Acharanga Sutra Part 02

This document is a comprehensive summary and analysis of the Acharanga Sutra, Part 02, authored by Ghasilal Maharaj and published by A.B. Shwetambar Sthanakwasi Jain Shastroddhar Samiti. The catalog link provided is jainqq.org/explore/009302/1. The document appears to be a digitized version of the book, including its title page, publication details, introductory materials, and detailed chapter summaries (vishayanukramanika) for the second and third primary divisions (Shrutaskandha) and their respective chapters (Adhyaya) and sections (Uddesha).

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects covered in the document:

1. Title and Publication Details:

• Book Title: Acharanga Sutra (आचाराङसूत्रम्)
• Part: Second (द्वितीयो भागः, अध्य० २-४)
• Shrutaskandha: First (प्रथमः श्रुतस्कन्धः)
• Author: Acharya Ghasilal Maharaj (जैनाचार्य-जैनधर्मदिवाकर-पूज्यश्री-घासीलालजी-महाराज)
• Commentary: Achintamani (आचारचिन्तामणि-व्याख्यया समलङ्कतं)
• Language: Hindi and Gujarati (हिन्दीगुर्जरभाषालहितस्)
• Publisher: Akhil Bharat Shwetambar Sthanakwasi Jain Shastroddhar Samiti, Rajkot (श्री अ. भा. श्वे. स्था. जैनशास्त्रोद्धारेसमितिः, राजकोट)
• Year of Publication: First Edition: Vira Samvat 2483 | Vikram Samvat: 2013 | Year: 1957

2. Introductory Materials and Testimonials (Pages 3-28): This significant portion of the document consists of numerous "Sammatipatra" (सम्मतिपत्र) or testimonial letters from highly respected Jain scholars, monks, and community leaders. These testimonials generally praise the work of Acharya Ghasilalji Maharaj, highlighting:

• Scholarship: His profound knowledge of Jain Agamas, Sanskrit, Prakrit, grammar, and logic.
• Clarity and Depth of Commentary: The commentaries are described as lucid, comprehensive, and insightful, explaining the essence of the original Sutras.
• Beneficial to the Community: The works are seen as a significant contribution to the Jain community, aiding in the revival and propagation of Jain scripture.
• Effort and Dedication: The scholars commend the author's immense effort and dedication in preparing these valuable texts.
• Specific Sutras: Testimonials are included for commentaries on various Sutras, including:
  • Upasakadasaanga Sutra (उपासकदशाङ्ग सूत्र)
  • Jnattadharmakathanga Sutra (ज्ञाताधर्मकथाङ्ग सूत्र)
  • Acharanga Sutra (आचाराङ्गसूत्रम्)
  • Nirayavalika Sutra (निरयावलिका)
  • Dashavaikalika Sutra (दशवैकालिकसूत्र)
• Notable Figures: Key figures providing testimonials include Upadhyay Shri Atmaramji Maharaj, Muni Shri Hemchandji Maharaj, Muni Shri Bhagchandji Maharaj, and many others, indicating broad acceptance and endorsement within the Shwetambar Sthanakwasi tradition.

3. Subject Matter Index (Vishayanukramanika) (Pages 47-74): This section provides a detailed index outlining the content of the Acharanga Sutra, specifically covering the second, third, and fourth Adhyayas (chapters) and their respective Uddeshas (sections). It lists the topics discussed, often with page numbers, giving a clear structure of the text's content. Key themes include:

• Second Adhyaya (Uddesha 1): Relationship of actions to the root cause (moha, kashaya), the nature of attachment to sensory pleasures (shabda, rupa, etc.), elderly age and its limitations, the value of self-control, and the consequences of attachment.
• Second Adhyaya (Uddesha 2): The impermanence of life and worldly possessions, the sorrow of attachment to family and wealth, the futility of attachment, and the importance of detachment.
• Second Adhyaya (Uddesha 3): Discussion on the nature of "Anagar" (one who has renounced worldly life), refraining from harming any living being, the consequences of causing harm, and the duties of a restrained individual.
• Second Adhyaya (Uddesha 4): The fragility of life, the inevitability of old age and death, the importance of right conduct and devotion, and the pursuit of the ultimate goal (moksha).
• Third Adhyaya (Uddesha 1): The transient nature of worldly pleasures and the impermanence of life, the importance of wisdom and detachment, and the consequences of attachment to sensory objects.
• Third Adhyaya (Uddesha 2): The futility of seeking happiness in external objects, the importance of self-control, the illusory nature of worldly pleasures, and the pursuit of true happiness through inner discipline.
• Third Adhyaya (Uddesha 3): The transient nature of worldly possessions and the importance of contentment, the consequences of attachment and the pursuit of worldly desires, and the path to liberation through detachment.
• Third Adhyaya (Uddesha 4): The detrimental effects of attachment to sensory pleasures, the cycle of birth and death, the importance of right knowledge and conduct, and the ultimate goal of liberation.

4. Detailed Chapter Summaries/Content (Pages 79 onwards): This section delves into the specific content of the Adhyayas and Uddeshas, providing summaries and explanations of the teachings. It follows the structure outlined in the index. The initial parts of the text discuss:

• The Relationship between Chapters: Explaining how subsequent chapters build upon the previous ones.
• The Dangers of Attachment: Emphasis on the negative consequences of attachment to sensory pleasures (shabda, rupa, etc.), family, and worldly possessions.
• The Nature of Suffering: The text highlights how attachment to impermanent things leads to suffering.
• The Path of Renunciation: The importance of detachment, self-control, and living a life of restraint (anagar).
• The Role of Wisdom: The need for discerning true wisdom to overcome desires and achieve liberation.
• The Nature of Karma: Discussions on how actions (karma) lead to consequences and the cycle of rebirth.
• Ethical Conduct: The text outlines principles of ethical conduct, including non-violence, truthfulness, and detachment.

5. Language and Style: The text is presented in Sanskrit with Hindi and Gujarati translations and explanations. The commentary by Ghasilal Maharaj aims to make the complex philosophical and ethical teachings of the Acharanga Sutra accessible. The language used in the testimonials suggests a deep respect for the author and his work, often employing honorific titles like "Jainacharya," "Jain-Dharma-Divakar," and "Upadhyay."

Overall Significance: The document signifies a substantial effort in preserving and disseminating the teachings of the Acharanga Sutra, a foundational text in Jainism, particularly for the Shwetambar Sthanakwasi sect. The extensive testimonials underscore the work's value and its positive reception within the Jain scholarly and monastic community. The detailed index and chapter summaries offer a valuable resource for understanding the Acharanga Sutra's ethical, philosophical, and ascetic principles.

Note: The document appears to be a primary source scanned from a physical book. The page numbers and formatting are preserved from the original. The extensive testimonials highlight the reverence and high regard the author and his work commanded.