________________
*
The second type of commentary is Churni which is in a mixed style, prose and poetry, and bilingual, Sanskrit and Prakrit. It is believed that the author of Acharanga Churni was Acharya Jinadas Gani Mahattar (6-7th century V.). It appears that the commentator (Churni) had more than one tradition of the text of Acharanga Sutra having marked differences. The commentator (Churni) has minutely examined and discussed these alternative readings on the basis of linguistics. He has also tried to explore the nearly extinct tradition of interpretive discourses or teaching. The commentator (Churni) has thrown light on numerous meanings of numerous alternative readings of every single word. Take for example the phrase Tamha-ati vijje (aphorism 113). This reading, tamha ativijje, means a great scholar. Its alternative reading, tamha tivijje, means scholar of three subjects or three special skills. This way the commentator (Churni) has given alternative readings of such passages and discussed their alternative meanings. This provides a glimpse of the ancient tradition of interpretations.
Tika—The period of the author of the Tika or Vritti (commentary) on Acharanga, Acharya Shilank Suri is believed to be eighth century V. Shilankacharya has elaborated the meaning of Acharanga Sutra on the basis of another Tika titled Gandhahasti Bhashya by Shri Siddhasenacharya which is not available now. Besides Tika other types of commentaries, such as Dipika, Avachuri and Balavabodh, are also available.
The most famous and elaborate Hindi commentary (Tika) on Acharanga Sutra has been written by Acharya Samrat Shri Atmaram ji M. who was like an ocean of knowledge. He could recite the text of all the Agams with necessary references from his memory. The interpretation done by him with the help of his vast knowledge is so logical, coherent and eloquent that even a reader having no knowledge of Agams can understand the deeper meanings and even remove his doubts. Acharya Samrat has written detailed commentaries on numerous scriptures. I have mainly based this edition on the commentary by Acharya Samrat. Besides this, Acharanga Sutra edited by Srichand Surana 'Saras' with late
( PE )
Jain Education International
For Private & Personal Use Only
www.jainelibrary.org
