Supasnahachariyam Part 01

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Supasnahachariyam Part 01" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Supasnahachariyam Part 01 Author(s): Lakshmangani, Hiralal Shastri (Though the text mentions Lakshmana Gani as the author and Pandit Hargovind Das T. Sheth as the editor and Sanskrit translator, Hiralal Shastri might be associated with the series or a later edition). Publisher: Jaina Vividha Sàhitya Shâstra Mâlâ Office, Benares City Publication Year: A.D. 1918

Summary of the Content (Based on the provided pages, primarily the initial ones):

The text is identified as the first part of the Supasnahachariyam, authored by Lakshmana Gani. It has been edited with a Sanskrit translation by Pandit Hargovind Das T. Sheth, who was a Lecturer and Examiner in Sanskrit and Prakrit at Calcutta University and a recipient of the Nyaya-Vyakaranta title.

Key Points from the Initial Pages:

• Purpose and Context: The book is part of the "Jaina Vividha Sàhitya Shâstra Mâlâ" series, numbered as No. 4. The publication in Benares in 1918, priced at two rupees, indicates its availability to the public.
• Author's Intent (from pages 8-10 onwards): The beginning of the text (pages 8-10) features the author's invocation and preface.
  • The author expresses humility regarding their own limited intellect in undertaking the task of narrating the story of Suparshva, comparing themselves to a lame person trying to describe a grand mountain.
  • However, the author is motivated by the belief that contemplating the virtues of the Jinas helps souls to shed karmas, and this is the primary reason for their endeavor.
  • The author acknowledges that they are not seeking fame for their poetic skill but rather fulfilling a devotional purpose.
• Geographical Setting: The narrative begins by describing a beautiful and prosperous land.
  • A significant continent named Dhataki Shanda is introduced, surrounded by four oceans.
  • Within this continent, there is a region called Purva videha, characterized by abundance and prosperity.
  • A particularly renowned and well-protected city named Shubhankari is described. Its vast and high ramparts adorned with gems and golden pinnacles on Jain temples are highlighted, suggesting a prominent Jain presence and a city of great spiritual and material wealth. The city is protected by a strong ruler, Samarasimha.
• Literary Style: The text is written in Prakrit (Apabhramsa dialect), with the Sanskrit translation accompanying it, indicating a scholarly presentation aimed at making the original text accessible to a wider audience familiar with Sanskrit.
• Devotional Tone: The initial verses are filled with prayers and salutations to various Tirthankaras, particularly the Adinath Jinendra, and then specifically to Suparshva Jina, whom the author intends to glorify. The author also invokes the goddess of knowledge (Shruta Devi) and the Saraswati of Indrabhuti Gautomacharya.

Overall Impression:

The initial pages of "Supasnahachariyam Part 01" establish the text as a significant work of Jain literature, focusing on the life and deeds of Suparshva Jina. It is presented with scholarly dedication through its Sanskrit translation and is rooted in deep devotional reverence for the Tirthankaras. The narrative sets a grand stage in a prosperous and spiritually inclined land, hinting at the heroic and virtuous tales that are to follow. The author's humility and devotion are evident from the outset. The text is intended for private and personal use, as stated by Jain Education International.