Siddhahem Shabdanushasan Ane Malaygirishabdanushasan

This document, "Siddhahem Shabdanushasan ane Malaygirishabdanushasan" by Jaydev M. Shukla, is a detailed exploration of two significant Jain grammatical traditions and the influential scholars behind them. The author begins by highlighting the profound importance of grammar in the development of Indian classical literature, tracing its origins back to the Vedic period and noting its continuous evolution over centuries.

The text delves into the foundational figures of Indian grammar, mentioning scholars like Yaska, Panini, and Apishali, and discussing the structure of their grammatical works. It emphasizes the meticulous research, extensive scope, and scientific methodology evident in ancient Indian grammatical texts, which remain unparalleled in global classical literature.

The article then shifts focus to the Jain grammatical tradition, acknowledging its own lineage of scholars and grammatical treatises. It highlights Jainendra Shabdanushasan by Acharya Dev Nandana, considered the oldest Jain grammatical text, and discusses its structure and its reliance on earlier grammarians like Panini, Katyayana, Patanjali, and Chandrananda. The influence of Panini's grammar on both Buddhist and Jain traditions is noted, with examples illustrating how his rules and terminology were adopted and adapted.

A significant portion of the text is dedicated to Hemachandracharya's Siddhahem Shabdanushasan. The author explains that this monumental work was created at the behest of the Solanki king Siddharaj Jaysinh in 1143 CE. Siddhahem Shabdanushasan is presented as a comprehensive grammar that covers all aspects of Sanskrit, including rules, noun and verb roots, undecisive derivations (Unadi), and gender rules (Lingānushāsan). The text also mentions the various commentaries and critiques associated with Siddhahem, underscoring its influence on subsequent Jain literature.

The article then introduces Malayagiri's Shabdanushasan, also referred to as Mushtivyākaraṇa. This work, dating to 1177 CE, is attributed to Malayagiri, known for his commentaries on Jain Agamas. The author notes that while Malayagiri's grammar shows the influence of Hemachandra's work, it also reflects his engagement with the traditions of Chandrananda and Shakatayana. Malayagiri's grammar is characterized by its structured approach to parts of speech like sandhi, nama (nouns), akhyata (verbs), krdanta (verb derivatives), and taddhita (adjectives). The author acknowledges that Malayagiri's contribution to Jain grammar is relatively less prominent compared to Hemachandra.

The latter part of the document focuses on the scholarly work of Pandit Bechardas Doshi, particularly his critical edition of Malayagiri's Shabdanushasan. The author details Panditji's lifelong dedication to studying Siddhahem Shabdanushasan and his extensive knowledge of its various texts. Panditji's edition of Malayagiri's work is lauded for its meticulous approach to text purification, reconstruction of fragmented manuscripts, and comparative analysis with earlier grammars. The article highlights the detailed preface, comparative appendices, and index of grammatical rules provided by Panditji, which significantly contribute to the scholarly value of the publication.

The text also touches upon Panditji's translations and commentaries on Siddhahem Shabdanushasan, noting his effort to make the grammar accessible to a wider audience. The author suggests further research and publications related to Jain grammars, including lexicons of specialized Jain Sanskrit vocabulary and comparative studies of earlier grammarians.

In essence, the document provides a scholarly overview of the evolution and significance of Jain grammatical traditions, with a particular emphasis on the seminal contributions of Hemachandracharya and the critical scholarship of Pandit Bechardas Doshi on Malayagiri's work. It showcases the deep engagement with linguistic analysis within Jainism and highlights the efforts to preserve and promote this rich intellectual heritage.