Disclaimer: This translation does not guarantee complete accuracy, please confirm with the original page text.
The Tattvartha is indeed proving the belief in the eleven limbs of their scriptural knowledge. Therefore, there is no doubt regarding their competency. They have compiled all the substances of the scripture inherited as a legacy in the Tattvartha; they have not left out a single important point without mentioning it. For this reason, Acharya Hemachandra regards Umasvati as the foremost among compilers. Due to this competency, both Shwetambara and Digambara Acharyas have been inspired to interpret the Tattvartha.
Regarding Umasvati’s tradition, the Digambara schools consider only the Tattvartha Sutra as his composition, while the Shwetambara schools recognize him as part of their tradition and accept works beyond the Tattvartha Sutra as his contributions. Now the question arises: Was Umasvati part of the Digambara tradition, the Shwetambara tradition, or some other distinct tradition? The answer to this question is found in the decision concerning the authorship of the commentary. It is unequivocally established by evidence that the commentary itself is the work of Umasvati.
1. Among the available commentaries, the oldest commentary is by Siddhasena. It includes the following self-evident mentions:
“It has been stated, ‘We shall speak of knowledge.’ Therefore, the Acharya declared it in one statement due to the context.” - Part One, p. 69
“And so, the author of the scripture indeed speaks by dividing the self into two, thus through the commentary…” - p. 72
“Indeed, the commentator is inseparably connected to the author of the sutra.” - p. 205
Thus, it is in the discourse of the revered Lord, in the context of comprehending the Tattvartha, that the commentary and its interpretation regarding the Umasvati voice are presented… Part Two, p. 120
1. For understanding the essence of the topic in Tattvartha, refer to the Tattvartha Sutra edited by U. Atmaramaji—Jain Agama Samanya.
2. Reference to Umashvatti, the compiler… Siddhāhem, 2. 2. 31.
3. See the article by Shri Nathuramji Premi in the special issue of 'Bharatiya Vidya,' p. 128, in which he has established the commentary as self-evident.