Agam Deep 30B Chandravedhyak Gujarati Anuvaad

This document is a Gujarati translation and commentary called "Agam Deep 30B Chandravedhyak Gujarati Anuvaad," authored by Dipratnasagar and published by Agam Shrut Prakashan. It is part of a larger series titled "Agam Deep" which aims to provide commentary and Gujarati translations of various Jain Agamas (sacred texts).

Key aspects covered in this specific portion of the work:

• Focus on "Chandravedhyak" (also referred to as "Chandaajaya" or "Chandaavejjaya"): This is identified as the seventh Prakirnaka (miscellaneous) scripture within the Jain Agamas. The commentary focuses on the profound and essential meanings of this text, which is considered a guide to the path of liberation.
• Emphasis on Vinaya (Humility/Respect): A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the importance and benefits of vinaya. It elaborates on:
  • The disastrous consequences of disrespecting one's Guru or spiritual teacher.
  • How learning and knowledge are only fruitful when acquired with humility and proper conduct.
  • The praise received by those who practice vinaya.
  • The concept that vinaya is the gateway to liberation.
  • The idea that true knowledge and vinaya are interconnected.
• Qualities of an Acharya (Spiritual Teacher): The text outlines the ideal qualities of an Acharya, describing them as:
  • Tolerant and patient like the earth.
  • Unwavering in their Dharma like Mount Meru.
  • Gentle and radiant like the moon.
  • Discreet about disciples' faults.
  • Knowledgeable about the right time, place, and circumstances for teachings.
  • Not hasty in their actions.
  • Free from illusion.
  • A guide for their disciples in spiritual practice.
  • Possessing knowledge of various scriptures, both Jain and non-Jain.
• Qualities of a Shishya (Disciple): The text also details the characteristics of an ideal disciple, which include:
  • Humility and lack of ego.
  • Appreciation of virtues.
  • Understanding the Guru's intent.
  • Endurance of hardships (heat, cold, hunger, thirst, etc.).
  • Equanimity in gain or loss.
  • Limited desires and contentment.
  • Diligence in study and practice.
  • Praiseworthy conduct.
• The Interplay of Knowledge and Conduct (Jnana and Charitra): The commentary repeatedly emphasizes that mere knowledge without proper conduct (charitra) is insufficient for liberation. Similarly, conduct without knowledge is incomplete. They are both essential and interdependent.
• The Importance of Spiritual Practice (Tapa and Samyama): The text highlights the significance of austerities (tapa) and self-control (samyama) in purifying the soul and achieving liberation. It suggests that consistent practice of these disciplines leads to spiritual progress.
• Samadhi Maran (Peaceful Death): A considerable section is dedicated to the nature of a peaceful death, emphasizing that it is achieved through consistent spiritual practice, the conquering of desires and passions, and adherence to virtuous conduct throughout life. It draws analogies to illustrate how preparation and practice are crucial for facing the end of life with equanimity.
• Purity of Character and Actions: The text stresses the importance of purifying one's actions and intentions, particularly through confession and penance (prayaschitta), to remove past karmic impurities and achieve spiritual progress.
• The Value of Jain Agamas: The work is presented as a commentary on a specific Agama, highlighting the comprehensive nature of the "Agam Deep" series, which aims to cover all the significant Jain scriptures.
• Sponsorship and Publication Details: The front matter of the book includes acknowledgments to sponsors and details about the printing and composing of the work.

In essence, "Agam Deep 30B Chandravedhyak Gujarati Anuvaad" is a scholarly work that delves into the profound spiritual teachings of Jainism, with a particular focus on the virtues of vinaya, the qualities of spiritual guides and disciples, and the path to liberation through knowledge and righteous conduct, culminating in a peaceful death.