Agam 02 Ang 02 Sutrakrutang Sutra Ka Darshanik Adhyayan

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Agam 02 Ang 02 Sutrakrutang Sutra Ka Darshanik Adhyayan" by Sadhvi Dr. Nilanjanashreeji, published by Bhaiji Prakashan. The book offers a philosophical study of the Sutrakrutanga Sutra, the second Anga of the Jain Agamas.

Overview of the Book:

The book is a doctoral dissertation accepted for a Ph.D. degree, making it a rigorous and in-depth academic exploration of the Sutrakrutanga Sutra. It aims to present the philosophical essence of this ancient Jain scripture.

Key Themes and Content (as evident from the provided pages):

• The Significance of Sutrakrutanga Sutra: The introductory remarks (Mangalamrutam) highlight the unique importance of the Sutrakrutanga Sutra. It is described as a mirror reflecting the philosophical landscape of its time, detailing various sects, religions, philosophies, and schools of thought prevalent then. The Sutrakrutanga is presented as a direct carrier of Lord Mahavir's philosophy of Anekanta (non-absolutism).

• Philosophical Study: The core of the book is a philosophical analysis of the Sutrakrutanga Sutra, exploring its profound teachings and their relevance.

• Author's Dedication and Acknowledgment: The book is dedicated to Sadhvi Dr. Vidyutprabha Shri Ji M.S., highlighting the guru-shishya lineage and the author's deep respect and affection. Acknowledgments extend to family members who provided financial support, and to various individuals and institutions that aided in the research.

• Structure of the Research: The author outlines the seven chapters of the dissertation:

  1. Jain Agam Literature: A Study: This chapter provides an introduction to the Agam literature, including its definition, authors, classification, recitations, commentary, and translations.
  2. Introduction to Sutrakrutanga Sutra and its Commentary Literature: This chapter delves into the meaning, authorship, composition style, and analysis of the Sutrakrutanga Sutra, along with details about its various commentaries (Niyukti, Churni, Tikas).
  3. Comprehensive Study of Sutrakrutanga Sutra: This chapter likely details the content of the 23 studies within the two Sutrakhandas of the Sutrakrutanga.
  4. Philosophical Analysis of the Debates (Vadas) in Sutrakrutanga Sutra: This is a crucial chapter focusing on the various philosophical arguments and viewpoints presented in the Sutrakrutanga, with a detailed critique.
  5. Four Vadas and 363 Opinions in the Samavasarana Study of Sutrakrutanga Sutra: This chapter highlights a particularly important section of the Sutrakrutanga, the Samavasarana study, which discusses the four main philosophical schools and their 363 sub-divisions, along with their refutations.
  6. Comparative Study of Vadas in Sutrakrutanga Sutra: This chapter likely compares the philosophical viewpoints presented in the Sutrakrutanga with those found in other Jain Agamas.
  7. Conclusion: This chapter likely summarizes the findings and offers concluding thoughts.

• Thematic Content: The book extensively analyzes various philosophical doctrines prevalent during the time of Lord Mahavir, including:

  • Panchamahabhuta-vada (Five Great Elements Theory): The idea that the universe is composed of five fundamental elements (earth, water, fire, air, ether).
  • Ekatma-vada (Monism): The belief in a single, universal soul or consciousness.
  • Tajjiva-taccharira-vada (Identity of Soul and Body): The view that the soul is identical with the body.
  • Akaraka-vada (Theory of Non-action/Karma): The belief that the soul is not the doer of actions.
  • Atma-shashtha-vada (The Soul as the Sixth Element): A specific doctrine regarding the nature of the soul.
  • Kshanika-vada (Momentariness): The doctrine that all phenomena are momentary and impermanent.
  • Niyati-vada (Fatalism): The belief that everything is predetermined by fate.
  • Karma-upachaya-nishedha-vada (Denial of Karma accumulation): A view that denies the accumulation of karma.
  • Jagat-kartritva-vada (Creator of the Universe): The belief in a creator deity.
  • Avatar-vada (Incarnation Theory): The belief in divine incarnations.
  • Loka-vada (Cosmology/Theory of the Universe): Various views on the nature and structure of the cosmos.
  • Vinaya-vada (Doctrine of Reverence/Etiquette): The emphasis on proper conduct and respect.
  • Ajñana-vada (Skepticism/Ignorance as the Path): The belief that ignorance is the best way.
  • Kriya-vada (Doctrine of Action/Ritualism): The emphasis on rituals and actions for liberation.
  • A-kriya-vada (Doctrine of Non-action): The denial of the efficacy of actions or rituals.

• Methodology: Sadhvi Nilanjanashreeji conducted research over four years, demonstrating a significant commitment to the subject. The research journey spanned multiple states in India, indicating a comprehensive approach to gathering information and understanding different perspectives.

• Writing Style: The book is praised for its clarity, simplicity, and engaging language, making a complex philosophical subject accessible to a wider audience.

• Impact and Significance: The publication is seen as a valuable contribution to Jain literature and philosophy, enriching the understanding of the Sutrakrutanga Sutra for scholars and devotees alike. It is expected to inspire further research and literary contributions from the author.

In essence, the book "Agam 02 Ang 02 Sutrakrutang Sutra Ka Darshanik Adhyayan" is a scholarly work that systematically examines the philosophical underpinnings of the Sutrakrutanga Sutra, offering a deep dive into the diverse intellectual currents of ancient India through the lens of Jain teachings.