substance, emphasizing the importance of pure conduct and devotion.
- Nayavada: The text extensively explores the principles of Nayavada (theory of standpoints), particularly in the context of understanding scriptures and reality. It highlights the relationship between conventional truth (Vyavahar Naya) and ultimate truth (Nishchaya Naya), emphasizing that both are essential for spiritual realization. The importance of interpreting scriptures in accordance with these nayas is stressed to avoid misunderstandings and attain correct knowledge.
- Conduct and Discipline (Charitra): Several sections, particularly pages 11-25 and 30-38, focus on the intricacies of Jain conduct (Charitra), including the observance of vows (Sila), the importance of purity in actions, the role of penance (Prāyashchitta), and the proper understanding of scriptural injunctions. It discusses the different types of conduct, the consequences of transgressions, and the path to purification. The text also touches upon the nuances of monastic discipline, the importance of right association, and the dangers of falling prey to worldly temptations.
- Spiritual Practice (Sadhana): The text highlights the significance of Swadhyaya (self-study) for ascetics, equating it to the path of spiritual transformation. It emphasizes that a sadhu without swadhyaya wanders aimlessly like a ghost, whereas one engaged in it becomes divine. The importance of Anupreksha (deep contemplation) after study is also stressed for internalizing the teachings.
- Theological and Philosophical Debates: The works of Acharya Yashovijayji often engage with other philosophical schools, as indicated by titles like "Adhyatmika Matapariksha" (Examination of Spiritual Doctrines) and "Dharmapariksha" (Examination of Dharma). These sections likely contain critical analysis and refutation of non-Jain views, upholding the Jain perspective.
- Stotras and Devotional Works: The inclusion of numerous stotras (hymns) dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras, particularly Parshvanath, indicates a significant devotional aspect within the compilation. These hymns express praise, devotion, and seek spiritual blessings.
- Etiquette and Practical Guidance: Titles like "Margaparishuddhih" (Purity of the Path) suggest practical guidance on conduct, etiquette, and the proper way to navigate spiritual and worldly life. The discussions on various types of speech (Bhasha) also fall under this category.

Overall Significance:

"Shastra Sandesh Mala Part 05" serves as a valuable repository of Jain philosophical and practical teachings, primarily stemming from the extensive scholarship of Acharya Shri Yashovijay Gani. The meticulous compilation and review process underscore the commitment to preserving and disseminating these vital texts with accuracy. The volume offers insights into core Jain doctrines, monastic discipline, ethical conduct, and devotional practices, making it a significant resource for scholars, practitioners, and anyone interested in delving deeper into Jain philosophy.