Universal Values Of Prakrit Texts

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Book Title: Universal Values of Prakrit Texts Author: Prem Suman Jain Publisher: Bahubali Prakrit Vidyapeeth and Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan Published: 2011 Source: Proceedings of the International Prakrit Seminar, Shravanabelagola

Overview:

"Universal Values of Prakrit Texts" is a collection of academic papers presented at an International Prakrit Seminar held in Shravanabelagola in October 2010. The book aims to highlight the rich heritage and timeless wisdom embedded within ancient Prakrit literature, showcasing its relevance to contemporary society. The seminar and the subsequent publication were jointly organized by the Bahubali Prakrit Vidyapeeth (Rashtriya) and the Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan, under the auspices of the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India.

Key Themes and Contributions:

The book delves into the multifaceted contributions of Prakrit language and literature to Indian wisdom, culture, and philosophy. It emphasizes the "universal values" that are woven into these ancient texts. Some of the core themes explored include:

• The Significance of Prakrit: The introduction and various papers underscore the immense value of Prakrit literature. It's highlighted that beyond the core Jain teachings of Mahavira and his disciples, Prakrit texts offer invaluable social and cultural insights not found in Sanskrit or Pali. The language's accessibility to the common populace made it a powerful medium for philosophical and spiritual discourse.

• Prakrit's Role in Indian Intellectual Tradition: Several papers discuss how Prakrit served as a crucial vehicle for philosophical thought. The text emphasizes its connection to various philosophical schools and its role in shaping Indian intellectual history.

• Linguistic and Historical Importance: The seminar papers explored the role of Prakrit texts in historical linguistics and palaeography, tracing the evolution of language and scripts.

• Spiritual and Ethical Teachings: A significant focus is placed on the universal ethical and spiritual values espoused in Prakrit literature. This includes themes of:

  • Non-violence (Ahimsa): This is presented as a cornerstone of Jain philosophy and a key message of texts like Āyāro (Acārānga). The papers highlight the Jain emphasis on non-violence towards all forms of life, even immobile beings, and its connection to environmental consciousness.
  • Non-possessiveness (Aparigraha): This concept is explored as a path to limiting desires, reducing conflict, and fostering social harmony. The text discusses how Aparigraha contributes to a balanced and fulfilling life.
  • Equanimity (Sāmāyika): The importance of maintaining equanimity amidst life's dualities is discussed, linking it to mental peace and spiritual liberation.
  • Anekantavada and Syadvada: The principle of multi-faceted reality and relative viewpoints is discussed as a foundation for tolerance, understanding, and peaceful coexistence.
  • Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct (Ratnatraya): These are identified as the core components of the path to liberation as expounded in texts like Samayasāra.

• Literary Diversity: The collection showcases the rich literary genres found in Prakrit, including poetry (narratives, muktakas), philosophical treatises, grammatical works, commentaries, and even scientific texts (mathematics, astrology, alchemy).

• Specific Prakrit Texts and Their Analysis: Several papers offer in-depth studies of significant Prakrit works:

  • Āyāro (Ācārānga): Explored for its message of peace, non-violence, and ethical conduct, particularly its sensitive portrayal of environmental consciousness and the concept of Jivas.
  • Samayasāra: Discussed as an attempt to formulate a universal code of spiritualism, drawing parallels and contrasts with Upanishadic and Sufi spiritualism, as well as Sankhya and Vedanta philosophies.
  • Pañcāstikāya: Analyzed for its distinctive features, including its philosophical categories, concept of time, analogies for Dharma and Adharma, and its engagement with Vaiśeṣika and Buddhist views.
  • Bhagavatī Ārādhanā: Examined for its ethical significance, particularly its focus on Samādhimaraṇa (voluntary peaceful death), the elimination of passions, and its comprehensive treatment of ascetic life.
  • Kaşāyapāhuḍa: Recognized for its systematic exposition of passions (Kaşāyas) and their impact on karmic bondage, highlighting Guṇadhara's contribution to this field.
  • Ākhyānakamaṇikośa: Explored for the universal values embedded in its narratives, including Ahimsa, Samyak Shraddha, Sheel, Dana, Swadhyay, Vinaya, Dhairya, and Ajati (non-creation) principles.
  • Mūlācāra: Studied for its detailed code of conduct for Jain monks, emphasizing purity, ascetic practices, and the importance of Anuprekshas.
  • Dhamma Pada: Discussed for its universal ethical teachings and its significance as a representative text of Buddhist thought, highlighting the importance of the mind, self-restraint, and the concept of "Anatta" (non-self).
  • Pauamachariu (Paumacaryu): Analyzed for its poetic richness, character portrayals (especially of Ram and Sita), and its contribution to Apabhramsa literature.
  • Jambu Dwipa Prajnapti: Explored for its concept of Mandala and its mathematical and astronomical symbolism, as well as its connection to the cyclical nature of existence and the path to liberation.
  • Prakrit and Ayurveda: The paper discusses the presence of Ayurvedic principles and practices within Prakrit texts.
  • Prakrit and Kannada Literature: The interconnectedness and mutual influence between Prakrit and Kannada literature are highlighted, especially in poetic forms and religious discourse.
  • Prakrit Commentators: The contributions of scholars like Adhyātmi Bālacandra to the preservation and dissemination of Prakrit knowledge through commentaries are recognized.
  • Jain Alchemy: The presence of alchemical knowledge and practices within Prakrit texts is explored, revealing insights into ancient Indian chemistry.
  • Mandala Concept: The paper examines the concept of Mandala in Jain texts, its geometrical, cosmological, and meditative significance.
  • Universal Values in Sutta-Nipata: While not directly a Prakrit text in the same vein, the paper on Dhamma Pada touches upon universal values relevant across traditions.
  • Rishibhasit: Presented as a Prakrit work embodying universal values, emphasizing religious tolerance and the inclusion of teachings from various ascetic traditions.
  • Shikhandagama: Analyzed as a foundational Digambara Jain canonical text, crucial for understanding the Karma doctrine and early Jain philosophy.
  • Bhattaraka Contributions: The volume also includes papers on the significant role of Bhattaraka figures in the preservation and promotion of Prakrit literature and studies.

• The Seminar and its Recommendations: The "Proceedings Report" section details the successful organization of the International Prakrit Seminar. It mentions the participation of numerous scholars from India and abroad, the inauguration of publications, and key discussions that led to recommendations for the promotion of Prakrit studies, including the establishment of a national Prakrit library and university.

Overall Significance:

The book "Universal Values of Prakrit Texts" serves as a testament to the enduring relevance of Prakrit literature. It emphasizes that these ancient texts are not merely historical documents but repositories of profound universal values that can guide humanity towards a more peaceful, ethical, and spiritually aware existence. The publication underscores the collaborative efforts of institutions and scholars dedicated to reviving and promoting the study of Prakrit, ensuring its continued contribution to global wisdom.