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Information Regarding Study
Students and teachers, both Jain and non-Jain, who desire to study Jain philosophy authentically often ask which book can be studied both briefly and in detail to gain knowledge about all the issues contained within Jain philosophy. In response to this question, no book other than 'Tattvartha' can be recommended. Because Tattvartha possesses such qualifications, it holds the foremost position in Jain philosophy curriculums today. However, the outline of its study process does not seem particularly fruitful. Therefore, it would not be irrelevant to provide some information here regarding its study method.
Generally, Shvetambara readers do not refer to Digambara commentaries, and Digambara readers do not refer to Shvetambara commentaries. The reasons could be narrow-mindedness, sectarian attachment, lack of information, or whatever it may be; if this belief holds true, it indicates how limited the reader's knowledge remains, how unfulfilled their curiosity is, and how stifled their ability to compare and perceive is, resulting in a very minimal establishment of authenticity among the readers of Tattvartha. To understand this, one does not need to go far beyond the present circumstances faced by students in all Jain institutions. If there is room for narrow-mindedness or sectarian confusion in the path of knowledge, the sphere of curiosity, and the quest for truth, then the core truths cannot be established. Those who shy away from merely the thought of comparison are either uncertain about the authenticity and strength of their own perspective, lack the ability to stand before the opposing side, hesitate to accept the truth over falsehood, or do not possess sufficient intellect and patience to establish their truths. This is what knowledge signifies: the removal of narrow-mindedness, bondage, and...