Agam 27 BhattaParinna Painnagsutt 04 Moolam

The provided text is the preface and introductory material for the Jain Agam Sutra titled "Bhatta Parinna Painna Sutta 04 Moolam," authored by Muni Dippratnasagar and published by Agam Shrut Prakashan. This particular sutra is the fourth in the "Painna" (or Prakirna) section of the Agam literature.

Here's a summary of the key information presented in these pages:

Core Identification:

• Book Title: Agam 27 Bhatta Parinna Painnagsutt 04 Moolam (meaning the 4th core text of Bhatta Parinna, which is the 27th Agam in a potential numbering, within the Prakirna section).
• Author: Muni Dippratnasagar (a disciple of Muni Sudharma Sagarji).
• Publisher: Agam Shrut Prakashan.
• Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/009753/1
• Purpose: The text is for "Private And Personal Use Only."

Acknowledgements and Sponsorship:

The majority of the initial pages (Pages 3-5) are dedicated to listing numerous donors and contributors who financially supported the publication of the 45 Agam Sutra set. This indicates a collective effort involving many individuals and Jain sanghs (communities) across various locations (Vadodara, Surendranagar, Madras, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Los Angeles, etc.). The contributions are often made in memory of parents, gurus, or in observance of religious milestones like Chaturmas or fasts. This highlights the significant community involvement in preserving and disseminating Jain scriptures.

Publication Details:

• The publication is associated with the Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra and Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Gyanmandir.
• It mentions the printing press and compositors used in Ahmedabad.
• The cost of the complete set of 45 Agams is listed as Rs. 1500/-, with funds going towards future Agam work.

Content and Structure of the Agam Sutra (Bhatta Parinna):

• Title: The text is identified as the 27th Agam, "Bhatta Parinna," which is the 4th "Painna" (Prakirna) text.
• Invocation: The text begins with invocations to the pure vision (Namo Namo Nirmal Darshanasya) and veneration for Gurus.
• Core Topic: The title "Bhatta Parinna" itself refers to a significant Jain concept related to abstinence from food and the process of death-in-religious-practice (Sallekhana). The text is dedicated to explaining this concept.
• Structure within the Sutra: The main body of the sutra is presented from page 7 onwards. It is written in Prakrit (likely Ardhamagadhi) with numbered verses (Gathas).
  • The text details the process of undertaking Sallekhana, emphasizing its importance for spiritual advancement.
  • It discusses types of Sallekhana (savichara - with contemplation, avichara - without contemplation).
  • It outlines the preparation and execution of Sallekhana, including seeking permission from the spiritual preceptor and the community (Sangh).
  • It emphasizes the importance of purification of mind and intention (samadhi), renunciation of desires, and acceptance of impermanence.
  • The text stresses the virtues of non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), celibacy (brahmacharya), non-possessiveness (aparigraha), and right faith (samyak darshan) as foundational to spiritual practice, including Sallekhana.
  • It describes the detrimental effects of attachment, desires, anger, ego, deceit, greed, and wrong beliefs.
  • The text provides examples and guidance on how to overcome obstacles and maintain equanimity during the process of severe vows and ultimate renunciation.
  • It concludes with the idea that adhering to these principles leads to liberation (moksha) and ultimate well-being.

Appendices (Parishisht):

Page 21 and 22 mention various appendices planned for future publications:

• Parishisht 1: Vishayanukkamo: Comprehensive index of subjects.
• Parishisht 2: Vishisht Shadaanukkamo: Index of special words.
• Parishisht 3: Vishesh Naamukkamo: Index of special names.
• Parishisht 4: Gaaanhaanukkamo: Index of verses (Gathas).
• Parishisht 5: Sutraanukkamo: Index of sutras.

These appendices indicate a systematic approach to organizing and making the Agam literature accessible.

Overall Impression:

The provided pages offer a glimpse into the meticulous effort involved in publishing ancient Jain scriptures. It showcases the deep respect for the Agams, the community's dedication to preserving this knowledge, and the foundational teachings on spiritual discipline, particularly the practice of Sallekhana as a path to liberation. The text is presented in a traditional format with Prakrit verses and an accompanying commentary (implied by the English numbering at the end of verses, indicating the presence of a Vritti or commentary).