Vividh Payannav Churi Tika - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vividh Payannav Churi Tika," authored by Shravak Hiralal Hansraj, based on the provided pages:

Overall Purpose and Context:

This text is a commentary (Tika) on a Jain work, likely dealing with various aspects of Jain practice and philosophy. The commentary itself seems to be an elaborate explanation and clarification of complex Jain concepts, possibly aimed at a learned audience. The author, Shravak Hiralal Hansraj, is identified as being from Jamnagar and the work was published in 1911. The preface emphasizes the exclusive use for private and personal purposes, originating from the Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra, Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Gyanmandir.

Key Themes and Concepts Explained in the Commentary (Tika):

The commentary meticulously breaks down and explains various Jain terms and practices, focusing on the purification of conduct (achara) and the path to liberation. Based on the provided pages, the following key themes are evident:

The Six Essential Practices (Shaḍāvaśyaka): The text begins by explaining the foundational Jain practices, which are undertaken for purification:
- Sāmayika (Equanimity): Described as the purification of conduct (charitra) and attained through equanimity. It involves abstaining from sinful activities and engaging in righteous ones.
- Stuti (Praise/Praise of Virtues): The purification of perception (darśana) is achieved through praising the virtues of the Tirthankaras and their qualities.
- Vandana (Salutation/Homage): The purification of knowledge (jnana) is accomplished through respecting and honoring those endowed with knowledge and virtuous qualities, performed with proper reverence and without the thirty-two blemishes.
- Pratikramana (Repentance/Confession): This practice purifies the previous three by confessing and regretting transgressions, vows not to repeat them, and turning away from them.
- Kāyotsarga (Abandonment of the Body/Meditation): This is presented as a means to purify or heal the spiritual "wounds" caused by transgressions, similar to treating a physical wound.
- Pratyākhyāna (Renunciation/Austerity): This purifies the practice of adhering to virtues and vows, involving holding onto virtues and the practice of austerities.
The Fourfold Refuge (Chatuḥśaraṇa): The text emphasizes the importance of taking refuge in the fourfold Jain community:
- Arhat (The Victorious): Those who have conquered internal enemies like passion and hatred.
- Siddha (The Liberated): Souls who have attained eternal liberation.
- Āchārya (Preceptors): Spiritual guides who uphold and teach the Jain path.
- Upādhyāya (Teachers): Those who impart scriptural knowledge.
- Sadhu (Monks): Ascetics who practice the Jain path diligently.
The commentary explains the characteristics and qualities of each of these refuges, highlighting why they are worthy of refuge. For example, it describes Arhats as having overcome all passions and karmas, and Siddhas as existing in a state of pure bliss beyond worldly suffering.
The Nature of Samsara and Suffering: The text alludes to the cyclical nature of birth, death, and suffering (samsara) caused by ignorance, passions, and karmic bondage. It stresses the importance of understanding the true nature of reality to escape this cycle.
The Path to Liberation (Moksha): The commentary repeatedly points towards liberation as the ultimate goal, achieved through the diligent practice of Jain principles, including knowledge, perception, conduct, and the four refuges.
Specific Practices and Virtues:
- Dāna (Charity): Mentioned as a virtue.
- Śīla (Conduct/Virtue): Discussed in relation to adherence and breaking of vows.
- Tapas (Austerities): Highlighted as a means of purification and achieving spiritual progress.
- Samiti (Carefulness/Mindfulness): Crucial for avoiding harm.
- Gupti (Control): Control over mind, speech, and body is emphasized.
Detailed Explanations of Concepts: The commentary offers detailed etymological and philosophical explanations of terms. For instance, "Sāvadya" (sinful) is broken down from its roots, and "Yoga" is explained as the activities of mind, speech, and body.
Examples and Illustrations: While not explicitly detailed in the provided snippets, the text references various examples (like dreams of the Tirthankara's mother, different types of conduct, and types of death) to illustrate its points, suggesting a rich and detailed commentary.
Structure of the Commentary: The text appears to be structured thematically, with each section focusing on a particular aspect of Jain doctrine or practice. The commentary systematically explains the meaning, purpose, and method of performing these practices, often referencing scriptural verses (gathas).

Specific Mentions and Highlights:

Vividh Payannav: This title itself suggests a discussion of various "Payanna" or Prakirnakas, which are Jain scriptures containing miscellaneous topics, often supplementary to core Agamas. The commentary is likely explaining these Prakirnakas.
Churi (or Churni): Indicates a commentary, likely a concise or detailed explanation.
Shravak Hiralal Hansraj: The author's dedication to the cause of Jainism is evident from his authorship and publisher information.
Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Gyanmandir: This highlights the lineage and institutional backing of the text, suggesting a connection to a respected monastic tradition.

In essence, "Vividh Payannav Churi Tika" serves as a scholarly exposition of fundamental Jain ethical principles, spiritual practices, and the path to salvation, rendered accessible through the detailed explanations and insights of Shravak Hiralal Hansraj. The commentary aims to illuminate the significance and correct understanding of these vital elements within Jainism.