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Jainism, the oldest indigenous religion has immensely contributed to the field of religion, philosophy, literature, history and culture. It also carries perhaps the most scientific and progressive outlook towards the natural science and environment.
Publisher's Note
The Tattvärthasūtra of Acarya Umāswāti (-mi) (3rd century A.D.) is the first Jaina text in Sanskrit which submits the basic Jaina tenets in more systematic way. That is the reason why the Sūtra became so much popular amongst the both sects, Digambara and Śvetāmbara.
A large number of commentaries on the Tattvārthasūtra have been written by Jainācāryas since fifth century A.D. and onwards in different languages. Out of these commentaries the TattvärthaRājavārtika of Acārya Akalanka (720-780 A.D.) is of paramount importance which deals with the contemporary religious and philosophical views.
The fifth chapter of the text is more important from all standpoints. Dr. N.L. Jain, a profound scholar of Jainology and science has undertaken an INSA project of its translation work by adopting the technique of question-answer type with critical and supplementary notes. He appears to be successfull in his endeavour. We are grateful to him for his permission to publish this commendable work. We are also thankful to Shri Pradyuman Zaveri from USA who has extended his co-operation by giving the financial assistance for its publication.
Our thanks are also due to Dr. Vijaya Kumar Jain who checked its proof and managed it throughout the press.
Dated. 24.7.2000
Jain Education International
Bhupendra Nath Jain Secretary
Pārśwanatha Vidyāpīṭha
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Varanasi.
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