Agam Sutra Satik 25 Aaturprtyakhyan PainngSutra 02

This Jain text, Agam Sutra Satik 25 Aaturprtyakhyan PainngSutra 02, part of the larger "Agam Sutra Satik" series, focuses on the Aaturpratyakhyana Prakirnaka Sutra. It is a commentary (Satik) on this specific Jain scripture, with Muni Deepratnasagar serving as the researcher and editor.

Here's a comprehensive summary based on the provided text:

Core Subject:

The primary focus of this text is the Aaturpratyakhyana Prakirnaka Sutra, which deals with the concept of "Aatur Maran" (Aatur Maran). This refers to dying when one is ill or in a state of suffering. The sutra, and by extension this text, elaborates on the Jain principles and practices related to such deaths, emphasizing "Pratyakhyana" (renunciation or fasting) performed by the sick for spiritual benefit.

Key Themes and Concepts Discussed:

• Types of Death: The text distinguishes between different types of death:
  • Bal Maran (Childish Death): A death that occurs without proper understanding or preparation, often due to ignorance.
  • Bal Pandit Maran (Child-Sage Death): A death where the individual has some understanding of Jain principles (like partial vows) but still dies in a state of illness without full preparation or possibly due to unexpected circumstances. This is a significant focus.
  • Pandit Maran (Sage Death): A death achieved with full knowledge, spiritual preparation, and adherence to Jain principles. This is considered the ideal.
• Pratyakhyana (Renunciation/Fasting): The sutra details the practice of pratyakhyana for the sick. This involves voluntary renunciation of food, water, or other bodily functions as a means of spiritual purification and preparation for death.
• The Role of Vows (Anuvratas and Mahavratas): The text emphasizes the importance of observing vows (both partial and full) in achieving a favorable death. It discusses how the adherence to vows, even partial ones (desavirati), contributes to a better outcome during illness and death.
• Spiritual Preparation: The text highlights the importance of introspection, repentance (Pratikraman), confession of sins (Alochna), and overcoming negative emotions (like anger, pride, greed, attachment) as crucial elements for a peaceful and spiritually beneficial death.
• The Importance of the Soul and its Nature: The text touches upon the eternal nature of the soul (atma), its knowledge, and its eventual liberation. It contrasts the soul with external worldly possessions and experiences, emphasizing that only the soul's purity matters for liberation.
• The Path to Liberation (Moksha): The ultimate goal discussed is liberation from the cycle of birth and death (Samsara). The sutra and its commentary guide the reader on how to achieve this through proper conduct, knowledge, and renunciation, especially during the final moments of life.
• The Role of the Guru: The importance of seeking guidance from a Guru is implied, as repentance and confessions are often done in the presence of a spiritual master.
• Meditation and Contemplation: The text mentions various forms of meditation and contemplation (Dhyana) related to overcoming negative states and focusing on spiritual goals.
• Consequences of Actions: It underscores the impact of actions (Karma) on one's rebirth and spiritual journey, particularly highlighting the dire consequences of dying with improper states of mind or without spiritual preparation (e.g., leading to lower realms of existence).
• The "Pandit Maran" and "Bal Pandit Maran" Explained: The text provides detailed explanations and verses defining "Bal Pandit Maran," which involves dying while having taken partial vows or practicing partial renunciation. It contrasts this with "Pandit Maran," which is a death achieved with complete spiritual understanding and practice.
• Repentance and Forgiveness: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the ritual of "Pratikraman" (repentance) and "Michhami Dukkadam" (seeking forgiveness for sins). This includes a comprehensive list of potential transgressions and negative mental states that one should confess and seek forgiveness for.

Structure and Content (as indicated by the Table of Contents and sampled verses):

The text is structured as a detailed commentary on the Aaturpratyakhyana Prakirnaka Sutra. It appears to:

• Define and explain key terms: Such as "Bal Pandit Maran," "Pratyakhyana," "Anuvratas," etc.
• Present verses from the original sutra: These verses are then elaborated upon in the commentary.
• Provide examples and analogies: To illustrate the concepts.
• Discuss the spiritual significance of various practices: Like fasting, meditation, and repentance.
• Explain the merits of a virtuous death: And the consequences of an unprepared one.

Overall Purpose:

The ultimate purpose of this text is to guide Jain practitioners on how to face illness and death with spiritual equanimity and preparation. It emphasizes that even in the face of illness, through proper renunciation (pratyakhyana) and spiritual practice, one can achieve a beneficial death, leading to a better rebirth and ultimately paving the way for liberation. The text serves as a manual for spiritual discipline during critical life transitions.