Shreesen Prashnasar Sangraha - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shreesen Prashnasar Sangraha" by Kumudsuri, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Shreesen Prashnasar Sangraha (also referred to as Sen Prashna) Author: Kumudsuri (with contributions and commentary by Pandita Shubavijaygani and Acharya Shri Vijaykumudsuri Shrishri) Publisher: Jain Gyanmandir, Linch Publication Year: Vikram Samvat 1996 (1940 CE), Samvat 2466

Overall Purpose and Content:

The "Shreesen Prashnasar Sangraha" is a compilation and commentary on the "Sen Prashna" (also known as "Senna Prashna" or "Sen Na Prashna"), a significant Jain text. The primary aim of this work is to present the profound philosophical and practical queries posed by various individuals within the Jain tradition, along with their insightful and authoritative answers. These questions and answers are rooted in the teachings of Lord Mahavir and the Jain Agamas, drawing upon the wisdom of past Acharyas and a deep understanding of Jain philosophy, grammar, logic, and tradition.

The book is a Gujarati translation and compilation of the original "Sen Prashna," making it accessible to a wider audience. It serves as a guide for spiritual seekers to understand the nuances of Jain principles and to strengthen their adherence to the path of liberation (Moksha Marg).

Key Aspects Highlighted in the Provided Pages:

Authorship and Lineage: The work is attributed to Acharya Shri Vijaykumudsuri, who compiled and provided commentary in Gujarati. It is noted that this compilation was undertaken at the behest of Pandita Shubavijaygani and inspired by the teachings of Paramguru Bhattarak Shri Vijayasen Surishwarji. A guru lineage chart is also provided, tracing the spiritual succession up to Acharya Shri Vijaykumudsuri.
Motivation for the Work: The motivation behind creating this Gujarati translation stemmed from a desire to make the profound knowledge within the "Sen Prashna" accessible to more people. A specific incident at Mehsana, where a shravak expressed a strong wish to hear the text, sparked the idea.
Methodology and Sources: The compilation and translation were based on the original "Sen Prashna" text printed by Shri Devchand Lalbhai Pustakeddhar Kund. Additionally, two handwritten copies were procured from the library of Shri Madhyam Upadhyaya Shri Yashovijayji for language purification and review. Master Halchands Thakarshi, the manager of Jain Gyanmandir, played a crucial role in the publication process.
Content of "Sen Prashna": The questions covered in "Sen Prashna" are diverse and span various aspects of Jain philosophy and practice. They primarily relate to:
- Dravyanuyog (Metaphysics): Questions about substances, their qualities, and modes.
- Charan Karananusuyog (Conduct and Practice): Queries related to the daily practices, rituals, and ethical codes of Jain monks and householders.
- Ganitanuyog (Mathematics/Cosmology): Questions concerning calculations, measurements, and cosmological details mentioned in Jain scriptures.
- Dharmakathanuyog (Narratives and Stories): Inquiries related to the lives and teachings of Tirthankaras, Acharyas, and other significant figures, as well as explanations of religious narratives.
Structure and Organization: The book is structured into "Ullasas" (sections), with the compiled questions and answers numbered sequentially. The author explains a numbering system where the first digit indicates the Ullas, the second the questioner, the third the number of questions by that questioner, and the fourth, the serial number of the question-answer.
Editorial and Review Process: The importance of language purification and review is emphasized, with particular mention of the scholars who assisted in ensuring the accuracy and clarity of the text.
Financial Support: The publication was made possible through the generous contributions of several devout Jains, whose names and amounts are listed, acknowledging their role in spreading Jain knowledge.
Historical Context and Philosophical Depth: The "Uplghat" (Introduction) provides a detailed historical context, discussing the influence of Jain Acharyas like Shri Hirvijaysurishwarji Maharaj and Shri Vijayasen Surishwarji Maharaj during periods of social and political change. It highlights their role in promoting Jain principles and their impact on society. The text also delves into various philosophical debates and interpretations, offering solutions based on Jain logic and tradition.
Focus on Scriptural Accuracy and Tradition: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to answering questions that clarify doubts about scriptural interpretations, traditional practices, and the correct adherence to Jain principles. It addresses potential misunderstandings and provides justifications based on established Jain literature and the lineage of Acharyas.
Social and Cultural Commentary: The latter part of the provided text, particularly the "Upodghat" and the detailed points in the "Upodghat" section, delves into a broader commentary on the state of Jain society, the challenges it faces, and suggestions for preserving its identity and teachings in the modern era. It touches upon topics like maintaining religious practices, the importance of scriptural study, the challenges posed by modern education and changing societal norms, and the need for strong leadership within the Jain community.

In essence, "Shreesen Prashnasar Sangraha" is a meticulously compiled and annotated work that serves as an authoritative repository of Jain knowledge, addressing a wide array of questions to guide individuals towards spiritual growth and adherence to the Jain way of life. It reflects the dedication of the Acharyas and scholars in preserving and disseminating the rich philosophical and practical heritage of Jainism.