Agam 25 Chhed 02 Bruhatkalpa Sutra Sthanakvasi - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on the "Bruhatkalpa Sutra" (part of the Agam 25 Chhed 02) and its associated content:

Overall Context:

The document is a publication from Guru Pran Prakashan, Mumbai, dedicated to the Guru Pran Agam Trimonthly (Agam 25 Chhed 02), specifically the Bruhatkalpa Sutra, presented in a Sthanakvasi tradition context. It's presented as a part of a larger series aiming to publish the "Agam Batris" (32 Agams). The publication is dedicated to the memory and teachings of revered spiritual masters, particularly Pujya Shree Pranalalji M. Sa. and Pujya Shree Ratilalji M. Sa. The volume features translations and commentaries by esteemed Mahasatijis: Dolarbai Mahasati, Artibai Mahasati, and Subodhikabai Mahasati.

Key Themes and Content:

The document is rich with introductory materials, tributes, blessings, and detailed explanations of Jain scriptures, particularly the "Chhed Sutras."

Tributes and Blessings:
- Devotional Homages: The text begins with invocations to "Shree Vitraagay Namah" and blessings for various gurus and the "Gondal Gachch."
- Master Reverence: Extensive tributes are paid to the spiritual lineage, including:
  - Pujya Shree Dungarsinghji M. Sa. (Founder of Gondal Gachch)
  - Pujya Shree Pranalalji M. Sa. (Saurashtra Kesari)
  - Pujya Shree Ratilalji M. Sa. (Tapasamrat)
- Endorsements: Several prominent Munis (monks) like Pujya Shree Jayantmuni M. Sa., Pujya Shree Girishchandramuni M. Sa., and Pujya Shree Janakmuni M. Sa. have provided blessings and insights, highlighting the significance of this Agam publication.
- Author's Dedication: The Mahasatijis, particularly Sadhvi Dolarbai, express their deep reverence and commitment to their gurus and the propagation of Jain scriptures.
The Agam Publications and "Chhed Sutras":
- Agam Batris Series: This publication is part of a larger effort to bring out all 32 Agams in Gujarati, a significant undertaking initiated during the birth centenary of Pujya Shree Pranalalji M. Sa.
- Significance of Chhed Sutras: The document emphasizes the crucial role of the "Chhed Sutras" (namely Dashashrutaskandh, Bruhatkalpa, and Vyavahar Sutra, as presented here) in guiding the conduct and spiritual discipline of monks and nuns. These sutras address the "holes" or "flaws" in spiritual practice and provide remedies.
- Nature of Chhed Sutras: It's highlighted that Chhed Sutras deal with specific conduct rules and disciplinary actions (prayshchitta) for ascetics, often addressing sensitive topics related to human nature, desires, and their regulation. They are considered "secret" and meant for dedicated disciples.
- Modern Context: The publication acknowledges the contemporary need to make these profound scriptures accessible to a wider audience in Gujarati due to increased literacy and the desire to understand original Agamic texts.
Specific Sutra Content (Bruhatkalpa Sutra - Summary):
- Uddeshak-1 (First Chapter): This section details various regulations for monks and nuns, including:
  - Acceptable/Unacceptable Items: Regulations concerning edible parts of plants (roots, fruits, seeds), acceptable and unacceptable forms of fruits (e.g., cut vs. whole, ripe vs. unripe), and their processing.
  - Dwelling Place Regulations: Rules about where ascetics can stay, including limitations on dwelling in certain types of houses, places frequented by the public (markets), places without doors, or houses with specific types of paintings. Specific restrictions are mentioned for nuns regarding places frequented by men.
  - Dwelling Period Limits: Regulations on how long ascetics can stay in villages, towns, etc., differentiating between seasons (Hemant, Grishma, Varsha) and types of settlements (with/without outer habitation).
  - Conduct in Specific Areas: Rules regarding activity near water bodies, avoiding places with pictures or specific types of architecture.
  - Dependence on Laypersons: Nuns are generally required to stay under the protection (nishra) of laypersons, while monks have more independence.
  - Dealing with Disputes: The importance of maintaining peace and equanimity, resolving conflicts, and the essence of monastic life being "upasham bhav" (calmness).
  - Seasonal Movement: Monks and nuns are to stay in one place during the rainy season (Chaturmas) and travel during other seasons.
  - Traveling in Hostile Territories: Restrictions on frequent travel in territories with political unrest or between warring states.
  - Accepting Gifts: Regulations on accepting clothing, vessels, etc., from lay patrons, requiring prior permission from senior monks (Acharyas) and proper procedures.
  - Night Time Prohibitions: Strict rules against accepting food, clothing, or traveling at night or during twilight hours, with exceptions for specific situations like accepting stolen items returned.
  - Restrictions on Solitary Travel: Rules about monks and nuns not traveling alone, especially at night or in isolated areas.
  - Movement in Aryasthanas: Guidelines on acceptable geographical areas for travel, emphasizing the importance of staying in regions where Jainism flourishes.
- Uddeshak-2 (Second Chapter): This section continues with regulations concerning:
  - Dwelling in Grain-Filled Places: Rules about staying in houses where grains are stored, with distinctions based on how the grain is stored (piled, in containers, sealed).
  - Places with Liquors or Flames: Prohibitions on staying in places with alcoholic beverages or fire.
  - Places with Food Items: Regulations regarding staying in places where food is cooked or stored.
  - Religious Places: Rules about staying in religious establishments (dharmashalas) and other potentially unsafe locations.
  - Multiple Property Owners: How to obtain permission when a dwelling has multiple owners.
  - Kitchen-Related Etiquette: Detailed rules about handling food items, especially concerning their preparation and the involvement of laypersons.
  - Rules for Nuns: Specific prohibitions and permissions for nuns regarding their conduct and possessions.
  - Accepting Offerings from Devotees: Regulations on receiving food and other items from specific devotees.
  - Acceptable Items: Discussions on acceptable and unacceptable items like rags, mosquito nets, and their handling.
  - Prohibition of Activity Near Water Bodies: Restrictions on behavior near rivers and lakes.
  - Avoiding Pictures: Prohibition of staying in places adorned with pictures that might evoke passion.
  - Nishra (Protection): The importance of protection from laypersons for nuns and the conditions under which monks can stay without direct protection.
  - Houses with Residents: Rules about staying in houses inhabited by men or women.
  - Restricted vs. Unrestricted Paths: Guidelines for navigating pathways.
- Uddeshak-3 (Third Chapter): This section focuses on:
  - Dietary Regulations: Rules concerning various types of food, including permissible and impermissible foods based on their preparation and source.
  - Interactions Between Monks and Nuns: Strict rules regarding the interaction between monks and nuns, including prohibitions on entering each other's dwelling places, sharing meals, or engaging in activities together.
  - Rules for Foreign Monks: Procedures for monks from other congregations joining a group.
  - Handling of Leather: Regulations concerning the use and acceptance of leather items.
  - Rules for Nuns: Specific restrictions for nuns regarding clothing, vessels, and general conduct.
  - Funeral Rites: Procedures for handling the bodies of deceased monks.
  - Receiving Qualifications at Initiation: Rules about receiving various spiritual qualifications during initiation.
  - Suppression of Passions: The importance of controlling anger and other negative emotions.
  - Time Limits for Clothing: Regulations on when and for how long monks and nuns can possess clothing.
  - Parihar Kalpa: Rules for monks undergoing special austerities.
  - Rules for Noblemen: Regulations concerning interactions with royalty.
  - Living in Low-Lying Areas: Restrictions on dwelling in submerged or low-lying places.
  - Conversations in Laymen's Homes: Prohibition of extensive conversations in laymen's homes.
- Uddeshak-4 (Fourth Chapter): This chapter covers:
  - Prohibitions Related to Monks: Restrictions on monks, such as not leaving the congregation, not carrying certain items, and rules regarding their behavior.
  - Prohibitions for Nuns: Similar restrictions for nuns, emphasizing their need for companionship and protection.
  - Penalties for Violations: Discussion of various types of penances (prayshchitta) for breaking rules.
  - Ineligibility for Initiation: Rules about individuals who are not eligible for initiation.
  - Rules for Ascetics: Various regulations for ascetics regarding their conduct, possessions, and interactions.
  - Prohibition of Certain Postures: Restrictions on specific ways of sitting or standing.
  - Rules on Eating and Drinking: Regulations concerning the consumption of food and water, including permissible times and conditions.
  - Rules on Carrying Items: Restrictions on carrying various items like pots, bedding, and personal belongings.
- Uddeshak-5 (Fifth Chapter): This section addresses:
  - Rules Regarding Residential Places: Detailed guidelines on acceptable and unacceptable dwelling places, distinguishing between places with religious significance and those that are potentially problematic.
  - Rules for Monks and Nuns Separately: Specific rules for monks and nuns regarding their movement, possessions, and interactions.
  - Rules on Verbal Conduct: Regulations concerning speech, emphasizing truthful, non-controversial, and gentle language.
  - Prohibition of Certain Accusations: Rules against falsely accusing others.
  - Prohibition of Certain Actions: Restrictions on various physical actions and their implications.
  - Rules on Receiving and Returning Items: Procedures for borrowing and returning items.
  - Rules on Companionship: Guidelines on traveling and staying with others.
  - Rules on Solitude: Restrictions on being alone in certain situations.
  - Rules on Assistance: When and how monks and nuns can assist each other.
  - Rules on Sleep and Meditation: Guidelines for sleeping arrangements and meditation practices.
  - Rules on Offerings: How to accept and handle offerings from laypersons.
  - Rules on Disposal of Materials: Procedures for discarding waste and old items.
- Uddeshak-6 (Sixth Chapter): This chapter covers:
  - Prohibited Speech: Six types of speech that are forbidden for ascetics.
  - Eligibility for Teaching: Criteria for who can teach or impart knowledge.
  - Six Types of Kalpas: Various categories of rules and regulations.
  - Six Types of Prohibitions: Specific prohibitions related to conduct.
  - Six Types of Conduct: Six types of behavior expected from ascetics.
  - Six Types of Eligibility: Criteria for eligibility in various spiritual paths.
  - Six Types of Mistakes: Common mistakes made by ascetics and their remedies.
  - Six Types of Penances: Different forms of penance for specific offenses.
  - Six Types of Resolutions: Vows and commitments taken by ascetics.
  - Six Types of Companionship: Guidelines on traveling and staying with others.
Anushasana (Discipline) and Prayshchitta (Penance):
- The text heavily emphasizes the importance of discipline (Anushasana) in the life of an ascetic.
- Prayshchitta (penance or atonement) is presented as a vital mechanism for purifying oneself from transgressions, whether intentional or unintentional. The Chhed Sutras detail specific prayshchittas for various offenses.
The "Agam Trimonthly" and Publication Details:
- The publication is part of the "Guru Pran Agam Trimonthly" series, aiming to disseminate the knowledge of all 32 Agams.
- The publishers, Guru Pran Prakashan, have made efforts to provide the original text, translations, and commentaries.
- The publication includes details about previous editions, reprint information, contact details, and a list of supporters and donors.
Editorial Experience and Translator's Notes:
- The Mahasatijis who translated and edited the text share their experiences and insights, explaining the rationale behind certain translations and interpretations. They highlight the depth and complexity of the Chhed Sutras.
- Notes on the historical context, the evolution of scriptures, and the meticulous effort in translation and purification of the text are provided.

In essence, this publication is a scholarly and devotional endeavor to make the profound disciplinary codes of the Bruhatkalpa Sutra, and by extension the Chhed Sutras, accessible to the Jain community, particularly within the Sthanakvasi tradition. It underscores the importance of adherence to rules, purification through penance, and the guidance of spiritual masters in the pursuit of liberation.