Agam Sudha Sindhu Part 03

This document is Part 03 of "Agam Sudha Sindhu" (Ocean of Agamic Nectar), a Jain text compiled and edited by Gyānvijay Gani. Published by Harshpushpamrut Jain Granthmala, it is the 70th publication of the Granthmala.

The book is the third volume and specifically contains the latter half (Uttarardha) of the Shrimad Bhagavati Sutra, also known as the Shrimadvyakhyāprajñapti Sutra, which was originally composed by the fifth Ganadhara, Shrí Sudharmaswami.

Key Highlights from the Prefaces and Content:

• Purpose of the Publication: The publication aims to make the 45 principal Agamas, which are the foundation of Jain teachings, accessible for study and preservation. The Granthmala has undertaken a project to edit and publish these 45 Agamas in 14 parts. This is the third part of that series.
• Content of this Volume: This volume covers chapters 13 to 41 of the Shrimad Bhagavati Sutra.
• Inspiration and Guidance: The work is dedicated to and inspired by the teachings of Tāpōmūrti Pujyāchārya Dev Shri Vijay Kapūr Sūri and Hālar Dēshōddhārak Pujyāchārya Dev Shri Vijay Amrut Sūri. The editor, Gyānvijay Gani, is a disciple of Pujyāchārya Dev Shri Vijay Amrut Sūri.
• Importance of Agamas: The text emphasizes the vital role of the Agamas (Jinvani) as the source of knowledge and the guiding principle for the Jain tradition. It highlights how the teachings lead to purification of knowledge, perception, conduct, austerity, and vigor, ultimately paving the path to liberation.
• Scope of Agamic Knowledge: The text mentions that while 45 principal Agamas are recognized, there is also knowledge in an additional 84 Agamas. It also acknowledges the existence of various commentaries, interpretations, and elaborations on the original Agamas.
• Editorial Process: The editors have used various published versions of the Bhagavati Sutra, including those with commentaries, to produce this revised and comprehensive edition. They express gratitude to all the authors, editors, and publishers whose works were consulted.
• Target Audience: The Agamas are considered the authority for ascetics (Munivars) and their study is crucial for spiritual progress. The publication is intended to facilitate this study and the propagation of Jain teachings through religious discourses.
• Dedication: The third volume is dedicated to Pujyāchārya Shri Vijay Amrut Sūri Mahārāj, acknowledging his profound contributions to Jainism through his teachings, advocacy for truth, efforts in restoring pilgrimage sites, ascetic practices, and selfless service.
• Table of Contents: The book includes a detailed index (Anukramaṇikā) listing the chapters (Shatak) and sections (Uddeshak) covered, along with their respective page numbers. The volume appears to cover portions of the Bhagavati Sutra from the 13th to potentially later chapters as indicated by the broad chapter range.
• Language and Script: The text is in Gujarati (as evidenced by the editorial notes and felicitations) and appears to be printed in a clear, large font for ease of reading and study.

In essence, "Agam Sudha Sindhu Part 03" is a significant Jain scripture that presents a critical edition of the latter half of the Bhagavati Sutra, aimed at promoting the understanding and practice of Jain philosophy and spiritual principles.