Agam 08 Ang 08 Anantkrut Dashang Sutra Stahanakvasi

Based on the provided Jain text, here is a comprehensive summary in English:

Book Title: Agam 08 Ang 08 Anantkrut Dashang Sutra Stahanakvasi Author(s): Madhukarmuni, Divyaprabhashreeji, Devendramuni, Ratanmuni, Kanhaiyalal Maharaj Publisher: Agam Prakashan Samiti Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/003448/1

This volume is the eighth Anga of the Jinagam Granthamala, specifically the Antakr̥daśā Sūtra (also known as Antagaḍa-dasāo), compiled and presented by the Agam Prakashan Samiti. It is dedicated to the holy remembrance of Rev. Guru Shri Joravarmalji Maharaj.

The book is a Hindi rendition of the original Prakrit text of the Antakr̥daśā Sūtra, compiled with original text, Hindi translation, detailed commentary (vivechan), annotations (tippani), and appendices.

Key Aspects and Content:

• Significance of the Antakr̥daśā Sūtra: This scripture is the eighth Anga of the twelve Angas, which are the foundational texts of Jain philosophy. It details the lives of 90 great souls (Antakr̥ts) who achieved liberation (moksha) by conquering eight types of karma and transcending the cycle of birth and death through rigorous asceticism and spiritual discipline. The name "Antakr̥daśā" signifies the "condition" or "state" of those who have ended their cycle of existence.

• Structure and Content:

  • The scripture is divided into eight Varg (sections).
  • Within these sections, there are a total of 90 Adhyayan (chapters).
  • The text begins with an Utshepa or Upo-dghat (preliminary exposition) that sets the scene, introduces the context, the speaker (Arya Sudharma Swami), the questioner (Arya Jambu Swami), and the narrative setting (Champā city).
  • The book meticulously details the lives of these extraordinary individuals, highlighting their spiritual practices, renunciation, austerities, and ultimate attainment of Kevala-jnana (omniscience) and liberation.
  • The summaries of the eight Varg and their respective chapters reveal the diverse backgrounds and intense spiritual journeys of the liberated souls. These include princes, royal figures (like Krishna Vasudeva, Balarama, and many queens), wealthy merchants (like Arjun), and individuals from various walks of life.
  • The text explores profound Jain concepts such as karma, asceticism (tapas), renunciation (virakti), the stages of spiritual progress, and the path to liberation.
  • Specific examples of severe austerities, such as Bhikshu Pratima (vows of a monk) of various durations (monthly, bi-monthly, etc.) and other rigorous practices like Gunaratna Tapasya, Ratnavali Tapasya, Kanakavali Tapasya, Mahāsimhanishkrīdita Tapasya, Kshullaka Simhanishkrīdita Tapasya, Abhaya-Dattam (likely a typo for Ayambila), Muktakavali Tapasya, and Ayambila Vardhamana Tapasya, are described in detail. These highlight the immense dedication and effort required to overcome karma.
  • The lives of prominent figures like Krishna Vasudeva, his brother Gautam Kumar, his son Ambā-Mātā-Shrī-Devaki's son Yashas-Gajasukumār, the merchant Arjun, and various queens are featured. The narrative also touches upon the eventual destruction of Dwarka and the foretold future of Krishna as the 12th Tirthankara named Amama.
  • The text emphasizes the equality of all castes and stations in the spiritual path, where individuals from royal families to those from humble backgrounds could achieve spiritual heights.

• Editorial and Publication Details:

  • The publication is a third edition, reflecting its importance and demand.
  • It was published by Shri Agam Prakashan Samiti, Beawar, Rajasthan.
  • The translation and commentary are attributed to Sadhwi Divyaprabha M.A., Ph.D., a disciple of Acharyasamrat Shri Anandarshi ji Maharaj.
  • The convener and chief editor was Yuvacharya Shri Mishrimalji Maharaj 'Madhukar'.
  • The book is enriched by the introductory and editorial notes from respected Acharyas and Munis, including Acharya Shri Devendramuni Shastri and Muni Shri Kanhaiyalal 'Kamal', who contributed their scholarly insights.
  • The preface highlights the inspiration derived from Yuvacharya Shri Madhukarmuni ji Maharaj's vision to publish Bhagavad Vani with original text, Hindi translation, commentary, and appendices.
  • The publication is presented as a tribute to the memory of the late Yuvacharya Shri Madhukarmuni ji Maharaj.

• Linguistic and Stylistic Features:

  • The text is written in Ardh-Magadhi language, which is considered the preferred language of Tirthankaras, Ganadharas, and Devas due to its broad appeal and utility for public welfare.
  • The style is Katha-atmaka (narrative), a common style in Jain Agamas like Jñātādharmakathā and Upāsakadaśāṅga.
  • The book aims to provide a clear, concise, yet profound exposition of the Agam Vani, making it accessible to readers.

• Appendices and Supporting Material:

  • Parishishth-1 (Appendix 1): Lists special names mentioned in the Agam, categorized into Tirthankaras, specific individuals, Agamas, tapas, cities, deities, etc.
  • Parishishth-2 (Appendix 2): Provides biographical details of prominent individuals (like Indrabhuti Gautam, Krishna, Kounik, Chellana, Jambu Swami, etc.) and geographical information about important locations (like Kankadi, Rajgir, Vaishali, Dwarka, etc.) mentioned in the text.

In essence, this volume of the Antakr̥daśā Sūtra serves as a profound guide to the path of liberation as illuminated by the lives of exceptionally virtuous souls, offering invaluable teachings on spiritual discipline, renunciation, and the ultimate conquest of karma.