Tattvarthshlokavartikalankar Part 5

Based on the provided Jain text, which appears to be "Tattvarthshlokavartikalankar Part 5" by Vidyanandacharya and Vardhaman Parshwanath Shastri, with a Hindi commentary, and published by Vardhaman Parshwanath Shastri, here is a comprehensive summary in English:

This volume, the fifth part of the Tattvarthashlokavartikalankar, follows the Tattvarthasutra by Acharya Umaswami. It covers Chapters 2, 3, and 4 of the Tattvarthasutra.

Key Themes and Content:

The Tattvarthashlokavartikalankar, as elaborated in this volume, delves into the fundamental principles of Jain philosophy as presented in the Tattvarthasutra. The work of Acharya Vidyanandacharya, commented upon by Pt. Manikchandji Kaudeya and published by Pt. Vardhaman Parshwanath Shastri, aims to elucidate these principles with clarity and philosophical rigor.

Chapter 2: On the True Nature of the Soul (Jiva)

• Nature of the Soul: The chapter begins by discussing the various states or dispositions (bhava) of the soul, namely the aupashamika (state of subsidence of karmas), kshayika (state of destruction of karmas), kshayopashamika (state of partial subsidence and partial destruction of karmas), audayika (state resulting from the fruition of karmas), and parināmika (natural, inherent state). It establishes that these are the essential characteristics of the soul.
• Classification of Souls: The text then categorizes souls based on different criteria, including sānsārin (those in the cycle of birth and death) and muktā (liberated souls). It further details the characteristics of sānsārin souls, such as the number of senses they possess, their consciousness (samanaska - with mind, amanaska - without mind), and their modes of existence (trasas - mobile, sthāvaras - immobile). The description extends to the classification of immobile beings like earth-bodied, water-bodied, fire-bodied, air-bodied, and plant-bodied souls.
• The Soul's Journey: The chapter elaborates on the soul's journey through the cycle of existence, touching upon concepts like vigraha gati (transmigratory motion) and the different types of births (sammūrcchana, garbha, aupapādika). It also discusses the nature of bodies (sharira)—auudārika, vaikriyika, āhārika, taijasa, and kārmana.

Chapter 3: On the Universe and its Structure (Lokālok)

• The Lower Worlds (Adholoka): This chapter meticulously describes the structure of the universe, starting with the seven hellish realms (naraka bhūmi). It details their characteristics, including their layers, the duration of stay of beings there, and the suffering they endure. The text refutes theories of a moving earth, asserting the Earth's immobility and supporting the movement of celestial bodies like the sun and moon.
• The Middle World (Madhyaloka): The chapter then proceeds to describe the Middle World, which includes the continents (dvipa) and oceans (samudra). It provides detailed descriptions of Jambūdvipa, its dimensions, the surrounding oceans, the holy mountains (varṣadhara parvata), the rivers, and the jewel-filled lakes (hrada) at the base of these mountains. It also covers the different regions (varṣa) and their characteristics, including karmabhūmi (lands of action) and bhogabhūmi (lands of enjoyment), as well as the lifespan of their inhabitants.
• Cosmological Arguments: Acharya Vidyanandacharya also engages in refutations of opposing philosophical views, particularly addressing theories of a creator God (sashṭikartṛtvavāda) and the cyclical nature of time and existence.

Chapter 4: On the Upper Worlds (Ūrdhvaloka) and Celestial Beings

• Celestial Realms: This chapter details the realms of celestial beings, including the bhavanavāsin (dwelling residents), vyantaras (interstitial beings), jyotiṣkas (luminous beings like sun, moon, stars), and vaimānikas (aerial beings).
• Types of Celestials: It describes their various classes, such as indra (kings), sāmānika (equals), trāyastrinśa (thirty-three), pāriṣada (attendants), ātmarakṣa (self-protectors), lokapāla (guardians of directions), and ānīka (armies). It explains their lifespans, celestial leshya (colors/states of mind), and the nature of their existence.
• Laukāntikas: The chapter also touches upon the laukāntikas, who reside at the boundaries of the universe and are devoted to the well-being of the cosmos.
• Refutation of Modern Geography: Similar to Chapter 3, this chapter also addresses and refutes prevailing scientific or geographical theories, particularly those related to the shape and movement of the Earth, supporting the Jain cosmological model based on āgama (scriptural authority) and yukti (logic).

Overall Significance:

The volume highlights the profound philosophical depth and intricate cosmological details within Jainism. Acharya Vidyanandacharya's commentary is noted for its comprehensive explanation of the Tattvarthasutra, aiming to preserve the original intent while offering clear and logical explanations. The publication itself is a testament to the dedication of the Acharya Kunthūsāgar Granthamala in promoting Jain spiritual and philosophical literature. The editorial note also expresses gratitude to patrons and members for their support, acknowledging delays in publication due to various unforeseen circumstances.