Book Review
Summary
The book review section of this issue of *Jain Journal* is composed of three concise reviews highlighting recent publications relevant to Jain studies. The first review discusses a Punjabi translation of the *Uttarādhyayana Sūtra*, one of the most important texts of the Śvetāmbara Jain canon. The reviewer notes that the translator, Ravinder Kumar Jain, not only renders the text into Punjabi but provides an accessible introduction and explanatory notes for each chapter, making the work accessible to Punjabi-speaking readers unfamiliar with Jain scriptures. The review praises the translator’s efforts and notes that the book also contains valuable anecdotes and a preface by Sri Agar Chand Nahata, making it a noteworthy contribution despite a few printing mistakes. The second review examines Justice T. K. Tukol’s monograph *Sallekhana Is Not Suicide*. Tukol argues that *sallekhanā*—the Jain practice of fasting unto death—should not be conflated with suicide. Drawing on his experience as a judge and scholar, he develops the essay into a detailed treatise divided into eight sections. The reviewer summarises that the first two sections provide a philosophical background and describe the practice’s modus operandi. Subsequent sections survey historical cases, discuss factors inducing voluntary death and analyse legal debates around suicide. Tukol concludes that *sallekhanā* is deeply rooted in Jain ethics and is not human suicide but a dignified relinquishment of the body when old age or disease render spiritual practice impossible. The third review considers *Nyāyasiddhāntadīpa*, a medieval treatise on logic composed by Saśadhara with a commentary by Gunaratna Sūri, edited by Bimal Krishna Matilal. The reviewer notes that the text synthesises readings from different manuscripts and represents an important contribution to Navya Nyāya scholarship. Matilal’s edition is praised for its careful editing and for stimulating further study of Jain contributions to logic.
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Conclusion
Taken together, the three reviews underscore the breadth of contemporary Jain scholarship. A pioneering Punjabi translation opens canonical scripture to new audiences, a jurist’s thoughtful monograph clarifies that *sallekhanā* is an ethical observance rather than suicide, and a critical edition of a medieval logic text extends inquiry into Jain contributions to Navya Nyāya. Each review highlights the importance of rigorous scholarship, contextual introductions and accessible translations. They collectively show that Jain studies encompass philology, ethics and philosophy, and that modern editors and translators play a vital role in preserving and interpreting the tradition for both scholars and lay readers.