Swarup Sambodhan Parishilan

This document is the beginning of a commentary and analysis of the Jain text "Swaroopa Sambodhana" (स्वरूप-संबोधन), attributed to the 7th-century Jain philosopher and logician Bhatt Akalankadeva. The commentary, titled "Swaroopa Sambodhana Parisheelana" (स्वरूप-संबोधन परिशीलन), is written by Acharya Vishuddhasagar and published by Mahavir Digambar Jain Parmarthik Sanstha.

Here's a breakdown of the key information presented in the provided pages:

1. The Original Text:

• Title: Swaroopa Sambodhana (स्वरूप-संबोधन)
• Author: Acharya Bhatta Akalankadeva (आचार्य भट्ट अकलंकदेव), a renowned logician and philosopher from the 7th century.
• Nature: Described as an spiritual (adhyatma-para) work, which also delves into the intricacies of logic and philosophy (Nyaya-shastra). It is noted for presenting complex philosophical arguments in a style accessible to a wider audience.

2. The Commentary:

• Title: Swaroopa Sambodhana Parisheelana (स्वरूप-संबोधन परिशीलन)
• Author/Commentator: Acharya Vishuddhasagar (आचार्य विशुद्धसागर).
• Publisher: Mahavir Digambar Jain Parmarthik Sanstha, Satna (Madhya Pradesh), India.
• Co-Publishers/Support: Azad Kumar Jain (Indore), Dr. Shital Chandra Jain (Jaipur), Dr. Shreyansh Kumar Jain (Baraut), Prof. Vrashabh Prasad Jain (Lucknow), and Shri Raman Mishra, Anand Kumar Jain.
• Objective: The primary goal of Acharya Vishuddhasagar's commentary is to simplify the profound and complex philosophical concepts of "Swaroopa Sambodhana," making them accessible to the common person. It aims to bridge the gap between the intricate logic and the spiritual essence of the original text. The commentary is described as a "boat" for those seeking to cross the ocean of Indian logic and spiritual philosophy.
• Style: The commentary is written in a simple, accessible, and engaging conversational style (pravachanaatmak shaili), making the profound spiritual teachings palatable.

3. The Authorship and Significance:

• The document highlights the significance of Acharya Bhatta Akalankadeva as a 7th-century scholar who resolved complex logical dilemmas while also deeply exploring spiritual themes.
• Acharya Vishuddhasagar is recognized for his exceptional ability to elucidate complex spiritual and philosophical topics in a clear and engaging manner, making his work valuable for spiritual seekers.
• The publication is presented as a significant contribution to Jain literature, making a profound classical text accessible to a broader audience.

4. Editorial and Publishing Details:

• The book is a first edition, published on Shruta Pancamii in 2009.
• It includes an ISBN, price, and contact details for the publishers.
• Various individuals and institutions are credited for their roles in editing, advising, and supporting the publication.

5. Content Overview (from various sections):

• Introduction: The book introduces "Swaroopa Sambodhana" as a 7th-century spiritual work by Acharya Bhatta Akalankadeva that blends logic and spirituality. The commentary aims to demystify the text for the general public.
• Endorsements/Blessings: The book includes blessings from other respected Jain Acharyas like Acharya Sanmati Sagar and Acharya Virag Sagar, highlighting the importance of the work and the commentator's contribution.
• Detailed Discourse on Logic and Jain Philosophy: Several sections delve into the nature of "Nyaya" (logic) in Indian philosophy, its evolution, and its connection to Jainism. It discusses the differences and similarities between Western logic and Indian Nyaya, particularly the Jain school of logic. The significance of Acharya Akalankadeva's contribution to establishing and developing Jain logic is emphasized.
• Analysis of "Swaroopa Sambodhana" Verses: The commentary systematically breaks down each verse (shloka) of "Swaroopa Sambodhana," providing the original Sanskrit text, its Hindi translation (anvayartha), and Acharya Vishuddhasagar's detailed explanation (parishilan). These explanations often include philosophical discussions, analogies, and clarifications of complex terms.
• Key Themes Explored: The commentary touches upon fundamental Jain philosophical concepts such as:
  • The nature of the soul (Atman)
  • The soul's relationship with consciousness (chetan) and non-consciousness (achetan)
  • The concept of bondage (bandha) and liberation (moksha)
  • The role of karma
  • The principles of Anekaanta (non-absolutism) and Syadvaada (conditional predication)
  • The importance of right faith (Samyakdarshan), right knowledge (Samyakgyan), and right conduct (Samyakcharitra) as the path to liberation.
  • The distinction between various types of knowledge and perception.
  • The nature of causality and the role of internal and external factors.
  • The importance of detachment (udaaseenta) and equanimity.
  • The critique of various philosophical schools and the establishment of Jain viewpoints.
• Biographical Information: The book includes a brief biography of Acharya Bhatta Akalankadeva, highlighting his intellectual prowess, his debates with Buddhist scholars, and his significant contributions to Jain logic. It also mentions the lineage of Acharyas, including Acharya Vishuddhasagar's guru, Acharya Vidhyasagar.
• Appendices: The book features several appendices, including:
  • A Hindi translation of the verses of "Swaroopa Sambodhana."
  • A glossary of important Jain philosophical and logical terms.
  • A bibliography of referenced works.
  • A list of patrons and supporters of the publication.

In essence, the document describes a scholarly and devotional effort to bring a classical Jain text on logic and spirituality to a wider audience through a detailed and accessible commentary. It emphasizes the intellectual depth of the original author and the spiritual insight of the commentator.