Upadhyay Yashovijay Sahitya Suchi

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Upadhyay Yashovijay Sahitya Suchi":

Title: Upadhyay Yashovijay Sahitya Suchi (Bibliography of Upadhyaya Yashovijayaji's Literary Works)

Editors: Darshana Kothari and Dipti Shah

Publisher: Shrutgyan Prasarak Sabha, Ahmedabad

Publication Year: 1999

Overview:

This book is a meticulously compiled bibliography of the vast literary works of Upadhyaya Shree Yashovijayaji, a highly influential and prolific scholar in Jain tradition, particularly recognized for his contributions to Gujarati and Sanskrit literature. The publication aims to serve as a valuable resource for researchers, scholars, and enthusiasts interested in Yashovijayaji's writings, his life, and Jain philosophy and literature.

Genesis of the Bibliography:

The idea for this bibliography originated from a suggestion made to Acharya Shree Vijaypradyumnasuri to utilize the extensive information gathered by the Gujarati Sahitya Parishad for their Gujarati Sahityakosh (Encyclopedia of Gujarati Literature), specifically regarding medieval literature and manuscripts. This initiative aimed to create comprehensive bibliographies of Jain poets. Acharya Shree Vijaypradyumnasuri facilitated access to the Gujarati Sahitya Parishad's resources, which were instrumental in the compilation of this work.

Editorial Process:

The initial groundwork for the bibliography was laid by Diptiben Shah, with Darshanaben Kothari undertaking the crucial task of verification, adding missing details, and enriching the content with new information to finalize the bibliography. The editors express gratitude to Jayantibhai Kothari for his pivotal role as the main organizer and to the Gujarati Sahitya Parishad for their generous permission to use their literary database.

Content and Structure:

The bibliography is primarily a list of works attributed to Upadhyaya Shree Yashovijayaji. It is divided into two main sections:

1. Upadhyay Yashovijayji Vishayak Sahitya (Literature Related to Upadhyaya Yashovijayaji): This section lists important studies and publications available in Gujarati that focus on Yashovijayaji's life and works. It specifically excludes works that might include his writings as part of broader collections of Jain literature. Notable works included are:

   • Upadhyay Yashovijay Swadhyay Granth (1993)
   • Gujarati Sahityakosh Khand 1 (1991)
   • Jain Gurjar Kavio (various volumes and editions)
   • Jain Sahityano Sankshipt Itihas (1933)
   • Yashodohan (1966)
   • Yashovandana (2043 VS)
   • Mahopadhyaya Shree Yashovijay Smruti Granth (1957)
   • Shrutanjali (2043 VS)
   • Sujavali Bhas (1990)

2. Upadhyay Yashovijayji Rachit Sahitya (Literature Composed by Upadhyaya Yashovijayaji): This is the core of the bibliography, detailing the extensive literary output of Yashovijayaji. The list primarily focuses on Gujarati works, with notes on Sanskrit and Prakrit works being limited due to the available resources. The information is presented as it was found and is intended to be subject to further scholarly verification.

   The works are meticulously cataloged, with entries typically including:

   • Title of the Work: Often with variations in spelling or common alternative titles.
   • Subject Matter/Genre: Indicating if it's a stavan (hymn), sajjhay (song/verse), bhAs (discourse), prakaran (treatise), ras (narrative poem), etc.
   • Number of Verses/Stanzas: Where known.
   • Date of Composition/Manuscript: Often indicated by Vikram Samvat (V.S.) or the year of the manuscript.
   • Publication Information: Details of published works, including the publication title, page numbers, publisher, and year.
   • Manuscript Information: References to manuscripts found in various Jain libraries and collections, citing the catalog and manuscript details.
   • Abbreviations: A key section explains abbreviations used for various manuscript catalogs and collections (e.g., KGurame, Jaihaprostam, Patan Hem. Bh., Punyasuchi, BJInstitute, etc.).

Scope and Nature of Yashovijayaji's Works:

The bibliography reveals the astonishing breadth of Yashovijayaji's literary output, covering a wide range of topics and genres:

• Philosophical and Doctrinal Works: Treatises on Jain philosophy, logic, epistemology (anekantavada, syadvada), karma theory, and refutations of opposing views.
• Hymns and Devotional Poetry: Numerous stavan (hymns) dedicated to Tirthankaras (Rishabhdev, Ajitnath, Parshvanath, Mahavir, Neminath, etc.) and other Jain deities and figures.
• Didactic and Ethical Works: Sajjhay (songs or verses) and chapters offering moral guidance, instructions on conduct, and ethical principles.
• Commentaries and Explanations: Works that explain and elucidate existing Jain scriptures and philosophical concepts.
• Narrative Poetry: Ras (narrative poems) and stories, such as the "Shripal Raja no Ras."
• Works on Asceticism and Conduct: Texts detailing the rules and practices of Jain monks and ascetics (yati-dharma).
• Literary and Linguistic Works: Commentaries on classical Sanskrit works like the "Kavyaprakasha" and discussions on grammar and language.

Significance of the Bibliography:

This bibliography is a landmark publication for Jain studies. It provides a comprehensive and systematic catalog of Upadhyaya Yashovijayaji's literary legacy, which is crucial for:

• Scholarly Research: Enabling scholars to locate and study his diverse works, fostering deeper understanding of Jain philosophy and literature.
• Manuscript Preservation: Documenting the existence and location of numerous manuscripts, aiding in their preservation and study.
• Literary Appreciation: Providing a roadmap for readers to explore the rich and varied literary output of a pivotal figure in Gujarati and Jain intellectual history.
• Future Studies: Serving as a foundation for further research, critical editions, and translations of Yashovijayaji's works.

In essence, "Upadhyay Yashovijay Sahitya Suchi" is an invaluable academic tool that shines a light on the immense literary contributions of Upadhyaya Shree Yashovijayaji, making his vast body of work accessible to a wider audience and facilitating further exploration of his profound scholarship.