Bhagvati Sutra Part 01

This is a summary of the Bhagvati Sutra Part 01, authored by Ghevarchand Banthiya and published by Akhil Bharatiya Sudharm Jain Sanskruti Rakshak Sangh. This particular volume is the 12th in the Sangh's "Sahitya Ratnamala" series.

The Bhagvati Sutra, also known as the "Vyakhyaprajnapti Sutra," is considered a highly significant text within Jain literature. It is the fifth of the twelve Angas and holds a special place due to its profound philosophical insights and vast subject matter. Unlike some other Angas that focus on specific aspects of Jain practice, the Bhagvati Sutra is unique in its comprehensive coverage of all four Anuyogas (the fourfold classification of Jain teachings: Dravyanuyoga, Ganitanuyoga, Karmayogianuyoga, and Dravyanuyoga).

Key aspects of the Bhagvati Sutra highlighted in the summary:

• Vastness and Depth: The text is described as a vast treasure trove of knowledge, with its content so immense that it surpasses other Angas and Upangas. Its study, contemplation, and analysis are said to yield new and invaluable insights.
• 36,000 Questions: It is mentioned that the Bhagvati Sutra contains 36,000 question-answer pairs, making it a comprehensive dialogue between Ganadhar Sudharmaswami and Lord Mahavir.
• Comprehensive Coverage: The sutra is praised for discussing virtually every conceivable subject, whether directly or indirectly, found in the world.
• Anekantavada (Relativity): The text expounds the principle of Anekantavada, stating that all things are described from multiple perspectives, acknowledging the relative nature of truth.
• Significance of the Title: The epithet "Bhagvati" is attributed to the profound reverence and faith people hold for this sutra, which has become its popular name over the centuries.
• Scholarly Work: The publication is a translation and commentary by Pandit Ghevarchandji Banthiya "Viraputra" (now Shri Viraputraji Maharaj), who has enriched it with word meanings, explanations, and detailed discussions. The commentary is based on the Tika of Acharya Abhaydeva Suriji.
• Corrections and Refinements: The summary notes that the editor, with the guidance of the erudite Muni Raj Shri Samarthmalji Maharaj, has incorporated necessary corrections and clarifications to ensure the text aligns with Jain principles and resolves apparent theoretical discrepancies found in earlier commentaries. Examples of such clarifications are provided regarding the presence of six types of leshyas in the Samyati (practitioners of restraint) and the nature of age- Karma binding.
• Humility of Acharya Abhaydeva Suri: The introduction highlights the humility and scholarly integrity of Acharya Abhaydeva Suri through his own words, where he expresses the difficulty of fully grasping the ocean-like depth of the Bhagvati Sutra and his reliance on the guidance of his gurus and previous commentaries.
• Importance for Jain Understanding: The Bhagvati Sutra is considered an essential resource for understanding Jain dharma and delving deeply into its philosophical tenets.
• Key Topics Discussed (from the introduction's summary): The introduction highlights several key topics covered in the initial sections, including:
  • The principle of "Chalmane Chalya" (that which is moving is called moving, and that which has moved is called moved), signifying the nature of action and its temporal aspect.
  • The discussion on "Kankshamohaniya Karma," which leads to delusion and straying from the Jain path.
  • The concept of "Atmakruta Karma" (self-created karma), emphasizing individual responsibility for karma, and refuting the idea of an external creator of happiness and sorrow.
  • The relationship between Jiva (soul) and Pudgala (matter), emphasizing their interdependence in the cycle of existence.
  • The consequences of consuming "Adhakarma" (impure food) versus pure food for ascetics.
  • The theological debates of Arya Skandak, illustrating the importance of seeking truth and accepting it from wherever it comes, even from the omniscient Lord Mahavir.
  • The example of the disciples of Tungika, highlighting their devotion and firmness in Dharma, and the discussion on the fruits of restraint (Sanyam) and penance (Tapas).
  • The detailed table of contents for the first volume, outlining the subjects covered in the first ten sections (Uddeshak) of the first century (Shatak), which include topics like the nature of beings in different realms, leshyas, karma, birth, the universe, etc.

The summary emphasizes the Bhagvati Sutra's role as a vast repository of Jain knowledge, its detailed explanations, and the collaborative effort in making this profound text accessible to a wider audience.