Sukti Triveni Part 01 02 03

"Sukti Triveni" (The Confluence of Sayings) by Upadhyay Amarmuni, published by Sanmati Gyan Pith, Agra, is a comprehensive compilation of selected aphor9isms, wise sayings, and profound thoughts drawn from the vast literary treasures of Jain, Buddhist, and Vedic traditions. This monumental work, presented in three volumes with a total of 786 pages, aims to unify the spiritual and ethical teachings of these major Indian religions.

The book's inception is rooted in the author's desire to present a balanced and harmonious view of Indian spiritual heritage. Upadhyay Amarmuni, a renowned Jain scholar, undertook this task with meticulous research and deep contemplation, culling approximately four thousand selected aphorisms from about fifty ancient texts. The work is presented in Hindi with original Sanskrit or Prakrit verses followed by their Hindi translations, making the profound wisdom accessible to a wider audience.

Key Aspects and Themes:

• Harmony and Unity of Religions: The central theme of "Sukti Triveni" is the underlying unity and shared ideals found across Jainism, Buddhism, and Vedic traditions. It highlights how these seemingly distinct faiths converge on fundamental principles of ethics, spirituality, and the pursuit of ultimate truth and liberation. The title "Triveni" itself signifies the confluence of these three streams of wisdom.

• Comparative Study and Vision: The book is a pioneering effort in presenting a comparative study of these religious literatures through the lens of their aphorisms. It aims to broaden the reader's perspective, foster understanding, and strengthen their conviction in the shared pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and the unity of mankind, as emphasized by all three traditions.

• Content and Structure: The collection is systematically organized into three distinct streams:

  • Jain Dhara (Jain Tradition): This section draws from foundational Jain scriptures like the Achārāṅga Sūtra, Sūtr̥tāṅga Sūtra, Sthānāṅga Sūtra, Bhagavātī Sūtra, Daśavaikālika Sūtra, Uttarādhyayana Sūtra, as well as the works of eminent Jain āchāryas like Bhadrabāhu and Kundakunda. It also includes selections from commentary literature (Bhāṣya and Cūṇi). The aphorisms cover a wide range of ethical precepts, philosophical insights, and practical guidance for spiritual discipline, emphasizing themes like non-violence (ahiṁsā), self-control (saṁyama), non-attachment (aparigraha), and self-knowledge (ātmajñāna).
  • Bauddha Dhara (Buddhist Tradition): This section compiles teachings from important Buddhist texts such as the Dīgha Nikāya, Majjhima Nikāya, Saṁyutta Nikāya, Aṅguttara Nikāya, Dhammapada, Udāna, Jātakas, and Visuddhimagga. The selected sayings focus on the core Buddhist doctrines of impermanence (anicca), suffering (dukkha), non-self (anatta), the path to liberation through the Eightfold Path, mindfulness, compassion, and the elimination of desire and attachment.
  • Vaidika Dhara (Vedic Tradition): This extensive section draws from the Vedas (Ṛgveda, Yajurveda, Sāmaveda, Atharvaveda), Brāhmaṇa literature, Āraṇyaka literature, Upanishads, and also includes selections from the Rāmāyaṇa, Mahābhārata, and Manusmṛti. The aphorisms here encompass a broad spectrum of Vedic wisdom, including hymns glorifying various deities, philosophical discussions on the nature of reality, ethical guidelines for societal living, and paths to spiritual realization, emphasizing dharma, karma, righteousness, and the pursuit of ultimate reality.

• Author's Effort and Vision: The book represents the author's deep devotion to scholarship and spiritual sadhana. Despite advancing age and ill health, Upadhyay Amarmuni dedicated significant time and effort to this compilation. He intended this work not just as a collection of sayings but as a guide that could inspire readers to live a more meaningful and peaceful life. The author also expressed a desire for the Hindi translations to be easily accessible to the common people, thereby encouraging them to explore the original texts.

• Endorsements: The book has received high praise and commendation from prominent figures of that era, including Dr. Zakir Husain (President of India), V. V. Giri (Vice-President of India), Seth Govinddas (Member of Parliament), Kaka Kalelkar (a Gandhian scholar), and various religious leaders like Āchārya Anandarishi Ji Maharaj, Acharya Tulsi, and Muni Nathmal. These endorsements highlight the book'Gj cultural significance, its potential to foster national unity through spiritual understanding, and the author's commendable effort in bringing together such diverse yet harmonized wisdom.

In essence, "Sukti Triveni" is a treasure trove of ancient Indian wisdom, curated with scholarly precision and presented with the intention of illuminating the path towards spiritual enlightenment and harmonious living by showcasing the shared ethical and philosophical foundations of Jainism, Buddhism, and Vedic traditions. It serves as a beacon of unity and a testament to the enduring relevance of these timeless teachings.