Tithi Vishayak Saral Samjuti - Book Summary

This summary provides an overview of the Jain text "Tithi Vishayak Saral Samjuti" based on the provided pages.

Book Title: Tithi Vishayak Saral Samjuti (A Simple Explanation on the Subject of Tithis/Lunar Days) Author(s): Satya Suraksha Samiti Ahmedabad Publisher: Satya Suraksha Samiti Ahmedabad

Overall Theme: The book addresses the controversy surrounding the determination of Jain lunar days (Tithis), specifically focusing on the concept of "Kshaya" (waning/disappearance) and "Vriddhi" (growth/addition) of Tithis and how these affect religious observances. The authors strongly advocate for the traditional view that Perva Tithis (auspicious lunar days) should not be subject to Kshaya or Vriddhi, arguing against a recent shift in interpretation attributed to certain Acharyas.

Key Arguments and Content:

The "Mud" of Tithi Dispute: The introduction (Page 4-5) describes the Tithi debate, which began around 1992, as a disruptive force that "muddy the serene lake" of the Jain faith. It criticizes the practices of certain religious leaders for allegedly misrepresenting scriptures and causing discord. The book aims to counter these misrepresentations with truth.
The Concept of Tithi Observance (Page 6-11): The book presents a dialogue between a disciple and a Guru to explain the correct way to observe Tithis for religious practices like Ambel (a type of fast).
- Udayam Tithi Rule: The primary rule taught is "Udayammi ja tithi sa pamana" (The tithi present at sunrise is considered the valid one).
- Kshaya Tithi Rule (Page 7-10): When a Tithi disappears between two sunrises (Kshaya), the traditional rule is to apply the "Kshaye Purva Tithi: Karya" (In case of Kshaya, the preceding tithi should be considered). This means if an auspicious tithi is lost, the preceding one should be observed as if it were the auspicious tithi.
- Vriddhi Tithi Rule (Page 9): When an auspicious tithi appears for two consecutive sunrises (Vriddhi), the rule is "Vridhdhau Karya Tatha Uttara" (In case of Vriddhi, the subsequent tithi should be considered). This means the later tithi should be observed as the auspicious tithi, and the earlier one should be treated as a regular tithi.
Criticism of a New Interpretation (Page 11-23): The core of the book's argument is to refute a newer interpretation, attributed to Acharya Shri Vijay Ramchandra Suriji and promoted by Acharya Shri Kirtiyash Suriji, which allegedly allows for the "Kshaya" and "Vriddhi" of Perva Tithis (auspicious lunar days).
- Misuse of Scriptures: The authors accuse Acharya Kirtiyash Suriji of misinterpreting and selectively presenting scriptural passages (like from the Kalpa Sutra) to support his claims. They contend that his arguments are based on "Laukik" (worldly/astronomical) Panchangs rather than "Lokottar" (spiritual/religious) Panchangs which are relevant for Aradhana (religious practice).
- Debate and Refutation: The book details a supposed public debate or lecture where Acharya Kirtiyash Suriji presented certain arguments. The authors, through a dialogue with a knowledgeable Acharya, systematically dismantle these arguments.
  - Argument 1 (Page 26-28): The claim that Kshaya/Vriddhi of Perva Tithis existed before 1992 is refuted by citing that pre-1992 Panchangs (like the 1945 Panchang mentioned) were often for "Lokamat" (popular opinion) and not necessarily for rigorous religious practice, and that the Tapagachchha tradition, to which the authors belong, did not accept such Kshaya/Vriddhi for Perva Tithis. They cite Acharya Shri Atmaramji Maharaj's approach as an example of adhering to established traditions even when facing a Tithi Kshaya.
  - Argument 2 (Page 30-33): The reference to "two Chaturdashis" in the commentary of the Kalpa Sutra is explained as an example used to argue against a different sect (Khartar Gachchha) and not an endorsement of Kshaya/Vriddhi by the commentator himself (Upa. Shri Vinay Vijayji). Evidence from Upa. Shri Vinay Vijayji's disciple, Shri Rupvijayji, is presented to show his adherence to the principle that Perva Tithis are never diminished or increased.
  - Argument 3 (Page 34-37): A Shlok stating that the tithi at sunrise is authoritative and deviating from it leads to four faults (Agnabhag, Anavastha, Mithyatva, Viradhana) is presented. The authors counter this by introducing the apavad (exception) rule: "Kshaye Purva Tithi: Karya, Vridhdhau Karya Tatha Uttara" (In case of Kshaya, the preceding tithi; in case of Vriddhi, the subsequent tithi). They argue that the first Shlok is a general rule for non-Perva Tithis, while the exception applies to Perva Tithis. They question the morality of those who adhere strictly to the general rule, potentially calling previous revered Acharyas "Mithyatvi" (believers in false doctrines).
  - Argument 4 (Page 38-39): A letter from Muni Shri Jhaver Sagarji (Guru of Muni Shri Sagarji) is mentioned, which apparently supports the idea of Kshaya. The authors clarify that this letter was merely quoting a communication from Acharya Shri Vir Vijayji regarding a "Laukik" Panchang's Tithi, not an endorsement of Kshaya for Perva Tithis by Muni Shri Jhaver Sagarji himself.
Consequences of Accepting Kshaya/Vriddhi (Page 40-44): The book highlights several practical difficulties and logical inconsistencies that arise if one accepts the Kshaya/Vriddhi of Perva Tithis:
- Observance Conflicts: It creates confusion for devotees observing vows tied to specific Tithis (e.g., doing a fast on Chaturdashi).
- Timing of Rituals: It leads to a scenario where rituals meant for one Tithi might have to be performed on another, leading to chronological inconsistencies (e.g., performing Purnima rituals before Chaturdashi rituals).
- Misrepresentation: Performing rituals based on a changed Tithi can lead to the "Mahadosha" (great fault) of speaking falsehoods (Mrushavada) before the congregation.
- Reduced Spiritual Practice: If a Tithi is considered "Phalgu" (insignificant due to Kshaya), devotees might skip their observances on that day, leading to a reduction in spiritual practice.
- Allowing Unethical Practices: It creates situations where rituals meant for the monsoon season might be shifted to the rainy season due to Tithi changes, which the authors deem an unnecessary compromise and a false claim.
The Principle of "Jitkalpa" (Page 44-45): The book emphasizes the Jain principle of "Jitkalpa," which requires any new scriptural understanding or interpretation to be presented and validated by the collective wisdom of learned Acharyas. If even one learned Acharya objects, the new interpretation cannot be accepted. The authors assert that the new interpretation regarding Perva Tithi Kshaya/Vriddhi does not follow this principle.
Call to Action (Page 46): The authors urge readers not to accept any response from the opposing side without verification and to inform them so they can provide their clarification.

Conclusion: "Tithi Vishayak Saral Samjuti" is a polemical work strongly defending the traditional Jain understanding of Tithi observance, particularly regarding auspicious lunar days. It criticizes a contemporary shift in interpretation as a misrepresentation of scriptures and a source of confusion and potential error in religious practices. The book encourages adherence to established principles and the consensus of past revered Acharyas.