Shatprabhutadi Sangraha - Book Summary

Based on the provided Jain text, here's a comprehensive summary in English:

Book Title: Shatprabhutadi Sangraha Author(s): Kundkundacharya, Pannalal Soni (Editor/Compiler) Publisher: Manikchand Digambar Jain Granthamala Samiti

Overview:

The "Shatprabhutadi Sangraha" is a compilation of foundational Jain philosophical and ethical works attributed to the revered Acharya Kundkundacharya. This particular collection, published by the Manikchand Digambar Jain Granthamala Samiti, includes six key Prabhritas (treatises), along with other important texts from Kundkundacharya's oeuvre. The text aims to present these spiritual teachings in a clear and accessible manner, with the compilation and editing done by Pt. Pannalal Soni.

Contents of the Collection:

As indicated in the "Prakaran-Suchi" (Table of Contents), the Sangraha includes the following works:

Darshanprabhutam (दर्शनप्राभृतं): This treatise focuses on Darshan (right faith or perception). It delves into the fundamental principles of Jainism, emphasizing the importance of correct belief as the basis for spiritual progress. It likely expounds on the nature of reality, the soul, and the path to liberation, all stemming from the correct viewpoint.
Charitraprabhutam (चारित्रप्राभृतं): This section deals with Charitra (right conduct or practice). It outlines the ethical guidelines and disciplined behavior required for a Jain monk or ascetic, highlighting how actions align with right faith and knowledge to achieve spiritual goals.
Sutraprabhutam (सूत्रप्राभृतं): This likely covers the scriptural or doctrinal aspects of Jainism. It might explain core Jain tenets, rules, and sayings, possibly drawing from or elaborating on the sacred Sutras of the Jain canon.
Bodhapraabhutam (बोधप्राभृतं): This treatise focuses on Bodha (wisdom or enlightenment). It would explain the path to acquiring spiritual knowledge, understanding the nature of the self and the universe, and the attainment of right wisdom leading to liberation.
Bhavapraabhutam (भावप्राभृतं): This section delves into Bhava (inner state or disposition). It emphasizes the importance of internal purity, virtuous thoughts, and the transformation of consciousness, which are crucial for spiritual realization, beyond mere external practices.
Mokshapraabhutam (मोक्षप्राभृतं): This is the concluding treatise in the Shatprabhuta series, focusing on Moksha (liberation). It would detail the ultimate goal of Jain spiritual practice – the soul's release from the cycle of birth and death and its attainment of eternal bliss and omniscience.

In addition to the Shatprabhuta (six treatises), the collection also includes:

Lingapraabhutam (लिंगप्राभृतं): This likely discusses the external symbols or attributes associated with the spiritual path, particularly the monastic order, perhaps focusing on the outward appearance and conduct that reflects inner purity.
Shilapraabhutam (शीलप्राभृतं): This treatise is dedicated to Shila (virtues or moral conduct). It would elaborate on the virtues that are essential for spiritual discipline, likely detailing ethical conduct and character development.
Ratnasaram (रयणसारः): This work, translated as "Essence of Jewels," is a well-known and highly regarded philosophical text by Kundkundacharya. It is renowned for its concise and profound explanations of Jain doctrines, emphasizing the core principles of right faith, knowledge, and conduct.
Dwadashanupekkha (द्वादश अनुप्रेक्षा): This refers to the "Twelve Reflections" or contemplations, which are a crucial part of Jain spiritual discipline. These reflections, such as impermanence, suffering, impurity, solitude, the world, and the self, are intended to cultivate detachment and spiritual insight.

About Acharya Kundkundacharya:

The preface provides significant background information on Acharya Kundkundacharya. He is described as the most famous and revered Acharya in the Digambar Jain tradition, with most later Acharyas tracing their lineage back to him. His writings are considered unparalleled in Jain literature. He was from a place called 'Kondakunda' in the Dravida country, hence the name 'Kondakunda', which Sanskritized to 'Kundkund'. He was also known as 'Elacharya'.

Dating of Kundkundacharya:

The preface discusses the scholarly debate regarding the exact period of Kundkundacharya's life. While some earlier accounts place him in the 1st century CE (based on connection with the Tamil epic 'Kural'), modern historical research, including the analysis of inscriptions from the Rashtrakuta period, suggests a later dating, possibly around the 3rd century CE or even later (around 585 CE based on Prof. K.B. Pathak's findings). The text acknowledges these differing views and presents the arguments, ultimately leaning towards a date around 450 CE (1977 VS) based on the compiler's research, which aligns with the publication date mentioned.

Significance of the Texts:

The collection highlights the profound spiritual and philosophical depth of Kundkundacharya's teachings. The emphasis on Darshan, Charitra, Bodha, Bhava, and Moksha as distinct yet interconnected aspects of the path to liberation underscores the comprehensive nature of Jain spirituality. The inclusion of texts like Ratnasaram and the Dwadashanupekkha indicates a focus on both core philosophical principles and practical meditative disciplines.

Editorial Note:

The publication acknowledges the efforts of Pt. Pannalal Soni in editing and revising the texts, utilizing various manuscripts obtained from different sources like the Lashkar Mandir Bhandar in Jaipur and the Bhandarkar Oriental Research Institute in Pune.

Overall, the "Shatprabhutadi Sangraha" is a valuable compilation that offers a deep dive into the essential teachings of Acharya Kundkundacharya, providing guidance on right faith, conduct, wisdom, inner state, and the ultimate goal of liberation in the Digambar Jain tradition.