Tattvanirnaya Prasada - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Tattvanirnaya Prasada" by Atmaramji Maharaj, based on the provided table of contents and introductory material:

Title: Tattvanirnaya Prasada (तत्त्वनिर्णयप्रासाद) Author: Shrimad Vijayanandasuri (Atmaramji Maharaj) Publisher: Amarchand P. Parmar Compilation/Editing: Muni Shri Vallabh Vijayji

Overall Purpose: The title "Tattvanirnaya Prasada" translates to "The Mansion of Determinining Truth." The book is a comprehensive work aiming to present Jain philosophy and principles in a clear, logical, and definitive manner, addressing various philosophical and theological questions, particularly in contrast to other Indian religious traditions. It seeks to provide a clear understanding of Jain truths (Tattvas) and guide the reader towards liberation.

Structure and Content: The book is remarkably extensive, spanning 880 pages in its complete edition. It is structured into 36 distinct "Stambhas" (Pillars or Sections), each delving into specific aspects of Jainism and related philosophies. The introductory sections highlight the book's richness, including:

Preamble (Prastavana): Setting the context for the book.
Introduction (Upo-dghata): Providing an overview and background.
Complete Biography of the Author (Granthakarta ka Sampurna Janma Charitra): Detailing the life and journey of Atmaramji Maharaj.
Numerous Pictures (Bahut si Tasviren/Chhabiyan): Illustrating the text.
Colorful Family Tree (Rangin Vansh Vriksha): Providing genealogical information.

Key Themes and Arguments Across the Stambhas:

The table of contents reveals a deep engagement with various philosophical concepts, with a particular focus on refuting non-Jain viewpoints and establishing the supremacy and antiquity of Jainism. Here's a breakdown of the major thematic pillars:

Pillar 1: Scholarly Examination of Jainism and Vedic Texts:
- Brief description of Prakrit language and its relation to Vedas.
- Addressing doubts and queries regarding Prakrit.
- Presenting Vedic descriptions as introductory glimpses.
Pillars 2 & 3: Critique of Deities and Non-Jain Doctrines:
- Detailed description of "Mahadeva" (Shiva) and other deities like Brahma and Vishnu, primarily from a Jain perspective, often highlighting their limitations compared to Jain Tirthankaras.
- Explaining the concept of "Syadvada" (The Jain doctrine of conditional predication) as the ultimate truth.
- Interpreting the "Dvavatrinshika" (Thirty-two verses) of Shri Hemchandracharya, explaining that Arhats (Jinas) embody the forms of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahadeva, but are distinct from the worldly versions who lack true knowledge and conduct leading to liberation.
- Discussions on the eight types of pratiharya (auspicious symbols) and the nature of Brahma etc. according to scriptures like "Bharthari."
- Extensive refutation of non-Jain philosophies (Ved, Bauddha, Sankhya, etc.) and their proponents, deeming their teachings akin to a "horse's horn" (something non-existent).
Pillars 4 & 5: Lokatattva Nirnaya (Analysis of Worldly Truths):
- Detailed analysis of the nature of deities, questioning the suitability of certain deities for worship based on their scriptural narratives (e.g., Brahma's head being cut, Vishnu's eye disease, Shiva's linga breaking, Surya's chariot, Agni being all-consuming, Chandra's blemish, Indra's thousand eyes).
- Presenting arguments for the superiority of Arhats.
- Critiquing the qualities and flaws that should and should not be present in divinely inspired scriptures.
- Extensive analysis of various creation theories: This is a significant portion, detailing and refuting creation myths from:
  - Srushtivadins (creationists)
  - Maheshwar Mat (Shaivism)
  - Vaisheshika
  - Kashyapa
  - Manu
  - Kapila (Samkhya)
  - Buddhism (Shakya)
  - Purushavada (Purusha as creator)
  - Daivavada (Destiny as creator)
  - Swabhavavada (Nature as creator)
  - Aksharavada (Akshara Brahman as creator)
  - Niyati-vada (Fate as creator)
  - Ahetuvada (Causeless creation)
  - Bhutavada (Element-based creation)
  - Aneka-vada (Multiple causes)
- The author systematically refutes these diverse creation theories, highlighting their internal contradictions and lack of logical consistency from a Jain perspective.
Pillars 6, 7, & 8: Vedic Cosmology and Its Critique:
- Detailed exposition of creation narratives from Manu Smriti and Rigveda, Yajurveda etc.
- Critical review of these Vedic creation accounts, analyzing concepts like anadi (without beginning), maya, brahma, and the cycle of srishti (creation) and pralaya (dissolution).
- Critique of the concept of "Ishvara's Will" in creation.
Pillar 9: Contradictions within the Vedas:
- Presenting examples of apparent contradictions and inconsistencies within Vedic texts themselves to argue against their divine origin.
Pillar 10: The Vedas are Not Divine (Purokta Vedon se Ved Ishvarokta Nahi Hain):
- This is a crucial section directly challenging the divine authorship of the Vedas. It likely uses examples from within the Vedas (like stories of Rishis, their personal hymns, or mythological narratives) to argue that they are human compositions, not the words of an omniscient being.
Pillar 11: The Intellectual Prowess of Jain Acharyas:
- Explaining the meaning of the Gayatri mantra from a Jain perspective, showcasing the depth of Jain philosophical understanding and intellectual capabilities of their scholars.
- Contrasting Jain interpretations with those of Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Samkhya, Vaishnava, Bauddha, and Jaimini schools.
Pillar 12: Critique of Interpretations by Sayana, Shankaracharya, Dayanand Saraswati:
- Analyzing and critiquing the interpretations of the Gayatri mantra and Vedic texts by prominent figures from other traditions.
- Addressing objections regarding Jainism's alleged disrespect for Vedas and refuting claims that Jainism is a later offshoot of Brahmanism or Buddhism. It likely provides counter-arguments supported by Mahabharata verses that condemn violent rituals.
Pillars 13-25: Jain Samskaras (Rites of Passage):
- This extensive section details the 16 Jain samskaras (sacraments) typically performed for householders, from conception to the final rites. This includes:
  - Garbhadhana Samskara (Conception)
  - Pumsavana Samskara (Sex determination/prenatal ritual)
  - Jata Karma Samskara (Naming of the child)
  - Chudakarma Samskara (Tonsure)
  - Moorchashana Samskara (First solid food)
  - Shuchikarma Samskara (Purification)
  - Namakarana Samskara (Naming ceremony)
  - Annaprashana Samskara (First feeding of grains)
  - Karnavedha Samskara (Ear piercing)
  - Chuda-karana Samskara (Hair cutting/shaving)
  - Upanayana Samskara (Investiture with sacred thread)
  - Vivaha Samskara (Marriage)
  - Vrataropa Samskara (Initiation into vows)
  - Antya Samskara (Funeral rites)
- Each samskara is described with its specific rituals, mantras, and purpose, often referencing Jain scriptural sources or traditions.
Pillars 26-31: Further Detail on Vratas and Daily Life:
- Elaborating on Vratas (vows) and the concept of desavirati (partial self-control).
- Describing the daily routine of a Shravaka (lay follower).
- Details on final rites (Antya Samskara) and expiation rituals (Kshamana Vidhi).
Pillar 32: Antiquity of Jainism and Vedic Scriptural Integrity:
- Arguing for the extreme antiquity of Jainism, placing it before Vedic scholars like Vyasa.
- Presenting evidence from Vedas and Puranas themselves to support Jainism's ancient origins.
- Addressing and refuting claims that Jainism is a branch of Buddhism.
- Discussing the absence of Jain grammar, logic, and other foundational texts in early Jainism (likely to counter criticisms).
Pillar 33: Distinguishing Jainism from Buddhism and Digambara Sect:
- Presenting arguments and evidence from Western scholars (like Prof. Hermann Jacobi) and Buddhist scriptures to prove Jainism's antiquity and distinctness from Buddhism.
- Addressing polemics and criticisms from the Digambara sect, refuting their claims with scriptural and historical evidence.
Pillar 34: Addressing Skepticism about Jain Tenets:
- Discussing and resolving doubts related to Jain concepts like long lifespans and vast avagahana (spatial dimensions).
- Clarifying the Jain view on the earth's stability and other cosmological points.
Pillars 35 & 36: Biography of Shankaracharya and Rejection of "Saptabhangi":
- Presenting the biography of Shankaracharya and critically analyzing his philosophical positions.
- Explaining the Jain doctrine of Saptabhangi (the theory of sevenfold predication) and defending it against critiques from Shankaracharya and Vyasa, arguing for the superiority of the Jain approach to understanding reality.
Concluding Sections:
- Author's Closing Remarks (Granthakarta ke Nivedan): Likely a personal reflection on the work.
- Publisher's Preface (Prasiddhakarta ki Prastavana): Highlighting the book's importance and encouraging its study.
- Introduction by the Editor (Upo-dghata): Providing further context.
- Author's Biography (Janma Charitra): The detailed account of Atmaramji Maharaj's life.
- Index (Anukramanika): A detailed index to navigate the vast content.
- Errata (Shuddhipatraka): Corrections for printing errors.
- List of Patrons and Supporters: Acknowledging those who funded the publication.

Author's Background and Significance: Shrimad Vijayanand Suri, popularly known as Atmaramji Maharaj, was a prominent Jain Acharya of the Tapagachchha tradition. He was highly respected for his scholarship, his ability to debate and refute opposing philosophies effectively, and his prolific writing in accessible languages. His biography is presented as integral to understanding the author's profound knowledge and dedication to Jain principles. The book's publication was a significant event, aiming to disseminate accurate Jain teachings.

Publisher's Role: Amarchand P. Parmar, the publisher, took on the significant task of producing this voluminous work, indicating a strong commitment to promoting Jain literature. The different editions mentioned (complete with all sections vs. only the core text) suggest an effort to cater to various reader preferences.

In essence, "Tattvanirnaya Prasada" is a monumental work in Jain literature, acting as an encyclopedia of Jain thought, a philosophical defense against other traditions, and a guide to righteous conduct and ultimate liberation, all presented through the profound scholarship of Atmaramji Maharaj.