Tattva Samucchaya

This document is a Jain text titled "Tattva Samucchaya" (तत्त्व - समुच्चय), compiled by Dr. Hiralal Jain and published by Bharat Jain Mahamandal, Wardha, in November 1952. The catalog link is provided as jainqq.org/explore/020812/1. It is intended for private and personal use only.

The book is a compilation of Prakrit verses (Gathas) related to Jain philosophy and conduct. It aims to present the core principles of Jainism in a concise and simple manner, addressing a perceived need for such a text, especially for students.

Key Features and Content:

• Compilation of Prakrit Gathas: The text collects verses from ancient Jain texts written in Prakrit.

• Inclusion from Both Sects: Verses are drawn from both Digambara and Shvetambara traditions, with clarifications provided where doctrinal differences exist.

• Hindi Translation: For those who do not understand Prakrit, a Hindi translation is provided for each verse.

• Educational Focus: The book includes a glossary, historical introductions to Jain texts and authors, and an introductory section on the development of Jainism and the importance of Prakrit language.

• Structured Content: The compilation is organized into sixteen lessons, covering a range of ethical, spiritual, and philosophical aspects of Jainism. The order of lessons progresses from descriptive and ethical topics to more theoretical discussions, preparing the reader's mind.

• Subject Matter: The content covers various aspects of Jain philosophy and practice, including:

  • Mangalacharana (Benedictory Verses)
  • Lok-Swaroop (Nature of the Universe)
  • Grihastha Dharma (Layperson's Conduct - Part 1 & 2)
  • Muni Dharma (Monastic Conduct - Part 1 & 2)
  • Dharmang (Pillars of Dharma)
  • Bhavana (Meditations/Contemplations)
  • Parishaha (Endurance of Hardships)
  • Six Substances, Seven Tattvas, Nine Padarthas (Substances, Truths, Categories)
  • Karma Prakriti (Nature of Karma)
  • Gunasthana (Stages of Spiritual Progress)
  • Margana-sthana (Paths of Investigation)
  • Dhyana (Meditation)
  • Syadvada (Doctrine of Conditionality)
  • Naya-vada (Doctrine of Standpoints)
  • Nikshetra (Classification)

• Academic Recognition: The book was accepted as a textbook by Nagpur University for its B.A. and M.A. courses.

• Publisher's Appreciation: The Bharat Jain Mahamandal expresses its gratitude to Dr. Hiralal Jain for his diligent work in creating this comprehensive resource.

• In Memory: The book is published as part of the Rajendra-Smriti Granth-Mala, established in memory of Rajendra, the eight-year-old son of Shri Rankaji.

In essence, "Tattva Samucchaya" is a valuable scholarly work that aims to make the fundamental teachings of Jainism accessible to a wider audience, particularly students, by presenting them in a structured, translated, and annotated format using ancient Prakrit verses. It serves as a bridge between the original Jain scriptures and modern learners, covering a broad spectrum of Jain philosophy and practice.