Comparative and Critical Study of Mantrashastra

Author(s): Mohanlal Bhagwandas Jhaveri, K V Abhayankar
Publisher: Sarabhai Manilal Nawab

Page 282

ANTIQUITY OF JAIN MANTRAS: BHAGAVATISUTRA
273
times, it shows that the generality of people used to be versed in Vidyās and Mantras in those times. BHAGAVATISUTRA, JNĂTĂDHARMAKATHANGA, ANTAKŘTDASANGA,
VIPAKA & UVAVẢI At Page 149 ante we have given a reference to Rāyapaseni, Sūtra 53 which describes Sri Kesi Kumarasramaņa as being prominent in the knowledge of Vidyās and Mantras ( CTETUT #94E10). Similarly at p. 174 ante we have stated that according to a set description all Ganadharas are said to be Mantrapradhāna and Vidyāpradhāna. We would cite Jnātādharmakathā I, 1, Sūtra 4 and Vipākasūtra I, 1 Sūtra 1 where Arya Sudharma is so described. We have also referred to p. 32, Aupapātika Sūtra where “Therās" are also similarly described. Bhagavatisūtra 5, Sutra 108 has a similar description of 'Theras' of Sri Parávanātha. These descriptions conclusively show how the Jain canon views Vidyās and Mantras. It would not have so described-as it has done-Gañadharas and Therās, if it considered Vidyās and Mantras had something inherently sinful or derogatory, because in that case such description would not in anyway redound to their credit or properly represent the very high qualities acquired by living ideal ascetic life by these persons. As the said attributes are in juxtaposition with others describing the very high and rare qualities of Ganadharas and Theräs the said attributes also must be taken to describe their very high and rare qualities-not merely approved of but greatly acclaimed. Jnātādharmakathā 1, 14, Sūtra 99 mentions inter alia Cūrņayoga and Mantrayoga. The said passage throws considerable light on the condition of society in ancient times as it was commonly believed that ascetics were possessed of miraculous powers or had knowledge of Mantras or charm with ashes, clay or thread, magical powders or herbs, roots, bark, creeper, or a blade of Silika grass, pills, medicine or combination of medicines which would cause enchantment, fascination or bring good luck or prosperity to a person. Suvratá the Jain female ascetic, says that she would not even hear such things,