Tattvartha Sutra Jainagam Samanvay

The book "Tattvartha Sutra Jainagam Samanvay" by Atmaram Maharaj and Chandrashekhar Shastri, published by Lala Shadiram Gokulchand Jouhari in 1934, is a significant work that aims to harmonize the Tattvartha Sutra, considered a foundational text in Jainism, with the broader corpus of Jain Agamas (scriptures). The title itself, "Tattvartha Sutra Jainagam Samanvay," translates to "Concordance of Tattvartha Sutra with Jain Agamas."

The book's primary objective, as highlighted by the authors, is to demonstrate the interconnectedness and consistency between the Tattvartha Sutra and the vast collection of Jain Agamas. It seeks to bridge the perceived gaps and differences, particularly between the Digambara and Shvetambara traditions, by showing how the Tattvartha Sutra aligns with the principles and doctrines expounded in the Agamas.

Key Features and Content:

• Agama-Sutra Reconciliation: The core of the book lies in its detailed comparison and reconciliation of the sutras (aphorisms) of the Tattvartha Sutra with the original texts of the Jain Agamas. For each sutra from Tattvartha Sutra, the authors provide:

  • Agama Proof: Citations from the Agamas that support or explain the sutra.
  • Sanskrit Shadow: A Sanskrit translation or rendering of the Agama text.
  • Vernacular Commentary: A commentary in the local language (presumably Hindi, given the context) to explain the meaning of the Agama passage.
  • Concordance (Samanvay): A section explaining how the Agama text relates to and clarifies the Tattvartha Sutra sutra.

• Structure and Scope: The book systematically goes through each chapter of the Tattvartha Sutra, offering its interpretation in light of the Agamas. The provided text excerpts showcase the first few chapters, covering topics like:

  • Chapter 1 (Moksha Marga): Discusses the path to liberation, including right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct, and the nature of knowledge.
  • Chapter 2 (Jiva Bhava): Details the states of the soul, classifications of living beings, and their sensory perceptions.
  • Chapter 3 (Lok Descriptions): Describes the structure of the Jain universe, including hells, continents, oceans, and Mount Meru.
  • Chapter 4 (Devas): Classifies and explains the types of celestial beings and their lifespans.
  • Chapter 5 (Dravyas): Explores the fundamental categories of reality, such as soul, non-soul, matter, space, time, and their properties.
  • Subsequent Chapters: The book continues this comparative analysis through the remaining chapters, covering karma, vows, liberation, and other core Jain principles.

• Appendices (Parishisht): The book includes several appendices that enhance its scholarly value:

  • Parishisht No. 1: Contains Agama texts that were omitted from the main body due to printing time constraints.
  • Parishisht No. 2: Features a commentary on the Tattvartha Sutra in simple Hindi, with explanations of terms and concepts.
  • Parishisht No. 3: Highlights the differences between the Digambara and Shvetambara versions of certain sutras, thereby addressing inter-sectarian variations.

• Authorship and Patronage: The work is attributed to the scholarly efforts of Upadhyay Muni Shri Atmaramji Maharaj (described as a prominent scholar of Prakrit literature and Jain Agamas, and honored with the title 'Jain Dharma Diwakar') and Professor Chandrashekhar Shastri (a respected scholar and former professor at Banaras Hindu University). The publication was supported by Lala Shadiram Gokulchand Jouhari, with notable contributions from Lala Gokulchandji Nahar Jouhari, who also played a significant role in establishing various public and religious institutions in Delhi.

• Underlying Philosophy: The book emphasizes the importance of studying both the Tattvartha Sutra and the Agamas to achieve right faith, knowledge, and conduct, which are essential for spiritual progress and liberation. It advocates for a unified understanding of Jainism, encouraging followers from different traditions to engage with these texts to overcome doctrinal differences and promote the Dharma.

In essence, "Tattvartha Sutra Jainagam Samanvay" is a scholarly attempt to provide a comprehensive and integrated understanding of Jain philosophy by meticulously correlating the teachings of the Tattvartha Sutra with the vast scriptural heritage of the Jain Agamas. It serves as a valuable resource for students of Jainism, scholars, and practitioners seeking a deeper and more unified perspective on Jain principles.