Agam 03 Ang 03 Sthanang Sutra Part 01 Sthanakvasi Gujarati - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Sthanang Sutra Part 01," based on the given pages and catalog link. The text is a part of the Jain Agamas, specifically the third Anga, and is presented with a Gujarati translation and commentary by Ghasilal Maharaj.

Book Title: Agam 03 Ang 03 Sthanang Sutra Part 01 Sthanakvasi Gujarati Author: Ghasilal Maharaj Publisher: A B Shwetambar Sthanakvasi Jain Shastroddhar Samiti Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/006409/1

Overall Purpose and Structure:

The Sthanang Sutra is a foundational Jain text that categorizes and enumerates various aspects of Jain philosophy and cosmology. It systematically presents knowledge in a structured manner, moving from one to ten "places" or categories. This particular volume, Sthanang Sutra Part 01, appears to cover the initial stages of this enumeration, focusing on concepts from the first to the third place, and delving into various aspects of the soul, karma, and the universe.

Key Themes and Content Covered (Based on the provided pages):

Mangalacharan (Invocation): The text begins with the traditional Jain invocation, "Namo Arihantanam, Namo Siddhanam, Namo Ayariyanam, Namo Uvvajjhayanam, Namo Loye Savva Savhunam," which expresses reverence to the enlightened beings, liberated souls, preceptors, teachers, and all virtuous monks. This invocation is considered auspicious and believed to remove obstacles.
Introduction and Publisher's Note: The publication is presented by the "Shri Akhil Bharat Shwetambar Sthanakvasi Jain Shastroddhara Samiti," indicating its commitment to preserving and disseminating Jain scriptures. The dedication and organizational efforts of individuals like Shri Chandra P. Doshi are highlighted. The publication is noted as the "Prathama Vritti" (First Edition) from 1964 CE / 2490 Veer Samvat.
Rules for Swadhyay (Study): A significant portion of the provided text details specific rules and guidelines for the proper study of the scripture. These rules are extensive and cover:
- Timing: When to study the original text (day and night's first and fourth quarters) and when not to (certain times of day, periods around sunrise/sunset, mid-day/mid-night).
- Prohibitions: Not to be studied by women during menstruation, nor in their presence. Study should be conducted in a separate, clean room.
- Astadhyaya Prasang (Inauspicious Occurrences): A detailed list of 32 specific circumstances that are considered inauspicious for study, categorized into:
  - Akash Sambandhi (Celestial): Meteor showers, directional fire, thunder, cosmic sounds, lightning, specific lunar phases (Yapak), celestial light phenomena (Yakshadita), fog (Dhumikakrishn, Mahikashwet), and dust storms (Rajoddhat).
  - Audarik Sharir Sambandhi (Physical Body): Presence of bone, flesh, blood (if not fully incinerated or washed), a broken egg, excrement, urine, cremation grounds, lunar and solar eclipses, royal turmoil (Rajavyagrata), the death of a king or national figure (before cremation or appointment of a successor), and the presence of a dead body (within a certain radius).
  - Special Note: It's emphasized that these astadhyaya rules apply to the original text, not necessarily to translations in vernacular languages. The importance of respecting elders and gurus' wishes during such times is also stressed.
Content Outline (Sthanas and Subjects): The latter part of the provided pages (11-45 onwards) presents a detailed table of contents, outlining the topics covered in the Sthanang Sutra Part 01. This reveals the highly systematic nature of the text, with subjects being classified and discussed in a numerical order, often related to "places" (Sthan) and their dualities or classifications:
- First Place (Pahila Sthan): Covers various subjects like Mangal, Dharma, Adharma, Moksha, Virtue (Punya), Sin (Paap), Restraint (Sanvar), Delusion (Moh), states of the body, and more, often discussed in terms of "Is it Kheda-tvā?" or "Is it Pra-ni?" (indicating classification or essence).
- Second Place (Dusare Sthan): Continues the enumeration, discussing concepts like Adharma and Dharma attributes, the nature of Karma, Bondage (Bandh), Liberation (Moksha), Punya and Paap in more detail, different types of actions and their consequences, and further classifications of various entities.
- Third Place (Tisare Sthan): Further elaborates on these concepts, including the nature of various beings (heavenly beings, hellish beings), the essence of Pudgala (matter), and the concept of 'Dharm' and 'Adharm' (principles of motion and rest).
- Fourth Place (Chauthe Deshak): This section seems to cover broader topics related to the universe and existence, including the concept of 'Lok' (the universe) and 'Alok' (non-universe), their nature, and characteristics.
Philosophical Discussions within the Commentary: The commentary (Tika) by Ghasilal Maharaj provides explanations and interpretations of the sutras. It includes:
- Discussions on the Soul (Atma): The nature of the soul, its attributes, and its relation to karma is a recurring theme.
- Karma Theory: The text delves into the workings of karma, its binding, its fruition (vedana), and its dissolution (nirjara), emphasizing the importance of righteous conduct.
- Logic and Reasoning: The commentary often engages in logical arguments and counter-arguments to establish the Jain perspective on various philosophical points, such as the existence of the soul, the nature of reality, and the process of liberation.
- Metaphorical Explanations: Analogies and metaphors are used to simplify complex philosophical concepts.
- Emphasis on Vinay (Humility and Respect): The text underscores the importance of humility and respect towards teachers and elders, particularly in understanding the scriptures.

Significance of the Text:

Systematic Enumeration: The Sthanang Sutra is crucial for its systematic approach to Jain teachings, providing a framework for understanding the vastness of Jain cosmology and ethics.
Foundation for Further Study: It lays the groundwork for understanding more complex Jain texts by providing fundamental classifications and definitions.
Guidance for Practice: The detailed rules for swadhyay highlight the importance of diligent and respectful study, which is considered a form of spiritual practice in Jainism.
Commentary's Role: Ghasilal Maharaj's commentary is vital for making the profound philosophical concepts accessible to a wider audience, especially those familiar with Gujarati and Hindi.

This summary provides a broad overview of the content presented in the given pages. The Sthanang Sutra is a vast and intricate text, and this portion likely covers introductory and foundational elements of Jain philosophy as presented by the Sthanakvasi tradition.