Agam Sudha Sindhu Part 14 - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Agam Sudha Sindhu Part 14," authored by Jinendravijay Gani and published by Harshpushpamrut Jain Granthmala. The text itself contains the Nandisutra and the Anuyogadvarasutra, two significant canonical texts within the Shvetambara Jain tradition.

Overall Purpose and Context:

The publication of "Agam Sudha Sindhu Part 14" is part of a larger project by Harshpushpamrut Jain Granthmala to print and make accessible all 45 original Agam scriptures in a systematic manner. This particular volume, the 14th in the series, focuses on two key texts that are essential for understanding Jain philosophy and practice. The editorial notes emphasize the importance of the Agamas as the lifeblood of Jainism, especially in times of spiritual decline. They highlight that studying these scriptures with the correct methodology (vaachana, prichchhana, paravartana, anupreksha, dharmakatha) leads to the purification and strengthening of all aspects of Jain practice (jnana, darshana, charitra, tapa, virya), ultimately leading to the upliftment of the faith.

Key Content of the Volume:

Nandisutra (श्री नन्दीसूत्रम्):
- Author: Shruti Sthavir Shrimad Devagachchhi Ganivar, a disciple of Shruti Sthavir Shrimad Rishabhagachchhi Ganindra.
- Content: This sutra is primarily concerned with the classification and explanation of knowledge (jnana) according to Jain philosophy. It systematically details:
  - The five types of knowledge: Abhinnibodhika (sensory and mental knowledge), Shruta (scriptural knowledge), Avadhi (clairvoyance), Manahparyaya (telepathy), and Kevala (omniscience).
  - The division of knowledge into pratyaksha (direct) and paroksha (indirect).
  - Detailed explanations of the origins, scope, and classifications of Avadhi knowledge, including its bhavapratyayika (dependent on karma and disposition) and kshayo-pashamika (dependent on destruction and subsidence of karma) aspects, as well as its variations like anugamika (flowing) and anana-ugamika (non-flowing).
  - The nature and development of Manahparyaya knowledge, specifying the types of beings and conditions under which it arises.
  - The characteristics of Kevala knowledge, describing its manifestation in samyogi (with body) and ayogi (without body) states, and its attainment by different categories of liberated souls (anantara-siddha and parampara-siddha).
  - The classification of paroksha knowledge into Abhinnibodhika and Shruta.
  - A thorough exploration of Shruta knowledge, including its divisions based on letters (akshara) and absence of letters (an-akshara), its correctness (samyak) and incorrectness (mithya), its dependence on analysis (sannipata) and lack thereof, and its foundational scriptural divisions.
  - The Angas (limbs) of the Jain Agamas are systematically listed and briefly described, outlining their structure and content. This section is particularly important for understanding the framework of Jain scripture.
  - The text also delves into the nuances of linguistic and conceptual categories such as nama (name), sthapana (designation/symbol), dravya (substance), bhava (state), sheya (inferential), anuga (following), naya (viewpoint), and samavaya (classification/combination) as they relate to understanding the Agamas.
Anuyogadvarasutra (श्रीमदनुयोगद्वार-सूत्रम्):
- Attributed to: Shrimad Ganadharvar Shri Gautam Swami's vachana (teaching).
- Content: This sutra is foundational for understanding the methodology of Jain scriptural interpretation and analysis (Anuyoga). It focuses on the process of understanding and explaining the Agamas through various analytical frameworks. Key areas covered include:
  - The importance of Shruta knowledge: It emphasizes that while other types of knowledge are important, Shruta knowledge (derived from the Agamas) is the primary means for understanding the teachings of the Tirthankaras, especially regarding the classifications and the process of Anuyoga.
  - Classification of 'Shruta': It elaborates on Shruta knowledge based on its derivation (Agama vs. non-Agama), its nature (dravya vs. bhava), and various methods of classification (nama, sthapana, dravya, bhava).
  - Analysis of 'Avalis' and 'Kalas': It provides detailed classifications and calculations of time units, from the smallest samaya (moment) up to vast epochs like palyopama and sagaropama, including specific time durations for various beings and celestial realms. This section highlights the intricate cosmic time scales in Jain cosmology.
  - Classification of 'Kalas' (Time): It meticulously categorizes time units from the smallest temporal divisions to vast cosmic cycles, providing numerical values and comparisons.
  - Classification of 'Shariras' (Bodies): It describes the different types of bodies possessed by beings across various states of existence (hellish beings, infernal beings, human beings, celestial beings, and subtle beings) and their respective lifespans, sizes, and characteristics.
  - Naya (Approaches to Truth): It elaborates on the seven main nayavadas (viewpoints) in Jainism: Nigama (inclusive), Sangraha (collection), Vyavahara (practical/conventional), Rjusutra (straightforward), Shabda (word-based), Samabhirudha (compound-word based), and Evabhuta (essence-based). Each naya is explained in terms of its application and how it helps understand reality.
  - The concept of 'Avasyak' (Duties/Essentials): It delves into the meaning and classification of avasyakas, essential practices and observances for spiritual progress.
  - The classification of 'Gati' (Destiny/Realm of Existence): It provides a detailed breakdown of the four realms of existence (hellish, animal, human, celestial) and the types of beings within them.
  - The classification of 'Pramana' (Means of Knowledge): It discusses the different ways of knowing and measuring things, including direct perception (pratyaksha) and inference (anumana).

Editorial and Publisher's Notes:

Editor/Reviser: Pt. Jinendravijay Gani, a disciple of Tapomurti Acharyadev Shrimad Vijaykapoor Surishwarji and inheritor of the lineage of Halar Deshodharak Kaviratna Acharyadev Shrimad Vijayamrut Surishwarji.
Publisher: Shri Harshpushpamrut Jain Granthmala, Lakhabaaval-Shantipur (Saurashtra), Gujarat.
Significance of the Work: The editorial section highlights the profound importance of the Jain Agamas, describing them as the "source of nectar" and the "life of the Jain religion." It acknowledges the efforts to bring these ancient scriptures to the public, noting that previous volumes of "Agam Sudha Sindhu" have already been released. The detailed editing and referencing of various commentaries and ancient texts used in the preparation of these volumes are emphasized.
Dedication: The volume is dedicated to the spiritual lineage of the publisher and editor, honoring the masters who have contributed to the preservation and dissemination of Jain scriptures.
Errata (Shuddhipatrakam): A list of corrections is provided, indicating meticulous proofreading and a commitment to accuracy.

In essence, "Agam Sudha Sindhu Part 14" is a scholarly and devotional effort to present two vital Jain scriptures, the Nandisutra and the Anuyogadvarasutra, in a comprehensible and accessible format. It serves as a critical resource for students, scholars, and practitioners of Jainism seeking to deepen their understanding of Jain epistemology, cosmology, and scriptural exegesis.