Collected Research Papers In Prakrit And Jainology Vol 02 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the "Collected Research Papers in Prakrit and Jainology Vol 02" edited by Nalini Joshi, based on the provided text:

Overview:

"Collected Research Papers in Prakrit and Jainology Vol 02" is an academic publication from the Seth H.N.Jain Chair at the University of Pune, edited by Dr. Nalini Joshi. Published in March 2013, this volume brings together research conducted under the auspices of the Jain Chair, highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of Jainology. The book showcases a collection of papers presented at various national and international seminars and conferences, covering a wide spectrum of topics within Prakrit language and Jain studies.

Key Themes and Contributions:

The preface, written by Dr. Nalini Joshi, provides a valuable overview of her academic journey and the rationale behind the publication. She emphasizes the continuity of opportunities in Jaina studies throughout her career, from her work on the "Comprehensive and Critical Dictionary of Prakrits" to her current role as Honorary Professor of the Seth H.N.Jaina Chair. The volume is a testament to the ongoing research at the Chair, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of Jainism from various academic perspectives.

The papers presented in this volume cover a diverse range of topics, demonstrating the multifaceted nature of Jain studies. The editor highlights the following key areas and their contributions:

Prakrit Literature: Several papers delve into the intricacies of Prakrit languages, particularly Jaina Mahārāstrī, its evolution, peculiarities, and its significant contribution to Indian literature. The paper on "Peculiarities of Jaina Mahārāstrī Literature" provides a chronological and subject-wise survey, tracing its development from the 3rd to the 15th century AD. Another paper, "Contribution of Prakrit Literature to Indian Literature," discusses the linguistic evolution, the role of Prakrits in inscriptions and dramas, and the significance of Prakrit literature in reflecting Indian society and culture. The paper on "The Rustic Love-expressions of Maharashtra" specifically focuses on the "Gāhāsattasai," an anthology of Prakrit verses showcasing love expressions from Maharashtra, its compilation by King Hala, and its poetic and cultural significance.
Jaina Philosophy and Thought: The volume explores various philosophical concepts within Jainism, often drawing comparisons with modern scientific and philosophical ideas.
- Conflict Resolution and Peace: The paper on "Models of Conflict-resolution and Peace in Jaina Tradition" emphasizes Anekāntavāda as the core principle guiding Jainas towards peaceful coexistence and reconciliation.
- Language and Identity: The paper "Language and Identity (With Special Reference to Jainaism)" examines how Jainas have maintained their identity through a flexible and practical approach to language, utilizing various Prakrit dialects, Sanskrit, and modern Indian languages.
- Tiryancas (Lower Beings): The paper "World of Tiryancas: The Unique Jaina Perspective" offers a comprehensive view of the Jaina understanding of animals and other non-human beings, comparing it with modern scientific discoveries and highlighting the Jaina emphasis on non-violence and ethical treatment.
- Pañcāstikāya: The paper "Some Distinctive Features of Pañcāstikāya" provides a critical analysis of this important Jaina text by Kundakunda, discussing its philosophical concepts, terminology, and its contribution to the emerging era of Jain logic.
- Jainism: Philosophy and Practice in India: This paper explores the flexibility and all-inclusiveness of Jaina practices within the broader context of Indian religions, emphasizing the enduring nature of Jaina identity through religious practices and family networks.
- Rshibhashita: The paper "The Ancient Jaina Text 'Rushibhashita' (Unique Example of Religious Harmony)" highlights this ancient Prakrit text as a treasure trove of Indian thought, showcasing diverse philosophical reflections from various traditions prior to the institutionalization of specific religious systems.
- Nandi Passage Re-interpretation: The paper "Re-interpretation of the 'Mithyāśruta-Passage' in Nandi" critically examines a passage in the Nandi Sūtra that labels certain non-Jaina texts as "heretical," arguing for a more inclusive and rational interpretation in line with Jainism's core principles of non-absolutism.
- Kumārapālapratibodha Narratives: This paper analyzes the narrative features of "Kumārapālapratibodha," focusing on its classical Jaina Mahārāstrī language, the diverse social strata depicted, the significant role of women characters, and the motifs used to accelerate the narrative.
- Man-Woman Equality Debate: The paper "Critical Review of the Debate of Man-Woman Equality" provides a historical overview of this debate within Jainism, examining the views of Digambara, Svetambara, and Yāpaniya traditions, as well as contemporary perspectives and the evolving role of Jaina nuns.
- Pro-Environmental Thoughts and Practices: This paper critically reviews the pro-environmental thoughts within Jainism, contrasting them with actual practices and highlighting the need for more proactive engagement with environmental issues by the community.
- Darwin's Theory of Evolution from a Jaina Viewpoint: This paper attempts to find parallels and potential interpretations of Darwin's theory of evolution within Jaina philosophical concepts, particularly focusing on the idea of nigodi-jīvas and the doctrine of karma.
- Sammūrcchima (Agglutination): The paper "Revealing the Scientific Nature of the Jaina Concept 'Sammūrcchima'" explores the Jaina concept of birth by agglutination, comparing it with modern biological concepts like asexual reproduction, cloning, and hermaphroditism.
- Ethical Values in Jain Philosophy: This paper examines the ethical values embedded in Jain philosophy, focusing on the conduct of householders (śrāvakas) and comparing Jaina ethical norms with contemporary concepts in media ethics, business ethics, and environmental ethics.
- Wisdom in Jaina Tradition: This paper delves into the place of wisdom in Jaina epistemology, highlights the contributions of key Jaina texts to Indian lacṣaṇika (secular) literature, and discusses the hidden wisdom within Jaina scriptures and the social wisdom manifested through various thought-models.
Manuscriptology: The paper "Some Problems in Editing Single Manuscript (with special reference to Bappabhattikahā)" sheds light on the challenges and methodologies involved in editing ancient manuscripts, using "Bappabhattikahā" as a case study and emphasizing the importance of preserving and interpreting these valuable historical documents.

Methodology and Norms:

Dr. Joshi outlines the general norms and methodology followed in the research papers prepared under the H.N.Jaina Chair. These include:

Rootedness in original Jaina frameworks and close examination of original texts.
Use of secondary sources with thorough verification.
Providing precise reference numbers for particular editions of texts.
Maintaining chronological order when citing multiple texts.
Selecting philosophical subjects with potential connections to modern scientific concepts.
Using Romanization of technical terms with diacritical marks for accurate pronunciation.
Prioritizing comparative and critical analysis with logical reasoning over flat informative narration.
Documenting changes and developments in Jaina thought.
Connecting issues with actual Jaina practices and contemporary societal aspirations.
Suggesting further lines of research where applicable.

Overall Significance:

"Collected Research Papers in Prakrit and Jainology Vol 02" serves as a significant contribution to the field of Jain studies. It demonstrates the vitality of Jaina research in contemporary academia, bridging ancient wisdom with modern intellectual inquiry. The volume underscores the enduring relevance of Jain philosophy, ethics, and literature in addressing contemporary societal and scientific challenges. The editor's preface and the detailed summaries of the papers offer a comprehensive insight into the scholarly endeavors undertaken by the Seth H.N.Jain Chair.