Agam 18 Upang 07 Jambudveep Pragnapti Sutra Sthanakvasi - Book Summary

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Book Title: Agam 18 Upang 07 Jambudveep Prajnapti Sutra Authors: Muktabai Mahasati, Artibai Mahasati, Subodhikabai Mahasati Publisher: Guru Pran Prakashan Mumbai

Overall Purpose:

The text is a commentary and explanation of the Jambudveep Prajnapti Sutra, a Jain scripture that describes the universe, particularly the structure, geography, and time cycles of Jambudveep, the central continent in Jain cosmology. The text emphasizes the importance of studying the Agams (Jain scriptures) to understand the fundamental principles of Jainism and live a life according to the Panchachara (fivefold conduct).

Key Themes and Content:

Salutation and Dedication: The text begins with salutations to the Vitrag (those free from attachment and aversion) and to the lineage of Gurus, particularly honoring Pu. Shri Dungarsinhji M. Sa., Pu. Shri Pranalalji M. Sa. (in whose memory this publication is dedicated), and Pu. Shri Ratilalji M. Sa. (commemorating his Mahaprayana anniversary).
The Importance of Agams: The publication highlights the significance of the 32 Agams and aims to make them accessible through translation and commentary. It stresses that these scriptures contain the preachings of Tirthankaras and are vital for understanding Jain philosophy and living a spiritual life.
Jambudveep Prajnapti Sutra: This specific text focuses on the Jambudveep, describing it as a vast, sentient, and geometrically precise cosmological entity. It notes that the descriptions are not mere legends but based on the Omniscient (Kevali) knowledge.
Cosmological Structure (Vakshaskaras): The core of the text is the detailed description of the Jambudveep through its seven "Vakshaskaras" (which can be understood as sections or chapters). These sections systematically describe:
- First Vakshaskara: Introduces Jambudveep, its Jagati (rampart/boundary wall), its gateways, and the Bharata Ksetra (region). It meticulously details the dimensions of the Jagati, the ramparts, the ornamental steps, the lotus-shaped platforms (Padmavéshiká), the surrounding forests (Vanashanda), and the dwellings of the Vanavyantara deities.
- Second Vakshaskara: Focuses on the concept of time cycles (Avasharpini and Utsarpini Kalas), the six Aras (periods within an Avasarpini/Utsarpini), and the lifespan of beings. It specifically details the life of the first Tirthankara, Rushabhadeva Swami, his reign, his renunciation, and his path to liberation. It also discusses the societal norms of that era, like the absence of strict rules, the concept of Yuglikas (beings born in pairs), and the gradual decline of virtues as time progresses.
- Third Vakshaskara: Continues the description of the Bharata Ksetra, including its geographical features, the cycle of time within it, the lineage of Kulakaras (progenitors), and importantly, the life and achievements of the first Tirthankara, Rushabhadeva Swami, including his conquest of the six Khandas (regions) of Bharata. It details the Chala Chakra Ratna (celestial wheel) and the significance of various jewels.
- Fourth Vakshaskara: This section delves into the detailed geography of Jambudveep, describing the six mountain ranges (Varshadhar Parvats) that divide the continent into seven regions (Kshetras). It names and describes the dimensions of these mountains, the rivers flowing from them, and the lotuses and their associated deities residing in the surrounding lakes. It also explains the structure of Meru Parvat (Mount Meru), the center of the universe, and its surrounding gardens (Vanas).
- Fifth Vakshaskara: This section details the celestial activities related to Tirthankaras, particularly focusing on the birth ceremony of Tirthankaras. It describes the arrival of Dikumarikas (celestial attendants), their roles in cleansing the birthplace, adorning the mother, and assisting in the birth. It also elaborates on the Abhishek (anointment) ceremony performed by the Indras (celestial kings) with celestial water from various sources and the subsequent festive celebrations.
- Sixth Vakshaskara: This section serves as a compilation, summarizing and quantifying various elements of Jambudveep. It enumerates the number of Kshetras (regions), Varshadhara mountains, Vaksha mountains, Ganga-Sindhu rivers, their families of tributaries, Kanda lakes, and the celestial beings associated with them. It provides numerical data for various geographical and cosmological features.
- Seventh Vakshaskara: This section primarily focuses on the celestial bodies – the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars. It details their movements, their respective orbits (mandals), their distances from Meru, their speeds, and their influence on time cycles like days, nights, months, and years. It discusses the concept of Dakhsinayan (southern solstice) and Uttarayan (northern solstice) and how the sun's path causes day and night cycles.
Biographies of Gurus: The text includes brief biographies of prominent Jain monks (Gurus) like Pu. Shri Dungarsinhji M. Sa., Pu. Shri Pranalalji M. Sa., and Pu. Shri Ratilalji M. Sa., highlighting their contributions to Jain literature and spiritual practice.
Spiritual Guidance on Studying Agams: The text offers advice on how to study scriptures, emphasizing respect, discipline, and understanding the underlying spiritual purpose rather than literal interpretation, especially when comparing with modern scientific views. It encourages readers to internalize the teachings and practice non-violence, truthfulness, etc.
Detailed Descriptions: The text provides incredibly detailed descriptions of geographical features, celestial bodies, rituals, and even the physical characteristics of beings. The astronomical and geographical details are presented in a precise, quantitative manner, which is a hallmark of Jain cosmological texts.
Role of Divine Beings: The text frequently mentions the involvement of various celestial beings (Devas) and their kings (Indras) in significant events like Tirthankara births and conquests, highlighting the interconnectedness of the spiritual and celestial realms in Jain cosmology.

In essence, the summary of the provided text would be:

The "Jambudveep Prajnapti Sutra" with its commentary is a profound Jain scripture that meticulously details the universe, with a particular focus on Jambudveep. Through a systematic, seven-part exposition (Vakshaskaras), it elucidates the continent's geography, including its division into regions, mountains, rivers, and cities. It intricately describes the structure of Mount Meru, the celestial realms, and the movements of the sun, moon, and stars, linking these cosmological elements to the concepts of time cycles and spiritual progression. The text also emphasizes the vital role of studying the Agams for spiritual advancement and includes tributes to guiding Gurus. The overall aim is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Jain cosmological framework, encouraging a deeper study of the scriptures for spiritual upliftment.