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PREFACE: XXXV
around the 5th century. From this also we come to a conclusion that Mahāpratyākhyāna Prakīrnaka is a composition of a period prior to the 4th century. In conclusion we can only say that the Mahāpratyākhyāna Prakirnaka was composed some time between the 2nd and the 4th centuries AD.
Subject-matter Of Mahāpratyākhyāna Prakīrnaka -
Mahāpratyākhyāna Prakirnaka has a total of 142 verses in which the following subject-matter has been dealt with:
Initiating the work with a benediction, the author has bowed to the five paragons of spiritual virtues – Arahantas, Siddhas, Jinadevas and restrained ascetics (Sadhu). He has, then proceeded to state the importance of renouncing of all external as well as internal encumbrance in three ways - physical, mental and verbal. (1-5).
Enunciating the equality towards all living beings, it has been said, “I forgive all and may all forgive me, too.” At the same time it has been said that the condemnable activities must be condemned, those worthy of denigration must be denounced and the ones worthy of repentance must be repented for. (6–8).
In this work an aspirant has been motivated to forgo attachment and establish himself in true detached state. About the soul it has been said that the soul itself is the true vow, true renunciation and true yoga. (9-11). In the next verse the author has condemned non-adherence to basic and secondary spiritual virtues (Mūlaguna and Uttaraguna). (12)."
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In his book Jaina Agama : ihitya : Manana Aur Mīmāmsā, Ācārya Devendramuniji has interpreted this verse as purporting to prescribe
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