Agam 35 Chhed 02 Bruhatkalpa Sutra Bhashyam Part 02 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Agam 35 Chhed 02 Bruhatkalpa Sutra Bhashyam Part 02" by Dulahrajmuni, based on the provided text:

Book Title: Agam 35 Chhed 02 Bruhatkalpa Sutra Bhashyam Part 02 Author: Dulahrajmuni Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/002533/1

Overall Introduction: This voluminous work, "Brihatkalpa Bhashyam," is a commentary on the Jain scripture Brihatkalpa Sutra. Part 2, with Hindi translation, covers verses 3679 to 6460. The publication is a testament to the dedication and strenuous efforts of Agama Manishi Muni Dulaharajji, under the esteemed leadership of Vachanapramukh Ganadhipati Acharya Tulsi and Chief Editor Acharya Mahaprajna. The text is presented with the intention of making the ancient Jain Agamas accessible through translation and insightful commentary.

Key Themes and Content Covered (Based on the provided Table of Contents/Gatha Summary):

The text delves into the intricate details of monastic conduct, discipline, and the rules governing the lives of Jain monks and nuns, particularly focusing on the "Brihatkalpa Sutra." The summary indicates a wide range of topics discussed, including:

Rules of Conduct and Prohibitions:
- Interaction with Nuns (Āryā/Nigranthi): A significant portion of the text (starting from the third chapter/Uddeshak) focuses on the interactions between monks and nuns. It meticulously outlines when monks can approach nuns' residences (Uvassaya-padam), the specific circumstances under which it is permissible, and the strict rules and prohibitions to prevent misconduct or even the appearance of impropriety. This includes rules about entering their dwellings, sitting, sleeping, accepting alms, studying, meditating, and performing kayotsarga. It details various violations and their corresponding expiations (prāyashchitta), often categorized by severity (guruvarga, laghuka, etc.).
- Dress and Personal Belongings (Vastra-padam, Charmam-padam): The text specifies rules regarding the types of garments and animal hides (chamra) that monks and nuns can wear or use. It distinguishes between permissible and impermissible materials, the number of garments allowed, and the specific conditions for their use, often citing the context of seasons or conditions like illness.
- Movement and Residence (Uvassaya-padam, Antargṛha-padam, Pāṇaka-vidhi-padam): Strict regulations govern where monks and nuns can reside, the precautions they must take, and their movement within and outside these dwellings. This includes rules about entering occupied residences, the etiquette of staying with nuns, dealing with shared residences, and the specific regulations for living in houses (antara-gṛha) or other temporary shelters.
- Purity and Conduct: The text emphasizes the importance of purity in all aspects of monastic life, from accepting alms to performing daily rituals. It details rules to avoid contamination, protect living beings (especially in various forms of life-karma), and maintain strict adherence to vows.
- Dealing with External Factors: The text addresses how ascetics should conduct themselves in the presence of external threats or unusual circumstances such as the presence of animals (serpents, lions), thieves, armies, or natural calamities like floods and fires. It provides guidelines on when to remain in a place, when to seek alternative shelter, and how to interact with householders or royalty in such situations.
- Specific Offenses and Expiations (Prāyashchitta): A large part of the text is dedicated to defining various monastic offenses (ativasara) and prescribing the corresponding expiations (prāyashchitta). These range from minor infractions to severe transgressions that might lead to expulsion from the monastic order (pārāṅkika). The text classifies expiations based on the nature of the offense, the status of the ascetic involved, and the specific circumstances.
- The Role of Monastic Leaders: The text highlights the roles and responsibilities of senior monks like Āchāryas, Upādhyāyas, Gaṇadharas, and Gaṇāvacchedikas in guiding, instructing, and maintaining discipline within the monastic community. Their authority and the procedures they follow in dealing with offenses are clearly outlined.
- Specific Regulations for Ascetics: The text details rules related to:
  - Āhāravidhi (Rules of Food): Regulations concerning the acceptance, preparation, and consumption of food, including rules about collecting food, alms rounds, accepting food from specific types of householders, and avoiding impure or forbidden food items. This section likely covers topics like parihārita (food that has been set aside) and anēṣaṇīya (inedible or impure food).
  - Vastra-grahaṇa (Acceptance of Clothes): Rules regarding the acceptance, use, and maintenance of garments.
  - Upadhi (Possessions): Regulations concerning the acceptable number and types of monastic possessions like blankets, bowls, and utensils.
  - Upasraya (Monastic Residence): Detailed rules about where and how monks and nuns should reside, including cleanliness, protection from the elements, and proper conduct within the residence.
  - Kṛtikarma (Rituals of Respect): The text discusses the importance of showing respect through specific gestures like bowing and circumambulating senior monks and nuns.
  - Śaila-saṅghāṭa-kriyā (Rules related to movement and clothing): This likely covers rules about walking, movement, and the use of specific garments like saṅghāṭi.
  - Other Specific Rules: The text also touches upon the rules related to various other aspects of monastic life such as Mithyā-jñāna, Vaigachchārana, Mokṣa, Moha, Krodha, Māna, Lōbha, Āvaraṇa, Vijñāna, Darśana, Cāritra, and the consequences of violating these principles. It also discusses the importance of knowing the opportune time for actions, the rules for seeking alms, and the correct conduct when residing in monasteries.
The Role of Muni Dulaharajji: The introductory pages, particularly the blessings from Acharya Mahaprajna and the editorial note from Muni Dulaharajji himself, highlight his tireless work in editing, translating, and compiling this massive commentary. He is lauded for his dedication to the study and propagation of the Jain Agamas, his adherence to principles of śrama (effort/labor), and his deep knowledge of Jain scriptures, earning him the title "Āgama Maṇiṣhi."
Publisher's and Sponsor's Notes: The publication is by Jain Vishva Bharati, Ladnun, and is presented as a courtesy from the Sethia family on the occasion of Muni Dulaharajji's sixtieth year of ascetic life. The text is over 422 pages, with the commentary itself spanning 48470 gathās (verses).

Overall Significance: "Brihatkalpa Bhashyam Part 02" is a crucial resource for understanding the foundational principles of Jain monasticism. It offers a granular look at the daily lives, challenges, and ethical framework that guided ascetics in ancient India. Muni Dulaharajji's work ensures that this profound wisdom remains accessible and relevant for contemporary Jains and scholars interested in Jain philosophy and practice. The detailed breakdown of offenses and expiations underscores the meticulousness of Jain ethical codes and the emphasis on maintaining purity of conduct for spiritual progress.