Agam 35 Chhed 02 Bruhatkalpa Sutra Part 05

Added to library: September 1, 2025

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First page of Agam 35 Chhed 02 Bruhatkalpa Sutra Part 05

Summary

The provided text is the fifth part (part V) of the Brihat Kalpa Sutra, a significant Jain scripture. This specific volume covers the fourth and fifth chapters (Uddeshas) of the text. The book is published by Shri Jain Atmanand Sabha in Bhavnagar, Gujarat, India.

Here's a comprehensive summary based on the provided pages and the table of contents (विषयानुक्रम):

1. Editorial and Publisher Information:

  • Publisher: Shri Jain Atmanand Sabha, Khar Gate, Bhavnagar - 364001 (Gujarat), India.
  • Series: Shri Atmanand Jain Granth Ratnamala, Ratnam 88.
  • Content: Brihat Kalpa Sutra, with Niyukti (original commentary by Bhadrabahuswami), Laghubhashya (by Sanghdas Gani), and Ardha-Pattika Vrutti (by Malayagiri Suri), further completed by the Vrutti of Shri Kshemakirti Acharya.
  • Editors/Compilers: Muni Chaturvijay and Muni Punyavijay, disciples and grand-disciples of Acharya Shri Vijayanand Surishwar (Shri Atmaramji Maharaj).
  • Editions: First edition in Vir Samvat 2465 (1938 CE), Second edition in Vir Samvat 2528 (2002 CE).
  • Purpose: The publication aims to make these profound Jain Agamas accessible and to reveal their deep meanings.
  • Acknowledgments: The Sabha expresses gratitude to various Jain trusts and sanghas in Mumbai and Ahmedabad for their support in reprinting the book. It also acknowledges the Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Bharatiya Sanskriti Vidyamandir in Ahmedabad for providing access to manuscripts containing corrections and additions made by Muni Shri Punyavijayji.

2. Introduction (Prasangik Nivedan):

  • This volume (Part V) contains the fourth and fifth chapters (Uddeshas) of the Brihat Kalpa Sutra.
  • With the completion of this volume, approximately 40,000 out of a total of 42,600 verses of the Brihat Kalpa Sutra (according to the estimation by the editors) are published.
  • The editors used five manuscripts for the fourth chapter and the texts listed below for the fifth chapter:
    • Mo (Moka Modi Bhandar): A manuscript from the Sheth Moka Modi Gyan Bhandar in Patan (82 pages, 70-77 lines per page, 69-76 characters per line, 13.5 x 5.5 inches). It is attributed to have been written between Vir Samvat 1575-1576 based on the dates of other volumes by the same scribe.
    • Le (Leheru Vakil Bhandar): A manuscript from the Leheru Vakil Gyan Bhandar in Patan (77 pages, 70-77 lines per page, 74-79 characters per line, 13 x 5 inches). It is attributed to Vir Samvat 1578 for the first volume and subsequent years for others, indicating a single scribe.
  • Manuscript Variations: The editors note that while the first four volumes had significant manuscript variations, the current volume and subsequent ones have been divided into two main categories of manuscripts, with the "Ka" manuscript (representing potentially the Kantivijayji manuscript mentioned earlier) showing significant variations, including extra lines and commentary portions. These variations are noted in footnotes. The editors have retained the original text, making corrections for obvious errors (placed within parentheses ( )) and interpolations (placed within square brackets [ ]).

3. Table of Contents (Vishayanukram): This is a detailed breakdown of the content covered in this volume, focusing on the Fourth and Fifth Uddeshas.

Fourth Uddesha (Chaturtho Uddesh): This chapter deals with various types of transgressions and prohibited actions for Jain monks and nuns, leading to specific expiations (Prayshchitta). The categories of transgressions discussed include:

  • Anuddhatik Prakaran (Sutra 1): Discusses offenses that require significant atonement. It begins by defining "Anuddhatik" and its relation to previous chapters, then delves into the concept of "Hastas" (hand actions) and "Karma" (actions). It categorizes "Hastas" into "Dravya Karma" and "Bhava Karma," with detailed explanations of various types of "Bhava Hasta Karma" (mental actions related to hands), including:

    • Chedan (Cutting), Bhedan (Breaking), Gharshan (Rubbing), Peshan (Grinding), Abhighata (Striking), Sneha (Anointing), Kaya (Body), Kshara (Alkali). For each, it discusses forms (Anantar - immediate, Parampar - sequential), associated faults, exceptions, and the corresponding atonements (laghu, guru, etc.).
    • Subtle analysis of Hastakarma: Includes discussions on the nature of hand actions, including those performed consciously or unconsciously, with examples and specific atonements based on the severity and intent.
    • Maithun (Sexual Intercourse): Discusses its forms (divine, human, animal), the prohibition against it, and exceptions under specific circumstances, emphasizing that it's linked to passions (Raga-Dvesha) and hence inherently problematic. It explains how atonements vary based on the specific circumstances and status of the individuals involved.
    • Ratri Bhojan (Night Eating): Details the prohibition of eating at night, its exceptions, the associated precautions, and the atonements required for violating this rule. It also covers the nuances of what constitutes "night" and the specific situations where eating is permitted or prohibited.
  • Parashchik Prakaran (Sutra 2): Deals with "Parashchik" offenses, which are severe transgressions requiring the most significant atonement, often leading to temporary or permanent exclusion from the monastic order.

    • Categories of Parashchik: Discusses three main categories: Dushta (wicked/corrupt), Pramatta (careless/negligent), and Anyonyakaraka (acting mutually/reciprocally).
    • Detailed Analysis: Explores various sub-categories and examples for each, such as Ashatana Parashchik (offenses against the Tirthankaras, teachings, acharyas, etc.) and Pratisevana Parashchik (offenses related to habitual transgression).
    • Atonement: Explains the specific atonements required for each type of Parashchik offense, considering factors like intent, status of the offender, and the nature of the transgression. It includes detailed discussions on cases like harming sentient beings, engaging in sexual acts, and intentional night-eating, all viewed through the lens of Parashchik faults.
  • Anavasthapya Prakaran (Sutra 3): Covers "Anavasthapya" offenses, which are also serious but perhaps slightly less severe than Parashchik, often involving actions that disrupt the monastic discipline or cause significant harm.

    • Categories: Discusses offenses related to:
      • Sadharmi-kainya (Theft from fellow monks): Details the prohibition and atonement for taking belongings from fellow monks.
      • Anyadharmik-kainya (Theft from monks of other sects/householders): Discusses offenses related to stealing from non-Jain ascetics or householders.
      • Hasta-Tal (Striking with hand): Explains the rules and atonements related to striking, hitting, or causing physical harm to others, even with inanimate objects. It covers situations involving self-defense, causing injury, and the intent behind the action.
  • Pravajanaadi Prakaran (Sutras 4-9): This section addresses rules and prohibitions related to the initiation or ordination process and other related aspects.

    • Unsuitable Candidates for Initiation: Discusses individuals who are not eligible for monastic initiation, including:
      • Pandak (Eunuch/Hermaphrodite): Details the physical characteristics and conditions that make someone ineligible.
      • Vatika (Eunuch related to physical condition): Discusses individuals whose physical condition makes them unsuitable.
      • Kliba (Impotent): Covers individuals unable to perform certain actions due to physical condition.
      • Others: Includes other types of individuals deemed unsuitable based on their physical state or mental disposition.
    • Rules for Initiation: Outlines the proper procedures and prohibitions related to accepting disciples and granting initiation.
    • Rules for Monks and Nuns: Discusses specific regulations concerning the conduct of monks and nuns, including rules about shaving (Mundana), training (Shiksha), submission (Upasthapana), eating in a group (Ekamanḍali Bhojan), and living arrangements.
  • Vachana Prakaran (Sutras 10-11): Focuses on the rules and propriety concerning the teaching or recitation of scriptures (Vachana).

    • Eligibility for Teaching: Defines who is eligible and ineligible to teach or recite scriptures, considering factors like conduct (Vinita vs. Avinita), dietary adherence (Vikriti pratibaddha vs. Anavashyamitaprahuta), and the overall spiritual state of the teacher.
    • Prohibitions: Details actions or states that make one ineligible to teach or receive teachings.
  • Sangyaapya Prakaran (Sutras 12-13): Deals with matters of "Sangyaapya" - matters that require proper understanding, knowledge, or teaching.

    • Ineligible Recipients of Teachings: Identifies individuals deemed unsuitable for receiving scriptural teachings, such as the wicked (Dushta), the foolish/ignorant (Mudha), and the corrupted/misguided (Vyudahita).
    • Categories of Ignorance: Elaborates on the different types of ignorance or misguidance that render someone ineligible.
  • Glan Prakaran (Sutras 14-15): Addresses the rules and conduct concerning monks and nuns who are ill or infirm (Glan).

    • Care and Interaction: Discusses the proper conduct of monks and nuns towards the ill, including who can interact with them, what actions are permitted, and the specific precautions to be taken.
    • Prohibitions for the Ill: Outlines actions that are prohibited even for the ill, emphasizing the importance of maintaining purity and discipline.
  • Kala-Kshetra-atikranta Prakaran (Sutras 16-17): Focuses on rules related to transgressing time limits (Kala) or spatial boundaries (Kshetra).

    • Time Transgression: Discusses rules concerning actions performed beyond prescribed time periods (e.g., eating after sunset, holding food beyond the allowed time).
    • Spatial Transgression: Covers rules related to moving beyond designated boundaries or areas without proper permission or reason.
    • Atonement: Explains the atonements required for violating these time and space regulations.
  • Aneshania Prakaran (Sutra 18): Deals with "Aneshania" - actions that are improper or prohibited regarding the consumption of food and drink.

    • Improper Food: Details what constitutes improper food, including food that is forbidden due to its origin, preparation, or contact with prohibited substances.
    • Handling of Improper Food: Outlines the rules for monks and nuns who accidentally receive or handle improper food, including disposal methods and atonements.
  • Kalpasthita-Akalpasthita Prakaran (Sutra 19): Discusses rules concerning individuals who are either living according to strict vows (Kalpasthita) or are less strict (Akalpasthita).

    • Rules of Interaction: Covers how individuals adhering to different levels of vows should interact regarding food, shelter, and other necessities.
    • Categorization: Explains the criteria for classifying monks and nuns into these categories based on their adherence to vows and practices.
  • Gana-antara-upasampat Prakaran (Sutras 20-28): This extensive section deals with the rules surrounding monks joining different monastic lineages or communities (Gana).

    • Reasons for Transfer: Discusses legitimate reasons for a monk to leave one Gana and join another, such as seeking advanced knowledge, spiritual guidance, or due to external circumstances.
    • Procedures and Permissions: Outlines the required procedures for seeking permission from the current Acharya, senior monks, or the Sangha before transferring.
    • Eligibility and Conduct: Details the conditions for accepting a monk into a new Gana, including their spiritual state, knowledge, and conduct.
    • Atonements: Specifies the atonements for violating these rules, such as joining a new Gana without permission or improper conduct during the transfer.
    • Specific Rules: Covers various scenarios like the transfer of a monk due to the Acharya's demise, the rules for monks with different levels of knowledge or spiritual attainment, and the specific conduct required when interacting with members of different monastic sects.

Fifth Uddesha (Panchamo Uddeshaka): This chapter continues the detailed rules and regulations for ascetics, covering a wide range of scenarios.

  • Brahmaapaya Prakaran (Sutras 1-4): Deals with transgressions related to Brahma-charya (celibacy) and the Divine (Deva) or semi-divine (Devi) beings.

    • Interaction with Supernatural Beings: Discusses rules concerning monks and nuns interacting with celestial or demonic beings that might appear in human form and attempt to tempt them. It outlines the proper conduct and atonements for such encounters.
    • Mental Transgressions: Highlights the importance of controlling thoughts and passions, especially when dealing with temptations, even if they appear in human guise.
  • Adhikarana Prakaran (Sutras 5-9): Covers "Adhikarana," which refers to disputes, conflicts, or quarrels.

    • Prohibition of Disputes: Emphasizes the strict prohibition of monks and nuns engaging in disputes with householders or anyone else.
    • Resolving Conflicts: Outlines the procedure for resolving conflicts, which involves seeking guidance from senior monks (Acharyas) and accepting their judgment or atonement. It details the consequences of not resolving disputes properly.
  • Samstrita-Nirvichikitsa Prakaran (Sutras 6-9): Focuses on rules related to taking food (Ashana) under conditions of doubt or uncertainty.

    • Doubtful Food: Discusses the proper conduct when food is received under uncertain conditions (e.g., doubtful time of harvest, preparation, or donation).
    • Conduct in Doubtful Situations: Explains the procedures for verifying the purity of food and drink and the atonements for errors in judgment. It covers various scenarios related to doubt about the time of day (Udgata-Anastamita Ravi), the state of the food itself (Samstrita vs. Asamstrita), and the giver's intention.
  • Udgar Prakaran (Sutra 10): Deals with the act of eructation (Udgar) and its rules.

    • Rules of Eructation: Discusses when eructation is permissible, when it is prohibited, and the proper conduct associated with it, particularly concerning night-eating and the consumption of food.
    • Atonement: Details the atonements for improper eructation.
  • Ahaar Vidhi Prakaran (Sutra 11): Covers the general rules and procedures related to taking food (Ahaar).

    • Purity of Food: Emphasizes the importance of consuming pure and properly obtained food, covering rules about food collected from various sources, conditions of food (pure vs. impure), and interactions with householders regarding food.
    • Specific Foods: Discusses rules related to specific food items like rice, grains, dairy products, etc., and their purity.
    • Mindfulness: Highlights the importance of mindfulness and proper conduct while obtaining and consuming food.
  • Panaka Vidhi Prakaran (Sutra 12): Focuses on the rules concerning the consumption of liquids (Panaka).

    • Purity of Liquids: Details the rules regarding the purity of water and other liquids, including storage, collection, and consumption.
    • Exceptions and Prohibitions: Covers exceptions and prohibitions related to consuming liquids, especially in impure conditions or from impure sources.
  • Brahma Raksha Prakaran (Sutras 13-17): This section delves into the rules protecting Brahmacharya (celibacy) and preventing its violation.

    • Temptations: Discusses various types of temptations that ascetics might face, including those from supernatural beings, animals, and human beings (like courtesans or even close relatives).
    • Prohibited Actions: Outlines specific actions that are strictly prohibited to protect celibacy, such as physical contact, looking at forbidden sights, listening to tempting sounds, and indulging in desires.
    • Atonements: Specifies the atonements for various lapses related to preserving celibacy.
    • Specific Rules for Nuns: Includes specific rules for nuns, considering their vulnerability and the societal context.
  • Moka Prakaran (Sutra 17): Deals with "Moka," which can refer to liberation, release, or also specific actions related to shedding or leaving something behind. In this context, it seems to relate to actions taken by monks that are considered inappropriate or require specific handling, possibly related to purification or disposal.

    • Rules of Handling: Outlines rules related to the handling of certain items or situations.
  • Parivasita Prakaran (Sutra 38): Covers rules concerning food that has been "Parivasita" - kept overnight or beyond the prescribed time.

    • Prohibition of Overnight Food: Details the strict prohibition of consuming food that has been kept overnight, with specific exceptions and atonements.
    • Conditions for Permissibility: Explains the rare circumstances under which certain foods might be permitted even if kept for an extended period, usually due to extreme necessity or specific rules.
  • Vyavahara Prakaran (Sutra 41): Discusses "Vyavahara" - conduct, rules, and regulations.

    • Monastic Conduct: Outlines the expected conduct of monks and nuns in various situations, including interactions with householders, the general public, and within the monastic community.
    • Disciplinary Actions: Covers disciplinary measures and atonements for violating monastic rules.
  • Pulaka Bhakta Prakaran (Sutra 42): Deals with "Pulaka Bhakta," which refers to food that has been prepared or handled improperly, or associated with impure circumstances.

    • Rules Regarding Pulaka Bhakta: Specifies the prohibitions and atonements related to obtaining, handling, or consuming such food.
    • Purity and Impurity: Differentiates between degrees of impurity and the corresponding actions or atonements.

Overall Themes: The Brihat Kalpa Sutra, particularly this section, is a highly detailed regulatory text for Jain ascetics. It meticulously covers a vast array of situations and potential lapses in conduct, providing clear guidelines for appropriate behavior and the necessary atonements. The text emphasizes:

  • Strict Adherence to Rules: The core principle is the meticulous adherence to the monastic code, often with very specific instructions.
  • Purity and Non-violence (Ahimsa): Many rules are designed to prevent even the slightest harm to living beings (subtle and gross) and to maintain purity in conduct, thought, and action.
  • Mindfulness and Vigilance: Ascetics are expected to be constantly mindful of their actions, intentions, and surroundings to avoid transgressions.
  • Atonement and Purification: The text provides a detailed system of atonements (Prayshchitta) for various offenses, ranging from minor faults to severe transgressions, aiming for the purification and spiritual progress of the ascetic.
  • Guidance from Seniors: The importance of seeking guidance from Acharyas and senior monks is repeatedly stressed for clarification and proper conduct.

This volume of the Brihat Kalpa Sutra offers profound insights into the rigorous disciplinary framework that underpins the Jain monastic tradition, emphasizing meticulousness and ethical conduct in every aspect of an ascetic's life.