Agam 15 Upang 04 Pragnapana Sutra Part 01 Sthanakvasi - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Agam 15 Upang 04 Pragnapana Sutra Part 01 Sthanakvasi," authored by Sudhabai Mahasati, Artibai Mahasati, and Subodhikabai Mahasati, and published by Guru Pran Prakashan Mumbai. The summary is based on the provided text, focusing on the content and structure presented.

Book Title: Agam 15 Upang 04 Pragnapana Sutra Part 01 Authors: Sudhabai Mahasati, Artibai Mahasati, Subodhikabai Mahasati Publisher: Guru Pran Prakashan Mumbai Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/008772/1

Overall Theme and Context:

This text is the first part of the Pragnapana Sutra, an important Upanga (subsidiary scripture) in the Jain Agam literature. The publication is dedicated to the memory of spiritual leaders and aims to make the sacred scriptures accessible to the Jain community. The content is presented in Gujarati with translations and commentaries, aiming for scholarly and spiritual understanding. The text highlights the profound teachings of Jainism concerning the nature of soul, non-soul, karmic bonds, spiritual progress, and the path to liberation.

Key Sections and Content Summary:

The provided text spans across multiple pages, detailing various aspects of Jain philosophy and practice, primarily focusing on the first five chapters (Padas) of the Pragnapana Sutra.

Page 1:

Invocation: Begins with "Shri Vitaragay Namah," an invocation to the liberated souls, signifying reverence.
Title: Mentions "Shrpadmapravaṇā Sutra - 1," indicating the beginning of the work on the Pragnapana Sutra.
Publication Details: Credits the "Guruprana Agama Batrisi" series and acknowledges Tapasvi Gurudev Pujya Shri Ratilalji Maharaj Saheb as the blessings provider and Apurva Shruta Aradhak Pu. Shri Lilambai Mahasatiji as the chief editor.

Page 2:

Tributes and Quotes: Features a handwritten note from the late Gurudev Shri Pranlalji M. Sa. and includes Prakrit verses with Gujarati translations.
- The verses emphasize the futural nature of wealth and the consequences of attachment to it, leading to rebirth in hellish realms.
- They also highlight the importance of true knowledge and the self, even when faced with ignorance or external obstacles (likened to a lamp in hand being extinguished). The text stresses that ignorance blinds one despite having the light of knowledge.

Page 3-4:

Visuals: These pages appear to be filled with visual elements, likely decorative or symbolic, as indicated by the repeated use of "elena K22" or similar placeholders, suggesting they are not core textual content but part of the layout.

Page 5:

Homage and Publication Announcement:
- Starts with homage to the Gondal Gacch lineage and gurus (Shri Dungar-Dev-Jay-Manek-Pran-Rati Gurubhyo Namah).
- Announces the re-publication of "Shri Guru Pran Agama Batrisi" in memory of the late Gurudev Shri Pranalalji M. Sa. and the 100th anniversary of the Mahaprayan of Shri Ratilalji M. Sa.
- Pragnapana Sutra, Pages 1 to 5: Specifically mentions the publication covers Padas 1 to 5 of the Pragnapana Sutra, including the original text (Mulpath), its meaning (Bhavarth), commentary (Vivechan), and appendix (Parishisht).
- Spiritual Guidance and Support: Acknowledges the spiritual guidance of Pujya Shri Jayantmuni M. Sa., the contributing voices of Vanibhooshan Pujya Shri Girishmuni M. Sa. and Agam Divakar Pujya Janakmuni M. Sa. It also mentions the inspiration from Dhyanasadhak Pujya Shri Hasmukhmani M. Sa. and Shasanarunoday Pujya Shri Namramuni M. Sa.
- Editorial and Publishing Team: Lists the chief editor (Pu. Shri Muktabai M.), translators (Pu. Shri Lilambai M., Pu. Shri Sudhabai M.), collaborators (Dr. Sadhvi Shri Aarti bai M., Pu. Shri Ushabai M.), and publisher (Shri Guru Pran Prakashan).

Page 6:

Publication History and Contact Information:
- Details the history of Agam publication starting in 1997-98 (Pran Guruji's Birth Centenary Year) by Gurupran Foundation, Rajkot.
- Mentions re-publication in 2009 by Shri Guru Pran Prakashan, Ghatkopar.
- Lists first and second edition print runs (1050 and 1008 copies).
- Provides publication dates linked to auspicious Jain events and birthdays.
- Lists contact points for purchasing the book in Mumbai and USA, and mentions Rajkot as a distribution point.
- Identifies the printer as Shivkrupa Offset Printers, Ahmedabad.

Page 7:

Dedication and Poem:
- Dedicates the publication to the cherished memory of Pujya Gurudev Shri Pranalalji M. Sa.
- Includes a devotional poem expressing the immense gratitude and humility of the disciples (Pujya Mukta-Lilam-Bharti Sushishya Sadhvi Sudha) for translating the Pragnapana Sutra, considering their contribution insignificant compared to the spiritual wealth received.

Page 8:

Blessings from a Monk: Contains blessings from Muni Shri Ratilalji on the occasion of Gurudev Shri Ratilalji M. Sa.'s birth centenary. The blessings encourage the sadhvis to study the Agams, understand their core principles, live a life of Panchachar (five cardinal virtues), propagate Jainism, immortalize the Guru's name, and achieve success in their ascetic life.

Page 9:

Letter of Appreciation and Approval: Features a handwritten note from Pujya Shri Jayantmuni M. Sa., the chief of the Gondal Gacch. He expresses hope and approval for the re-publication of the Gurupran Agama Batrisi, specifically mentioning Pujya Shri Namramuni's role in initiating this grand task and offering his blessings for its auspicious completion.

Page 10:

List of Agam Translations: Provides a detailed list of the 32 Agams and Upangas that have been translated and compiled under the "Gurupran Agama Batrisi" project. It lists the Sutra name and the respective translator Mahasatiji for each. This indicates the scope and dedication of the project. Pragnapana Sutra is listed as part of a larger series translated in Parts 1 to 3.

Page 11:

Qualities of Gurudev Shri Pranalalji M. Sa.: A comprehensive list of virtues and qualities attributed to Gurudev Shri Pranalalji M. Sa., presented in a devotional tribute. This page highlights his spiritual prowess and the positive impact he had on his disciples and the Jain community.

Page 12:

List of Monks and Sadhvis: Lists the names of prominent Munis (Gurupran Ratilalji, supported by others like Jayantmuni, Girishchandraji, Janakmuni, etc.) and Sadhvis (over 100 names listed) who are associated with this publication and the Gurupran lineage. This showcases the large spiritual community involved.

Page 13:

Service to Society and Philanthropy: Discusses the concept of meritorious deeds (punyanubandhi punya) and the importance of using wealth for noble purposes. It narrates the story of Dr. Chimanbhai and Dr. Lilaben Mehta, who exemplified these virtues, and how their son, Dr. Bharatbhai Mehta, and his wife Bharti-ben continued this tradition. It mentions Bharti-ben's illness and her peaceful demise, which led Dr. Bharatbhai to dedicate his life and wealth to spiritual pursuits, including establishing the Nageshwar Parshvanath Tirth in Rajkot. The family's support as "Shrutadhar (chief donor)" for the Agam re-publication is highlighted.

Page 14:

Scripture Study (Shastra Swadhyay): Offers guidance on the proper study of Jain Agams. It advises keeping Agams at home with reverence, paying homage daily, and reading them with family. It emphasizes taking guidance from a Guru and reading the original text (Mulpath) and its translations. It also clarifies rules regarding "Asthayakal" (times when scripture study is not permitted) and the appropriateness of keeping Agams at home, even during menstruation, for which the original text (Mulpath) is not to be studied by women during that period, but translations are permissible.

Page 15:

Table of Contents (Vishayanukramanika): This is a detailed index of the entire publication, covering not only the main Pragnapana Sutra (Padas 1-5) but also biographical sketches of prominent gurus, editorial notes, and other related scriptures or topics. It shows the comprehensive nature of the "Gurupran Agama Batrisi" project.
- The Pragnapana Sutra content is divided into five Padas:
  - Pada 1: Prapna (Introduction/Definition): Covers introduction, definition of Prapna, names of 36 Padas, Ajiva Prapna, Samsar Samapanna Jiva Prapna (related to different life forms), Niyayika Bhed (types of hellish beings), Niyach Panchindriyas, Manushyas, and Devas.
  - Pada 2: Sthan (Location/Place): Deals with the location of Ekendriya Jivas, Viklendriya, Asanxin Tiryak Panchendriya, Nairayika, Tiryak Panchendriya, Manushya, and Deva Jivas.
  - Pada 3: Alp Bahutva (Minority/Majority/Classification): Covers names of 27 Dwaras (gates/topics) and the classification of Jivas based on direction, gait, senses, life-forms, organ, karma, veḍ, kashaya, leshya, drishti, gyan, samyaktva, sanyam, upyog, ahar, bhasha, paritaadi, paryaptaadi, sukshma-badar, sanjin-asanjni, bhavi-abhvi, and six Dravyas.
  - Pada 4: Sthiti (Lifespan/Duration): Covers the lifespan of Nairayikas, Devtas (Bhavanpati, Vyantar, Jyotishi, Vaimanika), and various life-forms.
  - Pada 5: Paryaya (States/Transformations): Discusses the modifications and states of Nairayikas, Bhavanvasi Devtas, immovable Jivas, Viklendriya, Tiryak Panchendriya, Manushyas, and Vyantar-Jyotishi-Vaimanika Devtas. It also covers Ajiva Paryayas, Pudgala Paryayas, and various states of Pudgala.
- Appendices include charts and indices.

Page 16-25:

Biographical Sketches: These pages are dedicated to the life and teachings of influential spiritual figures:
- Shri Dungarsinghji M. Sa.: Life journey, birth, spiritual awakening, renunciation, virtues, disciples, conferences, and passing.
- Shri Pranalalji M. Sa. (Saurashtra Kesari): His life, birth, teachings, spiritual activities, welfare work, dissemination of knowledge, physical and internal qualities, and his passing.
- Shri Ratilalji M. Sa. (Tapas Samrat): His life, birth, gurus, studies, sadhana, conduct, exemplary virtues (vastness, generosity, equanimity, etc.), and his Mahaprayan.

Page 26:

Letter from Publisher: Explains the joy in re-publishing the "Gurupran Agama Batrisi" as the second edition, acknowledging the immense response to the first edition. It specifically mentions the prophetic guidance from Tapas Samrat Pujya Shri Ratilalji M. Sa. to Pujya Shri Namramuni M. Sa. to take charge of this publication project. It also expresses gratitude to co-operators like Shri Girish Shah (USA), Shri Jiten Shah (Kolkata), Shri Amin Azad, and Sneha Amit Darshano for computerization, and other donors.

Page 27:

Letter from Previous Publisher (First Edition): Describes the Agams as the treasure of Lord Mahavir's teachings, vital for the perpetuation of Jainism. It highlights the valuable contribution of the Mukta-Leelam family of Mahasatijis in translating these Agams into Gujarati, making them accessible. It mentions the establishment of the "Pu. Pran Guru Shatabdi Prakashan Samiti Rajkot" during the centenary year and the subsequent publication of 32 Agams and the Pran Guru Smriti Granth.

Page 28:

Gratitude to Contributors: Expresses deep gratitude to all the spiritual guides (Munis like Pujya Shri Jayantlalji M. Sa., Pujya Shri Girishchandraji M. Sa., Pujya Shri Janakmuni M. Sa., Pujya Shri Jagdishmuni M. Sa.), Mahasatijis (Pujya Muktabai M., Pujya Lilambai M., Pujya Ushabai M., Dr. Sadhvi Shri Aarti bai M., Pujya Subodhikabai M., and all the translators), Shrutadhar supporters (Shri Mukundbhai Parekh, Shri Manibhai Shah, etc.), and the printing press. It also requests readers to point out any errors.

Page 29-33:

Abhigam (Approach/Perspective): A profound essay by Pujya Shri Jayantmuni M. Sa. delving into the meaning of "Pragnapana." He suggests an alternative interpretation of "Pragna + Varna = Pragnavarna," emphasizing the knowledge-based description or emanation from enlightened beings (Arihants, Tirthankars, etc.). He contrasts "Pragnapana" (which he finds merely functional) with "Pragnavarna," which he sees as more encompassing, highlighting the creator and creation. This section explores the philosophical depth of the sutra's name, connecting it to eternal truths and the soul's inherent knowledge. It praises the scripture for its subtle philosophical concepts, its unveiling of material substances through different perspectives (Dravyarthik Naya, Paramarthik Naya), and its unique expression of ideas, comparable to the Bhagavati Sutra. It particularly highlights the fifth chapter's detailed analysis of Jiva and Ajiva Paryayas (transformations), emphasizing the concept of material properties originating from atoms and their six-fold changes, and the universal principle of change. It connects these Jain principles to modern scientific inquiries into the origin of the universe and the dynamic nature of matter and consciousness.

Page 34-43:

Editorial by Pujya Shri Lilambai M. Sa.: Expresses joy in presenting the first part of the Pragnapana Sutra to the esteemed audience, acknowledging the positive reception of their previous Agam translations. She elaborates on the core message of realizing the true nature of the soul and transcending fleeting worldly pleasures. She attributes the authorship to Acharya Shymalaji, whose profound intellect and spiritual depth were recognized by Lord Simandhar Swami. She mentions a miraculous event involving Shakrendra highlighting Acharya Shymalaji's knowledge. She then lists the 36 categories (Padas) discussed within the sutra, likening them to 36 gems, which were elucidated by Acharya Malayagiri. The editorial meticulously explains the first five Padas:
- Pragnapana (Definition): Dives into the definition, emphasizing the distinction between Jiva and Ajiva, and categorizing them based on senses, life-forms, and karmic influences. It details the 53 types of Jivas.
- Sthan (Location): Explains the dwelling places of various Jivas, from the subtle Ekendriyas to the realms of Naraki, Tiryak, Manushya, and Deva. It details the specific locations within the Jain cosmology.
- Bahuvaktavyata (Classification/Minority-Majority): Explains the comparative numbers of Jivas across different categories and locations, using principles of Jiva classification. It highlights the concept of relative quantities (Alpa-Bahutva).
- Sthiti (Lifespan): Discusses the lifespan of Jivas, especially in different realms and the concept of Jiva's karma influencing their duration in the cycle of birth and death.
- Vishesh (Particulars/Paryaya): Touches upon the transformations and states of Jiva and Ajiva, emphasizing the dynamic nature of existence.
- The editorial uses the metaphor of a swan searching for pearls to illustrate the deep quest for spiritual knowledge within the text.

Page 44-52:

Acknowledgements and Gratitude: This section is filled with acknowledgements and expressions of gratitude to the spiritual guides, the translators (Pujya Sadhvi Shri Sudhabai M., Dr. Sadhvi Shri Aarti bai M., Pujya Shri Subodhikabai M.), the foundation, donors, and printers. It also includes a prayer for the well-being and spiritual progress of all involved.
Further Elaboration on Agams: Sadhvi Shri Sudha explains the meaning of "Agam" and its various synonyms like Sutra, Siddhant, Shrutgyan, etc., highlighting the significance of Jain Agams for self-improvement and liberation. She also discusses the different interpretations of the name "Pragnapana."

Page 14-18 (repeated in Gujarati script):

These pages, repeated in Gujarati script, likely provide the table of contents for the entire "Gurupran Agama Batrisi" project, listing many more Agam texts translated by the Mahasatijis. The Pragnapana Sutra is listed as Part 1, covering Padas 1 to 5. The text clarifies that Pragnapana is an "Utkalik Sutra," whose Mulpath can be studied at any time except during specified Asthayakal periods.

Page 67 onwards:

Detailed Explanation of Padas: The text then meticulously explains each of the first five Padas of the Pragnapana Sutra, detailing:
- Introduction to the Pada: Explains the topic of the pada.
- Definitions: Defines key terms like Jiva and Ajiva, their types, and their characteristics.
- Classification (Alpa Bahutva): Provides detailed numerical or comparative classifications of Jivas based on various categories like senses, life-forms, karmas, lifespans, directions, etc.
- Lifespan (Sthiti): Specifies the minimum and maximum lifespans of various beings in different realms.
- Paryaya (States/Transformations): Discusses the modifications and states of Jiva and Ajiva.
- Specific Examples: Uses vivid examples to illustrate complex philosophical concepts, such as the nature of matter, the journey of the soul, and the characteristics of different beings (from the subtlest to the most complex).

Key Jain Concepts Discussed:

Jiva and Ajiva: The fundamental Jain dualism of soul (Jiva) and non-soul (Ajiva) is explored in detail.
Karmas: The text touches upon karmic matter (Karmavargana) and its role in the cycle of birth and death.
Paryaya (States/Transformations): The dynamic nature of Jiva and Ajiva through their continuous transformations (Paryayas) is a central theme.
Nayas (Perspectives): The text implicitly utilizes different philosophical viewpoints like Dravyarthik Naya (substance-based perspective) and Paramarthik Naya (ultimate reality perspective) to explain complex concepts.
Anekanta-vada and Syadvada: While not explicitly detailed in the provided snippet, the philosophical depth suggests an underlying adherence to these core Jain principles of non-absolutism and conditional predication.
Lifespan and Rebirth: The text extensively discusses the lifespans (Sthiti) of various beings across different realms, linking them to karma and spiritual development.
Cosmology: Descriptions of various realms, lifespans of beings in different celestial and infernal regions, and the structure of the universe (lok) are presented.
Virtues and Spiritual Path: The text implicitly guides towards understanding the nature of reality, attachment, and the path to liberation through knowledge and right conduct.

Overall Significance:

This publication represents a significant effort to preserve and disseminate the vast knowledge contained within the Jain Agams. The meticulous translation, commentary, and dedication of the spiritual and editorial teams make this work invaluable for Jain scholars, practitioners, and anyone seeking to understand the intricate philosophical and cosmological framework of Jainism. The emphasis on the teachings of venerated gurus like Shri Pranalalji M. Sa. and Shri Ratilalji M. Sa. underscores the devotional aspect of this scholarly endeavor.