Vidhi Marg Prapa - Book Summary

This Jain text, titled "Vidhi Marg Prapa" (विधि मार्ग प्रपा), authored by Vinaysagar and published by Prakrit Bharti Academy, is a significant work within the Shvetambara Jain tradition. The book, a compilation and re-editing by Sahityavachaspati Mahopadhyay Vinaysagar, focuses on the systematic and comprehensive exposition of Jain rituals and practices.

Key aspects of the text include:

Author and Tradition: The text is attributed to Acharya Jinprabhasuri, a prominent figure in the Khartargachha tradition, specifically the "Laghu Khartara" branch. He was active in the 14th century Vikram era and held considerable influence, even impacting the Delhi Sultan Muhammad Tughluq, which he utilized for the propagation of Jainism. The work was composed in his mature years, reflecting firsthand experience with the described rituals.
Content and Scope: "Vidhi Marg Prapa" is described as a comprehensive compendium of all rituals and practices related to the life of Jain monks (Shramanas), lay followers (Shravakas), and their joint activities. It is considered a reference dictionary for Jain rituals. The text covers a vast array of topics, including:
- Lay practices: Samyaktva (right faith) initiation, vows (like Pariġrah Parimāṇ), Āyambil tapas, Paushadh vrata, Samayika, and various forms of religious observances.
- Monastic practices: Initiation (Pravajya), rituals related to the āchāryapada (position of āchārya), Upadhyāya, Pravartini, and other monastic designations. It also details practices like Lohakarma (hair plucking), Upayogavidhi (rules of usage), and post-initiation disciplines.
- Rituals and ceremonies: Detailed procedures for various ceremonies like Upadhana (a specific type of penance), Mālaropaṇa (garland-installation), Pratishtha (consecration) of idols and temples, including specific rites like Kūrma Pratishtha, Dhvajāropaṇa (flag hoisting), and various Mudras (symbolic hand gestures).
- Penitential rites (Prāyaścitta): Extensive coverage of penitential procedures for various transgressions for both monks and lay followers, drawing from texts like Jīvakalpa.
- Calendar and Festivals: Observance of festival dates (Tithi).
- Other Practices: Angavidya (a branch of knowledge related to the body) and its practices are also mentioned.
Historical Significance: The text is highly valued because it meticulously outlines the practices of the Khartargachha tradition, considered one of the oldest branches of the Shvetambara sect. It highlights the tradition's emphasis on scripturally correct conduct (Shāstra-sammata Āchār-Charyā). It's noted that most Shvetambara gacchas (sects) base their rituals on this fundamental text, with later modifications introducing distinct texts for specific traditions.
Editorial and Publication Details: The current edition was researched and re-edited by Mahopadhyay Vinaysagar. It was published by Prakrit Bharti Academy, Jaipur, in collaboration with Shri Jain Shv. Khartargachha Sangh, Sanchor. The first edition was published in 1941 by Shri Jinda Suri Pustakoddhar Fund, Surat. The current edition is a reprint from 2000.
Scholarly Contributions: The text includes valuable contributions from scholars like Padma Shri Puratatvācharya Muni Jinavijayji (who did the primary editing), Agrachandji Nahata, and Bhanwarlalji Nahata, who shed light on Jinprabhasuri's personality and works.
Jinprabhasuri's Other Works: The text also provides a list of other works by Jinprabhasuri, including "Vividh Tirthakalpa," which is considered equally important. His known works span various genres, including philosophical treatises, hymns, and historical accounts.
Relevance: The book is essential not only for the monastic community but also for devout followers and scholars interested in understanding the intricacies of Jain rituals and their historical development within the Shvetambara tradition. The introduction emphasizes the need for a Hindi translation, which is in progress, further highlighting its broad applicability and importance.

In essence, "Vidhi Marg Prapa" serves as a foundational text for understanding and practicing the comprehensive ritualistic framework of the Shvetambara Jain religion, particularly within the influential Khartargachha lineage, penned by the learned Acharya Jinprabhasuri.