Agam 18 Upang 07 Jambudveep Pragnapti Sutra Part 01 Sthanakvasi

This comprehensive summary outlines the content of the Jambudveep Pragnapti Sutra (Part 1), a Jain text authored by Kanhaiyalal Maharaj and published by Jain Shastroddhar Samiti, Ahmedabad. The text, presented in Sanskrit with Hindi and Gujarati translations and illuminated by the "Prakarshika" commentary by Acharya Ghasilalji Maharaj, meticulously details the geography and cosmology of the Jambu continent according to Jain tradition.

The summary follows the structure provided in the provided text, detailing the content section by section:

Overall Structure and Content:

• Title: Agam 18, Upang 07, Jambudveep Pragnapti Sutra Part 01 (Sthanakvasi).
• Author: Kanhaiyalal Maharaj.
• Publisher: Jain Shastroddhar Samiti Ahmedabad.
• Commentary: "Prakarshika" by Acharya Ghasilalji Maharaj.
• Languages: Sanskrit, Hindi, Gujarati.
• Focus: The text primarily describes the Jambu continent, its dimensions, geographical features, and the cyclical nature of time (Avasharpini and Utsarpini periods). It also delves into the lives and characteristics of significant figures, particularly the first Tirthankar, Rishabhdev, and the historical context of the time of Lord Mahavir.

Key Sections and Details:

The sutra is divided into sections (Vakshaskaras) and further into chapters (Arakas and sub-sections). The provided text outlines the following:

First Vakshaskara (Chapters 1-19): Geographical and Cosmological Description

1. Mangalacharan & Introduction: Invocation to Siddharaj and Gautam Ganadhar, followed by a preamble about the purpose of the commentary by Ghasi Lal Muni.
2. Description of Gautam Ganadhar: Detailing his attributes, lineage, and physical characteristics.
3. Questions about Jambudveep: Gautam Swami poses questions about the location, size, shape, and form of Jambudveep.
4. Answer: Jambudveep is described as the innermost island among all islands and oceans, circular in shape, resembling various forms like a cake, a chariot wheel, a lotus receptacle, and a full moon. Its dimensions are given in Yojanas, Koshas, Dhanush, and Angulas.
5. Description of Jagati: The perimeter wall of Jambudveep, the Jagati, is described with its dimensions (height and width at different levels), material (Vajra-diamond), and beauty.
6. Description of Vanashanda: The forest regions surrounding the Jagati are detailed.
7. Number and Location of Gates: The four gates of Jambudveep are mentioned.
8. Location of Vijay Gate: Specific details about the location of the Vijay gate, its dimensions, material, and associated activities.
9. Inter-gate Distance: The distance between the gates is provided.
10. Description of Bharat Kshetra: The region of Bharat Kshetra is introduced, characterized by its diverse terrain (sthanu, kantak, hills, valleys, rivers, lakes, forests, wild animals, etc.). Its location relative to mountains and oceans is specified. It's described as having six divisions due to rivers and the Vaitalhya mountain. Its dimensions are given in relation to Jambudveep's overall expanse.
11. Description of South Bharat: Further details about the southern part of Bharat Kshetra, its flora, and the characteristics of its human inhabitants, emphasizing their long lifespans and eventual destinations after death.
12. Description of Vaitalhya Mountain: The Vaitalhya mountain's location, dimensions, material, and its function in dividing Bharat Kshetra into two halves (North and South Bharat). It's also described with caves and residing deities.
13. Description of Caves and Vidyadharas: Details about the Tamisra and Khandapravat caves and the residences of the Vidyadhara rulers.
14. Description of Abhiyogya Shrenis and Mountains: Further geographical descriptions, including the Abhiyogya Shrenis and the nine prominent peaks (Kootas) of the Vaitalhya mountain, along with their associated deities.
15. Description of Siddhayatan Koot: Detailed description of the Siddhayatan Koot, its dimensions, material, and the presence of Jain temples and idols.
16. Description of South Bharat Koot: Details about the Siddhayatan Koot and the South Bharat Koot, including their characteristics and associated deities.
17. Reason for Vaitalhya's Name: Explaining the etymology of the name "Vaitalhya" and its eternal nature.
18. Description of North Bharat: The northern part of Bharat Kshetra is described, mirroring some aspects of the South Bharat but with variations in dimensions and human characteristics.
19. Description of Rishabh Koot: Details about the Rishabh Koot mountain, its dimensions, material, and the presence of a divine abode.

Second Vakshaskara (Chapters 20-32): Cycles of Time and Human Evolution

20. Nature of Time: Introduction to the concept of time as cyclical, divided into Avasharpini (descending time) and Utsarpini (ascending time).
21. Periods of Avasharpini: Detailed explanation of the six periods of Avasharpini: Sushama-Sushama, Sushama, Sushama-Dushama, Dushama-Sushama, Dushama, and Dushama-Dushama. The text emphasizes the diminishing lifespan, physical prowess, and moral qualities through these periods.
22. Periods of Utsarpini: The six periods of Utsarpini are mentioned, described as the reverse of Avasharpini, with gradual improvement in human conditions.
23. Description of Kalpavrikshas: The miraculous Kalpavrikshas (wish-fulfilling trees) are described, providing various desirable things like food, clothing, and shelter according to the desires of the inhabitants. Their types and functions are detailed.
24. Characteristics of Humans in Sushama-Sushama: Description of the humans during the first and happiest period, characterized by their perfect physical attributes, peaceful existence, lack of negative emotions, and absence of societal structures like kings or established homes.
25. Human Diet in Sushama-Sushama: Details about the diet of humans in the Sushama-Sushama period, emphasizing their consumption of divine food from fruits and flowers, and the absence of hunger or disease.
26. Habitation of Humans in Sushama-Sushama: Description of human dwellings, highlighting the absence of traditional houses and their reliance on Kalpavrikshas for shelter.
27. Social Structure in Sushama-Sushama: Explanation of the absence of kings, ministers, laws, or social stratification, as all beings lived in harmony and contentment.
28. Absence of Negative Traits: Emphasis on the lack of animosity, conflict, greed, or desire among the inhabitants of Sushama-Sushama.
29. Absence of Traditional Professions: Clarification that professions like farming, trade, or crafts were non-existent due to the abundance provided by nature and the absence of need.
30. Absence of Animals and Agriculture: Details about the absence of harmful animals and the need for agriculture, as food was readily available.
31. Absence of Pests and Diseases: Elucidation on the absence of insects, mosquitoes, or any form of affliction, contributing to the blissful existence.
32. Absence of Negative Emotions: Further emphasis on the lack of anger, greed, lust, or other negative emotions, highlighting the innate purity and contentment of the people.

Third Vakshaskara (Chapters 33-41): Rishabhdev and the Beginning of Civilization

33. Human Characteristics in Sushama-Dushama: Description of humans in the transitional period of Sushama-Dushama, noting a decline in physical attributes and the emergence of initial social structures.
34. The Beginning of Sushama-Dushama: Detailing the characteristics of this era, including the slight decrease in lifespan and the gradual emergence of basic societal needs.
35. Description of the First Three Parts of Sushama-Dushama: Explaining the sequential decline in human qualities and the eventual emergence of the need for leadership.
36. Measures of Time and Human Lifespan: Discussing the measurement of time and the human lifespan during different periods, highlighting the gradual decrease.
37. Introduction of Kulakaras: The concept of Kulakaras (progenitors of civilization) is introduced, explaining their role in establishing order and guidance for humanity. The text names the first fifteen Kulakaras.
38. The Story of the First Kulakara: Detailing the lineage and the establishment of social order by the first Kulakara, emphasizing the establishment of rules and governance.
39. Rishabhdev's Birth and Early Life: Narrating the birth of the first Tirthankar, Rishabhdev, his divine attributes, his upbringing, and his renunciation. It also describes his ascetic practices and the attainment of Kevala Gyan.
40. Rishabhdev's Asceticism and Enlightenment: Detailed account of Rishabhdev's spiritual journey, his practices, and the eventual attainment of Kevala Gyan.
41. Rishabhdev's Post-Enlightenment Activities: Description of Rishabhdev's activities after achieving omniscience, including his teachings, the establishment of the Jain order, and his role in guiding humanity towards liberation.

Overall Theme:

The Jambudveep Pragnapti Sutra, as presented in this volume, serves as a foundational text for understanding Jain cosmology, the evolution of the universe, and the development of human society according to Jain philosophy. It emphasizes the cyclical nature of time, the gradual decline and eventual rise of virtues, and the path to spiritual liberation through righteous conduct and detachment. The commentary by Ghasi Lalji Maharaj provides in-depth explanations, making the complex philosophical and geographical concepts accessible.