Agam 24 Prakirnaka 01 Chatusharan Sutra Shwetambar

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Agam 24 Prakirnaka 01 Chatusharan Sutra" by Purnachandrasagar, based on the pages you've shared:

Title: Shri Chatusharan Sutra (Also referred to as Chatusharan Sutram) Author/Editor: Purnachandrasagar (as the primary editor/compiler) Publisher: Jainanand Pustakalay, Surat Institution: Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra, Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Gyanmandir

Overall Context and Significance:

The provided text is a Jain scripture, specifically a "Prakirnaka" (a category of supplementary Agamic texts) within the Shwetambar tradition. The Chatusharan Sutra focuses on the concept of taking refuge in the four supreme entities of Jainism. The publication highlights a significant effort in preserving and reviving Jain Agamic knowledge, particularly in response to historical periods of decline and the challenges faced in maintaining the oral and written traditions.

Key Themes and Content Breakdown:

1. Homage and Spiritual Lineage (Pages 1-5):

   • The initial pages are dedicated to paying respects to various prominent Jain Acharyas and spiritual leaders, underscoring the importance of the Guruparampara (lineage of teachers).
   • It acknowledges the efforts of Acharya Shri Anandasagar Surishwarji Maharaj in revising and editing 45 Agamas and highlights the significant role of Poojya Ganivarya Shri Purnachandrasagarji Maharaj in the compilation and presentation of this work.
   • The publication is presented as a project for Jain study and personal use, emphasizing its role in disseminating knowledge.

2. The Importance of Scriptural Knowledge (Shrut Gyan) (Page 6):

   • The text emphasizes the immense value and unique position of Shrut Gyan (knowledge derived from scriptures) as a guiding light for souls lost in the cycle of birth and death (Samsara).
   • It states that Agamas are the very words of Lord Mahavir and are considered the ultimate foundation in the Jain tradition.

3. History of Agam Compilation and Recensions (Pages 6-10):

   • A significant portion of the text delves into the historical efforts to preserve and compile the Jain Agamas, known as Vachanas (recensions or councils).
   • First Vachana (Approx. Vira Nirvana Samvat 160): Held in Pataliputra (Patna) under Sthulabhadra due to a severe famine and dispersal of monks. The aim was to systematically compile the Dvadashangi (Twelve Limbs of Scripture).
   • Second Vachana (Approx. Vira Nirvana Samvat 245-281): Held in Ujjain under Arya Suhamsti, with royal patronage, focusing on the preservation and correction of flaws in the reading and teaching of the Agamas.
   • Third Vachana (Approx. Vira Nirvana Samvat 300-330): Occurred during a period of persecution by King Pushyamitra. Monks fled to Kalinga, and with the support of King Kharavela, efforts were made to reorganize the Agamas. This council involved both Jinakalpi and Sthavirakalpi monks, as well as lay followers.
   • Fourth Vachana (Approx. Vira Nirvana Samvat 192): Held in Dashpur (Mandsaur) by Arya Rakshit Suri. This was prompted by the prediction of a severe famine by Vajraswami and the need to organize the Agamas for easier understanding by future generations with potentially lesser memory capacity.
   • Fifth Vachana (Approx. Vira Nirvana Samvat 830-840): Undertaken by Arya Skandil Suri in Mathura (for monks of Uttarapatha) and Arya Nagarjun Suri in Valabhi (for monks of Dakshinapatha). The aim was to facilitate future reconciliation of scriptural differences.
   • Sixth Vachana (Approx. Vira Nirvana Samvat 1000): Conducted in Valabhi (Saurashtra) by Arya Devarkingani Kshamasramana and Arya Kalak Suri, bringing together the lineages of the Mathura and Valabhi Vachanas. This involved systematically compiling the 84 Agamas and inscribing them on palm leaves, marking the beginning of written Agamas. The text notes the possible cessation of the Agam tradition around Vira Nirvana Samvat 1000.
   • The text laments the decline of Agamic knowledge and adherence after this period due to societal changes and the rise of "shithilachar" (laxity in practice).

4. The Modern Revival Efforts (Pages 9-10):

   • The text highlights the critical situation in the latter half of the 20th century, where despite the sincere efforts of renunciates, the oral tradition of Agamic knowledge was diminishing.
   • It specifically praises the pioneering efforts of Acharya Shri Anandasagar Surishwarji Maharaj (also affectionately known as "Poojya Sagarji Maharaj"), who embarked on a mission to rescue and republish the Agamas.
   • The text details his extensive work, including researching manuscripts, overseeing printing, organizing six-month-long communal recitations (samuhik vachanas) in various locations across Gujarat and other regions from V.S. 1971 to 1977. These recitations covered 26 texts, involving approximately 2,33,200 verses.
   • The current publication is presented as a re-printing of the Agamas revised by Acharya Anandasagar Surishwarji Maharaj.

5. The Chatusharan Sutra Text (Pages 12-16):

   • This section contains the actual sutra in Prakrit (or a related Old Indic language).
   • The core teaching is taking refuge (Sharan) in the Four Jewels of Jainism:
     • Arihant: The liberated beings who have conquered passions and enemies, embodying supreme knowledge and conduct. The verses describe their virtues, including their role in destroying karmic bonds, their omniscient nature, and their compassion.
     • Siddha: The perfected souls who have attained eternal liberation, residing in the Siddhashila. The verses praise their pure consciousness, cessation of suffering, and supreme bliss.
     • Sadhu (Acharrya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu): The enlightened monks and spiritual guides who follow the path laid out by the Arihants. The verses highlight their renunciation, knowledge of scriptures, and virtuous conduct.
     • Dharma (Jina Dharma): The eternal truths and principles taught by the Jinas, leading to liberation. The verses emphasize its purity, its ability to grant happiness, and its indestructibility.
   • The sutra also includes verses on confession (Garaha/Nindana) of past wrongdoings and appreciation (Anumodana) of good deeds. It stresses the importance of sincere repentance and the positive results of taking refuge in the Four Jewels.
   • The text concludes with verses emphasizing the practice of these principles for spiritual progress and the eradication of suffering.

In essence, this publication of the Chatusharan Sutra is not just a religious text but a testament to the enduring commitment of Jain scholars and spiritual leaders to preserve and disseminate the sacred Agamic knowledge, ensuring its continuity for future generations. It reflects a deep reverence for the spiritual lineage and the fundamental tenets of Jainism, particularly the practice of taking refuge in the Arihant, Siddha, Sadhu, and Dharma.