Tithi Ange Satya Ane Kutarkoni Samalochna

This document, "Tithi Ange Satya ane Kutarkoni Samalochna" (Truth Regarding Dates and Criticism of Fallacies) by Muni Sanyamkirtivijay, is a detailed treatise on the correct observance of Jain religious dates (tithis), particularly focusing on the Parnparva (festivals). The author critically examines various arguments and counter-arguments surrounding tithi observances, aiming to establish the scriptural truth.

The book is structured into several sections and appendices, each addressing specific aspects of the tithi debate. Here's a comprehensive summary:

Core Argument and Context:

The central theme of the book is to uphold the scriptural adherence to Jain dates and to refute what the author considers fallacious reasoning or "kutark" that deviates from established Jain traditions. The author emphasizes that Jainism prioritizes "Shastramati" (adherence to scriptures) over "Sarvanumati" (unanimous agreement or blind following), referencing the teachings of ancient Jain Acharyas like Yashovijayji Maharaj. The work highlights a historical shift from scriptural adherence to practices based on personal interpretations or majority opinions, attributing this to the influence of the current "Kalyakal" (the present degenerate age).

Key Issues and Critiques:

The book delves into several contentious points:

• The Importance of Scriptures (Shastramati vs. Ekta): The author strongly argues that unity (Ekta) should not come at the expense of scriptural truth. They cite instances of historical Acharyas who faced opposition and persecution for upholding scriptural principles.
• Rejection of Fallacious Reasoning (Kutark): The author dedicates significant portions to dissecting and refuting arguments that, in their view, misinterpret or distort Jain scriptures and traditions related to tithis. They label such reasoning as "kutark" and as detrimental to spiritual progress.
• Critique of Certain Modern Interpretations: The book specifically addresses and critiques pamphlets and writings that deviate from established practices and interpretations regarding tithis.
• The Role of Panchangs (Almanacs): The author discusses the historical context of the Jain Panchang and its eventual discontinuation, leading to the adoption of the "Laukik" (worldly) Panchang. They analyze the acceptance of the "Janmabhoomi Panchang" and the validity of its calculations.
• Tithi Kshaya and Vriddhi (Loss and Increase of Tithis): A significant portion of the book is dedicated to explaining the scriptural basis for accepting the loss (Kshaya) and increase (Vriddhi) of tithis as described in Jain astronomical texts. They refute arguments that deny the possibility of tithi Vriddhi in Jainism.
• The Significance of Udaya-Tithi: The author consistently emphasizes the scriptural injunction to observe tithis based on the "Udaya-tithi" (the tithi prevalent at sunrise), citing numerous scriptural passages and interpretations from prominent Acharyas. They critique practices that deviate from this principle for the sake of perceived unity or personal convenience.
• Interpretation of Key Verses: The author meticulously analyzes verses like "Udami ja tihi sa pramanam" (The tithi present at sunrise is the authority) and "Kshaye purva tithi karya, vriddhau karya tatha uttara" (In case of loss, the previous tithi; in case of increase, the subsequent tithi should be observed). They defend the traditional interpretations of these verses against what they consider modern distortions.
• Historical Precedents and Acharya Interpretations: The book draws heavily on the writings and opinions of revered Jain Acharyas from different centuries, including Hemchandrasuri, Yashovijayji, Haribhadrasuri, Umavasti, Ratnashekhar Suri, Hira Suri, Sen Suri, Dharmasagar, Harshabhushan Ganivar, and their own gurus. They present these authorities as evidence for their stance on tithis.
• The Case of Sanvatsari: A significant portion of the discussion revolves around the observance of Sanvatsari, the annual Jain festival. The author clarifies the historical shift in its observance from Panchami (5th day) to Chaturthi (4th day) under Acharya Kalikasuri, asserting that this change was based on scriptural prophecy and not merely for unity.
• Critique of the "Unity at the Expense of Truth" Argument: The author strongly refutes the notion that unity can be achieved by compromising scriptural truths. They argue that such an approach leads to "Bhava-Asatya" (spiritual untruth) and ultimately harms the followers.
• The Nature of Jinvyavahar (Correct Practice): The book elaborates on the characteristics of genuine Jinvyavahar, emphasizing that it must be based on scriptures, propagated by spiritually realized individuals (Samvign-Gitarth), and free from personal biases, anger, or greed. Practices that contradict scriptures or are initiated by individuals lacking these qualities are deemed invalid.

Structure of the Book:

The book is systematically organized with:

• Introduction: Explaining the purpose and context of the work, emphasizing the need to uphold scriptural truth.
• Main Sections (Vibhag):
  • Vibhag 1: Detailed analysis of tithis, scriptural injunctions, and criticism of fallacious arguments.
  • Vibhag 2: Critique of a specific 27-page pamphlet titled "Tithi Vivad ane Saral Samajhan" (Tithi Dispute and Simple Understanding).
  • Vibhag 3: Criticism of a pamphlet titled "'P. Pu. A. Shri Prem Suri M. Nu Vishisht Chintan'" (Special Contemplation of Revered Acharya Shri Prem Suri M.), alleging it to be fabricated and used to support erroneous views.
• Appendices (Parishishto): These are extensive and provide crucial evidence and support for the author's arguments:
  • Parishisht 1: Opinions of Acharya Sagarannand Surishwarji Maharaj on tithis, drawing from the "Siddhachakra" magazine.
  • Parishisht 2: The tradition of the Dahalā Upashraya and the views of Pt. Shri Rupvijayji Maharaj.
  • Parishisht 3: Scriptural passages with commentary regarding the accuracy of tithi-days and observances, presenting both "two-tithi" and "one-tithi" perspectives.
  • Parishisht 4: An important clarification regarding the tithi views of Acharya Vijay Siddhisurishwarji (Bapji) Maharaj and the history of tithi deviations.
  • Parishisht 5: A summary of an arbitration discussion that took place in 1998 regarding the tithi dispute.
  • Parishisht 6: Critique of purported scriptural passages used to support the "one-tithi" view, arguing they are unauthentic.
  • Parishisht 7: Defining what constitutes "Jinvyavahar" (correct practice) and what does not.
  • Parishisht 8: Mentioning the author's compilation of tithi practices in the context of scriptural text compilation times.
  • Parishisht 9: The characteristics of "Chhatvyavahar" (accepted practice).
  • Parishisht 10: Clarification that Acharya Kalikasuriji Maharaj's change in Sanvatsari observance was scripturally justified.
  • Parishisht 11: A clarification that the tithi dispute was not initiated by Acharya Ramachandrasuri, but predates his influence.
  • Parishisht 12: The tithi views of the esteemed Acharya Vijay Premsurishwarji Dadaji, including official statements and a decree from 2020, which upheld the traditional observance of tithis based on sunrise and scriptural principles.

Conclusion:

The book concludes with a strong appeal for adherence to scriptural truth and the correct observance of Jain tithis. The author expresses a fervent wish for readers to understand the scriptural basis of tithi observances and to embrace the correct path for their spiritual upliftment and eventual liberation. The extensive appendices serve as a robust foundation for the author's arguments, presenting a wealth of scriptural and historical evidence.