Agam 06 Ang 06 Gnatadharma Sutra Shwetambar

The provided text is a portion of the Natyadharmakatha Sutra (Gnatadharmakatha), the sixth Anga of the Shvetambara Jain Agamas. Authored by Purnachandrasagar and published by Jainanand Prakashan, this specific volume is designated as Agam 06, Ang 06. The catalog link indicates its inclusion in a collection of Jain printed texts.

The initial pages (1-12) are prefatory, containing salutations to various Jain saints and acharyas, including Lord Mahavir, Lord Gautam, and specific spiritual lineage holders like Acharya Shri Kailashsagarsuri and Acharya Shri AnandSagarsuri. It highlights the meticulous work involved in the scanning and publication project, acknowledging contributors and institutions like the Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra and Jainanand Pustakalaya, Surat.

The text then delves into the historical context and importance of the Agamas, emphasizing the significance of scriptural knowledge (Shruta Jnana) in guiding individuals through the cycle of rebirth. It traces the compilation and transmission of the Agamas through various "Vachanas" (recensions) over centuries, starting from the time of Lord Mahavir's disciples. The text mentions six major recensions, highlighting the efforts to preserve the scriptural tradition despite challenging times and the decline of oral transmission.

A significant portion of the introductory material focuses on the revival of scriptural study and dissemination in the 20th century, particularly crediting the efforts of Acharya Shri Anand Sagar Suri (known as "P. Sagarji M.") for the compilation and republication of the Agamas. This revival effort involved extensive research, manuscript collection, editing, and printing to make these vital texts accessible to a wider audience.

The core content of the Gnatadharmakatha begins with the recital of various stories and discourses. Based on the provided text, the following narratives are covered:

• Stories of various individuals: The text presents numerous detailed narratives illustrating Jain principles and the consequences of actions (karma). These stories often involve kings, queens, merchants, thieves, celestial beings, and animals, highlighting the transmigration of souls and the effects of good and bad deeds.

  • The story of Meha Kumara: This is a significant and detailed narrative involving Prince Meha, his birth circumstances, his past lives (including that of an elephant named Meruprabha), his interactions with celestial beings, his adherence to Jain principles, and his eventual renunciation and attainment of liberation. The story emphasizes the importance of non-violence and detachment from worldly pleasures.
  • The story of Dhanna Shravaka: This narrative details the life of Dhanna, a wealthy merchant who, after experiencing the impermanence of worldly possessions and facing a near-death experience, eventually renounces his worldly life and embraces Jain asceticism, leading to his liberation. The story illustrates the consequences of attachment and the path to spiritual freedom.
  • The story of Chila (Daschetaka): This narrative focuses on a servant named Chila, whose misdeeds and eventual punishment are described. It highlights the repercussions of negative actions and the importance of righteousness.
  • The story of Susuma Kumari: This narrative involves Susuma, the daughter of a merchant named Dhanna, and her interactions with a dancer, a robber, and celestial beings. It illustrates the consequences of attachment to sensory pleasures and the eventual path to spiritual understanding.
  • The story of Potthila: This narrative details the life of Potthila, a courtesan's daughter, and her complex interactions with various individuals, including a prince and a painter, leading to her eventual spiritual realization.
  • The story of the Yadavas: The text includes narratives related to the Yadava dynasty, particularly focusing on the story of Devaki and the birth of Krishna, and the moral lessons derived from their actions.
  • The story of the Pandavas and Draupadi: This section recounts the story of the Pandavas and Draupadi, their trials, and their eventual spiritual journey, emphasizing the principles of dharma and karma.
  • The story of King Kunthila: This narrative describes the spiritual transformation of King Kunthila, who renounces his kingdom and embraces asceticism.

• Moral and Ethical Teachings: Interwoven within these narratives are profound moral and ethical teachings, including:

  • The importance of non-violence (ahimsa).
  • The consequences of attachment to worldly pleasures and possessions.
  • The efficacy of righteous conduct, austerity, and spiritual discipline.
  • The concept of karma and the transmigration of souls.
  • The significance of virtuous actions, faith, and detachment.
  • The ultimate goal of liberation (moksha).

The text uses descriptive language and detailed accounts to illustrate these principles, often employing allegorical stories to convey complex philosophical concepts in an accessible manner. The emphasis is on understanding the cause and effect of actions and the path towards spiritual purification and freedom.