Siri Bhuvalay

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the Jain text "Siri Bhuvalay," based on the provided Sanskrit and Kannada text excerpts.

Book Title: Siri Bhuvalay (also referred to as Siri Bhuvalay, Siri Bhuvala) Author(s): Bhuvalay Prakashan Samiti Delhi (The primary author is identified as Acharya Kumudendu) Publisher: Bhuvalay Prakashan Samiti, Delhi Source: https://jainqq.org/explore/090109/1

Overall Summary:

"Siri Bhuvalay" is an ancient and encyclopedic Jain text attributed to the Digambara Jain Acharya Kumudendu (also known as Kumudachandra). It is considered a monumental work that encompasses a vast range of knowledge, including linguistics, mathematics, astronomy, philosophy, the sciences, and the history of various religions and cultures. The text is written primarily in Kannada, with elements of Sanskrit and Prakrit, and is structured in a complex mathematical framework. Its publication in modern times was a significant undertaking, involving the efforts of scholars and patrons, and it is held in high regard within the Jain community for its depth and unique approach to knowledge.

Key Aspects and Content:

1. Author and Time:

   • Acharya Kumudendu (also called Kumudachandra) is identified as the author.
   • He was the spiritual preceptor of King Amoghavarsha, a ruler of the Rashtrakuta dynasty, who reigned around the 9th century CE. This places Kumudendu in the 8th or 9th century CE.
   • He was associated with the Senagana tradition and Nandi Giri.

2. Nature and Scope of the Text:

   • Mathematical Framework: The core of "Siri Bhuvalay" is its unique mathematical structure. It claims to encompass all languages (estimated at 718) and junior languages (700) within its intricate numerical and alphabetical encoding. The text uses a system of calculation and interlocking patterns (like "chakra bandha" or "hamsa bandha") to represent and derive various forms of knowledge. The concept of "Navaank" (nine-digit system) is central to its encoding.
   • Encyclopedic Knowledge: The text is described as containing comprehensive knowledge across diverse fields:
     • Linguistics: It claims to hold all languages, including ancient and modern, within its framework, showing how different languages can be derived from its core principles.
     • Mathematics & Astronomy: The text is deeply rooted in mathematical principles, using numerical calculations, patterns, and sequences to represent concepts. This includes intricate calculations related to time, space, and possibly the structure of the universe.
     • Philosophy & Religion: It delves into Jain philosophy, the nature of the soul, karma, liberation, and the teachings of the Tirthankaras. It also aims to explain and reconcile different philosophical and religious viewpoints, suggesting a universalist approach.
     • Sciences: The text reportedly contains information on various sciences, including aspects of medicine (Ayurveda), alchemy, the physical sciences (like the nature of elements), and possibly even early forms of physics and astronomy.
     • History & Culture: It touches upon the history of rulers, dynasties (like Rashtrakutas and Gangas), and cultural practices, offering insights into ancient Indian society.
   • Uniqueness: It is described as a unique and unparalleled text, distinct from other scriptures due to its mathematical basis and the vast range of knowledge it claims to contain.

3. The "Bhūvalaya" Concept:

   • The name itself, "Bhūvalaya," can be interpreted as "world-encompassing" or "world-circle," reflecting its ambition to integrate all knowledge. The mathematical structure is seen as mirroring the cosmos.
   • The text mentions the concept of "Navaank" (nine-digit system) as the fundamental basis for deriving all other knowledge, including languages and sciences.

4. Content Highlights from the Chapters (as revealed in the excerpts):

   • Chapter 1 (Mangal Prabhat): Begins with auspicious salutations, introducing the text and its purpose. It emphasizes the importance of knowledge and the pursuit of spiritual realization.
   • Chapter 2: Discusses the importance of ethical conduct, virtues, and the path to liberation. It also highlights the significance of divine symbols and representations like the "Vajra-vrisha-naracha" (a type of body formation) and the concept of celestial beings.
   • Chapter 3: Focuses on the ethical and spiritual practices of monks, including their daily routines, the importance of purity, and the path to spiritual enlightenment through tapas (penance). It elaborates on the concept of "gochari vrutti" (monks accepting alms without preference).
   • Chapter 4: Details the divine attributes and symbols associated with the Tirthankaras, particularly emphasizing their physical manifestations, celestial attendants, and the symbolic meaning of their attributes like the lion (vehicle) and the lotus. It also touches upon the concept of the "chakravarti" (universal monarch).
   • Chapter 5: Explores the vastness of languages and their mathematical encoding within the text. It discusses the origins and structure of various scripts and languages, including the complex system of "Navaank" and its relation to the formation of characters and words. It also touches upon the concept of "Moksha" (liberation) and the path to it.
   • Chapter 6: Continues the exploration of languages and the mathematical principles underlying them. It touches upon the concept of "bhava" (states of existence) and "bhava-bandha" (bondage of karma) and how they can be overcome through spiritual practice.
   • Chapter 7: Discusses the lineage of Tirthankaras and their historical context, mentioning figures like Rishabhadeva, Bahubali, and the importance of their teachings. It also elaborates on the divine attributes of Tirthankaras, including their physical perfection and the celestial phenomena associated with them.
   • Chapter 8: Focuses on the divine symbols and vehicles associated with Tirthankaras, such as the lion, elephant, horse, and the symbolic meaning of various celestial phenomena like the chhatra (umbrella) and chamara (fly-whisk). It delves into the mathematical calculations behind these symbols and their significance.
   • Chapter 9: Continues to explore the symbolic and mathematical representations of Tirthankara attributes and their connection to spiritual practices. It highlights the importance of "Ahimsa" (non-violence) and its role in spiritual growth. It also discusses the concept of "Prana-vayuv" (life-breath) and its significance in yogic practices.
   • Chapter 10: Explores the concept of "Navaank" (nine-digit system) and its application in various aspects of life, including spiritual attainment and understanding the universe. It details how this system is used to represent abstract concepts and derive knowledge.
   • Chapter 11: Discusses the importance of "Samyaktva" (right faith), "Samyakjnana" (right knowledge), and "Samyakcharitra" (right conduct) as the three jewels of Jainism, explaining how they lead to spiritual liberation. It also touches upon the concept of "Syadvada" (conditional predication) as a means of reconciling diverse viewpoints.
   • Chapter 12: Continues the discussion on the importance of the "Navaank" system and its role in understanding the spiritual path. It elaborates on the concept of "Ahimsa" and its significance in achieving liberation. It also highlights the interconnectedness of various elements in the universe and their symbolic representation in the text.
   • Chapter 13: Focuses on the ethical and spiritual practices of monks, including their daily routines, the importance of purity, and the path to spiritual enlightenment through tapas (penance). It elaborates on the concept of "gochari vrutti" (monks accepting alms without preference).
   • Chapter 14: Details the divine attributes and symbols associated with the Tirthankaras, such as the lion, elephant, horse, and the symbolic meaning of various celestial phenomena like the chhatra (umbrella) and chamara (fly-whisk). It delves into the mathematical calculations behind these symbols and their significance.

5. Publication and Rediscovery:

   • The text was rediscovered and brought to light in modern times through the efforts of scholars like Shri Yellappa Shastri and the patronage of individuals like Shri Yugal Kishore Birla.
   • Acharya Shri 108 Desh Bhushan Ji Maharaj played a crucial role in inspiring and overseeing the Hindi translation and publication of the text.
   • The publication faced challenges, including the unfortunate demise of Shri Yellappa Shastri.
   • The work has been partially digitized (microfilmed) and is housed in national archives. Efforts are underway for further translation and dissemination.

6. Dedication:

   • The first page of the published work dedicates the book to Shri Uchharangray Navalshankar Dhebar, the nominated elected president of the Akhil Bharatvarshiya Congress, in reverence and with the blessings of Acharya Shri 108 Desh Bhushan Maharaj.

Significance:

"Siri Bhuvalay" is regarded as a treasure trove of knowledge, offering a unique perspective on Jain philosophy, spirituality, and ancient Indian sciences. Its complex mathematical encoding and the integration of diverse knowledge systems make it a subject of ongoing scholarly research and admiration within the Jain tradition. The text emphasizes the interconnectedness of knowledge and the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation.