The Mahanisiha (also spelled Mahanisheetha or Mahanisiha Sutra) is an ancient Jain text, regarded as one of the canonical scriptures (Agamas) by the Śvetāmbara Jain tradition. It is part of the group called the Cheda-sutras, which primarily deal with monastic conduct, rules of discipline, and procedures for expiation.

Commentary on Mahanisiha

Several commentaries have been written on the Mahanisiha over the centuries, mainly in Prakrit, Sanskrit, and later in vernacular languages. These commentaries aim to explain difficult passages, elaborate on monastic rules, and provide context for the text's application in daily monastic life.

Some notable commentaries include:

• Abhayadeva Sūri's Vṛtti: Abhayadeva Sūri (11th century CE) is one of the most renowned Jain commentators who wrote vṛttis (detailed expositions) on many Cheda-sutras, including the Mahanisiha. His commentaries are highly valued for their clarity and comprehensive explanations.
• Malayagiri's Cūrṇi: Malayagiri, another important Śvetāmbara scholar (11th-12th century CE), wrote cūrṇis (prose commentaries) on several Jain canonical texts, sometimes including the Mahanisiha.

Survival of Commentaries

Many of these commentaries do survive, especially in the manuscript libraries of Jain institutions in Gujarat, Rajasthan, and elsewhere. Critical editions of some commentaries have been published, while others remain in manuscript form and are accessible to scholars in specialized libraries such as the Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Institute (Ahmedabad), Jain Vishva Bharati (Ladnun), etc.

Authorship of the Mahanisiha

The Mahanisiha itself, like most Jain canonical texts, does not have a single named author. It is traditionally believed to be compiled by the Jain ganadharas (chief disciples of Mahavira) or their immediate successors. The commentaries, however, are attributed to specific Jain scholars, such as Abhayadeva Sūri and Malayagiri, as mentioned above.

Sectarian Considerations

It is important to note that the Digambara Jain tradition does not accept the Mahanisiha as canonical and thus does not have a tradition of writing commentaries on it. The text and its commentaries are primarily a part of the Śvetāmbara Jain heritage.

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Summary:

• The Mahanisiha is a canonical Śvetāmbara Jain text, part of the Cheda-sutras.
• Several commentaries exist, notably by Abhayadeva Sūri and Malayagiri.
• Many commentaries survive in manuscript form and some have been published.
• The original text has no single named author; commentaries are attributed to Jain scholars.
• It is not recognized by the Digambara tradition.

If you need references or more specific details about a particular commentary, please let me know.