Agam 25 Chhed 02 Bruhatkalpa Sutra Sthanakvasi

The provided text is the beginning of a Jain Agama text, specifically the Shree Bruhatkalpa Sutram, with commentary by Ghasilal Maharaj. The catalog link indicates it's part of the Agam 25, Chhed 02, and is associated with the Shwetambar Sthanakwasi tradition.

Here's a breakdown of the content based on the provided pages:

Overall Context:

• Title: Shree Bruhatkalpa Sutram (श्रीबृहत्कल्पसूत्रम्)
• Author of Commentary: Ghasilal Maharaj (घासीलाल महाराज)
• Publisher: Akhil Bharat Shwetambar Sthanakwasi Jain Shastrodhara Samiti (अ. भा. श्वे. स्था. जैनशास्रोद्धारसमिति)
• Nature of the Text: This is a sutra text, a collection of rules and guidelines, accompanied by extensive commentary (Churni, Bhashya, Avachuri), which provides detailed explanations and interpretations. The Bruhatkalpa Sutram is a foundational text in Jain monastic discipline, particularly for the Shwetambar tradition.

Key Information from the Initial Pages:

1. Page 1-2: These pages contain the title, author, publisher, and a brief introduction. They also mention the Sanskrit and Prakrit scholarship of Pandit Muni Shri Kanhiyalalji Maharaj, who was involved in the publication. The cost and edition details are also present.

2. Page 3: This page includes a dedication or introductory verse, which seems to be a self-affirmation by the author or publishers, suggesting that their work may not be immediately appreciated but will eventually be recognized. It also contains the publication details again.

3. Page 4: This page shows a family tree (or genealogy) of the Galundia family, highlighting their lineage and prominent members. This suggests the importance of patronage or family connection in the publication of religious texts.

4. Page 5-14: These extensive pages are dedicated to the "Brief Biography of the Galundia Family." This is a significant portion of the initial material. It details:

   • Introduction to Mewar: It begins by praising the historical significance and valor of Mewar, linking it to the rise of the Oswal community.
   • Origin of the Galundia Family: The text traces the family's history back to a Rajput clan (Rathore) that embraced Jainism in 735 AD. It mentions the legendary conversion of Raja Chandrasen and the subsequent establishment of the "Ghugaliya" Gotra, which later evolved into "Galundia" after settling in the fort of Galund.
   • Acts of Valor and Generosity: The biography recounts tales of the family's bravery, such as defending a village against an attacking army. It also highlights their generosity and adherence to principles, exemplified by the story of Suraji, who demonstrated immense wealth and adherence to Jain values when tested by a famous mystic, Jagan Hajari. This story emphasizes that true generosity is not merely about giving but about acting according to Dharma.
   • Prominent Ancestors: It mentions several notable ancestors, including Shah Kalloji, Shuriji, Shah Shivalalji, Amritabaiji (who became Sati), and later generations like Modilalji, who served in the Mewar court.
   • Himmat Singhji's Biography: A significant portion is dedicated to Himmat Singhji, detailing his education, academic achievements (including degrees from Allahabad and Lucknow Universities), military examination, and subsequent career in various administrative positions in Rajasthan after the state's integration. It highlights his service as Administrator of Pratapgarh, Collector of Tonk, Director of Relief, and finally as Devasthan Commissioner (Temple Commissioner), from where he retired.
   • Family and Descendants: The text continues to mention Himmat Singhji's sons (Shivsinghji, Kushalsinghji, Chandsingh, Bhupalsingh) and their respective achievements and families, as well as his brother Raghunath Singhji and his son Jagannath Singhji. It also mentions his sisters and their families.
   • Spiritual Influence: The biography concludes by attributing the spiritual progress of later generations, including the revered Acharya Ghasilalji Maharaj, to the pious influence of Himmat Singhji's mother, Sundarbai, who was deeply devoted to religious practices. Himmat Singhji's own devotion to his Guru is also emphasized.

5. Page 14-18: These pages display photographs of various individuals identified as "Aadyamurabbi shree" (आद्यमुरब्बीश्री), which translates to "Chief Patrons" or "Principal Supporters." These are likely the individuals or families who sponsored the publication of the book.

6. Page 19-30: This section contains the "Subject Index" (विषयानुक्रमणिका) of the Bruhatkalpa Sutra. It lists the chapters (Uddeshaks) and the topics covered within each chapter, along with their corresponding page numbers. This provides a structured overview of the entire text's content, which includes rules regarding:

   • Pralamb (प्रलम्ब): Rules concerning the acceptance of fruits.
   • Masakalpa (मासकल्प): Rules regarding the duration of stay in different types of settlements.
   • Sagarikapaashray (सागारिकापाश्रय): Rules concerning dwelling in residences belonging to lay supporters.
   • Vihara Nishedha (विहार निषेध): Prohibitions on wandering, particularly during the rainy season.
   • Vastra Grahana Vidhi (वस्त्र ग्रहण विधि): Rules for accepting clothes.
   • Ratrikaale Ashanaadi Grahana Nishedha (रात्रौ अशनादि निषेध): Prohibition of accepting food at night.
   • Sankhadi Gaman Nishedha (संखडि गमन निषेध): Prohibitions related to travel.
   • Vividh Paatraadi Grahana Nishedha: Prohibitions related to accepting various items like pots, etc.
   • Paaka Nishedha: Prohibitions related to cooking.
   • Vividh Shaiya Vidhi: Rules concerning bedding.
   • Avagraha Prakaran: Rules concerning taking permission or approval.
   • Panch Mahavrata Vishaya: Rules related to the five great vows.
   • Charitra Vishaya: Rules related to conduct and monastic life.
   • Pariharakalpa: Rules related to special penances and practices.
   • Devakrita Upsarga: Dealing with afflictions caused by celestial beings.
   • Stri Vishaya: Rules concerning female monastics.

7. Page 31 onwards: This is the beginning of the actual Bruhatkalpa Sutra text with the commentary. It starts with Mangalacharan (Invocation). The commentary then delves into the first sutra of the Bruhatkalpa Sutra, explaining the meaning of terms and the context of the rules.

In essence, the provided pages offer a glimpse into:

• The Importance of the Bruhatkalpa Sutram: As a key text for Jain monastic rules.
• The Role of Patrons: The significant space given to the Galundia family's biography indicates the crucial role of lay supporters in the preservation and dissemination of Jain scriptures.
• Detailed Monastic Regulations: The subject index outlines the comprehensive nature of the Bruhatkalpa Sutram, covering various aspects of monastic life, from daily conduct to dealing with external influences and spiritual practices.
• Scholarly Commentary: The presence of commentary by Ghasilal Maharaj and others highlights the intellectual tradition within Jainism for explaining and preserving its scriptures.