Agam 29 Santharaga Painnagsutt 06 Moolam - Book Summary

This document is a Jain text titled "Agam 29 Santharaga Painnagsutt 06 Moolam" (Agam 29 Santharaga Painnagsutta, Chapter 06, Root text). It is part of a larger collection of Jain Agamas published by Agam Shrut Prakashan, authored by Dipratnasagar and Deepratnasagar.

The text focuses on the "Santhara" (also spelled Santhara or Sallekhana), a voluntary religious fasting unto death practiced by devout Jains. The document appears to be a Gujarati translation or commentary on the original Prakrit or Sanskrit text.

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

Key Content and Structure:

Title and Authorship: The title clearly identifies the text as the sixth chapter of the "Painnagsutt" within the 29th Agama. The authors and publisher are also prominently displayed.
Dedication and Salutations: The initial pages include salutations to Jain Tirthankar Mahavir, other prominent figures, and gurus, reflecting the reverence with which such texts are treated.
Acknowledgement of Donors: A significant portion of the early pages (Pages 3-5) lists numerous individuals and organizations who provided financial assistance for the publication of this Agama set. This highlights the community effort involved in preserving and disseminating these sacred texts. These donors are often associated with specific Jains Sadhvis (nuns) and their spiritual guidance, indicating a strong lineage and support system for Jain scriptural studies.
Table of Contents/Structure (Page 6): This page outlines the structure of the publication, detailing the different sections:
- Moolam (Root Text): The core scriptures.
- Vrutti (Commentary): Explanations and elaborations on the root text.
- Parisist (Appendix/Supplement): Additional material, including:
  - Sithano (Index of Subjects): An index of subjects covered in Agamas 45-49.
  - Visiddha Sahannukkamo (Index of Special Words): An alphabetical index of specific terms from Agamas 45-49, with references to their occurrences.
  - Vishes Namannukkamo (Index of Specific Names): An alphabetical index of proper nouns (e.g., people, places) found in Agamas 45-49, with references.
  - Maha Gathanukkamo (Index of Verses): An index of verses from Agamas 45-49, presented alphabetically, with references.
  - Sutannukkamo (Index of Sutras): An upcoming index of Sutras from Agamas 45-49.
- Notes on Structure and Referencing: Explanations on how to interpret the numbering system, use of brackets, and references to commentaries.
The "Santharaga" Text (Pages 7-13): This section contains the core of the "Santharaga Painnagsutt." It consists of verses (Gaha) that:
- Praise Santhara: Describe Santhara as a significant spiritual practice, comparing it to precious gems, the best among ascetics, and a means to attain liberation. It is presented as the ultimate goal, the highest refuge, and the root of all virtues.
- Elaborate on the Qualifications and Process: The verses discuss the qualities of those who undertake Santhara, emphasizing purity of conduct, detachment, absence of anger and ego, adherence to the five great vows (Mahavratas), and the practice of meditation and self-control.
- Provide Examples of Santhara: A considerable portion of the text recounts various stories and examples of individuals (kings, ascetics, even animals in some traditions) who achieved liberation or spiritual merit through Santhara. These stories illustrate the principles and the profound impact of this practice. Examples include the stories of Chandragupta Maurya (though not explicitly named, likely implied by "Chandragupta's son"), Chanakya, and others who faced hardships and embraced death with equanimity.
- Emphasize the Importance of Right Faith and Conduct: The verses repeatedly stress that Santhara is most effective when undertaken with right faith (Samyak Darshan), right knowledge (Samyak Gyan), and right conduct (Samyak Charitra).
- Describe the Stages and Benefits: The text details how true Santhara leads to the destruction of karmas and the attainment of liberation (Moksha). It contrasts the quick elimination of karma through Santhara by the wise with the long and arduous process for the ignorant.
List of Published Works (Pages 14-16): This section provides a comprehensive catalog of books published by "Abhinav Shrut Prakashan" and "Agam Shrut Prakashan." It lists numerous titles related to Jain philosophy, rituals, scriptures (including the entire set of 45 Agamas), and devotional literature. This serves as a promotional and informational appendix.
Additional Information (Page 17): This page reiterates the contents of the appendices (Parisist) and clarifies the sources used for commentaries, highlighting the extensive research and compilation efforts. It also mentions the ongoing work on future publications.
Back Cover/Final Page: The last page seems to be a continuation of donor acknowledgments and contact information for the publication.

Key Themes:

Santhara/Sallekhana: The central theme is the practice of Santhara as a means to spiritual purification and liberation. It is portrayed as a highly virtuous and beneficial act for the soul.
Detachment and Renunciation: The text emphasizes the importance of detachment from worldly pleasures, the body, and possessions as prerequisites for undertaking Santhara.
Karma and Liberation: The core Jain concept of karma and its destruction as the path to liberation is intertwined with the practice of Santhara.
Spiritual Purity: The verses highlight the need for inner purity, right faith, knowledge, and conduct for the successful practice of Santhara.
The Role of Gurus: The guidance and teachings of gurus are presented as essential for proper understanding and practice.
Community Support: The extensive list of donors underscores the importance of community involvement in preserving and promoting Jain scriptures.

In essence, the "Agam 29 Santharaga Painnagsutt 06 Moolam" is a significant Jain text that elucidates the spiritual practice of Santhara, its philosophical underpinnings, and its historical examples, presented within a context of scholarly compilation and community support.