Tiloypannatti Part 2 - Book Summary

A Comprehensive Summary of "Tiloypannatti Part 2"

This document is the second part of "Tiloypannatti" (also known as Trilok Pragyapti), a significant ancient Jain text in Prakrit, compiled by Vrushabhacharya and edited by Dr. Chetanprakash Patni. This volume, the second part, focuses on the fourth "Mahadhikara" (major chapter) of the text. The entire work is a treatise on Jain cosmology, detailing the structure of the universe, the nature of different realms, the characteristics of beings residing in them, and various astronomical and geographical concepts according to Jain philosophy.

The "Tiloypannatti" is a vast compendium of Jain lore related to cosmology, covering subjects such as the arrangement of the universe, the types of heavens, the characteristics of hellish beings, the divisions of the earth, the movements of celestial bodies, and the life cycles of various beings. It is based on ancient Kannada manuscripts and includes a detailed Hindi commentary by Aryika 105 Shri Vishudhmati Mataji.

Key Content of Part 2 (Fourth Mahadhikara):

This volume focuses on the detailed description of the "Manushya Lok" (Human Realm), which is the central part of the Jain universe. The fourth Mahadhikara is the largest, encompassing 16 "Antaradhikaras" (sub-chapters) and a total of 3006 "Gathas" (verses) along with some prose.

Specific Topics Covered in this Volume:

Introduction and Pledge: The text begins with auspicious verses and a declaration of intent to describe the human realm.
Structure of the Human Realm:
- Dimensions: The text meticulously details the dimensions of the human realm (Manushya Loka), including its vast expanse, circumference, and area, expressed in yojanas.
- Jambudvipa: A significant portion is dedicated to Jambudvipa, the central continent in the human realm, described in immense detail. This includes:
  - Jagati: The description of the Jagati (the circular elevated platform surrounding Jambudvipa).
  - Mountains: The prominent mountains like Himavan, Mahahimavan, Nishadh, Nil, Rukmi, and Shikhari, along with their dimensions and significance.
  - Rivers: The flow and extent of rivers such as Ganga, Sita, Swarnajalamala, and others.
  - Regions (Kshetras): The description of various regions like Bharatkshetra and Harivarskshetra.
  - Cities and Palaces: The layout and splendor of cities and palaces inhabited by Vidhyadharas (celestial beings).
  - Lotus Motif: The significance and description of lotus flowers, often depicted as the base for divine structures.
  - Yaksha and Yakshini Residences: The abodes of Yaksha and Yakshini deities.
  - Manastambhas: The description of monumental pillars.
  - Dwelling of Vidhyadharas: Detailed accounts of the cities and palaces of the celestial beings known as Vidhyadharas.
  - Gates (Dwaras): The description of the four main gates of Jambudvipa.
  - Maths and Calculations: The text incorporates complex mathematical concepts and formulas, particularly in relation to astronomical calculations and geometrical shapes, to determine dimensions and areas. This includes intricate calculations related to circles, segments of circles, and volumes.
The Twelve Chakravarti Kings: The text details the lineage, lifespan, Kumar-kala (childhood period), Rajya-kala (reign period), and Sanyam-kala (ascetic period) of the twelve Chakravarti emperors, starting from Bharat.
The Twenty-Four Tirthankaras: A significant part of the text is dedicated to the twenty-four Tirthankaras, covering their birth details (time, place, parents, constellation), their lifespan, their Kumar-kala, their reigns, their renunciations, their attainment of Kevala Jnana (omniscience), their Samavasaranas (preaching assemblies), and their final liberation (Moksha).
The Nine Vasudevas, Baladevas, and Pratyanarayanas: The text lists and describes these powerful figures and their respective lifespans and roles.
The Rudras: The text also enumerates the Rudras, their numerical strength, and their association with various times.
The Yaksas and Yaksins: Descriptions of the guardian deities of the mountains and regions are provided.
Samavasarana: A highly detailed description of the Samavasarana, the divine preaching assembly of a Tirthankara, is given. This includes the structure of the assembly, the number of tiers, the types of beings present, the placement of various structures like thrones, lotuses, and banners, and the specific arrangements for different categories of beings and deities. The text emphasizes the mathematical precision and grandeur of these divine structures.
The Concept of Time (Kala): The text delves into the Jain concept of time, explaining its nature, its divisions (like Samaya, Avali, etc.), and its cyclical progression through different phases (Sushama-sushama, Sushama, Sushama-dushama, Dushama-sushama, Dushama, and Dushama-dushama), and their duration in years and Sagaropamas. It also touches upon the consequences of actions in relation to time.
The Twelve Types of Rddhi (Supernatural Powers): The text classifies and explains various types of Rddhis, including those related to body, speech, mind, and knowledge, such as Anima, Mahima, Laghima, Prapta, Prakamya, Ishitva, Vashitva, Svalpakala, Antardhana, Rupalabdhi, Bijavruddhi, Vakyavruddhi, Kayavruddhi, Oushadhi-vruddhi, Chikitsa-rddhi, and Nidhitvarishtha-rddhi.
The Twelve Pillars of Jainism: The text describes the concepts of Sthapanacharya, Jinavachana, Dravya, Bhava, Karma, Sangraha, Jina-vachana, Dravya-nischaya, Bhava-nischaya, Kriya-yoga, Bhava-yoga, and Nirvansukha, highlighting their importance in the Jain path.
Mathematical and Astronomical Calculations: The text is replete with complex mathematical calculations used to define the dimensions of the universe, the earth, mountains, rivers, and celestial bodies. It demonstrates an advanced understanding of geometry and arithmetic within its cosmological framework.

Overall Significance:

"Tiloypannatti Part 2" is an invaluable resource for understanding Jain cosmology and the Jain worldview. It provides a comprehensive and highly structured account of the universe, reflecting a sophisticated blend of philosophy, mathematics, and mythology. The detailed descriptions offer insights into the Jain understanding of existence, the cycles of time, and the hierarchical structure of the cosmos. The commentary by Aryika Vishudhmati Mataji further elucidates these complex concepts, making the ancient text accessible to modern readers.