Agam 06 Ang 06 Gnatadharma Sutra Stahanakvasi

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, covering the essence of each chapter based on the provided descriptions:

Book Title: Agam 06 Ang 06 Gnatadharma Sutra Author(s): Madhukarmuni, Shobhachad Bharilla Publisher: Agam Prakashan Samiti

This comprehensive volume, the sixth Anga of the Jain Agamas, known as the Gnatadharma Sutra, is presented with its original text, Hindi translation, detailed explanations (Vichar), annotations, and appendices. The publication is dedicated to the memory of the revered Guru Shri Joravarmalji Maharaj, with Yuvaacharya Shri Madhukar Muni serving as the convenor and chief editor.

The Gnatadharma Sutra, the sixth Anga of the Twelve Angas of Jain scripture, holds a unique and prominent place due to its narrative nature. While other Angas like Antakriddasha, Anuttaravaupapaatika, and Vipaka Sutra are also narrative, the Gnata Sutra is considered a foundational text, frequently referenced in other Agama texts. Its language is described as more mature and literary than other Angas, sometimes employing highly ornamental language that evokes the feeling of reading exquisite poetry.

The text is structured into two Shrutaskandhas (sections). According to the commentators, the first Shrutaskandha contains narratives of exemplary individuals ("Gnata" meaning known or examples), while the second Shrutaskandha contains stories that are primarily religious in nature ("Dharmakatha"). The title "Gnata Dharmakaha" thus reflects this dual structure. The summary notes that the commentator Abhaydev Suri interprets "Naya" as "Gnata" or "Example."

The summary highlights the following key chapters and their themes:

First Study: Utksipta Jnana (The Lifted Knowledge)

• Theme: This study details the life of Meghakumara, son of King Shrenika of Rajagriha. It traces his journey from a prince accustomed to luxury to a devout monk.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • Meghakumara's past lives are described, including a life as an elephant named Meruprabha, where he exhibited immense compassion by holding his leg aloft for three days to protect a rabbit, enduring immense physical hardship. This act of compassion is highlighted as the reason for his human birth with immense potential.
  • His princely life, marriage to eight princesses, and eventual renunciation upon hearing Lord Mahavir's teachings are detailed.
  • His initial struggles and subsequent steadfastness in monastic life after recalling his past lives and the teachings of Mahavir are emphasized.
  • The story also touches upon the concept of "dohada" (unusual pregnancy cravings) experienced by Queen Dharini, the mother of Meghakumara, and the miraculous fulfillment of these cravings, showcasing the extraordinary nature of a future Tirthankar's conception.
  • The chapter also discusses the various arts and sciences prevalent during that era, mentioning seventy-two arts and the importance of language proficiency.

Second Study: Sanghaṭa (The Union/Association)

• Theme: This study explores the perils of attachment and the consequences of attachment to worldly pleasures. It uses the story of Dhanna Sarthavaha and his exemplary daughter-in-law Rohini to illustrate the importance of detachment and righteous conduct.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • Dhanna Sarthavaha's loyalty to Jain principles is demonstrated when he offers his wealth and even his son's life to save his family from the clutches of the merchant-killer Vijaya.
  • The chapter contrasts the behaviour of Dhanna's four daughters-in-law: Ujjita (who was careless with the gifted seeds), Bhogavati (who ate them), Rakshita (who preserved them), and Rohini (who cultivated them).
  • Rohini's foresight and diligence in cultivating the seeds, leading to immense prosperity, are highlighted as an example of righteous action and foresight.
  • The story of the greedy and cruel king Dhanya, who kills his own disciples, is used to illustrate the dire consequences of greed and attachment, contrasting with Rohini's virtuous path.
  • The narrative also serves to explain the principles of Jain conduct and the importance of virtuous actions for spiritual progress and well-being.

Third Study: Andaka (The Egg)

• Theme: This study emphasizes the importance of unwavering faith and the detrimental effects of doubt and skepticism in spiritual pursuits. It contrasts the outcomes of faith versus doubt through the story of two merchant's sons, Jinapalita and Jinarakshita.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • The two friends, Jinapalita and Jinarakshita, on a sea voyage, encounter a storm and are shipwrecked on an island inhabited by a demoness named Ratnadevi.
  • Ratnadevi offers them a deal: if they indulge in worldly pleasures with her, she will protect them; otherwise, she will kill them.
  • Jinapalita, remembering his father's counsel and maintaining his faith, resists temptation. Jinarakshita, however, succumbs to attachment and desires.
  • The consequence is that Jinarakshita is killed by Ratnadevi, while Jinapalita, through his steadfastness, is saved by a Yaksha named Shailaka and eventually returns to his homeland.
  • The story highlights that unwavering faith and adherence to principles, even in the face of adversity, lead to salvation, while doubt and attachment lead to destruction.

Fourth Study: Kurma (The Tortoise)

• Theme: This study uses the analogy of a tortoise to illustrate the significance of controlling one's senses and maintaining equanimity.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • The story of two tortoises in a lake, one who imprishes due to lack of control over its limbs (being too eager to explore) and the other who survives by wisely withdrawing its senses and limbs into its shell.
  • This is compared to monks and nuns who, if they fail to control their senses, fall prey to worldly temptations and attachments, leading to their downfall.
  • Conversely, those who exercise self-control and maintain equanimity in the face of sensory temptations achieve spiritual progress and liberation.
  • The chapter emphasizes the importance of controlling the senses and maintaining a detached attitude towards worldly pleasures for spiritual advancement.

Fifth Study: Shailaka (The Mountain Dweller)

• Theme: This study focuses on the concept of renunciation, detachment, and the power of faith through the life of Lord Arishtanemi's disciple, Shailaka. It also highlights the influence of past karma and the importance of virtuous conduct.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • The narrative begins with Lord Mahavir's discourse on the cycle of birth and death, emphasizing the role of karma in determining one's destiny.
  • The story of Lord Rishabhanatha's disciple, Yaksha Shailaka, who practiced intense austerity and renunciation, is presented.
  • The chapter details the encounter of the Maakandi princes, Jilpalita and Jinarakshita, with Ratnadevi, the demoness, and their subsequent rescue by Yaksha Shailaka.
  • Shailaka's encounter with the princes and his offer of protection, with the condition of their unwavering faith, is a crucial part of the narrative.
  • The study also touches upon the historical and geographical context of ancient India, mentioning cities like Dwarka and Rajagriha.
  • The chapter emphasizes the consequences of actions and the importance of righteousness for achieving liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Sixth Study: Tumba (The Gourd)

• Theme: This study focuses on the principle of karma and its effects on the soul, using the analogy of a gourd to explain the concept of liberation.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • The text uses the example of a gourd, initially submerged due to its earthy coating (karma), but later floating to the surface once the coating is removed.
  • This is paralleled with the soul, which becomes heavy and sinks into the cycle of birth and death due to karmic impurities.
  • Through rigorous spiritual practice, austerity, and detachment, the soul can shed these karmic coverings and achieve liberation (moksha).
  • The chapter stresses the importance of spiritual discipline and shedding karmic bondage to attain the ultimate goal of liberation.

Seventh Study: Rohini (The Name of a Woman)

• Theme: This study highlights the virtue of fidelity, righteousness, and the importance of good conduct through the story of Rohini, the exemplary daughter-in-law of Dhanva Sarthavaha.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • The narrative begins with the wealthy merchant Dhanva Sarthavaha, who, despite his prosperity, had no children. He performed many vows and rituals, after which his wife Rohini conceived.
  • However, Rohini's devotion and adherence to Jain principles are tested when, due to unforeseen circumstances, she is accused of a crime she did not commit.
  • The story emphasizes Rohini's unwavering faith, righteousness, and her ability to overcome adversity through her virtuous conduct and the blessings of her spiritual practice.
  • It also contrasts her with her sisters-in-law, who lacked such virtues, leading to their downfall.
  • The chapter underscores the importance of ethical living, faith, and the rewards of righteous actions.

Eighth Study: Malli (The Name of a Woman)

• Theme: This study narrates the life story of the 19th Tirthankara, Bhagavan Mallinath, who was born as a female, highlighting themes of detachment, renunciation, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation irrespective of gender.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • The narrative begins with the birth of Malli Kumari in the dynasty of King Bali. Her extraordinary virtues and spiritual inclination from birth are described.
  • Despite her royal lineage and the attentions of six kings who wished to marry her, Malli Kumari renounced worldly life and embraced asceticism.
  • Her story emphasizes that spiritual liberation is attainable through self-discipline, detachment, and devotion, regardless of one's worldly status or gender.
  • The text also delves into the concept of karma and how past actions influence present lives, illustrating this through Malli Kumari's previous births.
  • The chapter highlights the Tirthankara's ability to break free from the cycle of birth and death through their profound spiritual realization and adherence to the path of non-attachment.

Ninth Study: Maakandi (The Name of a Woman)

• Theme: This study underscores the perils of attachment, the destructive power of desire, and the consequences of ignoring wise counsel, using the narrative of the Maakandi brothers, Jilpalita and Jinarakshita.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • Jilpalita and Jinarakshita, sons of Maakandi Sarthavaha, despite their parents' warnings, embarked on a sea voyage.
  • They were shipwrecked and encountered Ratnadevi, a powerful and malevolent being who offered them a choice: indulge in worldly pleasures with her or face death.
  • Jilpalita, maintaining his resolve, resisted temptation, while Jinarakshita succumbed.
  • The story illustrates the destructive nature of unchecked desires and the importance of self-control in overcoming worldly attachments.
  • The chapter also highlights the contrast between Jinapalita's prudence and Jinarakshita's recklessness, leading to tragic consequences for the latter.
  • It serves as a powerful cautionary tale against succumbing to temptations and emphasizes the importance of adhering to virtuous principles.

Tenth Study: Chandra (The Moon)

• Theme: This study uses the waxing and waning of the moon as an analogy to explain the concepts of spiritual growth and decline.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • The chapter begins with Gautam Swami's question to Lord Mahavir about the causes of spiritual growth and decline.
  • Lord Mahavir uses the waxing and waning phases of the moon as an illustration: the moon, starting as a sliver in the dark half of the month, gradually diminishes until it disappears completely, only to reappear and wax towards fullness in the bright half of the month.
  • This waxing and waning is compared to the spiritual journey of a soul. A soul that neglects spiritual practices and succumbs to worldly desires experiences decline, akin to the waning moon.
  • Conversely, a soul that diligently practices spiritual disciplines, cultivates virtues, and maintains faith experiences growth, like the waxing moon reaching its fullness.
  • The chapter emphasizes the continuous effort required for spiritual progress and the need to cultivate virtues to avoid spiritual decline.

Eleventh Study: Daavadrava (A Type of Tree)

• Theme: This study focuses on the virtue of forbearance and tolerance, particularly in the face of verbal abuse and criticism.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • The text uses the analogy of the Daavadrava tree, which remains steadfast and unaffected by harsh winds and adverse conditions, to illustrate the ideal conduct of a spiritual seeker.
  • A spiritual seeker, like the Daavadrava tree, should remain unperturbed by harsh words, insults, or criticism from others.
  • The chapter outlines the different levels of tolerance:
    • Deshaviradhak: One who tolerates harsh words from some but not others (e.g., tolerating abuse from co-religionists but not from outsiders).
    • Deshaaraadhak: One who tolerates abuse from outsiders but not from within the community.
    • Sarvaviradhak: One who tolerates no abuse from anyone.
    • Sarvaaraadhak: One who tolerates abuse from all sources, remaining unaffected by criticism, abuse, or negativity.
  • The ultimate goal is to become a "Sarvaaraadhak," a person who remains tolerant and serene under all circumstances, thereby achieving spiritual progress.

Twelfth Study: Udakajnana (Knowledge of Water)

• Theme: This study emphasizes the importance of right faith (Samyak Darshan) and the understanding of the true nature of reality, using the example of a righteous minister, Subuddhi, who enlightens his king, Jitasatru.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • The story begins in Rajagriha, where King Jitasatru, impressed by the delicious water from a well, believes it to be miraculously pure. His minister, Subuddhi, a Jain follower, knows the truth: the water is actually from a polluted well but has been purified through a special process (described in detail in the text).
  • When questioned by the king about the water's origin and purity, Subuddhi, despite the king's initial skepticism and anger, patiently explains the process of purification.
  • The king, witnessing the miraculous transformation of the water and hearing the rational explanation, realizes the limitations of his sensory perception and the importance of true knowledge.
  • Subuddhi's explanation highlights the Jain principle that purity and impurity are not inherent in substances but are determined by external factors (like the purification process) and internal states of mind (attachment and aversion).
  • The king, convinced by Subuddhi's wisdom and the empirical evidence, embraces Jainism and becomes a devout follower.
  • The chapter underscores the significance of right faith, the pursuit of true knowledge, and the power of logical reasoning in dispelling ignorance and achieving spiritual enlightenment.

Thirteenth Study: Dardura (The Frog)

• Theme: This study uses the analogy of a frog to illustrate the consequences of attachment and the importance of detachment in the spiritual path. It also highlights the value of righteous conduct and the realization of past karma.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • The story begins with Nand, a jeweler in Rajagriha, who, despite his devotion, develops an attachment to a pond he built. This attachment leads him to indulge in worldly pleasures and neglect his spiritual practices.
  • As a result of his attachment and subsequent downfall, Nand is reborn as a frog in the same pond.
  • In his frog form, Nand encounters Lord Mahavir and, through his past life memories (jati-smaran), realizes his error. He performs severe austerities and strives for spiritual progress.
  • The story contrasts the fate of Nand with that of his virtuous friend Jilpalita (from a previous story context, likely referring to Maakandi chapter), who, despite facing hardships, maintained his spiritual discipline.
  • The chapter emphasizes that attachment, even to seemingly pious acts like building a pond for monks, can lead to spiritual downfall if it stems from ego or desire for recognition. True detachment and devotion are essential for liberation.

Fourteenth Study: Tetali (The Name of a Man)

• Theme: This study emphasizes the importance of right perspective and the realization that external phenomena are perceived and interpreted based on one's inner state of mind. It uses the example of King Jitasatru and his minister Subuddhi.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • King Jitasatru, accustomed to the luxuries of his palace, finds the simple, arduous path of Jain asceticism difficult and undesirable. He questions its austerity and the hardships involved.
  • Subuddhi, his minister and a devout Jain, uses the analogy of a frog in a well to explain the limitations of a narrow perspective. The frog, ignorant of the vast ocean, believes its well to be the entire universe. Similarly, those who are attached to worldly pleasures and lack spiritual knowledge have a limited understanding of reality.
  • The story illustrates that true happiness and liberation come from renouncing worldly attachments and following the path of detachment and self-discipline.
  • Subuddhi's unwavering faith and adherence to Jain principles, even when challenged by the king, exemplify the importance of right conviction.
  • The chapter highlights the need to cultivate inner purity and understanding, rather than being swayed by external appearances or desires, to achieve spiritual growth.

Fifteenth Study: Nandi (The Name of a Woman)

• Theme: This study emphasizes the concept of karma and its influence on one's destiny, using the example of Nanda, a wealthy merchant, and his virtuous daughter-in-law Rohini. It also implicitly criticizes the superficiality of actions performed without genuine devotion or understanding.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • Nanda, a wealthy merchant, performs various religious acts and rituals without genuine understanding or detachment, driven by a desire for worldly fame and prosperity.
  • His daughter-in-law, Rohini, however, embodies true devotion and detachment. She diligently serves her in-laws and performs all actions with sincerity and purity of heart.
  • The story illustrates how actions performed with attachment and ego lead to karmic bondage, while selfless and virtuous actions, even if simple, lead to spiritual merit and liberation.
  • It contrasts Nanda's eventual downfall due to his flawed approach with Rohini's spiritual upliftment through her sincere devotion.

Sixteenth Study: Kshema (Well-being)

• Theme: This study emphasizes the importance of inner purity, detachment, and renunciation of worldly desires for spiritual progress, using the example of King Shalaka.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • King Shalaka, after a life of indulgence, renounces the world and becomes an ascetic. However, he struggles with attachments and desires, leading to his downfall.
  • The story highlights the importance of a pure mind and detachment from worldly pleasures, even for those who have renounced them.
  • It contrasts Shalaka's initial downfall with the ultimate liberation of his disciples, who maintained their spiritual discipline with steadfastness.
  • The chapter stresses that true spiritual progress is achieved through consistent effort, self-control, and unwavering devotion to the path of liberation.

Seventeenth Study: Chala (The Moving)

• Theme: This study uses the analogy of the moon's phases to illustrate the concepts of spiritual progress and decline.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • The waxing and waning of the moon are presented as a metaphor for the rise and fall of spiritual practice.
  • The new moon, representing the initial stages of spiritual practice, gradually waxes towards fullness, symbolizing progress and spiritual growth.
  • Conversely, the waning moon symbolizes spiritual decline due to neglect of practices, indulgence in desires, and lack of self-control.
  • The chapter emphasizes the importance of continuous spiritual effort, vigilance, and the cultivation of virtues to ensure consistent progress on the path to liberation.

Eighteenth Study: Malli (The Name of a Woman)

• Theme: This study recounts the life of the 19th Tirthankara, Bhagavan Mallinath, who was born as a female. It emphasizes detachment, renunciation, and the attainment of liberation regardless of worldly circumstances or gender.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • The narrative traces Malli Kumari's life from her birth as a princess to her eventual renunciation of worldly life and attainment of omniscience.
  • Despite her royal status and the allure of worldly pleasures, Malli Kumari remained detached and focused on her spiritual journey.
  • The story highlights her profound compassion and her ability to inspire others towards righteousness, demonstrating that spiritual realization is not limited by gender or social standing.
  • The chapter also delves into the karmic consequences of actions, explaining how past deeds influence present lives and future destinies.
  • It serves as a testament to the power of detachment and the pursuit of spiritual truth as the ultimate path to liberation.

Nineteenth Study: Maakandi (The Name of a Woman)

• Theme: This study emphasizes the perils of attachment, the destructive power of desire, and the consequences of ignoring wise counsel, using the narrative of the Maakandi brothers, Jilpalita and Jinarakshita.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • Jilpalita and Jinarakshita, sons of Maakandi Sarthavaha, despite their parents' warnings, embarked on a sea voyage.
  • They were shipwrecked and encountered Ratnadevi, a powerful and malevolent being who offered them a choice: indulge in worldly pleasures with her or face death.
  • Jilpalita, maintaining his resolve, resisted temptation. Jinarakshita, however, succumbed to attachment and desires.
  • The story illustrates the destructive nature of unchecked desires and the importance of self-control in overcoming worldly attachments.
  • It contrasts Jinapalita's prudence and Jinarakshita's recklessness, leading to tragic consequences for the latter.
  • The chapter serves as a powerful cautionary tale against succumbing to temptations and emphasizes the importance of adhering to virtuous principles.

Twentieth Study: Daruda (The Frog)

• Theme: This study emphasizes the importance of proper conduct, self-control, and the understanding of karma through the story of Nanda, a merchant, and his rebirth as a frog.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • Nanda, a wealthy merchant, despite his charitable acts, harbored attachment and ego, leading to his downfall. He neglected his spiritual duties and indulged in worldly pleasures.
  • As a consequence of his actions, Nanda was reborn as a frog in the same pond he had built. In this life, he experienced the consequences of his past karma.
  • The story highlights the importance of righteous conduct, self-control, and detachment from worldly possessions for spiritual progress.
  • Nanda's realization of his past mistakes and his subsequent sincere repentance and attempt to practice Jain principles, even in his frog form, exemplify the path to redemption.
  • The chapter underscores the cyclical nature of karma and the importance of ethical living for spiritual upliftment.

Twenty-first Study: Udaka (Water)

• Theme: This study emphasizes the importance of right faith (Samyak Darshan) and the understanding of the true nature of reality, using the example of a righteous minister, Subuddhi, who enlightens his king, Jitasatru.
• Key Narrative Points:
  • King Jitasatru of Rajagriha finds a particular well water exceptionally delicious and pure, attributing it to miraculous powers. His minister, Subuddhi, a devout Jain, knows the truth: the water's purity is due to a special purification process, not divine intervention.
  • When the king questions the source and purity of the water, Subuddhi patiently explains the scientific and practical aspects of purification. He uses the analogy of how even impure substances can be purified through proper methods.
  • Subuddhi emphasizes that true purity comes from inner transformation and righteous actions, not from mere external appearances or rituals.
  • The king, initially skeptical, is eventually persuaded by Subuddhi's wisdom and the tangible proof, leading him to embrace Jainism.
  • The chapter highlights the importance of right faith, knowledge, and critical thinking in understanding the true nature of reality and the path to spiritual liberation.

This summary covers the main themes and narrative points of each study within the Gnatadharma Sutra as presented in the provided text.