Mahanisiha Studies And Edition In Germany

Author(s): Chandrabhal Tripathi
Publisher: Chandrabhal Tripathi

Page 84

84 Chandrabhal Tripathi EPILOGUE To conclude this Report we may repeat briefly the main results of the Mahanisiha studies in Germany: 1) The MNA is not canonical but apocryphal and thus not identical with its namesake mentioned in the Nandisutra. 2) It is later than the Niryuktis, Bhasyas and "vuddha-vivarana" quoted or referred to in 3) It is earlier than the Gacchacara and the Upadesamala of Dharmadasa-gani. 4) There are a few remarks in it which may be even as late as 13th cent. AD. 5) Its language and metrics present many unusual and some incorrect features which are surely due to the "work" of one still unknown person. 6). Neither Jinabhadra-gani nor acarya Haribhadra can be regarded as the editor of "original Ms(s)." in deplorable condition. * 7) Its position in the sacred literature of the (svetambara) Jainas has been since its composition not uncontested. My Report though based on the critical work of A. Weber, W. Schubring, F. R. Hamm and J. Deleu is, in its present form, my writing and I am responsible for all its defects of omission and commission and all mistakes in grammar and style as neither English nor German is my mother-tongue. For saving me from many more mistakes I am sincerely obliged to some friends who want to remain unnamed. katam karaniyam. Chandrabhal Tripathi