Kalpasutra

This review discusses a translation and study of the Kalpasutra, a Svetambara Jain canonical text attributed to Bhadrabahu and traditionally dated to the 4th century B.C. The Kalpasutra contains biographies of the last Tirthankaras, especially Parsvanatha and Mahavira. It is read during the Paryusana festival and revered for its sanctity. The text comprises sections on the lives of the Tirthankaras, the lineages of Jain teachers and hymns of praise. The translation under review includes extensive introductory essays explaining Jain cosmology, ritual practices and linguistic features. The reviewer notes that the translator discusses the importance of canonical and non-canonical Jain literature and provides a life-sketch of Bhadrabahu. Comparative analyses of different recensions of the Kalpasutra and commentaries by later Jain scholars are included. The book prints the Ardhamagadhi text alongside the English translation, allowing readers to appreciate the original language. Doctrinal points such as the twelve vows of a layperson and stages of renunciation are elucidated. The review praises the philological rigour of the translation and concludes that the volume will be valuable to scholars of Jainism and general readers interested in Jain history.

Summary reviewed by a volunteer editor.