Yashstilak Ka Sanskrutik Adhyayana

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Yashstilak ka Sanskrutik Adhyayan" by Gokulchandra Jain, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Yashstilak ka Sanskrutik Adhyayan (A Cultural Study of Yashstilak) Author: Dr. Gokulchandra Jain Publisher: Parshwanath Shodhpith Varanasi (published by Sohanlal Jain Dharma Pracharak Samiti, Amritsar) Publication Year: 1967

This book is a doctoral dissertation accepted by Banaras Hindu University, focusing on a cultural analysis of the "Yashstilaka" composed by Somdev Suri.

Core Content and Analysis:

The book delves deeply into the "Yashstilaka," a significant Sanskrit work that uses the life of King Yashodhara as its narrative framework. Dr. Jain's study aims to extract and analyze the rich cultural, social, and religious material embedded within this text.

Key Aspects of the Study:

1. Introduction to Yashstilaka and Somdev Suri:

   • Yashstilaka: It's described as a masterpiece written in both prose and poetry (Champu style), comprising eight sections (Ashwas). It contains 2,311 verses and the rest is prose. Somdev himself stated the total length is about 8,000 verses. The work is noted for its refined Sanskrit, unique literary style blending prose and poetry, and its inclusion of diverse cultural and scientific information.
   • Somdev Suri: He was a highly versatile scholar of the 10th century, excelling as a logician, poet, politician, philosopher, sociologist, and religious leader. His works, including "Yashstilaka" and "Nitivakyarmrita," reflect his broad knowledge acquired through contact with various kingdoms and intellectual discourse. He was a disciple of Nemidev of the Dev Sangh, known for his intellectual prowess.

2. Historical Context:

   • Composition Date: Yashstilaka was completed in 959 CE, a period when the Rashtrakuta dynasty, particularly Krishna III, was powerful in the Deccan. The book acknowledges the intricate relationship between Somdev and the Gurjara-Pratihara kings of Kannauj, particularly Mahendra Deva, though it suggests further evidence is needed to definitively establish a direct familial link (like being brothers).
   • Cultural Mirror: "Yashstilaka" is considered a reflection of Rashtrakuta culture, much like Bana's "Harshacharita" depicted the Gupta era.

3. Yashstilaka's Narrative and Cultural Background:

   • Storyline: The narrative follows the story of King Yashodhara, who is reborn multiple times due to his actions. The central theme revolves around the consequences of violence (even symbolic, like the sacrifice of an 'atta ka murga' - an idol chicken made of flour) and the paramount importance of Ahimsa (non-violence) in Jain philosophy. The story highlights the cycle of rebirth and the path to liberation.
   • Ahimsa as a Core Message: The book emphasizes that Somdev's primary motivation was to instill the ideals of Ahimsa in the masses, illustrating the severe consequences of even minor acts of violence, especially when done with intent (sankalp).

4. Social Life in the Yashstilaka Era:

   • Varna System: The study meticulously examines the prevalent Varna (caste) system, detailing the roles and societal perceptions of Brahmins, Kshatriyas, Vaishyas, and Shudras, along with various other social groups like craftsmen, merchants, laborers, and marginalized communities mentioned in the text. It notes the significant influence of Vedic traditions on Jain society, despite Jainism's theoretical rejection of the Varna system. Somdev's pragmatic approach of aligning the 'lokik' (worldly) dharma with Vedic traditions while upholding the 'paralokik' (spiritual) dharma based on Jain Agamas is highlighted.
   • Ashrama System: The book discusses the prevailing norms of the four Ashramas (stages of life) – Brahmacharya, Grihastha, Vanaprastha, and Sannyasa – and their observance, including exceptions like child renunciations.
   • Family Life and Marriage: It portrays the joint family system, respect for elders, and the affectionate descriptions of children's activities. The text explores marriage customs, including the Svayamvara (bride choosing groom) and arranged marriages, noting the prevalent practice of child marriage and its adverse effects.
   • Food and Cuisine: A significant portion is dedicated to the detailed description of food items, culinary practices, dietary rules based on seasons, and the health aspects of various foods and beverages. It lists numerous vegetables, grains, spices, dairy products, and prepared dishes, offering insights into the culinary landscape of the 10th century. The book also touches upon the absence of potatoes, suggesting its non-Indian origin.
   • Health, Diseases, and Treatments: The study covers aspects of health, various ailments like indigestion, eye problems, fever, and their treatments as described in Yashstilaka, reflecting the medical knowledge of the time.
   • Clothing and Adornment: It provides a comprehensive overview of attire, including types of fabrics (like 'Netra,' 'Chik'), dresses, footwear, hairstyles, cosmetics, and jewelry, showcasing the fashion and aesthetic sensibilities of the era.
   • Education and Literature: The book highlights the educational system, the importance of Gurukulas, and the subjects taught, covering grammar, logic, politics, arts, and sciences. It also lists numerous poets and literary works mentioned by Somdev, emphasizing the rich literary tradition.
   • Agriculture and Commerce: It describes agricultural practices, irrigation, trade centers, local and foreign trade, the role of guilds (Sarthavaha), and the various means of exchange.
   • Weapons and Warfare: The study details various types of weapons and their usage, providing insights into the military aspects of the period.

5. Fine Arts and Craftsmanship:

   • Music, Dance, and Drama: It discusses the prominence of music, instruments (like Shankh, Veena, Mridanga), and dance forms (like Lasya and Tandava), referencing the Natyashastra of Bharata Muni.
   • Painting: The text explores various forms of painting, including murals and decorative floor paintings ('Rangoli'), and the depiction of mythological figures and symbols.
   • Architecture and Sculpture: It details the architectural styles of temples, palaces, and public buildings, mentioning specific features like spires, pillars, and decorative elements. The description of the 'Yantra-Dharagriha' (mechanical water house) showcases advanced knowledge of engineering and automation.

6. Geography and Lexicography:

   • Geography: The book maps out the geographical landscape of ancient India as depicted in Yashstilaka, identifying numerous regions, cities, villages, forests, mountains, rivers, and lakes.
   • Lexicon: The final chapter is dedicated to a study of the vocabulary used in Yashstilaka, analyzing rare, archaic, and newly coined words, demonstrating Somdev's extensive use of language and his contribution to Sanskrit lexicography.

Significance of the Study:

Dr. Gokulchandra Jain's work is lauded for its meticulous research, classification of information, and reliance on primary sources. The study highlights "Yashstilaka" as a valuable treasure trove of information for various branches of knowledge, including archaeology, history, art, and literature. It is presented as a foundational work that complements earlier studies, particularly that of Professor K.K. Handiqui, and paves the way for future comprehensive research on Somdev Suri and his magnum opus. The book also acknowledges the sponsorship of the Sohanlal Jain Dharma Pracharak Samiti, Amritsar, and the support from Parshwanath Vidyaashram Shodh Sansthan, Varanasi.