प्रकाशकीय
By आचार्य कुन्दकुन्द
Summary
This issue of the research journal "Jainvidya" is published as a special "Ashtapahud" edition. "Ashtapahud" is a spiritual composition written in the Prakrit language, focusing on eight subjects. Its author is Acharya Kundakunda, a philosopher of high caliber, endowed with extraordinary knowledge and a spiritual scholar. He is a strong pillar of the Digambar Jain tradition. Acharya Kundakunda is remembered first among the later Jain acharyas after Tirthankara Mahavira and Gautam Ganadhara. His literary contribution to the advancement of Jain philosophy and culture is unparalleled. Based on the foundation of Acharya Kundakunda's personality and achievements, the institute had previously published an issue of "Jainvidya" as a special "Acharya Kundakunda" edition. "Ashtapahud" is one of his distinctive and major works, and this issue is based on that composition. The publication expresses gratitude to all the scholars who contributed as authors to the arrangement of this issue. The editor of the journal, members of the editorial board, and associate editors are all deserving of thanks. The publication is under the auspices of the Managing Committee of the Digambar Jain Atishay Kshetra Shri Mahavirji, with Justice Narendramohan Kasliwal as President and Mahendrakumar Patni as Secretary.
Conclusion
This special issue on the *Aṣṭapāhuḍa* underscores the enduring relevance of Ācārya Kundakunda’s spiritual and philosophical contributions to the Digambara Jain tradition. By dedicating an entire volume to this single work, the Jainvidyā Institute highlights the text’s foundational role in articulating eight core spiritual themes. The collaboration of multiple scholars in this issue not only enriches the academic understanding of the *Aṣṭapāhuḍa* but also reaffirms the Institute’s commitment to preserving and promoting classical Jain literature. This focused approach ensures that Kundakunda’s insights continue to inform contemporary scholarship and spiritual practice, solidifying his legacy as a pivotal figure in Jain intellectual history.