Agam 01 Acharanga Sutra Satik Gujarati Anuvad - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, specifically focusing on Volume 1 of the Agam Sutra Acharanga Sutra Satik Gujarati Anuvad by Dipratnasagar, Deepratnasagar, published by Deepratnasagar. The text is primarily a compilation of acknowledgments and details about the publication of the Agam Sutra, specifically the Acharanga Sutra, in Gujarati with commentary.

Here's a breakdown of the key elements:

Book Title: Agam 01 Acharanga Sutra Satik Gujarati Anuvad (આગમ ૦૧ આચારાંગ સૂત્ર સટીક ગુજરાતી અનુવાદ) Author(s): Dipratnasagar, Deepratnasagar (મુનિ દીપરત્નસાગર) Publisher: Deepratnasagar (દીપલત્નસાગર) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/009034/1

Overall Scope and Purpose:

The provided text is not a summary of the Acharanga Sutra itself, but rather an introductory section of a Gujarati translation and commentary of the Acharanga Sutra. It details the background, inspiration, acknowledgments, and the extensive publication project undertaken by Muni Dipratnasagar. The primary goal of this publication is to make the Jain Agamas, specifically the Acharanga Sutra, accessible to Gujarati readers in a comprehensive and understandable manner, including the original scriptures, their commentaries (Niryukti, Vritti, etc.), and Gujarati translations.

Key Sections and Content:

Invocation and Dedication (Page 1-2):
- Begins with auspicious Jain invocations ("Namo Arihantanam," "Namo Siddhanam," "Namo Nimmala Dasanassa," and salutations to spiritual gurus).
- Introduces the "Agam Sutra Satik Anuvad" (Agam Sutras with Commentary Translation) series.
- Highlights Muni Dipratnasagar as the creator of the translation series.
- Specifies that this Part 1 covers "Acharanga-1," specifically the first Shrutaskandha (part of the scripture) and the first Adhyayana (chapter) up to the fifth Adhyayana.
- Mentions the publication date (23/10/2009) and the Gujarati Vikram Samvat (2066).
- Provides details about the complete 4-part series and its cost.
- Includes contact information for the publication center ("Agam Aradhana Kendra, Ahmedabad").
- Acknowledges the printing press and typesetters.
Acknowledgements (Page 3-8):
- This is a significant portion of the text, expressing deep gratitude to numerous individuals, spiritual leaders (Acharyas), and Jain sanghs (communities/organizations) who supported this massive publication project.
- Inspiration and Dedication: The work is dedicated to the memory of Pujya Acharya Shri Hachamchandrasurishwarji M. The mental impetus for the translation came from a specific auspicious occasion, and the support was immense.
- Key Spiritual Mentors: Pujya Acharya Shri Devendrasagarsurishwarji M. and Pujya Acharya Shri Harshsagarsuriji M. are prominently acknowledged for their inspiration and financial support.
- Financial Contributors (Dravyasahayako): A detailed list of various Jain sanghs, trusts, and individuals from different cities (Surat, Ahmedabad, Bhavnagar, Navsari, Botad, Tansal, Thangadh, Karnal, Vadodara, Mangrol, Gandhinagar, Vallabhnagar, Indore, Mumbai, Vankaneer, Bhopal, Karcheliya, Jamnagar) who provided financial assistance for specific volumes or the entire series is provided. This demonstrates the collaborative effort behind the project.
- The acknowledgments highlight the immense effort and dedication involved in translating and publishing the Jain Agamas.
Our Publications (Page 8-15):
- This section provides an overview of the various publications released by Muni Dipratnasagar's initiative. This is crucial for understanding the context of the Acharanga Sutra translation. The listed publications include:
  - Aagama Sutraani - Mool (Original Agams): A compilation of 45 original Agams in separate books, plus 4 supplementary Agams. This emphasizes the commitment to preserving the original scriptures.
  - Agam Gujarati Anuvad (Agam Gujarati Translation): A comprehensive Gujarati translation of 45 Agams, noted for its accessibility to those unfamiliar with classical Prakrit.
  - Agam Sutraani - Satik (Agam Sutras with Commentary): A massive 30-volume set (13,000+ pages) containing original Agams, Niryuktis, Vritti, Sanskrit Chhaya, Bhashya, and Churnis. This is the core publication of the series.
  - Agam Vishay Darshan (Agam Subject Index): A detailed index to the 45 Agams, facilitating research.
  - Agam Shabdakosh (Agam Dictionary): A comprehensive dictionary of 46,000 words from the Agams, with 375,000 references, providing Sanskrit meanings and Gujarati interpretations.
  - Agam Namkosh (Agam Name Glossary): A glossary of names appearing in the commentaries, with brief introductions and references.
  - Agam Sutra Hindi Anuvad (Agam Sutra Hindi Translation): A 12-volume Hindi translation of the Agams.
  - Agam Katha Anuyog: A compilation and translation of stories and narratives from the Agams, organized into ten sections.
  - Agam Mahapujan Vidhi: A guide for performing Agam Mahapujan (grand worship of Agams).
  - Agam Sutra Satik Anuvad (The Work in Question): This specifically refers to the 42-volume series of Agam Sutras with commentary translation, including Anga Sutras, Upaanga Sutras, Mool Sutras, and Pannas Sutras. It highlights that this is a comprehensive work designed for scholars and those interested in deep study.
- Other categories of publications mentioned include Grammar Literature, Discourse Literature, Tattva Sutra studies, Aradhana Literature, Vidhi Literature, Puja Literature, Yantra Sanjayan, Jin Bhakti Literature, and Miscellaneous Literature, demonstrating a broad range of religious and academic publications.
Introduction to the Acharanga Sutra (Page 16 onwards):
- Significance of "Achar": The text begins the detailed introduction to the Acharanga Sutra. It's the first Anga Sutra, first in the sequence of twelve Angas.
- Content of the Acharanga Sutra: The Acharanga Sutra deals with "Achar" (conduct or behavior), primarily focusing on the conduct of monks. It's described as crucial for the practice of the path to liberation (Moksha Marg).
- Key Topics Covered: The introduction to the Acharanga Sutra states it covers topics like the definition of a monk, the existence of the soul, the nature of Kaya (body) and Jeeva (soul), reasons for rebirth (Samsara), the importance of diligence (Apramad), the path to liberation, self-control (Atmanigraha), shedding passions (Kashay Vaman), and renunciation of sinful activities (Savadh Karma Tyag).
- Translation Approach: The translation aims for an accurate, literal translation of the original Sutras, accompanied by commentary based on Niryukti, Churni, and Vritti (types of Jain commentaries). However, it acknowledges that grammatical and philosophical nuances might be omitted for clarity in the translation.
- Mangala (Auspiciousness): The text emphasizes the importance of Mangala (auspiciousness) at the beginning, middle, and end of the scripture for successful completion. It explains the various interpretations of "Mangala" and its purpose.
- Anuyog (Classification of Teachings): The text introduces the four Anuyogas in Jain literature: Dharmakathanuyog, Ganitanuyog, Dravyanuyog, and Charanakaranaanuyog. It places the Acharanga Sutra within the Charanakaranaanuyog, which is considered the most important as it deals with practical conduct.
- Nishedha (Prohibitions) and Niyukti: The text delves into the Nishedhas (prohibitions) described in the Acharanga Sutra, explaining the intricate classifications of Nikshetra (categorization), the role of Acharyas, and the process of Anuyog (exegesis). It explains concepts like Upakram (introduction), Nikshetra (classification), Anugam (sequel), and Naya (viewpoints).
- Detailed Analysis of Specific Sutras: The subsequent pages (starting from page 16) provide a detailed, sutra-by-sutra, word-by-word explanation and commentary, as indicated by the "[Ni. XXX]" markers. These sections analyze the meaning, intent, and context of various prohibitions, injunctions, and philosophical points within the Acharanga Sutra, referencing various commentaries. This includes extensive discussions on topics like:
  - The nature of "Sanjna" (consciousness/perception) and its various types.
  - The classification of "Disha" (directions) and their relevance.
  - The concept of "Achar" and its various interpretations.
  - The classification of living beings (Jeeva) and their existence within different elements (Kaya), specifically detailing the microscopic and macroscopic aspects of Prithvi Kaya (earth element), Apo Kaya (water element), Tejo Kaya (fire element), Vayu Kaya (air element), and Vanaspti Kaya (plant life), and Tiras Kaya (moving beings).
  - The importance of proper conduct (Samyama), avoidance of violence (Himsa), and adherence to vows (Vrata).
  - The discussions on the nature of the soul, karma, liberation, and the path to achieve it.
  - The text frequently references other Jain scriptures like Dasavaikalik Sutra, Bhagavti Sutra, and the commentaries of Acharyas like Sripal and Gunaratnasurishwarji to provide a comprehensive understanding.

Key Themes and Jain Principles Highlighted:

Ahimsa (Non-violence): Central to the Acharanga Sutra, the text repeatedly emphasizes the importance of non-violence towards all living beings, including microscopic ones, and the need for extreme caution in conduct.
Asceticism and Self-Control: The text details the rigorous lifestyle prescribed for monks, including principles of Achar (conduct), Samiti (carefulness in movement, speech, etc.), Gupti (control over mind, speech, and body), Aparigraha (non-possession), Tap (austerities), and the importance of equanimity (Samata).
Understanding of Reality (Tattva): The text touches upon Jain philosophical concepts like Jiva (soul), Karma, Moksha (liberation), and the necessity of right faith (Samyak Darshan), right knowledge (Samyak Jnana), and right conduct (Samyak Charitra) for liberation.
Rejection of External Ritualism: The emphasis is consistently on internal purity and ethical conduct rather than superficial rituals.
Importance of Guru-Shishya Parampara: The acknowledgments and the referencing of Acharyas highlight the significance of the teacher-disciple lineage in the transmission of Jain knowledge.
Comprehensive Scholarly Approach: The sheer volume of publications listed, including originals, translations, commentaries, dictionaries, and indexes, reflects a deep scholarly commitment to presenting the Jain Agamas in their entirety.

In essence, the provided text is a foundational piece of a larger project aimed at disseminating the Acharanga Sutra and other Jain Agamas with detailed Gujarati commentary. It underscores the profound respect for the Agamas, the dedication of the translators and publishers, and the extensive network of support that makes such scholarly endeavors possible within the Jain tradition.