Vivek Vilas

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vivek Vilas" by Shreekrushna, based on the provided catalog link and the Hindi text:

Book Title: Vivek Vilas Author: Shrimad Jindattasuri (attributed) Editor/Translator: Dr. Shreekrushna 'Jugnu' Publisher: Aryavart Sanskriti Sansthan, Delhi

Overview:

"Vivek Vilas" is a highly comprehensive and valuable ancient Jain text that delves into a vast array of subjects, aiming to provide practical guidance for a virtuous and well-ordered life. The title itself, "Vivek Vilas," translates to "The Delight of Discernment" or "The Splendor of Wisdom," reflecting its core theme of applying wisdom and discernment in all aspects of life.

Content and Structure:

The book is structured into 12 Ullases (chapters) and contains approximately 1327 shlokas (verses), primarily in the Anushtubh meter, with some Upajati and other meters used in the conclusion.

The text covers an exceptionally wide range of topics, presented in a systematic manner, covering daily routines, ethical conduct, religious practices, and practical knowledge across various fields. The scope of "Vivek Vilas" is remarkably broad, encompassing:

• Daily Conduct (Dinacharya): Detailed descriptions of daily routines, including waking up, morning rituals, hygiene, and the appropriate actions for different times of the day and night. This includes dream interpretation (Swapna Vichar).
• Religious and Ethical Practices (Shravakachar): Guidance on the conduct of lay Jains, covering rituals, ethical behavior, and their importance.
• Scientific and Practical Knowledge: The text serves as an ancient encyclopedia, covering subjects such as:
  • Astrology and Omens (Jyotish, Samudrik, Nimitta): Aspects of astrology, physiognomy (Samudrik Shastra), and interpreting omens.
  • Architecture and Construction (Vastu Shastra): Principles of temple construction, idol characteristics (Pratima Lakshana), restoration of ancient structures (Jirnoddhar), land examination for construction (Bhumi Pariksha), and auspicious times for various activities.
  • Health and Medicine (Vish Chikitsa, Ayurveda): Information on hygiene, disease prevention, treatment of poisons (Vish Pariksha), and Ayurvedic principles.
  • Societal Conduct: Descriptions of character traits of masters and servants (Swami-Sevak Lakshana), praise of effort (Udyam Prashansa), rules for eating (Bhojan Vidhi), and conduct during twilight and sleep.
  • Astrology and Divination: Interpretation of auspicious and inauspicious signs related to marriage (Vadh-Vadhau Lakshana), seasonal descriptions (Shad Ritu Varnan), and annual routines (Varshacharya).
  • Metaphysics and Philosophy (Darshana): Introduction to the six schools of Indian philosophy (Shat Darshana Parichay), discussion on soul and self (Atma-Jiva), principles (Tattva), and refutation of Charvaka philosophy (Charvaka Mat Khandana).
  • Social Customs: Details on rituals for ancestors (Shradh), purity in home affairs (Shuddh Griha Karma), auspicious and inauspicious trees and their fruits, guidance for disciples and interaction with teachers (Shishyavabodh), and behavior during travel.
  • Specific Knowledge: Includes topics like the consequences of snake bites based on the day, constellations, zodiac signs, direction, and messengers (Dootanusar Vichar), gemology (Ratna), and rules for traveling abroad (Pardesh Gaman ke Niyam).
  • Wisdom and Governance: Discussions on decision-making (Mantrana Vichar), consequences of factionalism (Jati Klesh), the benefits of unity (Ekatma Rahne ke Phal), and general religious teachings (Dharmopadesh).
  • Spiritual Practices: Emphasis on meditation and self-realization (Dhyan-Samadhi), celibacy (Brahmacharya), and the nature of the soul (Atma-Jiva).
  • End-of-Life Practices: Guidance on deathbed rituals and peaceful departure (Antakal mein Deh Tyag, Samadhimaran).

Key Features and Significance:

• Universality: The text emphasizes universally applicable principles, transcending narrow sectarian dogma.
• Practical Utility: "Vivek Vilas" is designed to be highly practical and beneficial in daily life, providing guidance from the householder's perspective to that of a renunciate.
• Interdisciplinary Knowledge: It synthesizes knowledge from various domains, including religious scriptures, astrology, architecture, medicine, and social customs.
• Scholarly Value: The editor, Dr. Shreekrushna 'Jugnu', has undertaken extensive research, cross-referencing and comparing verses with numerous other ancient texts, enhancing the scholarly value of this edition. The inclusion of the Mohanbodhini Hindi commentary further aids in understanding the intricate verses.
• Historical Context: The text offers insights into the life, culture, and intellectual landscape of medieval India, particularly the Jain tradition. The preface highlights the historical context of its compilation, linking it to the reign of rulers like Udayasingh of Jalore and the influence of the Vayada Gaccha.

Editor's Contribution:

Dr. Shreekrushna 'Jugnu' has played a pivotal role in bringing this rare and valuable text to light. His meticulous research, translation, and the accompanying commentary provide modern readers with access to this ancient wisdom. The preface details his challenging journey in finding and compiling the text from various sources.

In essence, "Vivek Vilas" is a treasure trove of ancient Indian knowledge, offering a holistic approach to living a life guided by discernment, virtue, and practical wisdom, as advocated by Jain tradition and enriched by broader Indian philosophical and scientific thought.