Agam 12 Upang 01 Aupapatik Sutra Shwetambar

This document is a digital scan of the "Aupapatik Sutra," which is the first Upanga (secondary scripture) within the Agam literature of the Shwetambar Jain tradition. The text is presented in Prakrit, with introductory and supplementary material in Gujarati.

Here's a summary of the key aspects covered in the provided pages:

Core of the Text:

• Title: The text is identified as "|| श्री औपपातिक सूत्रम् ||" (Shri Aupapatik Sutram) and it is designated as an "Upanga."
• Prakrit Language: The primary content of the sutra is in Prakrit, the ancient language in which the Jain Agamas were originally compiled. This Prakrit text details various aspects of Jain philosophy, practice, and cosmology.
• Content Highlights (from the Prakrit sections):
  • Descriptions of Cities and Environments: The text begins with a highly detailed and descriptive passage about the city of Champa (चंपा नामं नयरी). It meticulously describes its prosperity, fortifications, public spaces, gardens, trees, and the general atmosphere of abundance and beauty. This sets the stage for the discourse that follows.
  • The Sacred Site of Punnobhadra: It describes a sacred grove or sanctuary named Punnobhadra (पुण्णभद्दे नामंचेइए) located outside the city of Champa, detailing its trees, plants, and divine associations.
  • The King and His Court: The narrative introduces King Kouniya (कूणि णामं राया), described as a righteous and virtuous ruler of Champa, along with his queen Dharini (धारिणी नाम देवी). It portrays their regal life and the general well-being of the kingdom.
  • The Arrival of Lord Mahavir: The text then describes the arrival of Lord Mahavir Swami (समणे भगवं महावीर), the 24th Tirthankar, and his immaculate conduct.
  • The Royal Procession and Audience: It details King Kouniya's elaborate preparations and grand procession to welcome Lord Mahavir. This includes the participation of various dignitaries, the decoration of the city, the involvement of divine beings (Asura Kumara, Vanavyantara, Jyotishika, and Vaimanika Devas), and the presentation of offerings.
  • The Sermon of Lord Mahavir: The central part of the sutra involves Lord Mahavir's discourse (धर्म उपदेश). The text indicates that the king, queens, and the vast assembly are captivated by his teachings.
  • The Nature of Souls and Karma: The sutra touches upon the cycle of birth and death, karma, and the path to liberation. It discusses different classes of beings (hell-dwellers, animals, humans, gods), their rebirths, lifespans, and the consequences of their actions.
  • The Path of Asceticism and Lay Life: It elaborates on the practices of monks (anagaras) and nuns (anagarikas), their austerities, vows, and the principles of the Jain path. It also outlines the duties and observances of householders (shravakas and shravikas).
  • The Nature of Siddha-hood: The text culminates in a discussion about the Siddhas (liberated souls), their abode in the Aloka (non-universe), their eternal bliss, and their unchanging nature, highlighting the ultimate goal of Jain spiritual practice.
  • Detailed descriptions of austerities and vows: Significant portions of the text delve into the specific types of austerities (tapas) and vows (vratas) undertaken by ascetics and laypeople, explaining their classifications and benefits.
  • The Lives of Different Ascetic Groups: It describes various ascetic traditions and philosophical schools outside of Jainism (like Brahmins and Parivrajakas) and their practices, contrasting them with the Jain path.
  • The concept of Siddha-gati: The latter parts of the text extensively discuss the attainment of liberation (Siddha-gati), the nature of Siddhas, their location, and the path leading to it, referencing various classifications of souls and their karmic bonds.

Editorial and Publishing Information:

• Publisher: Jainand Pustakalay, Surat (as indicated on page 4).
• Editor/Compiler: The work is presented as "पू. सागरजी म. संशोधित" (Pujya Sagarji Maharaj Sanskrit). This suggests a significant role in revising, editing, or compiling this version of the text by Muni Shri Sagarchandrasuri.
• Inspiration and Support: The publication mentions the blessings and inspiration of various Acharyas, including Pujya Acharyadev Shri Anandasagar Surishwarji Maharaj, and the "Jain Mudrit Granth Scanning Project" by Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra, Kobatirth.
• Historical Context of Agams: Pages 6-9 provide a historical overview of the compilation of Jain Agamas, mentioning the "six recitations" (Chhah Vachanas) that took place over centuries to preserve the scriptures. This context highlights the importance of the Agamas as the word of Lord Mahavir.
• Emphasis on Shrut Gyan (Scriptural Knowledge): The text emphasizes the immense value of scriptural knowledge (Shrut Gyan) as a guide for spiritual progress.

Overall Purpose:

The "Aupapatik Sutra" as presented here is a foundational text for Shwetambar Jains, offering detailed insights into Jain cosmology, the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir, the path of spiritual discipline, and the ultimate goal of liberation. The publication signifies an effort to make this ancient scripture accessible through modern scanning and editing, preserving and propagating this vital part of Jain heritage.