Agam 13 Raipaseniyam Beiam Uvvangsuttam Mulam PDF File

This document is the text of the Rayapaseniyam Sutra, the 13th Anga (limb or section) of the Jain Agamas, specifically the second Varga of the Upaangas. It is presented in Prakrit, the ancient language of the Jain scriptures, with a focus on scholarly and accurate rendition. The text is attributed to ** Muni Deepratnasagar** and was revised by Deepratnasagar.

The core narrative of this excerpt revolves around a celestial being named Suriyabhadeva (the Sun-faced God) and his encounter with Bhagavan Mahavir, the 24th Jain Tirthankara.

Here's a breakdown of the key events and themes covered in the provided text:

1. Setting the Scene:

• The text begins by establishing the location: Amalakappa, a prosperous and beautiful city, and its outskirts, specifically the Ambasalavane Chaitya (a sacred grove or temple).
• It introduces Bhagavan Mahavir residing in the Ambasalavane Chaitya, engaged in intense spiritual practice and self-realization.

2. Suriyabhadeva's Observation and Devotion:

• Suriyabhadeva, residing in his celestial abode (Suriyabhavimana in the first heaven, Saudharmakalpa), observes Bhagavan Mahavir through his divine vision.
• Deeply impressed by Mahavir's spiritual austerity and the potential merit gained from even hearing about such holy beings, Suriyabhadeva decides to visit him.

3. Suriyabhadeva's Heavenly Preparations and Visit:

• Suriyabhadeva commands his subordinate celestial beings (Abhiyogiya Devas) to meticulously prepare the area around the Chaitya. This includes:
  • Cleaning the grounds.
  • Decorating the area with fragrant water and flowers.
  • Creating a celestial chariot (Jana Vimana) of exquisite beauty and craftsmanship.
  • Arranging celestial palaces (Prasadavimanas) and thrones for himself and his entourage.
• Suriyabhadeva, along with his retinue of celestial beings, travels in his magnificent chariot to the Chaitya.
• Upon arrival, they circumambulate Bhagavan Mahavir three times and pay their respects.

4. Bhagavan Mahavir's Discourse:

• Suriyabhadeva expresses his devotion and seeks Mahavir's blessings.
• Bhagavan Mahavir acknowledges Suriyabhadeva's devotion and explains the inherent righteousness and importance of celestial beings paying respects to Tirthankaras.
• The text then delves into a detailed description of Suriyabhadeva's celestial palace, the Suriyabhana Vimana, its dimensions, architecture, various halls, gardens, lotus ponds, and the elaborate arrangements for celestial entertainment. This includes detailed descriptions of:
  • The layout and decoration of the palace.
  • The celestial musical instruments and dances performed by celestial maidens.
  • The creation of a magnificent chariot for the visit.
  • The various celestial offerings and decorations.

5. Suriyabhadeva's Inquiry and Mahavir's Teachings:

• Suriyabhadeva, after receiving blessings, inquires about his own spiritual progress and future destiny (e.g., whether he is destined for liberation, his level of spiritual attainment).
• Bhagavan Mahavir provides profound teachings on the nature of the soul, karma, rebirth, the path to liberation, and the differences between the mortal and celestial realms. He emphasizes the importance of right faith, knowledge, and conduct.

6. The Dance and Music of the Celestials:

• A significant portion of the text describes the celestial beings performing elaborate dances and playing various musical instruments, showcasing their divine arts and abilities. These descriptions are highly detailed, mentioning specific dance forms, musical instruments, and the artists.

7. Suriyabhadeva's Departure and Reincarnation:

• After the discourse and celestial performances, Suriyabhadeva departs, filled with joy and spiritual understanding.
• The text then shifts focus to the past lives of Suriyabhadeva and the king Peshi (Paesi).
  • It details the history of Suriyabhadeva's reincarnation as a celestial being due to his past good karma.
  • It then introduces King Peshi, a righteous ruler, and his interaction with Keshi Kumar Shraman (a disciple of Bhagavan Mahavir).
  • King Peshi is portrayed as a ruler who initially lives a life of pleasure and worldly pursuits but is influenced by the teachings of Keshi Kumar Shraman and ultimately embraces the Jain path.
  • The philosophical discussions between King Peshi and Keshi Kumar Shraman are central here, exploring concepts like:
    • The nature of the soul and body (Are they one or separate?).
    • The consequences of actions (karma).
    • The illusion of attachment to worldly possessions and the body.
    • The path of righteousness and liberation.
  • The text highlights the importance of right understanding and the influence of spiritual guidance in transforming one's life.
  • It also touches upon the king's mother, Suriyakanta Devi, who, due to her worldly desires, attempts to poison King Peshi to secure the throne for her son, Suriyakanta. This event leads to Peshi's renunciation and ultimate attainment of liberation.

8. The Story of King Peshi and Keshi Kumar Shraman:

• This section provides a detailed account of the philosophical dialogue between King Peshi and Keshi Kumar Shraman.
• Keshi Kumar Shraman uses various analogies and logical arguments to explain Jain principles to King Peshi.
• The discussions revolve around the nature of reality, the self, the body, and the path to spiritual freedom.
• King Peshi, initially skeptical and focused on his own power and understanding, gradually begins to grasp the deeper truths presented by Keshi Kumar Shraman.
• The conversation emphasizes the importance of humility, seeking knowledge from enlightened beings, and the limitations of worldly understanding when it comes to spiritual truths.

9. Emphasis on Knowledge and Conduct:

• The text underscores the significance of both knowledge (Jnana) and conduct (Charitra) in the Jain path.
• It highlights the Tirthankara's omniscient knowledge (Kevala Jnana) and the disciple's journey towards that knowledge through righteous living.

Overall Significance: The Rayapaseniyam Sutra, as presented in this excerpt, serves as a rich narrative that intertwines celestial grandeur with profound philosophical teachings. It illustrates the efficacy of devotion, the consequences of actions, and the transformative power of spiritual guidance in achieving liberation. The detailed descriptions of celestial abodes and the philosophical dialogues contribute to the depth and multifaceted nature of Jain literature.