Agam 07 Ang 07 Upashak Dashang Sutra Shwetambar - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Agam 07 Ang 07 Upashak Dashang Sutra Shwetambar," authored by Purnachandrasagar and published by Jainanand Pustakalay:

Overall Scope and Purpose:

The text, a Shwetambar Jain Agama, specifically the seventh Ang (part) and seventh Sutra within it, Upashak Dashang Sutra, focuses on the conduct and teachings related to lay disciples (Upashak). It details the practices, virtues, and experiences of ten prominent lay disciples who followed Lord Mahavir Swami. The book also includes a significant section on the history and compilation of Jain Agamas, highlighting the importance of scriptural knowledge and its preservation.

Key Sections and Content:

Editorial and Publisher Information (Pages 1-5):
- The initial pages provide information about the Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra, its website, and the spiritual lineage of the Acharyas involved in the publication.
- It credits Acharya Shri Anand Sagar Surishwarji Maharaj for the revision and editing of 45 Agamas, and Pujya Ganivarya Shri Purnachandrasagarji Maharaj for the work of inscription and as the "preacher".
- Various Acharyas and individuals are acknowledged for their inspiration, guidance, and support in bringing this work to fruition.
- Details of the first edition, publication year (Vikram Samvat 2061), and the publishing house (Jainanand Pustakalay, Surat) are provided.
Historical Context of Jain Agamas (Pages 6-11):
- This substantial portion delves into the history of the Jain Agamas, emphasizing the importance of scriptural knowledge (Shruta Jnana).
- It traces the lineage of the Agamas from Lord Mahavir Swami's time, detailing how the twelve Angas and fourteen Purvas were compiled by the Ganadharas (chief disciples).
- A significant focus is placed on the six major recitations (Vachanas) of the Agamas that occurred over centuries. These were crucial for preserving the scriptures due to various challenges:
  - First Recitation: In Pataliputra (Patna) under the leadership of Sthulabhadra, after a severe famine and dispersal of monks, to compile the Dvadasanga Shruta.
  - Second Recitation: In Ujjain under Aryasuhasti, with the patronage of King Samprati, to ensure the preservation of Jinagamas.
  - Third Recitation: In Kalinga under King Kharvela, undertaken by monks and nuns, and lay followers, to systematically organize the eleven Angas and ten Purvas after periods of persecution.
  - Fourth Recitation: In Dashpur (Mandsaur) by Aryarakshit Suri, who organized the Agamas into four Anuyogas (classifications) to make them accessible for future generations with diminished memory capacity.
  - Fifth Recitation: In Mathura and Valabhi, by Aryaskandil Suri and Aryas Nagarjun Suri respectively, to consolidate the Agamas amidst regional unrest.
  - Sixth Recitation: In Valabhi (Gujarat) by Aryakalk Suri and Aryadevarkingani, who compiled the 84 Agamas into written form on palm leaves.
- The text highlights that after the first 1000 years post-Mahavir Nirvana, there's no record of further Agama recitations for 1500 years.
- It laments the decline of rigorous scriptural study and the ensuing scarcity of Agamas in manuscript form due to the influence of difficult times and laxity in practices.
- The dedication of scholars like Purnachandrasagarji and Anandasagar Surishwarji in re-printing and disseminating these texts is praised, emphasizing their efforts to revive and propagate scriptural knowledge.
The Upashak Dashang Sutra (Pages 12-63):
- This section contains the core narrative of the Upashak Dashang Sutra itself, presented in a conversational style between Lord Mahavir Swami and his chief disciple, Gautam Swami.
- The Sutra details the lives and spiritual journeys of ten illustrious lay disciples:
  - Ananda (Pages 12-26): A wealthy householder from Vanijgram, his renunciation, commitment to the twelve vows (Grah Dhyan) of a lay follower, and eventual attainment of heavenly status. The narrative includes challenges posed by demonic beings and his unwavering faith.
  - Kamadeva (Pages 26-34): From Champanagari, his spiritual journey, facing trials from envious deities, and his steadfastness.
  - Chullaniipiya (Pages 34-38): From Vanarasi, his adherence to vows and the severe tests he faced, including the illusion of his sons being sacrificed.
  - Suradeva (Pages 38-41): From Vanarasi, his spiritual practice and the challenges he encountered, including afflictions.
  - Chullashataka (Pages 41-44): From Alambhiya, his devotion and trials.
  - Kundakoliya (Pages 44-49): From Kampilpur, his adherence to Jain principles and a debate with a heterodox teacher (Gosala Mankhaliputra) demonstrating the superiority of Jain teachings.
  - Saddalputra (Pages 49-54): From Polasapur, a potter by profession, his initial association with the Ajivika sect, his eventual conversion to Jainism, and the trials he faced.
  - Mahashataka (Pages 54-60): From Rajagriha, his extensive wealth and his commitment to vows, along with the spiritual struggles of his wife, Revati.
  - Nandiniipiya (Page 60): His spiritual journey and vows.
  - Shalhipiipiya (Pages 60-61): His spiritual journey and vows.
- The narrative for each disciple often involves:
  - Their city of residence and lineage.
  - Their immense wealth and status.
  - The teachings they received from Lord Mahavir.
  - The vows they undertook (five major vows, seven training vows, twelve types of lay disciple conduct).
  - The challenges and temptations they faced, often from deities or demons attempting to shake their faith.
  - Their steadfastness and eventual spiritual progress, leading to heavenly rebirths or other meritorious outcomes.
- The text describes specific limitations and exceptions (e.g., regarding wealth or certain types of conduct) accepted by the disciples while adhering to their vows.
Concluding Remarks and Glossary (Pages 61-64):
- The end of the text includes a summary of the protagonists and their respective cities.
- It lists the names of the wives of the disciples.
- Key spiritual concepts like "Avadhijnana" (clairvoyant knowledge), "Samadhi" (concentration), and "Vows" are mentioned in relation to the disciples' journeys.
- The text concludes with a formal statement of the completion of the Upashak Dashang Sutra and its importance as a collection of ten chapters.
- Finally, it reiterates the spiritual lineage involved in its compilation and publication, honoring the Acharyas.

Central Themes and Teachings:

The Importance of Lay Discipleship: The Sutra highlights that one does not need to become a monk to achieve spiritual progress. Devoted lay followers can attain high spiritual states and heavenly rebirths through sincere adherence to Jain principles.
Unwavering Faith and Perseverance: The stories of the ten Upashakas demonstrate the power of faith in the face of adversity, temptation, and even physical torment. Their ability to withstand these challenges is a testament to their spiritual strength.
The Authority and Preservation of Agamas: The extensive historical section underscores the critical importance of the Jain Agamas and the continuous efforts made throughout history to protect and transmit this sacred knowledge.
The Role of Acharyas: The publication itself emphasizes the crucial role of enlightened Acharyas in clarifying, editing, and disseminating the Agamas for the benefit of the community.
The Path to Liberation: While the Upashakas achieve celestial rebirths, the ultimate goal for all is liberation (Moksha), as indicated by their eventual rebirth in Mahavideha Kshetra, a region where liberation is guaranteed.

In essence, the Upashak Dashang Sutra serves as an inspirational guide for Jain lay followers, illustrating how to live a virtuous life, uphold spiritual principles amidst worldly challenges, and strive for spiritual upliftment. The accompanying historical context reinforces the value and sacredness of the Jain scriptures themselves.