Triloksar

Certainly, here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Triloksar," based on the provided information:

Book Title: Triloksar (त्रिलोकसारः) Author: Nemichandra Siddhantachakravarti (श्रीमन्नेमिचन्द्र-सिद्धान्तचक्रवर्ति) Commentary Author: Madhavachandra Traividyadeva (श्रीमन्माधवचन्द्रत्रैविद्यदेव) Editor/Compiler: Manoharlal Shastri (श्रीयुतपण्डितमनोहरलालशास्त्रिणा) Publisher: Manikchand Digambar Jain Granthamala Samiti (माणिकचन्द-दिगम्बरजैनग्रन्थमाला-समिति) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/007269/1

Overview:

The "Triloksar" is a significant Jain text authored by the esteemed Acharya Nemichandra, a renowned scholar of the Digambar Jain tradition. The book, provided with a commentary by Madhavachandra Traividyadeva and edited by Manoharlal Shastri, is published by the Manikchand Digambar Jain Granthamala Samiti. The text delves into the Jain cosmological understanding of the universe, as indicated by its title, "Triloksar," which translates to "Essence of the Three Worlds."

Content Summary (Based on the provided text and context):

The text begins with devotional salutations and an introduction by the editor and commentators. The core of the text appears to focus on Lokakash (the Universe), as suggested by the initial chapters (Lokakash Adhikara - लोकसामान्याधिकारः, chapters 1-56) that detail the structure, dimensions, and fundamental principles of the Jain cosmos.

Key Concepts and Structures Discussed:

• The Nature of the Universe (Loka): The text likely describes the universe as eternal, uncreated (akritrim), without beginning or end, and self-existent (svabhavanirvritta). It emphasizes that the universe is not created by any external deity (an Ishvara-kartritva) and is not subject to cyclical destruction and creation. It is composed of souls (jiva) and non-living matter (ajiva).
• Dimensions and Structure: The text meticulously outlines the various calculations and measurements related to the universe. This includes concepts like the "rajju" (a unit of measure in Jain cosmology), its subdivisions, and the use of mustard seeds (sarsap) for calculating immense volumes. It describes the universe's shape, possibly likening it to a human form or other geometrical figures, and its division into various regions.
• The Three Worlds (Triloka): While the title signifies this, the provided text primarily focuses on the "Loka" in a general sense. However, the discussions of different realms (like Adho Loka - lower realms, mentioned in the context of Naraka Loka later) and the overall structure imply the detailed description of the three realms of existence in Jainism: the lower worlds (Adho Loka), the middle world (Tiryak Loka - where humans and animals reside), and the upper worlds (Urdhva Loka - the celestial realms inhabited by gods).
• Time and Measurement: The text likely details the vast units of time and space used in Jain cosmology, such as "palyas" and "sagaropamas," and the complex mathematical calculations involved in determining these.
• Mathematical Calculations: The detailed descriptions of measurements, volumes, and the use of units like "rajju" and "angula" indicate a strong emphasis on mathematical and cosmological calculations. The text likely elaborates on how these calculations are derived from fundamental principles and ancient texts (like the Jayadhavala Siddhanta).
• Dharana (Principles/Tenets): The text likely explores various principles related to the structure and functioning of the cosmos, possibly discussing concepts like the "dharmastikaya" (medium of motion) and "adharmastikaya" (medium of rest), which are fundamental Jain cosmological elements.
• Niraya (Hell Realms) and Vyantar (Sub-celestial beings): Later sections of the provided text (Chapters 6 onwards, particularly Naraka Loka Adhikara and Vyantar Loka Adhikara) discuss the structure of the hellish realms, the conditions of beings there, and the nature and abodes of celestial beings called Vyantaras, including their lifespan, palaces, and rulers.
• Jyotish Loka (Luminous Beings/Celestial Bodies): The text also covers the realms of luminous beings, including the sun, moon, stars, and planets, detailing their movements, orbits, and associated deities.
• Vaimanika Loka (Aerial Heavens/Celestial Realms): The final sections discuss the heavenly realms, the different classes of gods (devas), their abodes, lifespans, and the hierarchy among them.

Author and Historical Context:

Acharya Nemichandra was a prominent Jain scholar, likely belonging to the Nandi Sangha, a significant branch of the Digambar Jain tradition. The provided text includes extensive discussion on the approximate time period of Acharya Nemichandra, placing him in the 10th century CE, contemporary with figures like Chamundaraya (a patron of Jainism and author of the "Chamundarayana"). This dating is supported by references to inscriptions and literary works of that era. The text also clarifies potential discrepancies regarding the timeline by discussing interpretations of certain historical records.

Significance:

"Triloksar" is crucial for understanding the intricate and detailed cosmological framework of Jainism. It demonstrates the Jain emphasis on meticulous classification, measurement, and mathematical precision in describing the universe. The commentary by Madhavachandra Traividyadeva and the editorial work by Manoharlal Shastri are vital for making this complex text accessible to scholars and practitioners.

In summary, "Triloksar" is a foundational Jain text that systematically explains the structure, dimensions, inhabitants, and temporal aspects of the Jain universe, offering a profound glimpse into the vast and ancient Jain cosmological worldview.