Updeshmala Balavbodha Uttarardha

This text is the Uttarardha (second half) of the Updeshmala Balavbodha, authored by Kantilal B Shah. The original text, Updeshmala, was composed by Shri Dharmdas Gani in Prakrit, and this Balavbodha (a commentary intended for younger or less experienced learners) is a translation and elaboration by Shri Somsundarsuri.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the content, based on the provided pages and the included "Prkashakiy Nivedan" (Publisher's Note) and "Sampadkiy Nivedan" (Editor's Note):

Book Overview:

• Title: Updeshmala Balavbodha Uttarardha (Second Part)
• Author of Balavbodha: Kantilal B Shah (Researcher-Editor)
• Original Author of Updeshmala: Shri Dharmdas Gani
• Author of Gujarati Commentary (Balavbodha): Shri Somsundarsuri
• Publisher: Saurashtra Kesari Pranguru Jain Philosophical and Literary Research Centre, Mumbai.
• Inspiration: Shri Dharmashanti Jain Charitable Trust, Kandivali (East), Mumbai.
• Content: This volume contains original Prakrit verses (Gathas #261 to #544), their Balavbodha commentary, a summary translation (Saranuvad), variant readings (Pathantar), and a Gujarati-Sanskrit glossary.
• Significance: The Balavbodha is crucial for understanding medieval Gujarati prose and presents Jain philosophy in a simplified manner, particularly focusing on the ideal conduct of ascetics (sadhus) and lay followers (shravaks).

Key Themes and Content of Uttarardha (Second Half):

The book delves into various aspects of Jain teachings, primarily through the lens of the "Updeshmala" text, which emphasizes detachment and spiritual discipline. The Uttarardha, as indicated by the verse numbers (261-544), likely continues the discourse on spiritual practices, ethical conduct, and the consequences of actions.

Based on the detailed "Vishay Nirdesh" (Subject Index) and the publisher's/editor's notes, the Uttarardha covers:

1. The Nature of Existence and Souls: It discusses the different realms of existence (heaven, human, animal, hell) and the concept of karma influencing one's destiny.
2. The Path of Asceticism (Sadhu Dharma):
   • Distinction between True and Compromised Ascetics: The text elaborates on the characteristics of genuine sadhus versus those who are morally lax (shithilachari).
   • Guru-Disciple Relationship: Emphasizes the importance of the guru-disciple bond, respect for the guru, and obedience to their commands.
   • Qualities of a Virtuous Ascetic: Details the virtues of a disciplined ascetic, including adherence to vows, proper conduct in diet and lifestyle, and the observance of ten specific disciplines (Jayna).
   • Avoiding Worldly Attachments: Discusses the need to renounce worldly desires, the ill effects of attachment (raag), aversion (dwesh), and the rarity of human birth.
   • The Importance of Vigilance: Stresses the need for vigilance in conduct, particularly in the practices of samiti (vigilance in actions like walking, speaking, taking food, etc.) and gupti (control over mind, speech, and body).
   • Overcoming the Senses and Passions: Details the methods for controlling the senses and overcoming vices like anger, pride, deceit, greed, hatred, and other afflictions.
   • The Significance of Knowledge and Conduct: Explains how true knowledge (jnana) and right conduct (charitra) are essential for liberation.
3. The Path of a Lay Follower (Shravak Dharma):
   • Ethical Conduct for Householders: Outlines the duties of a lay follower, including adherence to vows, avoiding forbidden foods (abhakshya), maintaining purity in livelihood, and cultivating good company.
   • Ideals of Lay Life: Presents the virtues of ideal lay followers, such as devotion to the guru, renunciation of excessive possessions (parigraha), and concern for the welfare of the Jain dispensation.
4. Illustrative Narratives (Drushtant Kathao): A significant feature of the Balavbodha is the inclusion of numerous stories (approximately 68 mentioned in the editor's note) that illustrate the teachings. These stories feature prominent figures from Jain history and lore, including saints, kings, virtuous women, and even animals, to convey moral lessons effectively.
5. Subhashitas (Wise Sayings): The text incorporates numerous subhashitas (around 57 mentioned), both in Sanskrit and Prakrit, to reinforce the philosophical points being made.
6. Gadyashaili (Prose Style): The prose is described as simple, fluent, and reflective of the spoken language of the medieval period, making the complex philosophical concepts accessible.
7. Linguistic and Literary Value: The Balavbodha is recognized for its value in studying medieval Gujarati language, vocabulary, and literary style.
8. Comparative Study: The editor, Dr. Kantilal B. Shah, has compared this work with other Balavbodhas on "Updeshmala" from different traditions, highlighting the earliest known Gujarati Balavbodha on this text.
9. Manuscript Information: The editor provides detailed information about the manuscripts used for the text, including their provenance, age, and condition, which is crucial for scholarly research.
10. Editorial Process: The editor explains the meticulous process of research, collation, and editing, acknowledging the challenges and the importance of preserving these ancient texts.

Publisher's and Editor's Contributions:

• The Saurashtra Kesari Pranguru Jain Philosophical and Literary Research Centre is dedicated to researching, editing, and publishing ancient Jain literature to preserve and propagate Jain knowledge.
• Dr. Kantilal B. Shah's dedication to the research and editing of this significant work, particularly given the loss of his mentor Shri Jayant Kothari during the process, is highlighted.
• The publication is supported by Shri Dharmashanti Jain Charitable Trust, Kandivali (East), Mumbai, and other well-wishers.

In essence, this "Uttarardha" of "Updeshmala Balavbodha" serves as a comprehensive guide to Jain ethical and spiritual principles, making them accessible through simplified commentary, engaging stories, and wise sayings, all meticulously compiled and presented by Dr. Kantilal B. Shah.