Agam 35 Chhed 02 Bruhatkalpa Sutra Shwetambar

This document is a Gujarati version of the Brihatkalpa Sutra, a significant scripture within the Shvetambar tradition of Jainism. The text is presented as Agam 35, Chhed 02, authored by Purnachandrasagar and published by Jainanand Pustakalay.

The initial pages (1-12) include dedications and acknowledgments to various Acharyas and institutions, highlighting the Jain tradition's emphasis on lineage and reverence. A significant portion of these introductory pages (pages 6-12) provides a historical overview of the compilation and preservation of Jain Agamas, detailing six major recensions (Vachanas) that occurred over a thousand-year period after the Nirvana of Lord Mahavir. It touches upon the challenges faced in preserving these scriptures due to historical events like famines, invasions, and periods of laxity in practice, emphasizing the crucial role of various Acharyas in safeguarding this knowledge. The text also mentions the importance of "Shrutgnan" (knowledge acquired through listening and study) as a guiding light for sentient beings.

The core of the document, beginning from page 12 onwards, is the actual Brihatkalpa Sutra itself, presented in Prakrit with Gujarati annotations. The Sutra contains detailed rules and regulations pertaining to the conduct and practices of Jain monks (Nigranthas) and nuns (Nigranthis). It covers a wide range of topics, including:

• Acceptance and use of materials: Rules regarding the acceptance of food, water, and other articles, with specific prohibitions and permissions based on circumstances, time, and purity.
• Dwelling and Vihara (travel): Regulations concerning where monks and nuns can stay, how long they can reside in certain places, and rules related to their movement and travel.
• Conduct within and outside monasteries: Detailed guidelines on behavior within designated dwelling places (upasrayas) and during their movement outside.
• Acceptance of alms: Rules about accepting alms, including what can be accepted, from whom, and under what conditions.
• Types of attire and personal belongings: Regulations on the type and quantity of clothing and other necessary items that can be possessed and used.
• Behavior and speech: Prohibitions against specific types of speech, actions, and behaviors that are considered inappropriate or against the monastic vows.
• Disciplinary actions and punishments: Mentions of various forms of penance and disciplinary measures for transgressions.
• Specific rules for monks and nuns: Differentiating rules applicable to male and female ascetics.
• Seasonal restrictions and conduct: Guidelines for different seasons, particularly concerning their movements and stays.
• Purity and cleanliness: Emphasis on maintaining purity in all aspects of life, including the handling of food and other items.
• Rules for specific situations: Addressing scenarios like illness, dealing with fallen objects, and interacting with lay followers.

The concluding pages reiterate the efforts made in compiling and publishing this edition of the Brihatkalpa Sutra, crediting various Acharyas and institutions for their contributions. The document is intended for private and personal use only, as indicated by the repeated disclaimer.

In essence, this document is a scholarly edition of a foundational Jain scripture that lays down the strict code of conduct for mendicants, aiming to ensure their spiritual progress and adherence to the principles of Jainism.