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Foreword
We are happy to publish the English translation of the Tatvārthādhigama sūtra of Umāsvāti who has churned out the nector of the sea of philosophy embodied in the Jaina āgamas.
The text cast in Sanskrit aphorisms, precisely has dealt with nine essentials (Nava Padas) of Jainism. Kalikālasarvajña Hemacandrācārya has acknowledged him as the best compiler. That is why this work is the only accepted and recognized work of Jaina philosophy.
This work is famous as a text for the scholars and the students alike of Jainism. The essence of Jainism is rendered here in very simple language. Several scholars, Digambara as well as svetāmbara have written commentaries on this work. These are sometimes difficult to comprehend. Also, many interpretations and expositions are written in Gujarātī, Hindi, and in English in the last century. These generally are detailed and not easy for the beginners.
There was, therefore, a need for a simple translation / exposition for those Jaina diaspore desirous of knowing about Jaina religion and also for those who want to learn about Jainism. Therefore, Shri Manubhai Doshi undertook this
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