Agam 43 Mool 04 Uttaradhyayan Sutra Part 01

This document is the first part of "Uttaradhyayan Sutra" (Agam 43, Mool 04), compiled by Bhadrankarsuri and published by Bhuvan Bhadrankar Sahitya Prachar Kendra. The catalog link is provided as https://jainqq.org/explore/005335/1. The publication is specifically for Jain Education International for private and personal use only.

Key elements and content of the provided pages:

• Title and Author: The book is "Agam 43 Mool 04 Uttaradhyayan Sutra Part 01" by Bhadrankarsuri.
• Publisher: Bhuvan Bhadrankar Sahitya Prachar Kendra.
• Purpose: The material is strictly for Jain Education International's private and personal use.
• Dedication/Commemoration: Page 1 mentions it is dedicated to Guru Shri Shrimad Vijaylamsuri Ji M.N. on his 15th death anniversary. Page 5 displays a dedication to "Laxmi-Bhuvantilak Surishwar Sadgurubhyo Namah."
• Publication Details: Page 2 indicates the establishment year as Veer Samvat 2500 and the Guru's Sūripadārpaṇa day as Māha Sudi 5. It also promotes a monthly magazine called "Labdhi Krupa," highlighting its content and subscription details.
• Significance of Uttaradhyayan Sutra: Page 3 emphasizes the importance of the Uttaradhyayan Sutra, stating that those who are close to liberation, devoted to the Three Jewels (Ratnatrayi), and have pierced through the karmic bonds study these thirty-six chapters. It also mentions that those who are not "Bhavya" (capable of liberation) and do not pierce the karmic bonds are trapped in infinite cycles of existence.
• Content Structure: Page 8 provides a table of contents, listing the first 19 chapters (Adhyayans) of the Uttaradhyayan Sutra, along with their corresponding page numbers.
• Foreword/Publisher's Note: Pages 9 and 10 contain a publisher's note. It highlights that this is a re-publication (second edition) of the Uttaradhyayan Sutra, which was initially published in two parts with Sanskrit commentary and Gujarati translation. The first part, containing 18 Adhyayans, was well-received by Sadhus and Sadhvis, leading to the need for a quick re-publication due to high demand. The note expresses gratitude to Acharya Shri Vijaybhadrakarsurishwarji Maharaj for reviewing and making corrections, as well as to the contributors and the printing press (Shri Labdhi Printers). The publisher's aim is to provide scripture with meaning and commentary for the benefit of the readers, especially for their spiritual study (Swadhyaya).
• Introduction (Prākaśakīya Nivedan/Prākvachan): Pages 11 to 16 offer an extensive introduction to the significance of Swadhyaya (self-study) in Jainism.
  • It describes the soul's journey through various life forms in the cycle of existence (Samsara), likening it to a play where Karma acts as the director.
  • It emphasizes that the human birth, especially in a Jain household, is a precious opportunity to understand and practice the teachings of the Jinas.
  • Swadhyaya is presented as the "elixir" or "strong support" for maintaining and elevating the ascetic life. It's compared to essential elements like water, light, and air for living beings.
  • The text stresses that without Swadhyaya, an ascetic's life can become detrimental, leading to downfall. Swadhyaya is crucial for controlling the senses, the mind, and refining speech and actions.
  • It highlights the practices of ancient sages and kings who renounced worldly possessions and embraced the path of restraint, attributing their sustained discipline to Swadhyaya.
  • The analogy of a newlywed spouse constantly remembering their beloved is used to illustrate the continuous contemplation of scriptures by a sincere ascetic.
  • The teachings of the omniscient ones (Sarvajna Bhagavantas) as preserved in the Agamas are considered essential for soul purification and self-realization.
  • The Uttaradhyayan Sutra is particularly recommended for its accessibility, richness in spiritual themes, and its role as a foundational text for new ascetics.
  • The importance of understanding the original Prakrit language and the commentaries by great scholars is also mentioned.
  • The text mentions that Acharya Shrimad Vijaylabbhisurishwarji Maharaj himself relied heavily on the Uttaradhyayan Sutra in his old age for spiritual solace and peace, even memorizing it.
  • The translation into Gujarati by Purva Nyasji Shri Bhadrak Vijayji Ganivar is commended for its clarity and accuracy, with special attention paid to making it comprehensible for the readers.
• Correction Slip (Shuddhi Patra): Pages 17 to 21 contain a list of corrections for misprints in the original text, indicating a meticulous process of refinement for the publication.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 1: Vinay Shruta): Pages 22 to 37 provide the beginning of the first Adhyayan, "Vinay Shruta" (the Adhyayan on Etiquette/Humility). It explains the qualities of a virtuous disciple and the pitfalls of an undisciplined one, using analogies and admonitions to guide the reader on the path of respect and obedience towards one's preceptors. The text covers topics like:
  • The definition of a disciplined disciple.
  • The consequences of being undisciplined.
  • The importance of humility, patience, and avoiding undesirable company.
  • The need for proper conduct and speech.
  • The discipline of the mind and senses.
  • The role of self-control and introspection.
  • The proper way to approach and interact with teachers.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 2: Parishah): Pages 39 to 59 present the beginning of the second Adhyayan, "Parishah" (Endurance of Hardships).
  • It introduces the concept of 22 types of hardships that an ascetic must endure.
  • The text begins to list and explain these hardships, starting with hunger (Kshudha Parishah) and thirst (Pipasa Parishah).
  • It emphasizes the importance of equanimity and steadfastness in facing these challenges without deviating from the spiritual path.
  • The descriptions of the hardships are vivid, focusing on the physical and mental fortitude required.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 3: Chaturangeey): Pages 61 to 68 begin the third Adhyayan, "Chaturangeey" (The Four Essential Limbs/Components).
  • It highlights the rarity of four precious things in the world: Human birth, the opportunity to hear the Dharma, faith in the Dharma, and strength in practicing restraint (Sanyam).
  • It discusses the cyclical nature of birth and death through various life forms (human, celestial, hellish, animal), emphasizing the difficulty of attaining a human birth again once lost.
  • It stresses that even with a human birth, the opportunity to hear and practice the Dharma is rare, and even then, faith and the strength for restraint are difficult to attain.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 4: Pramada-Apramada): Pages 69 to 74 start the fourth Adhyayan, "Pramada-Apramada" (Negligence vs. Vigilance).
  • It strongly warns against negligence in spiritual practice, especially during youth, as old age and the inevitability of death are highlighted.
  • It elaborates on the transient nature of life, wealth, and relationships, emphasizing that only Karma accompanies the soul.
  • The text stresses that material possessions and worldly attachments cannot provide true refuge.
  • It advocates for constant vigilance and earnest spiritual effort (Apramada) to achieve liberation.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 5: Akammaraniya): Pages 75 to 88 cover the fifth Adhyayan, "Akammaraniya" (Unintended Death/Death without Desire).
  • It distinguishes between "Akammaraniya" (unintended death, often resulting from actions of others or accidents) and "Sakama Maran" (death by choice or voluntary death, like a Mahamuni embracing Sallekhana).
  • It describes the unfortunate state of those who indulge in sinful activities and face unintended deaths, leading to suffering in lower realms.
  • It contrasts this with the deliberate and peaceful departure of the enlightened, who have achieved mastery over their actions and desires.
  • The chapter explains how attachment to worldly pleasures and ignorance of the consequences lead to such unintended deaths and subsequent suffering.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 6: Kshullak Niganthiya): Pages 90 to 97 discuss the sixth Adhyayan, "Kshullak Niganthiya" (The Minor Unclothed Ascetic or a concept related to simple/minimalist asceticism).
  • It emphasizes detachment from worldly possessions, relationships, and even the body.
  • It highlights the importance of self-control, non-violence, and living a simple life, free from desires and attachments.
  • The text warns against the futility of mere ritualistic practices or intellectual knowledge without genuine spiritual practice and detachment.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 7: Urabriya): Pages 98 to 109 begins the seventh Adhyayan, "Urabriya" (related to sheep or the concept of guidance).
  • It uses the analogy of a sheep being fattened for slaughter to describe the fate of those engrossed in worldly pleasures, unaware of their impending doom.
  • It contrasts this with the path of righteousness and spiritual discipline, which leads to liberation.
  • The chapter warns against attachment to temporary pleasures and emphasizes the need for understanding the true nature of reality.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 8: Kapilīya): Pages 110 to 117 present the eighth Adhyayan, "Kapiliya," likely named after Muni Kapila.
  • It delves into the nature of Karma and its consequences, illustrating how actions (good or bad) shape one's destiny.
  • It emphasizes the importance of righteous conduct, detachment, and control over senses and desires for spiritual progress.
  • The chapter likely explores the teachings of Muni Kapila, a prominent sage.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 9: Nemi Pravrajya): Pages 118 to 139 discuss the ninth Adhyayan, "Nemi Pravrajya" (The Renunciation of Nemi).
  • It narrates the story of King Nemi, a prominent figure in Jain tradition, who renounced his kingdom and worldly pleasures for spiritual pursuit.
  • The chapter highlights the theme of renunciation as a path to liberation, contrasting the allure of worldly life with the ultimate peace found in spiritual discipline.
  • It may also contain the dialogue between Nemi and Indra, discussing the true meaning of happiness and detachment.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 10: Drumapatraka): Pages 141 to 154 cover the tenth Adhyayan, "Drumapatraka" (related to tree leaves or the transient nature of life).
  • It uses the analogy of falling leaves to illustrate the impermanence of life and the inevitability of death.
  • The chapter urges readers to remain vigilant and engaged in spiritual practice, as opportunities for spiritual growth are fleeting.
  • It emphasizes the importance of timely action and avoiding procrastination in one's spiritual journey.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 11: Bahushruta Puja): Pages 155 to 168 deal with the eleventh Adhyayan, "Bahushruta Puja" (The Veneration of the Learned Ascetic).
  • It emphasizes the virtues of a "Bahushruta" – a learned and disciplined monk.
  • It describes the ideal qualities of such an ascetic, including humility, obedience, self-control, detachment, and profound spiritual knowledge.
  • The chapter likely outlines the respect and veneration due to such enlightened souls.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 12: Harikeshiya): Pages 169 to 193 focus on the twelfth Adhyayan, "Harikeshiya," which narrates the story of Muni Harikeshi.
  • It details the life of Muni Harikeshi, a former weaver who attained spiritual enlightenment through rigorous discipline and detachment.
  • The story likely involves his interactions with materialistic individuals and his unwavering commitment to his spiritual path despite challenges.
  • It serves as an example of overcoming worldly attachments and achieving inner peace.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 13: Chitra Sambhuta): Pages 194 to 207 cover the thirteenth Adhyayan, "Chitra Sambhuta," narrating the story of Muni Chitra and his reunion with his former friend, King Sambhuta.
  • It explores themes of past actions, destiny, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation.
  • The chapter highlights the contrast between worldly pursuits and the ultimate goal of spiritual enlightenment.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 14: Ishukariya): Pages 208 to 236 discuss the fourteenth Adhyayan, "Ishukariya," possibly related to archery or a specific ritual.
  • It might contain a narrative illustrating the importance of righteous actions and the consequences of deviating from the spiritual path.
  • The story could involve characters facing moral dilemmas and making choices that impact their spiritual progress.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 15: Sabhmikshu): Pages 237 to 246 focus on the fifteenth Adhyayan, "Sabhmikshu" (The True Ascetic).
  • It defines the qualities and conduct of an ideal ascetic, emphasizing detachment, self-control, non-violence, and adherence to Jain principles.
  • The chapter likely provides guidance on maintaining purity of conduct and thought on the spiritual path.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 16: Brahmacharya Samadhisthana): Pages 247 to 266 deal with the sixteenth Adhyayan, "Brahmacharya Samadhisthana" (The Places of Steadfastness in Celibacy).
  • This chapter is dedicated to the principles and practices of Brahmacharya (celibacy and chastity) for ascetics.
  • It outlines various aspects of maintaining purity of mind, body, and speech, and the dangers of succumbing to temptations.
  • The text likely provides detailed guidance on how to cultivate and sustain this essential virtue.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 17: Papashramana): Pages 267 to 275 cover the seventeenth Adhyayan, "Papashramana" (Washing away of Sins).
  • It focuses on the conduct that leads to spiritual impurity and is detrimental to the ascetic's path, labeling such behavior as "Papashramana" (sinful asceticism).
  • The chapter likely lists various transgressions and provides admonitions to avoid them.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 18: Samyata): Pages 276 to 297 discuss the eighteenth Adhyayan, "Samyata" (Self-Control/Restraint).
  • It highlights the importance of self-control in all aspects of life for an ascetic.
  • It likely contains stories and teachings that illustrate the power of restraint in overcoming desires and achieving spiritual liberation.
  • The story of King Samjaya and his encounter with Muni Gardabhali is presented as a key narrative.
• Sample Content (Adhyayan 19: Mrigaputriya): Pages 298 to 333 are dedicated to the nineteenth Adhyayan, "Mrigaputriya," which recounts the story of Prince Mrigaputra.
  • It details his transformation from a prince engrossed in worldly pleasures to an ascetic devoted to spiritual practices.
  • The chapter emphasizes the impermanence of worldly life and the ultimate bliss found in detachment and spiritual pursuit.
  • It serves as an inspirational account of spiritual awakening and renunciation.

In essence, the provided pages offer a glimpse into the content and structure of the first part of the Uttaradhyayan Sutra, covering various Adhyayans that focus on spiritual discipline, ethical conduct, the transient nature of life, the path to liberation, and the importance of detachment and self-control in Jain philosophy.