Agam Adhyayan Ki Maulik Vidhi Ka Shastriya Vishleshan

This document is Volume 8 of an 8-volume series titled "Agam Adhyayan Ki Maulik Vidhi Ka Shastriya Vishleshan" (A Scholarly Analysis of the Fundamental Methodology of Agam Study), authored by Dr. Sadhvi Saumyagunashreeji. It was published by Prachya Vidyapith in 2012-13. The catalog link provided is for the JainQQ.org archive.

The book is a D.Litt. thesis that provides a comparative and critical study of Jain legal provisions and methodologies. This volume, specifically, focuses on the scholarly analysis of the fundamental methods of Agam study within Jainism.

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

Core Subject:

• Agam Adhyayan (Study of Jain Agams): The central theme revolves around the proper and systematic study of Jain Agams, which are considered the most ancient and authentic scriptural texts in Jainism, akin to the Quran in Islam, Vedas in Hinduism, or the Bible in Christianity.
• Maulik Vidhi (Fundamental Methodology): The book delves into the core principles and methods for studying these sacred texts.
• Shastriya Vishleshan (Scholarly Analysis): It emphasizes a rigorous, academic, and analytical approach to understanding the Agams.

Key Concepts and Sections:

1. Introduction and Context (Pages 1-6):

   • Sponsorship and Acknowledgements: The initial pages show acknowledgements to various revered Jain Acharyas and scholars, including invited blessings and dedications, highlighting the spiritual and intellectual lineage guiding this research.
   • Mentorship: Dr. Saumyagunashreeji's research was guided by Dr. Sagarmal Jain, indicating a strong academic foundation.
   • Publisher and Series: Published by Prachya Vidyapith, it is identified as Volume 8 of a larger D.Litt. work.
   • Key Figures: Revered figures like Pravartini Shri Sajjan Shriji M.S.A. and Shashi Prabha Shriji M.S.A. are mentioned, suggesting their significant role in promoting and guiding Agam study.
   • Dedication: The work is dedicated to Pujya Acharya Shri Majjin Kailassagar Surishwarji M.S.A. and others, indicating deep reverence for spiritual mentors.
   • Publication Details: Lists publishers (Prachya Vidyapith, Sajjanmani Granthmala), edition details, and ISBN.

2. Editorial and Academic Perspectives (Pages 13-24):

   • Importance of Agams: The editorial section emphasizes the foundational role of Agams in Jain ethics and philosophy, comparing their significance to scriptures in other major religions.
   • Traditions: It discusses the differences in the acceptance and study of Agams between the Shvetambara (specifically Murti-pujak, Terapanthi, and Sthanakvasi) and Digambara traditions. The Digambara tradition believes the Ang Agams are lost, hence they focus on other foundational texts.
   • Yogodvahan: This is a crucial concept discussed extensively. It is described as the process of studying Agams with specific spiritual and physical disciplines, involving concentration, special austerities, and proper application of mind, speech, and body. Different traditions interpret Yogodvahan differently, with the Shvetambara Murti-pujak tradition emphasizing specific yogic practices tied to austerities for each Agam.
   • Historical Context of Agam Study: The text touches upon ancient commentaries and the study methods outlined by Acharya Jinprabh Suri in "Vidhimargaprappa."
   • The author's (Sadhvi Saumyagunashreeji's) contribution: It is praised for its thorough research into ancient and later texts on Yogodvahan, a difficult subject with limited Hindi literature. Her work is seen as a commendable effort to present an authentic form of this practice.
   • Loss of Knowledge: The text laments the loss of many ritualistic and procedural texts, often due to their ancient languages, and highlights Sadhvi Saumyagunashreeji's effort to revive awareness of these vital procedures.

3. Detailed Chapter Outline (Pages 56-59):

   • Chapter 1: Jain Agam: An Introduction: Covers the meaning of "Agam," its types, authors, history of oral traditions, fragmentation of Agams, early compilation efforts (Vachanas), the beginning of Agam writing, classification of Agams (Ang, Upang, Mool, Chhed, Prakirnak, Chulika), language of Agams (Ardhamagadhi), number of Agams, and introductions to the twelve Ang Sutras.
   • Chapter 2: Anadhyay Vidhi: An Agamic Reflection: Discusses the concept of "Anadhyay" (inauspicious times for study), its types (related to sky phenomena, physical impurities, festivals, and times of day like twilight), and the faults of studying during these periods.
   • Chapter 3: Swadhyay-Bhav Chikitsa Ki Prayog Vidhi (Methodology of Self-Study as Soul Therapy): Focuses on Swadhyay (self-study), its types, necessity, fruits, rules, and its role as a medicine for inner ailments.
   • Chapter 4: Yogodvahan: A Discussion: Delves into the concept of Yogodvahan, its etymology, types of Yoga in Jainism, qualifications of Yogavahi (one who performs Yogodvahan) and the guiding Acharya, suitable locations, timing, and the historical development of Yogodvahan.
   • Chapter 5: Various Vidhis Related to Yogodvahan: Details specific rituals and procedures within Yogodvahan, such as Yog Pravesh Vidhi, Yoga Nandi Vidhi, Uddesh Vidhi, Kal Grahana Vidhi, Vasant Shuddhi, Pavedana Vidhi, Nontra Vidhi, and so on.
   • Chapter 6: Yog Tap (Agam Adhyayan) Ki Shastriya Vidhi: This chapter likely provides the specific ascetic practices (tapas) associated with the study of individual Agams like Acharanga, Sutrakritanga, Sthana, Samavaya, Bhagavati, etc., including the Angas, Upangas, Chhed Sutras, and Prakirnak Sutras.
   • Chapter 7: Kalpatrep Vidhi Ka Samachariigat Adhyayan: Focuses on the ritualistic study (Samachari) of Kalpatrep, which involves purification rituals.

4. Biographical Sketches (Pages 26-31):

   • Pujya Pravartini Sajjan Shriji M.Sa.: An introduction to Sadhviji, highlighting her unique life journey across different Jain traditions (birth in Terapanth, marriage in Sthanakvasi, Diksha in Khartargachh), her scholarly prowess, and her contributions to Jain literature.
   • Pujya Shashi Prabha Shriji M.Sa.: An introduction to Sadhviji, emphasizing her dedication to spiritual practice, knowledge, and leadership within the spiritual community, and her role as a guiding light for Sadhvi Saumyagunashreeji.

5. The Research Journey (Pages 32-42):

   • Sadhvi Saumyagunashreeji's Dedication: This section details the extensive 17-year journey of research undertaken by Sadhvi Saumyagunashreeji, overcoming numerous obstacles, the complexity of the subject, and the meticulous effort involved in producing 23 volumes.
   • Inspiration and Guidance: The inspiration to research "Vidhimargaprappa" is linked to the wish of her Guru, Pujya Pravartini Shri Sajjan Shriji M.S.A.
   • Challenges and Support: The narrative highlights the challenges faced, such as language barriers (learning Prakrit), navigating university regulations, and the support received from various individuals and organizations. The critical role of Dr. Sagarmal Jain and Muni Shri Ratnayashvijayji M.S.A. in guiding and refining the research is particularly noted.
   • Publication and Impact: The eventual publication of the research, the recognition it received, and its potential usefulness for the Jain monastic and lay communities are discussed.

6. Anubhav Ki Urmiyan (Waves of Experience):

   • Shrut Dharma and Charitra Dharma: Discusses the interconnectedness of scriptural knowledge (Shrut Dharma) and righteous conduct (Charitra Dharma) in Jainism.
   • Yogodvahan as a Synthesis: Yogodvahan is presented as a practice that synthesizes knowledge and action, aiding in spiritual progression.
   • Nature of Yoga: Yoga is described as a path to self-realization, distinct from mere philosophical or traditional labels. It's emphasized as an inner discipline that transcends specific traditions.
   • Five Types of Yoga in Jainism: Mentions Adhyatmik Yoga, Bhavna Yoga, Dhyan Yoga, Samata Yoga, and Vrittisankshep Yoga, all of which are integrated into Yogodvahan.
   • Purpose for Monastics: Clarifies why Yogodvahan is essential for monks and nuns, even though they are constantly engaged in spiritual practices. It's about becoming a worthy vessel for profound knowledge, fostering respect for scriptures, and purifying oneself for spiritual ascent.
   • Benefits of Tap and Austerities: Highlights how austerities during Yogodvahan lead to physical control, leading to control over speech and mind, ultimately fostering concentration crucial for learning.

Overall Significance:

The book "Agam Adhyayan Ki Maulik Vidhi Ka Shastriya Vishleshan" (Volume 8) is a significant academic and spiritual work. It aims to:

• Systematize and analyze the fundamental methodologies of studying Jain Agams.
• Explain and preserve the intricate and often obscure practices of Yogodvahan, crucial for the authentic understanding and practice of Jain scriptures, particularly within the Shvetambara tradition.
• Bridge the gap between ancient Jain scriptural knowledge and modern understanding.
• Highlight the importance of discipline, asceticism, and spiritual guidance in the pursuit of profound religious knowledge.
• Serve as a comprehensive resource for scholars, monks, nuns, and dedicated lay followers interested in the deeper aspects of Jain scripture study.

The author, Sadhvi Saumyagunashreeji, through her extensive research, provides a detailed and scholarly exploration of these vital aspects of Jain tradition.