Agam 06 Ang 06 Gnatadharma Sutra Part 01 Sthanakvasi - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Agam 06 Ang 06 Gnatadharma Sutra Part 01 Sthanakvasi," based on the text you've provided. Please note that the provided text is primarily the introductory and methodological sections of the scripture, along with the beginning of the first chapter and a detailed description of the spiritual qualities of Arya Sudharma, the chief disciple of Lord Mahavir. The actual narrative content of the Gnatadharma Sutra starts later.

Overall Context and Introduction:

Title: Agam 06 Ang 06 Gnatadharma Sutra Part 01 Sthanakvasi.
Author: Ghasilal Maharaj (with commentary).
Publisher: A B Shwetambar Sthanakvasi Jain Shastroddhar Samiti.
Purpose: This text is part of the Jain Agam scriptures, specifically the sixth Anga (Gnatadharma Sutra). This particular volume is published by the Sthanakvasi tradition.
Devotional Beginning: The text opens with the sacred Jain mantra, "Namo Arihantanam" etc., the Panch Parmeshthi Namaskar, emphasizing its auspicious and Pāvan (purifying) nature.
Plan: The publication is part of a larger "Agam Prakashan Yojana" initiated by Acharya Shri Ghanshilalji Maharaj, with Shri Chandra P. Doshi as the organizer. The website jainagam.com is highlighted.
Commentary: The text features a commentary titled "Anagar Dharmamrita Varshini" (raining the nectar of the conduct of the homeless) by Jainacharya Shri Ghasilalji Maharaj.
Translation: The text includes translations in Hindi and Gujarati languages.
Edition: This is the first edition, published in Veer Samvat 2485 / Vikram Samvat 2020 / 1963 CE, with 1200 copies printed.
Price: The original price was Rs. 25-0-0.

Key Methodological and Preceptual Information:

Study Rules (Swadhyay): The text provides detailed instructions regarding the study of the original scripture text:
- Timing: To be studied during the first and fourth quarters of both day and night.
- Prohibited Times: Study is not to be done during dawn, dusk, midday, or midnight for specific durations (two "ghadi" which is 48 minutes). It also advises avoiding study 24 minutes before and after sunrise.
- Gender Restrictions: Women in their monthly cycle are prohibited from studying or being present during the study.
- Location: Study should be conducted in rooms where such individuals are not present.
- Aswadhyaya (Prohibited Times/Situations): A significant portion is dedicated to listing 32 instances when the original text should not be studied (Aswadhyaya). These are categorized into:
  - 10 related to Sky (Akash): Meteor showers (Ulkapat), directional fires (Digdaha), loud thunder and lightning (Garjav), intense sky-shaking sounds (Nirghat), lightning flashes (Vidyut), specific twilight conditions (Yupak), flashes resembling divine light (Yakshadipta), black fog (Dhumika Krishna), white fog (Mahika Shwet), and dust storms (Rajo-udghat).
  - 10 related to the Physical Body (Audarik Sharir): Seeing burnt or washed bone, flesh, and blood (Hadka, Mans, Rudhir), broken eggs (Phuta Indu), visible excrement/urine (Mal-Mutra), cremation grounds (Smashan), lunar or solar eclipses (Chandragrahan, Suryagrahan), royal unrest/warfare (Rajavyagrata), death of kings/important figures (Patan), or any five-sensed deceased body (Audarik Sharir).
  - 8 related to Festivals/Specific Days: Four major festivals (Mahotsav) and the four days following them (Pratipada).
  - 2 specific times: Dawn and dusk (one ghadi before/after), and midday/midnight (one ghadi before/after).
- Exception: These Aswadhyaya rules are for the original text. Translations in Gujarati etc., are not subject to these rules.
- Vinay (Respect): The importance of Vinay (respect for the Guru and elders) is emphasized, suggesting that in difficult situations, one should follow the will and commands of the Guru or elders.

Content Summary from the Provided Text:

Mangalacharan (Invocation): The text begins with a mangalacharan praising the Siddha Bhagwan, who have attained liberation and reside in the eternal abode. It also praises the 24 Tirthankaras for their role in guiding beings to liberation and for their practice of Ahimsa (non-violence), exemplified by the use of a mouth-cloth (Mukhavastrika).
Introduction to Jain Agam: The Jain Agam is described as an unfathomable ocean, which Ganadharas and other divine beings have navigated with the help of four "Anuyogas":
1. Charan Karananuyog: Related to conduct and actions.
2. Dharmakathanuyog: Related to the narration of Dharma and stories.
3. Ganitanuyog: Related to mathematics and calculation.
4. Drabyanuyog: Related to the principles of substances.
Gnatadharma Sutra's Place: The Gnatadharma Sutra is situated within the Dharmakathanuyog. Its purpose is to clarify the meaning of words in the scriptures, to prevent beings from falling into lower states of existence (Duragati), and to guide them towards the higher states (Sugati).
First Study (Sutra 1):
- Location: Introduces Champanagari (city of Champa).
- Features: Mentions Purnabhadra Chaitya outside the city.
- Ruler: States that King Konika ruled in Champa.
- "Varnaka": The term "Varnaka" indicates that detailed descriptions of these places are available in other scriptures, such as the Oupapatika Sutra.
Arya Sudharma Swami: The text then describes Arya Sudharma Swami, the chief disciple of Lord Mahavir.
- Qualities: He is depicted as possessing profound virtues:
  - Desh and Vansh: Born into a pure lineage (Jati) and family (Kul).
  - Physical: Possessing strength (Bal) and beauty (Roop).
  - Spiritual/Ethical: Highly accomplished in knowledge (Gyan), perception (Darshan), conduct (Charitra), humility (Vinay), lightness (without attachment to possessions - Laphav), forbearance (Kshanti), restraint (Gupti), knowledge of scriptures (Vidya), Brahmacharya (celibacy), steadfastness in vows (Niy-Nayam), truthfulness (Satya), purity (Shauch), and possessing all eleven Angas of Jain conduct (which implies profound spiritual realization).
  - Mental/Emotional: Free from pride (Jitmana), greed (Jitlobha), anger (Jitkrodha), and possessed of inner and outer brilliance (Ojasvi, Tejasvi, Varjasvi, Yashasvi). He was also free from the fear of life and death (Jivitasmaranabhayavippamukke).
  - Spiritual Attainment: He was a Chaturdashi Purvi (master of 14 Purvas) and possessed four types of knowledge (ChaturGano-upagat - Mati, Shruta, Avadhi, Manahparyaya).
  - Disciples: He was surrounded by 500 monks (Anagar).
- Journey: He was moving from village to village, living blissfully.
- Arrival: He arrived at the Purnabhadra Chaitya near Champanagari.
- Residence: He took up residence there after seeking permission in the appropriate manner.
Second Study (Sutra 2 & 3):
- Post-Samavasaran: After Lord Mahavir's sermon (Samavasaran), the assembly (Parishad) and King Konika departed. Dharma was preached by Arya Sudharma Swami.
- Arya Jamboo Swami: The text then introduces Arya Jamboo Swami, the chief disciple of Arya Sudharma Swami. His physical description is given (seven hands tall). His spiritual state is described as being immersed in meditation (Dhyana Kosha).
- Jamboo Swami's Question: Arya Jamboo Swami, filled with curiosity (Kautuhal) and doubt (Sanshay) about the scriptures, approaches Arya Sudharma Swami. He questions the difference between the five Angas previously explained and the sixth Anga, the Gnatadharma Sutra, and specifically asks about its meaning.
First Chapter of Gnatadharma Sutra:
- Structure: The Gnatadharma Sutra has two main divisions (Suta Skandhas): 1. Gnata (ज्ञाता) and 2. Dharmakatha (धर्मकथा).
- Gnata Chapters: The Gnata section comprises 19 chapters, illustrated by 19 examples/stories (Upakhyayikas), starting with Utkshipta (उक्षिप्त), Sanghataka (संघाटक), Anda (अण्डे), Kurma (कूर्म), Shailka (शैलक), Tumba (तुम्ब), Rohini (रोहिणी), Malli (मल्लि), Makandi (माकंदी), Chandrika (चान्द्रिक), Davadrava (दावद्रव), Udak (उदक), Manduk (मण्डूक), Tetali (तेतलि), Nandifal (नन्दिफल), Aparanka (अपरकंका), Akirna (आकीर्ण), Susama (सुसमा), and Pundarik (पुंडरीक).
First Chapter of Gnata (Sutra 4): This chapter introduces King Shrenika of Rajagriha, his queen Nanda (described as having delicate hands and feet), and their son Abhaykumar. Abhaykumar is described in great detail, emphasizing his exceptional qualities, intelligence, and administrative abilities.
Second Chapter of Gnata (Sutra 5): This introduces Queen Dharini as the second queen of King Shrenika. Her physical beauty and auspicious qualities are elaborated upon, drawing parallels to natural elements like the moon.
Dharini Devi's Dream (Sutras 6-10): The text details Queen Dharini's dream of a white elephant entering her mouth. This is interpreted by King Shrenika as an auspicious sign predicting the birth of a noble son who will be powerful, virtuous, and a great leader. The detailed description of the palace and her preparations highlight the significance of the event.
Abhaykumar's Intelligence (Sutras 11-14): The text showcases Abhaykumar's extraordinary intelligence and administrative acumen. He demonstrates mastery in understanding situations, offering counsel, and managing state affairs, surpassing even the learned scholars. His understanding of different types of wisdom (Ouatpatiki, Vainayiki, Karmiki, Parinamiki) is highlighted.
Meghkumar's Birth and Childhood (Sutras 15-23): The narrative shifts to Meghkumar.
- Dream Interpretation: The text returns to Queen Dharini's dream and its interpretation by the scholars, foretelling the birth of a virtuous son.
- Conception and Gestation: The auspicious dream signifies the conception of a child of great merit. The text describes the extraordinary joy and well-being of Queen Dharini during her pregnancy, fulfilling all her desires ("Dohada").
- Special Measures: King Shrenika takes extraordinary measures to protect Queen Dharini and fulfill her desires, including decorating the city and preparing for the auspicious occasion.
- Meghkumar's Upbringing: Meghkumar is depicted as being raised by five nursemaids, each specializing in different aspects of childcare. His education is comprehensive, covering 72 arts and sciences. His royal upbringing includes the finest luxuries and adornments.
Meghkumar's Renunciation (Sutras 24-38):
- Spiritual Inclination: Despite his royal upbringing, Meghkumar develops a deep detachment from worldly pleasures and a strong inclination towards spiritual life after encountering Lord Mahavir and hearing his sermon.
- Desire for Renunciation: He expresses his desire to renounce the world and attain spiritual liberation, moving his parents to tears.
- Parental Concern: His parents are initially reluctant, fearing his well-being and their own loneliness. They try to persuade him to enjoy his royal life first.
- Meghkumar's Resolve: Meghkumar articulates the impermanence of worldly life and the suffering inherent in the cycle of birth and death, ultimately reinforcing his decision for asceticism.
- Royal Preparations: The King and Queen, seeing his firm resolve, prepare for his grand renunciation ceremony. This includes elaborate decorations, the assembly of vast armies, and a procession with music and celebrations.
- Meghkumar's Diksha: Meghkumar, adorned in royal attire, rides in a grand palanquin, accompanied by his parents and the royal retinue, to meet Lord Mahavir.
- Lord Mahavir's Sermon: Lord Mahavir preaches the Dharma, emphasizing the cycle of karma, suffering, and the path to liberation.
- Meghkumar's Acceptance: Meghkumar, deeply moved by the sermon and the teachings of Vinay and Dharma, accepts the path of renunciation. He is formally initiated into the monastic order by Lord Mahavir.
- Meghkumar's Practices: After initiation, Meghkumar is described practicing asceticism, meditation, and adhering to monastic discipline. The text details his routine, emphasizing his detachment and focus on spiritual upliftment.
Concluding Sections: The provided text ends with the detailed description of Meghkumar's ascetic practices and interactions with the monastic community, underscoring the Jain emphasis on detachment, spiritual discipline, and the pursuit of liberation.

Overall Significance:

The provided sections of the Gnatadharma Sutra, particularly through the lens of Ghasilal Maharaj's commentary, offer a glimpse into the ethical, philosophical, and practical aspects of Jainism. The emphasis on detailed rules for study, the profound spiritual qualities of the key figures (Arya Sudharma, Arya Jamboo, King Shrenika, Queen Dharini, Abhaykumar, and Meghkumar), and the narrative of renunciation highlight the Jain path towards spiritual liberation. The detailed descriptions, while narrative in the context of the stories, also serve to illustrate the principles of Dharma, karma, and the ultimate goal of Moksha.