Yapaniya Sampraday Vishe Adharbhut Granth

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text about the Yapaniya Sampraday, based on the book "Yapaniya Sampraday vishe Adharbhut Granth" by Ramanlal C Shah:

This foundational text, "Yapaniya Sampraday vishe Adharbhut Granth" by Ramanlal C Shah, addresses a lesser-known but significant sect within Jainism: the Yapaniya Sampraday. The author highlights that many Jains, even ascetics, may not have heard of this sect, yet its historical contribution to the religious and cultural development of Jainism is substantial and essential for Jains to understand.

The primary purpose of the Yapaniya Sampraday's emergence was to foster harmony and reconciliation between the two major Jain denominations, the Digambaras and the Shvetambaras, which had been in disagreement for approximately a thousand years. The Yapaniyas played a crucial role in strengthening the spirit of Ahimsa (non-violence), as propounded by Lord Mahavira, within the Jain community itself for centuries.

The book is a rigorous research work by Dr. Sagarmalji Jain. Initially intending to write a short booklet, he dedicated four years of diligent effort to produce this comprehensive volume due to the lack of readily available, authoritative information on the Yapaniya Sampraday. Dr. Sagarmalji demonstrated a deep understanding of Shvetambara Āgama texts and, to adequately write about the Yapaniyas, he also meticulously studied Digambara texts from this specific perspective. This approach equipped him with the necessary expertise and authority for his writing.

The author emphasizes the importance of setting aside sectarian biases to provide a just account of historical facts. Dr. Sagarmalji's work is commended for its impartiality and for adhering to this principle.

The book is structured into four main chapters:

• Chapter 1: Discusses the origin of the term "Yapaniya," its meaning, and the genesis of the Sangh (community or sect).
• Chapter 2: Examines the Gan and Anvay (lineages or sub-sects) within the Yapaniya Sangh.
• Chapter 3: Offers a detailed introduction to Yapaniya literature.
• Chapter 4: Provides an accurate understanding of the unique beliefs of the Yapaniya Sangh.

The Yapaniya Sangh existed for a significant period, from the 2nd century CE to the 15th century CE, a duration of 1400 years. Its longevity is attributed to its inclusive and liberal perspective, which served as a connecting link between the Shvetambara and Digambara traditions.

The text also delves into specific inquiries and analyses, as suggested by the embedded questions regarding the Shvetambara Āgamas concerning events like Mahavira's conception transfer and marriage, the author's own Gan Anvay references, ancestral connections, and specific mentions that link the text to the Yapaniya tradition. It also touches upon the Yapaniya perspective on the status of a Kshullaka (an ascetic in a lower order) as not a householder but a monk with exceptional attire, and the allowance for providing food in vessels to sick or elderly monks.

The author has conducted a profound analysis of the concept of "Achelakatva" (non-clothedness) by referencing texts, inscriptions, and sculptures within historical and geographical contexts. The reviewer concludes that Dr. Sagarmalji has presented a monumental and authoritative work on the Yapaniya Sangh, benefiting readers with extensive knowledge beyond the core subject. The author's broad-minded and balanced approach is highly praised, earning him deserving accolades.