Agam 02 Ang 02 Sutrakrutang Sutra

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sutrakrutanga Sutra," specifically "Agam 02 Ang 02 Sutrakrutanga Sutra" by Buddhisagar, published by Motichand Maganchand Choksi. The provided text includes extensive commentary and is the second part of the Sutrakrutanga Sutra.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects and content based on the provided pages:

Overall Context and Publication Details:

• Book Title: Agam 02 Ang 02 Sutrakrutanga Sutra (Part 2)
• Author(s): Buddhisagar (as the primary editor/compiler)
• Publisher: Motichand Maganchand Choksi, Managing Trustee of Seth Devchand Lalbhai Pustakoddhar Fund, Surat.
• Year of Publication: Vikram Samvat 2019 (1962 CE), Shaka 1885, Christian Era 1962. This is the first edition.
• Key Commentaries Included:
  • "Dipika" compiled by Pathak Pravar Shri Sadhurangani (1599 VS).
  • A portion of the "Dipika" authored by Shri Harshkulgani (1583 VS), disciple of Acharya Shri Hemvimalsuri.
• Editor: Kriyoddharak Shri Manoharlalji, disciple of Anuyogacharya Shrimat Keshar Muniji Ganivar, Buddhisagar Gani.
• Content: This volume contains the second part of the second section (Shrutskandha) of the Sutrakrutanga Sutra, specifically focusing on the "Paundarika Adhyayana."

Key Themes and Content of Sutrakrutanga Sutra (as highlighted in the Preface and Introduction):

1. Connection to Acharya Anga: The Sutrakrutanga Sutra follows the Achara Anga. While Achara Anga focuses on the fundamental principles of conduct and behavior, Sutrakrutanga delves into the philosophical aspects, refuting wrong doctrines and establishing the true Jain teachings.
2. Refutation of False Philosophies: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to refuting the views of 363 different heretical schools (Prakhandis/Pakhāṇḍis). It aims to establish the supremacy of the Tirthankaras' teachings.
3. Emphasis on Knowledge and Action: Jainism emphasizes that liberation (Moksha) is achieved through the combination of knowledge (Jnana) and action (Kriya). The text likely elaborates on this principle.
4. Modern Science and Ahimsa: The inclusion of an article titled "Modern Science and Ahimsa" by Nevamuni Sathi (edited by Muni Kantisagar) suggests a connection between ancient Jain principles, particularly Ahimsa (non-violence), and contemporary scientific understanding.
5. The Nature of Karma and Liberation: The Sutrakrutanga Sutra is known for its detailed exposition on karma and the path to liberation. It explains how actions lead to karmic bondage and how to break free from it through diligent practice and correct knowledge.
6. Ethical Principles and Conduct: The text likely provides guidance on ethical living, distinguishing between right and wrong paths, and promoting virtuous conduct.

Detailed Breakdown of the Chapters/Sections (Based on the text provided):

The majority of the provided text consists of the actual Jain scripture with extensive Gujarati and Sanskrit commentary. It covers various sections and dialogues, often using allegorical stories and discussions to illustrate points. Here are some of the key themes and examples evident from the text:

• The "Paundarika Adhyayana" (Chapter 1 of the Second Section): This section is introduced by an analogy of a beautiful lotus pond with many lotuses. The text then begins to explore human existence and conduct through the allegory of four different types of men (Purushas) trying to retrieve a lotus from this pond.
  • The First Man: Tries to get the lotus but falls into the water, becoming incapable of reaching the goal. This allegory likely represents a flawed approach to spiritual endeavor.
  • The Second Man: Tries to retrieve the lotus but fails, becoming mired in the process, symbolizing a more misguided effort.
  • The Third Man: Similar to the second, demonstrating another failed attempt.
  • The Fourth Man: Also fails, highlighting the ineffectiveness of these approaches.
  • The Fifth Man (The Bhikshu/Ascetic): This man, described as a Bhikshu (monk), takes a different approach. Instead of entering the water, he calls out to the lotus, and it rises out of the water to him. This symbolizes the power of detachment, pure practice, and spiritual attainment that attracts the desired outcome (liberation or true knowledge).
• The "Kriyasthana" Adhyayana (Chapter 2): This chapter focuses on "Kriyas" or actions and their classifications. It details thirteen types of "Kriyas" that lead to karmic consequences, often referred to as "Dandas" (penalties or consequences). These are categorized as:
  • Danda (1-4): Actions related to causing harm or engaging in unjustified actions.
  • Mithya (5): Actions stemming from false views or wrong perception.
  • Moha (6): Actions rooted in delusion and attachment.
  • Adattadana (7): Theft or taking what is not given.
  • Adhyatmika (8): Mental actions like anger, pride, deceit, greed.
  • Manovartiya (9): Actions driven by pride or ego.
  • Mitradoshavartiya (10): Actions stemming from betrayal of friends.
  • Mayavartiya (11): Actions based on deceit and trickery.
  • Lobhavartiya (12): Actions driven by greed.
  • Iryapatha (13): Actions related to movement and conduct, even subtle ones, impacting karma.
  • The text elaborates on each of these Kriyas with examples and explanations. It also contrasts the behavior of adhering to correct principles (Aachara) versus deviating from them (Anachara).
• The "Ahar Parigyna" Adhyayana (Chapter 3): This chapter is about the "knowledge of food" or understanding the nature of sustenance and its impact on the soul. It delves into:
  • Four types of "Beejakayas" (Seed-bodies): Agni-bija (fire-seeds), Mula-bija (root-seeds), Parnva-bija (leaf-seeds), and Skandha-bija (stem-seeds).
  • The origin of life: It discusses how various life forms, including plants (vanaspati), insects, and animals, originate from different sources and consume different types of "sneha" (essence or nourishment) from their respective environments.
  • The concept of karma in relation to life forms: It highlights how actions (karma) influence the rebirth and existence of souls in different forms, emphasizing the interdependence of all living beings.
  • The importance of pure food (Ahar Shuddhi): This chapter likely stresses the Jain principle of consuming pure and harmless food.
• The "Pratyakhyana Kriya" Adhyayana (Chapter 4): This chapter focuses on "Pratyakhyana" (renunciation or abstinence) and its practice. It discusses:
  • The nature of renunciation: It explains how renunciation is achieved through knowledge, discipline, and detachment.
  • The futility of external rituals without internal purification: The text likely contrasts external rituals with genuine internal transformation.
  • The importance of intention: The consequences of actions are often linked to the intention behind them.
  • The refutation of other sects' views: Similar to the introduction, this chapter might also engage in refuting practices or beliefs of other religious traditions.
• The "Achara Shruta" Adhyayana (Chapter 5): This chapter delves into the principles of conduct (Achara) and the refutation of erroneous views (Anachara). It stresses:
  • The importance of Brahmacharya (celibacy/chastity) and Right Conduct: These are presented as foundational to spiritual progress.
  • The dangers of existential negation and eternalism: The text argues against absolute views of existence (eternalism) and non-existence (nihilism).
  • The concept of Syadvada (conditional predication): Jainism's approach to truth is often conditional, acknowledging multiple perspectives. This chapter likely reinforces that.
  • The refutation of wrong views on karma and liberation: It likely clarifies the correct understanding of karma and the path to Moksha, distinguishing them from the incorrect beliefs of other schools.
• The "Ardranka Kumara" Adhyayana (Chapter 6): This chapter narrates the story of Ardranka Kumara, a prince who, after encountering a discourse, renounces worldly life. This story is likely used to illustrate:
  • The power of true knowledge and discernment: Ardranka Kumara's ability to discern truth from falsehood, even when presented with persuasive but incorrect arguments by other philosophers (like Gosala), is a key theme.
  • The refutation of external rituals without internal purity: The dialogue between Ardranka Kumara and various ascetics (Buddhists, Brahmins) highlights the importance of inner transformation over mere external practices.
  • The path to liberation through detachment and right conduct: Ardranka Kumara's choice of the Jain path emphasizes the principles of non-violence, detachment, and right knowledge.

Key Figures Mentioned:

• Lord Mahavir Swami: The primary source of Jain teachings.
• Ganadharas: The chief disciples of Lord Mahavir who compiled the Agamas.
• Shridharmaswami: A specific Ganadhara mentioned.
• Shripadra-bahu Swamiji: A renowned Jain scholar and author of commentaries.
• Acharya Shri Hemvimalsuri: A commentator whose work is referenced.
• Shri Harshkulgani: Another commentator whose work is included.
• Pathak Pravar Shri Sadhurangani: The compiler of the "Dipika" commentary.
• Shrimad Buddhisagar Gani: The main editor of this edition.
• Gosala (Mankhali): A prominent contemporary of Lord Mahavir who represented a different philosophical school, often debated in Jain texts. Ardranka Kumara's story involves refuting Gosala's views.

Overall Significance:

This volume represents a significant contribution to Jain literature by providing a detailed and scholarly edition of a crucial text from the Agamas, accompanied by multiple layers of commentary. It aims to clarify complex philosophical and ethical principles of Jainism, emphasizing the path to liberation through right knowledge, right conduct, and right faith, while refuting divergent views. The text showcases the intellectual rigor and depth of Jain philosophy.