Aagam 23 VRUSHHNI DASHAA Moolam Evam Vrutti

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Aagam 23 VRUSHHNI DASHAA Moolam evam Vrutti," based on the scanned pages:

Title: Shri Vrushni Dashaa Sutram (Aagam 23, Upanga Sutra 12) Original Commentary: By Shri Chandrasuri Revised and Compiled by: Muni Deepratnasagar (M.Com., M.Ed., Ph.D.) Edition Editor: Pujya Anuyogacharya Shri Danvijayji Gani Maharaj Saheb Publisher: Shri Agamoday Samiti ( Ahmedabad) Publication Year: Vikram Samvat 1978 (1922 CE) - Original Edition; 2048 (1991 CE) - Reprint by Shri Agamoday Samiti. Current Publication: Net Publication by jain_e_library.org (Compiled by Muni Deepratnasagar)

Overall Purpose and Context:

This document is a compilation and re-publication of the Jain Vrushni Dashaa Sutra, an Upanga Sutra (a secondary scripture) within the Jain Agamas. The Vrushni Dashaa is identified as the 12th Upanga Sutra and the 23rd text in the overall Agama classification. The core of this publication is the original text of the Vrushni Dashaa along with a commentary (vrutti) written by Shri Chandrasuri. The current compilation by Muni Deepratnasagar aims to make this important scripture accessible in a modern format, specifically for online distribution.

Key Features and Innovations in this Publication:

• Preservation of Original Work: The primary goal of Muni Deepratnasagar's compilation is to present the Vrushni Dashaa with its original commentary by Shri Chandrasuri as faithfully as possible. The original scanned pages are integrated into the new format.
• Modern Accessibility: The publication is digitized as a "Net Publication" by jain_e_library.org, a strategy to reach a wider global audience easily and affordably. The publisher expresses a future intention for a printed version.
• Enhanced Navigation and Study Aids:
  • "Deep Anukram" (Deep Index): This is a consistent indexing system used across all of jain_e_library's Agama publications, allowing users to easily navigate between different languages and editions.
  • Clear Identification of Sutra and Adhyayana (Chapter): Each page clearly indicates the Agama number, Upanga Sutra number, the current Adhyayana, and the corresponding original sutra numbers.
  • Distinguishing Sutra and Gatha: Where a section contains sutras, they are marked with square brackets [-]. Where it contains gathas (verses), they are marked with ||-|| or the word "gatha."
  • Table of Contents (Vishayanukram): A detailed table of contents is provided, listing each Adhyayana and its corresponding page numbers in this edition, aiding students in quickly finding specific topics.
  • Footnotes: Specific footnotes are included at the bottom of pages to clarify key subject matter, mention printing errors in the original text, or correct numbering mistakes.
• Addressing Past Publishing Practices: Muni Deepratnasagar explicitly mentions his motivation, which stems from seeing other publications that merely re-printed the earlier edition (from 1922, edited by Shri Danvijayji Gani) without significant new contributions, sometimes even erasing the names of the original editor and publisher. His effort is presented as a way to honor the original work and the preceding Acharyas while adding value through improved presentation and accessibility.
• Scholarly Contribution: The editor acknowledges the significant effort in scanning, creating a special format, and implementing these study aids, all aimed at facilitating a deeper understanding and study of the Vrushni Dashaa.

Content of Vrushni Dashaa (as indicated by the pages):

The scanned pages primarily focus on Adhyayana 1: Nishadh of the Vrushni Dashaa.

• Introduction to the Text: The text begins by stating that the Vrushni Dashaa is part of the "fifth varga" (section) of the Niryavalika Sutascan. It mentions that the Vrushni Dashaa consists of twelve Adhyayanas (chapters), listing them: Nishadh, Mayani, Vadha, Pragata, Yukti, Dasaraha, Dadharaha, Mahadhanu, Saptanu, Dasadhanu, and Yanu. (The exact list might vary slightly in transcription, but the core idea of twelve Adhyayanas is present).
• Narrative of Krishna and Balarama: The initial parts of Adhyayana 1 narrate stories related to Krishna (Vasudeva) and Balarama, prominent figures in Jain tradition.
  • It describes the city of Vardhamana (or Dwaraka), its grandeur, and a grove called Nandana.
  • It introduces Krishna as the king (Raya) and Balarama as his elder brother.
  • It mentions the lineage and family of Krishna, including figures like Samudra Vijaya and numerous other kings, rulers, and influential people who owe allegiance to him.
  • The text then focuses on Revati Devi, Balarama's wife, and a significant dream she has.
  • The appearance of Arhant Ariṣṭanemi (Lord Neminath) and his sermon is mentioned, indicating a spiritual context within the narrative.
• The Story of Nishadh Kumar: The central narrative in these pages revolves around Nishadh Kumar.
  • He is portrayed as virtuous and receptive to spiritual teachings.
  • He hears the sermon of Ariṣṭanemi and decides to become a monk (anagar).
  • His spiritual journey and his life as an ascetic are described, including his severe penances and ultimate attainment of liberation.
  • The story includes a dialogue between Varadatta, a disciple of Ariṣṭanemi, and Ariṣṭanemi himself, discussing Nishadh Kumar's past lives and future rebirths, highlighting the concept of karma and transmigration.
  • The narrative traces Nishadh's rebirths, including a life as a celestial being and a future birth in Mahavideha Kshetra, where he will attain Kevala Jnana (omniscience) and ultimately liberation.
• Conclusion of Adhyayana 1: The pages indicate the completion of Adhyayana 1, "Nishadh," and the commencement of the subsequent Adhyayanas (2-12) from sutra number 4.

Overall Significance:

The Vrushni Dashaa Sutra, as presented in this edition, likely deals with a variety of narratives and teachings within the Jain canon. Based on the initial glimpse, it includes:

1. Genealogies and Historical Accounts: Stories about prominent figures like Krishna and Balarama, their families, and the political/social landscape of their time.
2. Spiritual Teachings: The appearance of Tirthankaras and their sermons, illustrating the path to liberation.
3. Stories of Asceticism and Liberation: Detailed accounts of individuals like Nishadh Kumar who follow the ascetic path and achieve spiritual milestones.
4. Concept of Karma and Rebirth: The narrative emphasizes the transmigration of souls and the consequences of actions across lifetimes.

This publication by Muni Deepratnasagar is a valuable contribution to making classical Jain scriptures accessible and understandable to a modern audience, preserving the legacy of past Acharyas while embracing contemporary technology.