Agam 31 Chulika 01 Nandi Sutra Sthanakvasi

The provided text is a substantial excerpt from the Jain scripture "Nandi Sutra," specifically the "Chulika 01" section, presented in a bilingual Hindi and English format with illustrations. The book is compiled by Shri Dev-vachak Gani and published by Padma Prakashan. The introduction and acknowledgments highlight the efforts of Up-pravartak Shri Amar Muni as the editor-in-chief and Srichand Surana 'Saras' as the editor, along with illustrators Sardar Purushottam Singh and Sardar Harvinder Singh. The translation into English is attributed to Surendra Bothara.

The core of the provided text delves into the detailed explanation of Mati-jnana (Sensory Knowledge) within the Jain epistemological framework. It systematically breaks down Mati-jnana into its various stages and classifications, providing numerous examples and narratives to illustrate complex philosophical concepts.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content:

1. The Structure and Purpose of the Book:

• The publication is part of an "Illustrated Agama Series," aiming to make Jain scriptures accessible through Hindi and English translations and colorful illustrations.
• The initiative is inspired by the scholarly work of Acharya Samrat Shri Atmaram Ji Maharaj and supported by his disciples.
• The publisher, Padma Prakashan, emphasizes the importance of scripture propagation and thanks the generous donors who support this costly endeavor.

2. The Nandi Sutra's Significance:

• The Nandi Sutra is described as one of the four foundational Agamas, primarily focusing on the detailed description of the five types of knowledge (Mati, Shrut, Avadhi, Manahparyav, and Keval-jnana).
• It is considered a compilation of knowledge scattered in other Agamas like Sthanang, Samvayang, Prajnapana, and Bhagavati Sutra.
• Historically, the Nandi Sutra is believed to have gained recognition as an Agama Sutra in the 4th century AD, after the nirvana of Lord Mahavir.

3. Key Jain Philosophical Concepts Explained:

• Knowledge (Jnana): The text meticulously explains the five types of knowledge:
  • Mati-jnana (Abhinibodhik-jnana): Sensory knowledge acquired through the five senses and mind.
  • Shrut-jnana: Knowledge acquired through listening or scriptures.
  • Avadhi-jnana: Extrasensory perception of physical objects within specific limitations.
  • Manah-paryav-jnana: Knowledge of the thoughts of others, attainable by humans with specific disciplines.
  • Keval-jnana: Omniscience, the absolute and perfect knowledge attained after the destruction of all veiling karmas.
• Direct and Indirect Knowledge: The text distinguishes between Pratyaksh (direct) and Paroksh (indirect) knowledge, aligning Mati and Shrut as indirect, and Avadhi, Manahparyav, and Keval-jnana as direct.
• Types of Listeners and Congregations: A significant portion details the fourteen types of listeners (ranging from dull to sharp intellects) and three types of congregations (Jnayika, Ajnayika, and Durvidagdha), using vivid analogies.
• The Theme of Nandi Sutra: The word "Nandi" signifies auspiciousness and joy, which is directly linked to the knowledge of dharma, enabling conduct and austerities.

4. Detailed Explanation of Mati-jnana: The excerpt provides an extensive exploration of Mati-jnana, breaking it down into:

• Ashrut Nishrit (Knowledge not from Scriptures):
  • Autpattiki Buddhi: Innate wisdom acquired spontaneously.
  • Vainayiki Buddhi: Wisdom acquired through humility and devotion to teachers.
  • Karmaja Buddhi: Practical wisdom gained through diligent practice in a craft or skill.
  • Parinamiki Buddhi: Deductive wisdom gained through contemplation and experience.
  • Numerous illustrative stories are provided for each of these to elucidate their meaning.
• Shrut Nishrit (Knowledge from Scriptures): This is further broken down into:
  • Avagraha: The initial reception of sensory data.
  • Iha: Analysis and inquiry into the received data.
  • Avaya: Decision or conclusion about the data.
  • Dharana: Retention of the information in memory.
  • Detailed explanations and examples are provided for each stage of perception.
• Specific Classifications: The text also covers:
  • Avadhi-jnana: Its types (Bhavapratyayik, Kshayopashamik) and scope.
  • Manah-paryav-jnana: Its acquisition by humans, specifically karmabhumi placental humans, and its distinction from other beings.
  • Kewal-jnana: Its types (Bhavasth, Siddha) and the different classifications within them.
  • Shrut-jnana: Its types (Akshar, Anakshar, Sanjni, Asanjni, Samyak, Mithya, etc.), their descriptions, and the lineage of important acharyas in Jain tradition.

5. Illustrative Narratives: The text is rich with stories and analogies, often drawn from the lives of kings, merchants, ascetics, and even animals, to explain the nuances of different types of knowledge and conduct. These include tales of Rohak's intelligence, the story of the chandal and the woman, the jewel-bearing snake, the importance of humility in learning, and the cleverness of Chanakya.

6. The Importance of Virtues: The text consistently emphasizes the role of virtues like modesty, humility, proper conduct, and devotion to teachers in the acquisition of true knowledge (Samyak Jnana).

7. Historical Context: It provides historical context regarding the compilation of Jain scriptures, the succession of learned acharyas (like the lineage of Ganadhars and later acharyas), and the spread of Jainism.

In summary, this excerpt from the Nandi Sutra provides a comprehensive and illustrated guide to the Jain understanding of knowledge, particularly Mati-jnana, detailing its processes, classifications, and the virtues essential for its proper acquisition. It highlights the Jain emphasis on conduct, intellectual rigor, and spiritual purity as interconnected elements in the pursuit of true understanding and liberation.