Agam 40 Avashyak Sutra Hindi Anuwad

This document is the Hindi translation of the "Avashyak Sutra" (also known as "Aavassaya"), which is the first fundamental text (Mul-sutra-1) within the Jain Agamas, identified as Agama 40. The translation and editing were done by Muni Deepratnasagarji, a renowned Jain scholar.

The book systematically breaks down the Avashyak Sutra into six key studies (adhyayan):

1. Samayik (Study 1): This study focuses on the practice of equanimity and maintaining a balanced state of mind. It begins with a universal salutation to the five supreme beings (Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, and Sadhu), highlighting its significance in eradicating sins and ushering in auspiciousness. It then delves into the meaning of these terms and the vows taken by an individual, including the commitment to refrain from sinful activities (Savadh Yoga) and the process of confession and repentance.

2. Chaturvinshtistav (Study 2): This study is dedicated to the praise and veneration of the twenty-four Tirthankaras. It begins by saluting those who illuminate the world and lead beings towards liberation. The text then systematically lists and pays homage to each of the twenty-four Tirthankaras, starting from Rishabhdev and ending with Mahavir Swami. The study concludes with a prayer for blessings from these Tirthankaras, seeking health, knowledge, character, and ultimate peace.

3. Vandan (Study 3): This study describes the ritual of salutation and respect shown to a spiritual preceptor (Acharya). It outlines the proper etiquette for approaching the Guru, seeking permission, and performing the physical act of bowing. The disciple requests forgiveness for any unintended disrespect and inquires about the Guru's well-being and spiritual progress. The study also includes a detailed confession of any transgressions or offenses committed during the day, seeking forgiveness and renouncing past actions.

4. Pratikraman (Study 4): This is a significant and detailed study that outlines the process of confession and repentance for sins committed. It elaborates on the meaning of the Namaskara Mantra and the confession of past actions. The study emphasizes the importance of four types of "Mangala" (auspiciousness): Arihant, Siddha, Sadhu, and the Dharma proclaimed by the Kevalis. It then systematically details various types of transgressions related to:

   • Daily activities: Actions committed through mind, speech, and body, including incorrect speech, improper conduct, and negative thoughts.
   • Movement (Iryapathyaki): Harm caused to living beings (trasa, ekendriya, etc.) while walking, stepping on seeds, vegetation, water, or disturbing ant hills.
   • Daily life: Transgressions related to sleeping, sleeping posture, improper use of mouth-cloth, talking carelessly, sneezing, hiccups, clearing the throat, touching living beings, and unwholesome dreams.
   • Alms-round (Gochari): Offenses committed while seeking alms, such as touching animals, taking food that is specifically set aside for others, dealing with impure food, improper handling of utensils, and consuming food with living beings or sprouts.
   • Study and practice: Neglecting daily study, improper inspection or cleaning of religious paraphernalia, and indulging in negative emotions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed.
   • The study details numerous categories of sins and minor offenses (atichara) related to the observance of vows, control of senses, and various conduct rules. It concludes with a plea for forgiveness for all these transgressions, seeking purification.

5. Kayotsarg (Study 5): This study focuses on the practice of "Kayotsarg," a form of meditation involving the abandonment of the body and mind for spiritual purification. It reiterates the concept of confession and repentance as described earlier. The practice involves standing still, observing the breath, and meditating with a clear mind, free from bodily movements or disturbances. The study then references the praise of the Tirthankaras and the importance of contemplating the teachings of the Arihants and the essence of Jain scriptures. It highlights the significance of the twenty-four Tirthankaras and their liberation. The disciple then expresses a desire to seek forgiveness for transgressions committed within a specific period (e.g., fifteen days), detailing various forms of misconduct and seeking the Guru's understanding and pardon. The study emphasizes the importance of seeking forgiveness from the Guru and reciprocating respect to all spiritual beings.

6. Pratyakhyan (Study 6): This final study deals with the vows and commitments undertaken by lay followers (Shravakas) and their adherence to them. It explains the importance of renouncing false beliefs and embracing right faith (Samyaktva). The study outlines specific vows related to:

   • Non-violence (Ahimsa): Refraining from killing, binding, mutilating, overloading, or depriving food and drink from living beings.
   • Truthfulness (Satya): Avoiding false speech, including lying about daughters, cows, land, and giving false testimony.
   • Non-stealing (Asteya): Not condoning or participating in theft, using false weights and measures, or aiding thieves.
   • Celibacy (Brahmacharya): Maintaining fidelity to one's spouse and avoiding relationships with others' spouses.
   • Non-possession (Aparigraha): Limiting possession of wealth, land, gold, silver, animals, and other belongings.
   • Directional vows: Restricting movement in specific directions.
   • Consumption and activities: Limiting the consumption of food, drink, and engaging in certain occupations.
   • Unnecessary actions (Anarthadanda): Avoiding harmful thoughts, carelessness, and promoting sinful activities.
   • Samayik: Observing periods of equanimity and spiritual practice.
   • Specific daily vows: Undertaking partial or complete abstinences from food and activities at certain times of the day.
   • Fasting (Paushadh): Observing vows related to food, bodily care, celibacy, and refraining from business.
   • Charitable giving (Atithi Samvibhag): Offering food and necessities to monks and nuns with devotion and respect.

The study concludes by summarizing the lay vows, including the five cardinal vows (Anuvratas), three vows of expansion (Gunavratas), and four vows of training (Shikshavratas). It emphasizes the importance of Samyaktva as the foundational principle and the practice of contemplation and fasting at the time of death. It also explains the conditions under which vows can be temporarily relaxed or suspended due to unavoidable circumstances.

In essence, the Avashyak Sutra, as translated and explained in this volume, provides a comprehensive guide to the fundamental daily duties and spiritual practices of a Jain, encompassing ethical conduct, devotion, repentance, meditation, and adherence to vows.