Agam Satik Part 30 MahaNisith Aadi Sutra Gujarati Anuwad

This Jain text, "Agam Satik Part 30 MahaNisith Aadi Sutra Gujarati Anuwad" by Dipratnasagar, Deepratnasagar, published by Shrutnidhi Ahmedabad, is a commentary and Gujarati translation of the Mahanishith Sutra. This specific volume, Part 30 of a larger series of 42 volumes, focuses on the Mahanishith Sutra, which is the sixth and final Cheda Sutra in Jain tradition.

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

• Title and Attribution: The book is titled "Agam Satik Anuwad" (Commentaried Agama Sutra Translation). The translator and creator of the translation series is Muni Deepratnasagar.
• Dedication and Blessings: The text begins with salutations and dedications to various spiritual figures and gurus, including Bal Brahmachari Shri Neminaath, Shri Anand-Kshama-Lalit-Sushil-Sudharma Sagar, and esteemed Acharyashris like Ruchichandrasurishwarji, Devendrasagarsuriji, and Harshasuriji. It acknowledges their inspiration and financial support for the massive undertaking of translating the Agamas.
• Content of Part 30: This volume specifically covers Adhyayan (Chapter) 1 to Adhyayan 8 of the Mahanishith Sutra, which is identified as Cheda Sutra-6.
• Mahanishith Sutra's Nature: The Mahanishith Sutra is described as a text that emphasizes the purity of the ascetic life (Sanyam Jeevan). While it primarily deals with the conduct of ascetics (Charan Kriyaanuuyog), it also incorporates narratives (Kathanuyog) of figures like Lakshmana Sadhvi and Nandipen Muni. It also touches upon some aspects of material offerings (Dravyastav) and inner devotion (Bhavastav).
• Key Themes: The text highlights the importance of attaining "Vardhmana Vidya" (a form of spiritual knowledge or power) and clearly explains how to achieve it. It emphasizes the practice of "Nishalya Prayashchitta" (penance without inner impurity or malice) and the observance of Gachha (monastic community) boundaries.
• Target Audience: The text is considered highly beneficial for monks and nuns (Sadhu-Sadhvi) as it outlines essential principles for their spiritual practice and conduct. It also suggests that the teachings can bring about significant positive changes in the lives of lay followers (Shravak-Shravika) as well.
• Recension: The text mentions that the Mahanishith Sutra was re-edited based on a fresh review of the original Agama.
• Specifics of Adhyayan 1 (Shalya Udharan): This chapter focuses heavily on the concept of "Shalya" (impurity, malice, inner thorn). It details:
  • The importance of living a pure life, free from shalyas.
  • The various forms of shalyas, including those arising from attachment, aversion, delusion, desires, passions, ego, pride, anger, greed, and attachment to status, wealth, or spiritual powers.
  • The adverse consequences of carrying shalyas, leading to suffering in this life and future births.
  • The process of identifying, confessing (Allochna), and performing penance (Prayashchitta) to remove these shalyas.
  • The text delves into the methods of achieving purity through knowledge, contemplation, and right conduct, emphasizing that mere outward austerity without inner purity is fruitless.
  • It also provides examples of how individuals, through sincere penance and purification, achieved liberation (Moksha) and even omniscience (Keval Gyan).
  • The latter part of Adhyayan 1 discusses the importance of observing vows and conduct correctly, the detrimental effects of improper conduct (Atichar), and the significance of humility and forgiveness. It lists various spiritual practices and their outcomes.
• Specifics of Adhyayan 2 (Vipak Pratipadan): This chapter focuses on the consequences (Vipak) of actions, particularly in relation to suffering and the cycle of rebirth.
  • It begins by describing the inherent suffering in all forms of existence, from the smallest organisms to higher beings, highlighting the pain of birth, death, disease, old age, and separation from loved ones.
  • It categorizes suffering into physical and mental pain and elaborates on their intensity.
  • The text uses vivid analogies to illustrate the subtle nature of karma and its impact.
  • It emphasizes the interconnectedness of actions and consequences, warning against even minor transgressions.
  • A significant portion of this chapter discusses the harmful effects of associating with the unvirtuous or those with flawed understanding (Kushil). It details the various types of Kushil (e.g., those who distort scriptures, harbor wrong views, or violate conduct) and the severe consequences of such association, leading to spiritual downfall and prolonged suffering in the cycle of rebirth.
  • It includes illustrative stories and examples to emphasize these points.
• Specifics of Adhyayan 3 (Kushil Sansarg): This chapter continues the theme of the negative influences of associating with the unvirtuous (Kushil) and delves into the qualities of a true preceptor (Guru) and the disciple's conduct.
  • It defines different types of Kushil and the severe consequences of their association.
  • It elaborates on the importance of choosing a righteous preceptor and the qualities that define a true Guru (e.g., adherence to scriptures, compassion, knowledge, austerity, detachment).
  • The text highlights the critical need for disciples to follow the Guru's teachings diligently and the grave consequences of disobedience or misinterpretation.
  • It also discusses the importance of the monastic community (Gachha) and the rules governing its conduct.
• Specifics of Adhyayan 4 (Geetarth Vihar): This chapter appears to focus on proper conduct and the importance of following the teachings of enlightened beings (Geetarth).
  • It contrasts the true path with incorrect paths and the dangers of misunderstanding or misinterpreting the teachings.
  • It includes cautionary tales and examples of individuals who strayed from the right path due to flawed understanding or association with the unvirtuous, leading to severe karmic consequences.
  • The narrative of Sujan and Nagil, and the story of the Brahmakumara and the consequences of Maya are presented as examples.
• Specifics of Adhyayan 5 (Naveent Saar): This chapter seems to elaborate on the essence (Saar) of certain teachings and potentially provides further examples or explanations related to the previous chapters. The story of Sujneshri and the consequences of her actions is a significant part of this Adhyayan, highlighting the karmic repercussions of even subtle deviations from the path.
• Specifics of Adhyayan 6 (Geetarth Vihar): This chapter continues with the theme of correct conduct and the importance of associating with virtuous individuals and following the teachings of the enlightened. The story of Sujneshri's journey through various lifetimes due to her actions is further explored.
• Specifics of Adhyayan 7 (Prayashchit Sutra Chulika-1, Ekant Nirjara): This section focuses on Prayashchitta (penance/atonement) and the concept of Ekanta Nirjara (exclusive shedding of karma). It details the various types of penance and their significance in purifying the soul and achieving liberation. It also discusses the gravity of different transgressions and the corresponding penances required.
• Specifics of Adhyayan 8 (Chulika-2, Susadh Katha): This chapter concludes the commentary on Mahanishith with the story of Susadh. This narrative appears to be a lengthy and detailed account illustrating the consequences of actions, the importance of right conduct, the path to spiritual liberation, and the role of preceptors and disciples. The story involves themes of karma, penance, the consequences of association, and the ultimate attainment of liberation.
• Publisher's Note: The publication is part of a comprehensive series of Agama translations, indicating a significant effort to make these sacred texts accessible. The publisher, Shrutnidhi Ahmedabad, is involved in disseminating Jain literature.
• Overall Purpose: The Mahanishith Sutra, as presented in this commentary, serves as a guide for ascetics and lay followers alike, offering profound insights into spiritual discipline, ethical conduct, and the path to liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The emphasis is on inner purity, right understanding, and the eradication of impurities through diligent practice and adherence to the teachings of the Tirthankaras.

In essence, this volume is a profound and detailed exposition of the Mahanishith Sutra, aiming to illuminate the path to spiritual purity and liberation for its readers through a comprehensive translation and insightful commentary.