Auppatik Sutra

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Auppatik Sutra" based on the provided PDF excerpt:

The Auppatik Sutra, also known as "Uvvaiy," is considered the first among the twelve Upangas (subsidiary scriptures) of the Jain Agamas, and it is often seen as an Upanga of the Achāranga Sutra. Authored by the Fourteenth Purvadhar Sthavir, this scripture is renowned for its detailed and vivid descriptions of various subjects, making it a valuable reference for understanding historical, social, and cultural aspects of ancient India from a Jain perspective.

Key Aspects and Content of the Auppatik Sutra:

• Name and Meaning: The name "Auppatik" derives from "upapāt," which means "birth" or "descent." The scripture is named so because it describes the birth (upapāt) of deities, hell-dwellers, and other beings, as well as their eventual liberation (siddhi-gamana).
• Descriptive Style: The Sutra is primarily written in a descriptive prose style, interspersed with some poetic compositions. It excels in creating vivid "word-pictures" (shabdachitra) of places and events.
• Narrative Structure: The text begins with a picturesque description of Champanagari, a prosperous and beautiful city. This is followed by detailed accounts of the Purnabhadra Chaitya (a sacred grove or temple) and a Vana Khanda (forest area).
• Mahavir's Arrival and Teachings: A significant portion of the Sutra narrates the arrival of Lord Mahavir in Champa. It provides a profound description of his physical attributes, spiritual qualities, and the serene assembly of his disciples. The scripture also details the spiritual fervor, detachment, and ascetic practices of Mahavir's followers.
• Twelve Types of Austerities (Tapas): The Auppatik Sutra elaborates extensively on the twelve types of austerities (Anashanadi 12 Tapas), a cornerstone of Jain spiritual practice. It categorizes and explains these austerities in detail, highlighting their significance for self-purification and spiritual progress. This includes the sub-divisions of austerities like Anashan (fasting) and Bhikshacharya (alms-round), explaining concepts like itvarik (limited period) and yavatskthik (lifelong) renunciation, and the nuances of dravya avmodarika (moderation in material possessions) and bhava avmodarika (moderation in passions).
• King Karnik and His Court: The scripture describes King Karnik of Champa, portraying him as a righteous and benevolent ruler. It also details the various officials and dignitaries in his court, including ministers, treasurers, generals, merchants, and border guards.
• Royal and Divine Assembly: The arrival of King Karnik, his queens, and the royal court to witness Lord Mahavir is described with great detail. The assembly also includes celestial beings (devas) and a large gathering of people, all drawn to the divine presence of Mahavir. The scripture vividly portrays the grandeur of the deities, their adornments, and the collective enthusiasm of the populace.
• Purpose of Detailed Descriptions: The Sutra's detailed descriptions of worldly aspects like cities, royal courts, and divine assemblies serve multiple purposes:
  • To accurately depict the places where spiritual events occurred.
  • To illustrate that even immense material and divine prosperity bows before the renunciation and spiritual attainment of ascetics, thereby highlighting the insignificance of worldly possessions.
  • To emphasize that true ascetics remain unaffected by material comforts or discomforts, finding equanimity in any environment.
• Disciples' Inquiries and Mahavir's Solutions: In the latter half of the Sutra, the principal disciple, Ganadhar Gautam, poses various questions to Lord Mahavir concerning the "upapāt" (births) of different beings. Mahavir provides detailed answers, resolving queries about the births of beings in various states, including those who were simple, suffering, surrounded by difficult circumstances, or engaged in specific practices.
• Parivrajaka Traditions: The Sutra offers significant insights into various contemporary ascetic and renunciate traditions known as "Parivrajakas." It mentions specific groups like Sāṅkhya, Kāpila, Bhārgava, Krishna, Brahmins, and Kshatriyas who were renunciates. Their philosophies, practices, attire, and way of life are described, offering valuable historical and sociological data.
• Vanaprastha Traditions: The scripture also details various traditions of "Vanaprasthas" (forest dwellers or hermits), particularly those residing on the banks of the Ganges. Their identification through their names and practices is provided, along with Mahavir's explanations regarding their lifespan and spiritual progress.
• Ambada Parivrajaka and His Disciples: The text narrates the story of Ambada, a Parivrajaka who followed the lay follower's path (Shravak Dharma). It highlights his devotion, his extraordinary powers (vikriya and vīrya-labdhi), and his steadfast faith in the Arhants (vītarāga devas). The scripture also describes how Ambada's 700 disciples achieved a peaceful death (pandita maran) through santhara (a voluntary fast unto death) while adhering to their vow of not taking what is not given.
• Samudghāta and Siddha State: The Sutra concludes with a description of the "Kevali Samudghata" (the shedding of karmas by an omniscient being) and the nature of the liberated soul (Siddha state). It mentions details such as the height, constitution, form, and abode of the Siddhas.
• Religious Teachings: Lord Mahavir, with his 34 special attributes and 35 qualities of speech, delivered sermons in the Syadvada style to the assembled divine and human beings. He presented two paths of religious life: the ascetic path (anagar dharma) and the lay follower's path (agar dharma). He expounded on the existence of the universe, the nine fundamental substances (Jiva, Ajiva, etc.), the eighteen cardinal sins to be abandoned, and the consequences of actions. He also explained the causes of bondage to the four states of existence.
• Significance for Scholars: The Auppatik Sutra is considered a treasure trove of information for researchers studying ancient Indian urban planning, city security and administration, social life, art, architecture, and state governance. Its detailed accounts of Vanaprastha and Parivrajaka traditions are particularly valuable for understanding the philosophical and ascetic movements of the time.

In essence, the Auppatik Sutra is a richly detailed and foundational Jain scripture that serves as a testament to the Jain worldview, historical context, and the profound spiritual practices advocated by Lord Mahavir and his followers.