Agam 40 Mool 01 Aavashyak Sutra Part 02

This document is a segment of the Āvaśyaka Sūtra, specifically Part 02 of Mūla 01, authored by the Rushabhdev Keshrimal Jain Shwetambar Sanstha in Ratlam. The catalog link provided is for Jainqq.org.

The text is a commentary (Chūrṇi) by Śrī Jinadāsa Gaṇimahattara on the Āvaśyaka Sūtra, focusing on the latter half (Uttarabhāga). It's presented as a comprehensive explanation of Jain practices and principles.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content based on the provided pages:

Overall Structure:

The document appears to be a detailed exposition of the six essential daily duties (Āvaśyaka) in Jainism, as outlined in the "Āvaśyaka Sūtra." It follows a structured approach, likely covering each of the six parts of the Āvaśyaka.

Key Sections and Concepts Covered (based on page 2, which acts as a table of contents):

The table of contents on page 2 lists the various sections covered in this part of the text. These include:

1. Sāmāyika (सामायिक): The study and practice of equanimity.
2. Chaturviṁśati-stavas (चतुर्विंशतिस्तव): Hymns or praises of the 24 Tirthankaras.
3. Dravya-sthuti (द्रव्यस्तुति): Praise of the divine substances (Jiva, Ajiva).
4. Lokas (लोक): The structure of the universe.
5. Dharma (धर्म): The path of righteousness.
6. Tirthas (तीर्थ): The fourfold community of Jainism.
7. Kara (कर): Tax or contribution, likely in a spiritual context.
8. Jina (जिन): The victorious ones.
9. Arhat (अरहंत): The venerated ones.
10. Kevalī (केवली): The omniscient ones.
11. Kāyotsarga (कायोत्सर्ग): Standing meditation or self-discipline through physical stillness.
12. Pratyākhyāna (प्रत्याख्यान): Renunciation or vows.
13. Vandana (वंदना): Salutations and respectful obeisance.
14. Pratikramana (प्रतिक्रमण): Confession, repentance, and purification of sins.

Detailed Content Highlights (across the provided pages):

• Nichepas (निक्षेप): The text delves into the concept of nichepas (categories or classifications) as a method of analyzing and understanding Jain principles. This includes various types of nichepas like Nām (Name), Sthāpanā (Establishment), Dravya (Substance), Kṣetra (Space), Kāla (Time), and Bhāva (State).
• Stuti (स्तुति): The importance and types of praise and glorification are discussed, including praising the Tirthankaras.
• Vows and Practices: The text explains various practices like Sāmāyika, Kāyotsarga, and Pratyākhyāna, detailing their meaning, purpose, and proper execution.
• Ethical Principles: Concepts like Ahimsā (non-violence), Brahmacharya (celibacy), Aparigraha (non-possession), and the importance of right faith (Samyaktva), knowledge (Jñana), and conduct (Charitra) are likely elaborated upon.
• Examples and Narratives (Dṛṣṭāntas): Throughout the text, numerous illustrative stories and examples are used to explain complex philosophical points and ethical guidelines. These stories often feature kings, queens, sages, and celestial beings, making the teachings relatable.
• Critique of Other Philosophies/Practices: There are instances of refuting or clarifying points that might differ from other religious or philosophical viewpoints, emphasizing the uniqueness of the Jain path.
• Detailed Procedural Guidance: For practices like Kāyotsarga and Pratikramana, the text provides very specific instructions on how to perform them, including detailed rules and prohibitions. This highlights the meticulous nature of Jain asceticism.
• Discussion of Sins and Virtues: The text likely categorizes and explains various sins (Karma) and virtues, emphasizing the path to liberation (Moksha) through the eradication of the former and the cultivation of the latter.
• The Role of a Sadhaka/Disciple: The text often addresses the listener or disciple, guiding them on the correct approach to understanding and practicing these principles.

Key Philosophical Underpinnings:

The commentary is rooted in the foundational principles of Jainism, including:

• Karma Theory: The impact of actions on the soul's journey.
• Anekānta-vāda (Many-sidedness of Reality): The use of Nichepas itself is a reflection of this principle.
• Ahiṁsā (Non-violence): A central tenet permeating all discussions of conduct.
• Liberation (Moksha): The ultimate goal, achieved through right faith, knowledge, and conduct, with the Āvaśyakas being crucial steps in this process.

Publisher and Context:

The publication by "Rushabhdev Kesarimal Jain Shwetambar Sanstha, Ratlam" indicates its origin within the Shwetambar tradition of Jainism. The mention of Vīra Saṁvat 2455, Vikram Saṁvat 1986, and Christ Saṁvat 1929 situates the publication in the early 20th century. The preface also mentions financial assistance from Lakṣmīcandra, son of Śrīmāna Devarāja, a resident of Jamnagar, indicating a community effort in preserving and disseminating these sacred texts.

In essence, this extensive text provides a deep dive into the practical and philosophical aspects of Jain daily observances, offering detailed explanations and illustrative narratives to guide the practitioner towards spiritual purification and liberation.