Aagam Manjusha N 01 Aayaro Nijjutti

This document is an excerpt from the "Aagam Manjusha N 01 Aayaro Nijjutti," a Jain text. Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided content:

Overall Purpose and Context:

• The text is an exposition and explanation (Nijjutti) of the Aacharang Sutra, which is a foundational scripture in Jainism.
• This particular edition is a re-publication of an edition from 70 years prior, updated for online access.
• It's presented by Muni Deepratnasagar, following in the footsteps of the original editors, Acharya Shri Anand Sagarji M.S.

Key Content and Structure:

The document systematically breaks down the Aacharang Sutra into its various components, explanations, and classifications, particularly focusing on the concept of "Nikkhepa" (classification or placement) and other related themes. The text is structured using a system of "Uddesh" (chapters or sections) and "Aades" (sub-sections or topics within a chapter).

Here's a breakdown of the major themes covered in the provided pages:

1. Introduction and Editorial Notes (Pages 1-2):

   • Starts with a reverential salutation to the gurus.
   • Introduces the "Aagam Manjusha" project, highlighting its re-publication after 70 years for online access.
   • Mentions the original editor, Acharya Shri Anand Sagarji, and the contributors.
   • Lists some of the included scriptures and their inclusion criteria, noting minor differences from the original edition.

2. The "Aacharang Sutra Nijjutti" (Pages 3-9): This is the core of the text, detailing various aspects of the Aacharang Sutra:

   • Nikkhepa (Classification): A significant portion explains the concept of "Nikkhepa," which is a method of classifying and categorizing phenomena. It details:

     • Chauka Nikkhepa (Fourfold Classification): This is a prominent method discussed.
     • Seven-fold Classification: Another classification system is mentioned.
     • Disa Nikkhepa (Directional Classification): A detailed explanation of directions, sub-directions, and their significance is provided, often in relation to the placement of beings or concepts within the Jain cosmology. This includes:
       • The names and classifications of directions.
       • The relationship between directions and the movement of beings.
       • The concept of "Dasa Disa" (Ten Directions) and "Sola Disa" (Sixteen Directions).
       • The connection of directions to beings like humans, hell-dwellers (Nairaiya), celestial beings (Deva), etc.

   • Classification of Lives (Jeevakaya): The text meticulously classifies different types of living beings, emphasizing the Jain principle of non-violence (Ahimsa). This includes:

     • Prithvi Kaya (Earth-bodied beings): Detailed classification of earth elements, their properties, and the souls residing in them.
     • Aayu Kaya (Water-bodied beings): Similar classification of water, its properties, and associated souls.
     • Teju Kaya (Fire-bodied beings): Classification of fire, its forms, and souls.
     • Vayu Kaya (Air-bodied beings): Classification of air, its types, and souls.
     • Vanaspatikaya (Plant-bodied beings): Extensive classification of plants, their reproductive methods (root-born, seed-born, etc.), and the souls within them.
     • Tasa Kaya (Mobile beings): Classification of mobile beings, including two-sensed, three-sensed, four-sensed, and five-sensed beings. It touches upon the transmigration and suffering of these beings.

   • Key Concepts and Principles:

     • Samyama (Restraint/Discipline): Central to Jain practice, emphasized in various contexts, especially in relation to avoiding harm to living beings.
     • Tapa (Austerity): Discussed as a means of purification and spiritual progress.
     • Dravya (Substance) and Bhava (State/Mode): These fundamental Jain ontological categories are frequently used in classifications.
     • Karma: The concept of karma and its role in bondage and liberation is woven throughout the text.
     • Moksha (Liberation): The ultimate goal of Jainism, which is achieved through proper conduct, knowledge, and asceticism.
     • Nishkrama and Pavesha (Exit and Entry): Discussed in relation to the movement of beings, particularly air-bodied beings.
     • Upabhoga (Experience) and Paribhog (Consumption): Related to the interaction with the material world and the suffering that arises from attachment.
     • Samadhi Marana (Peaceful Death): Mentioned in the context of proper death.
     • Upayoga (Usage/Application): How various things are used and the associated consequences.
     • Upashamana (Pacification/Suppression): In relation to controlling passions and negative states.
     • Aparigraha (Non-possession): A core tenet of Jainism, discussed in relation to avoiding worldly attachments.
     • Samyak Darshana (Right Faith), Samyak Jnana (Right Knowledge), Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct): The three jewels of Jainism, essential for liberation.
     • Sallaekhana (Voluntary Fasting to Death): Mentioned as a practice.

   • Specific Topics Covered (illustrative):

     • The characteristics and classifications of different elements (earth, water, fire, air).
     • The concept of senses and how they relate to different life forms.
     • The importance of careful movement (Irya) and speech (Vachana) to avoid harm.
     • The classification of suffering and its causes.
     • The significance of austerities and their various types.
     • The nature of attachment, aversion, and their role in the cycle of birth and death.
     • The process of liberation and the means to achieve it.
     • The importance of reverence for Tirthankaras and their teachings.

Methodology:

The text employs a highly systematic and analytical approach, breaking down complex concepts into various categories and sub-categories. It frequently uses:

• Nikkhepa: As a primary tool for classification.
• Dravya and Bhava: To differentiate between substance and its qualities or states.
• Anuyoga: As a method of exposition and explanation.
• Vipra (Distinction): To highlight differences between classifications.
• Vyahar (Conventional truth) and Nischay (Absolute truth): Implicitly used in understanding concepts.

Overall Impression:

The "Aayaro Nijjutti" appears to be a detailed and authoritative commentary on the Aacharang Sutra, providing a deep dive into the philosophical and practical aspects of Jainism, particularly concerning ethics, the classification of life, and the path to spiritual liberation. It emphasizes meticulous adherence to principles, especially non-violence, and outlines the practices and understanding required for spiritual progress. The structured presentation reflects the scholastic tradition of Jain scriptural commentary.