Aagam Sambandhi Saahitya 04 Aagam Sootr Laghu Bruhat Vishayanukram

This Jain text, titled "Aagam Sambandhi Saahitya 04 Aagam Sootr Laghu Bruhat Vishayanukram" (Religious Scriptures Series, Volume 4: Index of Jain Agamas - Concise and Comprehensive), is a detailed index of Jain scriptures.

Here's a breakdown of its content and purpose:

Core Purpose:

The primary goal of this work is to provide a comprehensive and organized index of the vast collection of Jain scriptures, known as Agamas. It aims to make these complex texts accessible by detailing the subjects covered within each scripture in both a concise ("laghu") and comprehensive ("brihat") manner.

Key Features and Content:

• Authoritative Sources: The text is presented as a product of significant scholarly effort, with Acharya Shri Anand Sagar Surishwarji Maharajsaheb credited as the original researcher and compiler of the fundamental index. Muni Shri Deepratnasagarji (M.Com., M.Ed., Ph.D., Shrutamaharshi) is recognized as the innovative re-compiler. The work is undertaken under the inspiration of Acharya Shri Harsh Sagar Suriji Maharajsaheb.
• Structure of the Index: The index is meticulously structured, categorizing the Agamas into major sections:
  • Anga-Sutras: This refers to the primary and most important scriptures of Jainism.
  • Upanga-Sutras: These are secondary scriptures that elaborate on the Anga-Sutras.
  • Prakirnaka-Sutras: These are miscellaneous scriptures covering various topics.
  • Other Categories: The index also mentions other categories like "Nandyaadi-Sutra" (sutras starting with 'Nandi') and potentially others that fall under the umbrella of "Agam Sambandhi Saahitya" (Agama-related Literature).
• Detailed Subject Breakdown: For each scripture, the index provides a breakdown of the subjects discussed, offering both a "laghu" (concise) and "brihat" (comprehensive) view. This suggests that the text goes beyond mere titles and delves into the topical content of each chapter or section within the Agamas.
• Historical Context and Publication:
  • The text highlights its lineage, with the original research by Acharya Anand Sagar Surishwarji dating back to 1937 AD (Vira Samvat 2462), published by Shri Rishabhdevji Kesharimalji in Ratlam.
  • The current re-compilation and publication (part of a larger series, "Agam Sambandhi Saahitya") is by the Shri Param Anand Shwetamber Murtipujak Jain Sangh, Paldi, Ahmedabad, under the inspiration of Acharya Shri Harsh Sagar Suriji Maharajsaheb.
  • The project is supported by the Shri Param Anand Shwetamber Murtipujak Jain Sangh, Vitrag Society, Ahmedabad, which was established about fifty years prior by Acharya Dev Shrimad Devendrasagar Surishwarji Maharajsaheb. The text mentions that this Sangh includes a temple of Shri Shitalnath Bhagwan, an Upashraya for monks and nuns, an Ayambil Bhavan, and other facilities, underscoring its commitment to religious study and practice.
• Editorial Vision: The re-compilation emphasizes the need for such indices due to the people's reverence for Acharya Sagaranaandisurishwarji's work and the desire to preserve ancient traditions. The text mentions scanning the original manuscripts and creating a specialized format for better readability.
• Scope of the Work: Acharya Anand Sagar Surishwarji is noted for his extensive work in revising and editing 45 Agamas, including commentaries (vritti, churni, niryukti, etc.), and composing over a lakh shlokas of new Sanskrit and Prakrit works. This current volume is part of a larger series covering 52 classified subjects related to Agamas.

Overall Significance:

This publication is a testament to the Jain tradition's commitment to preserving, organizing, and disseminating its sacred knowledge. By providing a detailed subject index of the Agamas, it serves as an invaluable tool for scholars, monks, nuns, and devoted laypersons seeking to understand and study the core tenets and narratives of Jainism. It bridges the gap between the original, extensive Agamas and the contemporary need for accessible, structured information. The support from various Jain institutions and the dedication of the acharyas and munis highlight the importance placed on this scriptural work.