Aagam Sambandhi Saahitya 02 Pratyek Buddhbhashitani Rushibhashitsutrani Moolam

This document is the second volume in a series called "Aagam Sambandhi Saahitya" (Literature Related to Agamas). This specific volume, titled "Pratyek Buddhbhashitani Rushibhashitsutrani Moolam" (The Root Texts of the Rishi Bhashita Sutras spoken by Pratyek Buddhas), presents the original Prakrit text of the Rushibhashita Sutras.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects and content:

• Title: Aagam Sambandhi Saahitya 02 Pratyek Buddhbhashitani Rushibhashitsutrani Moolam (Agam Related Literature, Volume 2: The Root Texts of the Rishi Bhashita Sutras spoken by Pratyek Buddhas).
• Author(s)/Editor(s):
  • Anandsagarsuri (also referred to as Sagaransuri and Anandasagar Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb) is credited as the original researcher and editor of the Agamas.
  • Dipratnasagar (also referred to as Munishri Diperatnasagar) is the compiler and re-editor of this specific volume. He holds multiple degrees (M.Com., M.Ed., Ph.D.) and the title "Shrutamharshi."
• Publisher: Param Anand Shwe Mu Pu Jain Sangh, Paldi, Ahmedabad.
• Inspiration and Support: The project was inspired by Acharya Shri Harshsagarsuri Maharaj Saheb and financially supported by the Shri Param Anand Shwe-tambar Murti-pujak Jain Sangh in Paldi, Ahmedabad. The text highlights the dedication of this Sangh, founded about fifty years prior by the late Acharya Dev Shrimad Devendrasagarsurishwarji Maharaj Saheb, which includes a temple, accommodation for monks and nuns, and facilities for spiritual practice and learning.
• Content: The core of the book is the Rushibhashita Sutras in their original Prakrit form. The text appears to be a meticulous reproduction and compilation of ancient Jain scriptures.
  • Structure: The Rushibhashita Sutras are presented as a collection of "Adhyayanas" (chapters or sections), each attributed to a specific Rishi (sage) or named individual. The document lists 45 such Adhyayanas (numbered from 1 to 45 in the table of contents and within the text).
  • Original Text: The text is presented in Prakrit script, likely with transliterations or phonetic markings to aid pronunciation. Each Adhyayana is further divided into "Gathas" (verses).
  • Historical Context: The publication notes that this text was originally published in 1927 (Vikram Samvat 1983) by the Shri Rishabhdev Kesharimalji institution, under the editorial guidance of Acharya Anand Sagar Surishwarji. It mentions that the Rushibhashita (original Prakrit name: Isibhasia) is considered an Angabahya (external to the main Agamas) scripture, listed in the Kalpa Sutras and Nandi Sutras.
  • Purpose of This Edition: The current edition aims to present this ancient text in a clear and accessible format, building upon the earlier work. The compiler, Munishri Diperatnasagar, explains the effort involved in scanning, formatting, and presenting the text with clear references to chapter and verse numbers.
• Key Figures:
  • Acharya Anand Sagar Surishwarji: Revered as the "Agamoddharak" (Reviver of Agamas), he is praised for his extensive work in researching, editing, and preserving Jain Agamas. His life is described as dedicated to scholarship, asceticism, and the propagation of Jain teachings, including renovating temples and inscribing Agamas on copper plates.
  • Acharya Devendrasagar Surishwarji: The founder of the supporting Jain Sangh, recognized for his spiritual prowess and efforts in promoting spiritual practices like "Upadhana-tapas."
  • Acharya Harsh Sagar Surishwarji: The current inspirer of the project, described as a protector of the community, promoter of pilgrimage sites, and a supporter of religious scholarship.
  • Munishri Diperatnasagar: The diligent compiler and re-editor, who has undertaken significant work in publishing and preserving Jain Agamas.
• Significance: The Rushibhashita Sutras are presented as containing profound teachings from Pratyek Buddhas (individuals who attain enlightenment independently) and ancient sages. The book aims to make these foundational scriptures of Jainism accessible to a wider audience, preserving their original form while ensuring clarity for readers. The text emphasizes the importance of knowledge, conduct, and detachment as taught in these ancient verses.

In essence, this volume is a scholarly and devotional work dedicated to the meticulous presentation and preservation of the Rushibhashita Sutras, a significant scripture in Jainism, brought forth through the efforts of esteemed monks and supported by a dedicated Jain community.