Agam 21 Pushpika Sutra Hindi Anuwad

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Agam 21 Pushpika Sutra Hindi Anuwad," based on the provided pages:

This text is the Hindi translation of Agam 21, the Pushpika Sutra, which is the 10th Upanga Sutra. The translation and editing are done by Acharya Muni Dippratnasagarji, a renowned scholar in Jain Agamas. The book is published by Dipratnasagar, Deepratnasagar.

The Pushpika Sutra is structured into ten studies (Adhyayans), each detailing the previous lives and spiritual journeys of celestial beings. These celestial beings, upon encountering Lord Mahavir, are inspired to seek spiritual understanding. The studies cover the celestial beings known as:

1. Chandra (The Moon)
2. Surya (The Sun)
3. Shukra (Venus)
4. Bahupatrika (Many Children)
5. Purnabhadra (Fully Auspicious)
6. Manibhadra (Jewel Auspicious)
7. Datt (Given)
8. Shiva (Auspicious)
9. Bala (Strength)
10. Anadrit (Disregarded)

Each study follows a similar pattern:

• Introduction: The dialogue typically begins with Acharya Gautama asking Lord Mahavir about the meaning of the current study.
• Celestial Encounter: It then describes a celestial being (e.g., Chandra, Surya) enjoying divine pleasures in their respective celestial abodes with their retinue.
• Divine Vision: This celestial being, through their omniscient knowledge (Avadhijnana), observes Lord Mahavir and the assembly (Samavsaran).
• Seeking the Lord: Inspired by the Lord's presence, the celestial being approaches the Samavsaran, displays their divine powers and entertainments (like music and dance), and then returns.
• Gautama's Inquiry: Acharya Gautama inquires about the celestial being's divine glories and what happened to them. Lord Mahavir explains that these glories are internalized within the being.
• Previous Life Narrative: The core of each study is the revelation of the celestial being's previous human birth. The narrative details their life, their exposure to Jain teachings, their spiritual practices, and the actions (Karmas) that led to their current celestial existence.
• Spiritual Journey and Future: It often highlights a pivotal moment where the individual embraced Jain principles, practiced austerities, and the eventual outcome of their actions, including the duration of their celestial life (often stated as two Sagaropams for many).
• Ultimate Liberation: The studies consistently conclude that after exhausting their celestial lifespan and karmas, these beings will eventually be reborn in the Mahavideha region and attain liberation (Siddhi), thus ending all suffering.

Key Themes and Examples:

• The cycle of birth and rebirth (Samsara): The Pushpika Sutra vividly illustrates how past actions and spiritual pursuits, even from previous lives, determine one's present and future circumstances.
• The efficacy of Jain practices: The stories emphasize the power of righteous conduct, austerities, devotion, and adherence to the teachings of the Tirthankaras.
• The role of spiritual guidance: The interaction between Lord Mahavir and Acharya Gautama highlights the importance of seeking knowledge from enlightened beings.
• The impermanence of celestial pleasures: Despite enjoying immense divine pleasures, the studies show that these are temporary and that true, lasting happiness lies in spiritual liberation.
• Specific examples:
  • Chandra and Surya: Both had previous lives as individuals who practiced austerities and embraced the faith, leading them to celestial abodes.
  • Shukra: His previous life as a learned Brahmin named Somil is detailed, showcasing his intellectual pursuits and eventual attempt at asceticism, which, due to certain shortcomings, did not lead to immediate liberation but to a celestial birth.
  • Bahupatrika: Her previous life as Subhadra, a wife yearning for children, and her eventual renunciation and adherence to Jain practices leading to her celestial status are described. The reason for her name "Bahupatrika" is explained as her ability to manifest many children.
  • Purnabhadra and Manibhadra: Both were virtuous householders who renounced worldly life and practiced austerities, leading to their celestial births with long lifespans.
  • Datt, Shiva, Bala, and Anadrit: These celestial beings are mentioned as having similar journeys to Purnabhadra, with their names reflecting their respective cities of birth in their previous lives and their celestial abodes.

Overall Purpose:

The Pushpika Sutra, as translated and explained by Muni Dippratnasagarji, serves as a profound exposition of Jain philosophy, emphasizing the consequences of actions, the path to liberation, and the inherent potential for spiritual growth within all beings, regardless of their current state of existence. It aims to inspire readers to understand the intricacies of karma and to strive for spiritual upliftment.

The catalog link provided (https://jainqq.org/explore/034688/1) suggests this is a textual resource from the Jain Electronic Library. The inclusion of pages listing other works by Muni Dippratnasagarji highlights his extensive contribution to Jain literature and scholarship.