Agam 27 Bhaktaparigna Sutra Hindi Anuwad

This document is the Hindi translation of the Jain Agam Sutra 27, Payannasutra 4, titled "Bhaktaparigna Sutra" (भक्तपरिज्ञा सूत्र), translated and edited by Muni Deepratnasagarji.

The text begins with a salutation to Lord Mahavir and his teachings, followed by an acknowledgment of the translator and editor.

Key Themes and Content of the Bhaktaparigna Sutra:

The sutra, through a series of verses (sutras), outlines the path towards achieving eternal happiness and liberation (moksha) by focusing on spiritual discipline and right conduct. The central themes include:

• The Nature of Happiness: The text contrasts worldly, temporary pleasures with the everlasting bliss of liberation. It emphasizes that worldly happiness, even that of humans and gods, is ultimately temporary and leads to suffering.
• The Importance of Right Faith (Samyaktva): A significant portion of the sutra stresses the paramount importance of Samyaktva (right faith or correct perception) as the foundation for all spiritual progress. It states that without Samyaktva, other virtues like knowledge, penance, and conduct are ineffective. Losing Samyaktva is considered a graver loss than losing conduct.
• The Path of Renunciation and Asceticism: The sutra details the practices and principles for ascetics (munis) and lay followers (shravaks) undertaking spiritual practices, especially during the process of sanlekhana (voluntary fasting unto death).
• Different Types of Death/Fasting: It describes various types of voluntary fasting or controlled death practices, such as Bhaktaparigna Maran, Ikinhi Maran, and Padropagam Maran, highlighting the mental and physical preparation required.
• The Role of the Guru: The importance of a spiritual preceptor (guru) in guiding disciples through these practices is emphasized. The guru's role in giving blessings, instructions, and overseeing the process is crucial.
• Practices for Ascetics and Lay Followers:
  • Ascetics (Munis): The sutra discusses the need for equanimity, detachment from worldly desires, control of senses, and adherence to vows. It describes the process of confession (alochana), atonement (prayschit), and acceptance of vows.
  • Lay Followers (Shravaks): For lay followers, it outlines practices like observing limited vows (anuvrat), donating for good causes, and cultivating devotion.
• The Power of Devotion (Bhakti): The text highlights the efficacy of devotion to the Arihants, Siddhas, and the Jain Sangha. It states that even a single act of devotion can lead to liberation.
• Control of the Senses and Desires: A substantial part of the sutra is dedicated to warning against the dangers of attachment to sensory pleasures, particularly those related to women. It uses various analogies to illustrate how sensory attachments lead to downfall and suffering.
• The Dangers of Attachment and Possession (Parigraha): The sutra also elaborates on the negative consequences of attachment to worldly possessions, emphasizing that true happiness lies in detachment.
• The Significance of the Five Great Vows (Mahavratas): The core Jain vows (non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, chastity, and non-possession) are implicitly and explicitly discussed as essential for spiritual progress.
• The Power of the Navkar Mantra: The efficacy of reciting the Navkar Mantra (Namo Arihantanam, Namo Siddhanam, etc.) is highlighted as a powerful tool for spiritual purification and liberation.
• The Benefits of Virtuous Actions: The sutra consistently emphasizes that good deeds, adherence to dharma, and spiritual practices lead to positive outcomes in this life and future lives, culminating in eternal bliss.

Structure of the Text:

The document also includes:

• A list of Jain Agam Sutras and their classification (Anga Sutras, Upanga Sutras, etc.).
• Information about the translator Muni Deepratnasagarji's other publications and his scholarly background.
• The sutras are presented numerically from 1 to 173, detailing the teachings in a structured manner.

In essence, the Bhaktaparigna Sutra, as translated, serves as a guide for Jains on the path of spiritual purification, renunciation, and the ultimate pursuit of liberation by emphasizing right faith, conduct, devotion, and detachment from worldly pleasures and possessions.