Bhagwati Sutra Part 02

This is a comprehensive summary of the Bhagwati Sutra Part 2 (Centuries 12-21), based on the provided table of contents and partial text.

Bhagwati Sutra Part 02: A Summary

The Bhagwati Sutra, also known as the Vyakhyaprajnapti, is the fifth Anga (limb) of the Jain Agamas, attributed to Ganadhar Sudharma, a direct disciple of Lord Mahavir. This second part of the Hindi translation covers Centuries 12 through 21, delving into a vast array of philosophical, cosmological, and ethical concepts within Jainism. The edition summarized here was published by Jain Vishva Bharati, with the guidance of Acharya Tulsi and editing by Acharya Mahapragya, incorporating comparative studies with Vedic, Buddhist, and Western philosophies, as well as modern science.

Summary of Contents (Centuries 12-21):

Century 12 (Śataka 12): This century begins with discussions on various individuals and their spiritual practices, including Shankh and Pushkali (Śataka 12, Chapter 1, Sūtras 6-20), detailing their vows and interactions. It then explores Udyan and Jayanti (Śataka 12, Chapter 2, Sūtras 30-59), discussing concepts like soul-weight, the nature of spiritual progress, and the relative merits of sleep versus wakefulness for living beings, along with sensory experiences. The text delves into the nature of Earth (Prithvi) (Śataka 12, Chapter 3, Sūtras 66-68), categorizing it into seven types. It meticulously analyzes the conglomeration and separation of atoms (Pudgala) (Śataka 12, Chapter 4, Sūtras 69-80), explaining how they form various aggregates. The concept of Pudgala-Parivarta (transformation of matter) is explored, detailing its seven types and the cyclical nature of matter's existence. The century concludes with a discussion on the qualities of substances (Dravya) based on their colors, absence of colors, etc. (Śataka 12, Chapter 5, Sūtras 102-117), and the astronomical phenomena of solar and lunar eclipses (Chandra-Surya Grahan) (Śataka 12, Chapter 6, Sūtras 122-128), clarifying the role of Rahu and the nature of celestial bodies. It also touches upon the life and sensual experiences of celestial beings (Chandra-Surya) and the concept of birth and death of beings everywhere (Śataka 12, Chapter 7, Sūtras 130-153), highlighting the cyclical nature of existence. Finally, it examines the dual embodiment of celestial beings and the re-birth of senses-based beings (Śataka 12, Chapter 8, Sūtras 154-160), and categorizes five types of celestial beings (Devarshi) (Śataka 12, Chapter 9, Sūtras 163-199) along with their origination, lifespan, transformations, congregations, intermissions, and relative numbers. The century concludes with an in-depth analysis of eight types of the soul (Atma) (Śataka 12, Chapter 10, Sūtras 200-226), discussing the relationship between soul and knowledge/perception, and exploring the concept of Syadvada (conditional predication) in relation to various entities.

Century 13 (Śataka 13): This century focuses on the categorization of beings and their existential states. It begins with the concept of 'Charam' and 'Acharam' (Śataka 13, Chapter 1, Sūtras 613-626), discussing souls and their journey through different states of existence. It elaborates on various types of activities (Kriya) and states (Bhava). The text details the characteristics of Nairayikas (hell beings) in relation to their birth, sustenance, and experiences (Śataka 13, Chapter 3, Sūtras 525-527), and the touch and perception of hell beings and realms (Śataka 13, Chapter 4, Sūtras 497-504). It discusses the vastness and spatial relationships of celestial beings, their karma annihilation periods, and various life forms and their births (Śataka 13, Chapters 5-8, Sūtras 508-608), including detailed narratives like the story of Goshala (Śataka 13, Chapters 5-6, Sūtras 528-577), his previous lives, his interactions with Lord Mahavir, and his eventual demise. It also explores celestial beings' interactions and transformations, and various forms of karma and their experiences (Śataka 13, Chapters 7-10, Sūtras 608-654), including the classification of celestial beings based on their realms and activities, and their karma fruition and liberation.

Century 14 (Śataka 14): This century continues the detailed classification and analysis of existence. It starts with 'Lashya' (soul-colors) and their propagation (Śataka 14, Chapter 1, Sūtras 521-546), and the concept of 'Unmada' (madness) and its various causes. It discusses karma and its different types, pudgal (matter) and its properties, and the concept of 'Agni' (fire) and 'Ahar' (nourishment). It also explores celestial beings' journeys and rebirths, and the dialogue between Gautam Swami and Lord Mahavir on various topics like the nature of the soul, knowledge, and liberation (Śataka 14, Chapters 7-8, Sūtras 608-626), including the concept of 'Tulya' (equal) in different contexts. It delves into the intricacies of celestial beings' powers and activities, and the refutation of heterodox doctrines and arguments (Śataka 14, Chapters 9-11, Sūtras 468-625), touching upon the doctrine of 'Apta-Anapta Pudgala' and the celestial beings' language. The century concludes with the examination of celestial beings' powers and interactions, and the prohibition of certain actions and beliefs (Śataka 14, Chapter 10, Sūtras 654-672), including the principles of 'Chhaudasthik Samudghat' (accomplishments of a non-omniscient being).

Century 15 (Śataka 15): This century is largely dedicated to the life and teachings of Goshala, a contemporary of Lord Mahavir. It recounts Goshala's origins, his discipleship under Ayampula, his philosophical discussions, his miraculous powers, and his interactions with various individuals, including Lord Mahavir and his disciples. The text details Goshala's pronouncements on karma, reincarnation, and the nature of the universe, often contrasting them with Jain teachings. The narrative highlights Goshala's transformations and rebirths, his attempts to gain followers, and his eventual downfall due to his own actions and flawed philosophy. The century also touches upon the cycle of birth and death, spiritual progression, and the path to liberation, emphasizing the Jain perspective on these matters. It includes detailed accounts of Goshala's specific ascetic practices, his claims of omniscience, and his disagreements with Lord Mahavir, providing a comprehensive look at the life and teachings of this significant figure in Jain history. It also explains the formation and manifestation of sesame plants and Goshala's karmic journey.

Century 16 (Śataka 16): This century continues the exploration of various categories of beings and their actions. It begins with discussions on Vayukaya (air bodies) and Agni-kaya (fire bodies) (Śataka 16, Chapter 1, Sūtras 590-591) and their activities. It delves into karma and its various classifications, including 'Karma-Pad' (Śataka 16, Chapter 3, Sūtras 595-596), and the detailed classification of Nairayikas (hell beings) based on their karma fruition and experiences (Śataka 16, Chapter 4, Sūtras 596-598). It examines celestial beings' interactions and their karma depletion cycles (Śataka 16, Chapter 5, Sūtras 508-531), including the story of Gautam's solace (Śataka 16, Chapter 7, Sūtras 514-535). The text discusses the birth and death of souls in all pervasive locations (Śataka 16, Chapter 7, Sūtras 465-477) and the re-birth of souls in celestial realms, highlighting the concepts of 'Upapata' (re-birth) and the various forms of celestial beings. It categorizes five types of celestial beings and discusses their origination, lifespan, transformations, and relative numbers (Śataka 16, Chapter 9, Sūtras 470-483), including a detailed analysis of eight types of the soul (Atma) (Śataka 16, Chapter 10, Sūtras 520-541) and the complexities of knowledge and perception.

Century 17 (Śataka 17): This century elaborates on the classification of various entities and their characteristics. It starts with a salutation to the Shruta-Devata Bhagvati (Śataka 17, Chapter 1, Sūtras 613-626), and then delves into the migration and rebirth of souls, detailing their various existences and the factors influencing them. It discusses the concepts of 'Kriya' (activity) and 'Bhava' (state of being) in relation to souls. The text examines the causes of karma bondage and the path to liberation, and provides detailed classifications of celestial beings based on their realms and specific activities. It continues the discussion on the various categories of elemental beings (Prithvikaya etc.) and their sensory experiences and karmic consequences (Śataka 17, Chapters 3-8, Sūtras 643-655), including the specific characteristics of celestial beings' dwellings and their interactions. It also touches upon the profound concepts of karma fruition and the cessation of karma, and the importance of righteous conduct and devotion.

Century 18 (Śataka 18): This century continues the intricate analysis of Jain philosophy. It begins with a detailed exposition of 'Kriya' (activities) and their moral implications (Śataka 18, Chapter 4, Sūtras 590-596), and the discussion on karma and its bondage. It explores the concept of 'Bhagavan's departure' (Śataka 18, Chapter 5, Sūtras 525-530) and the process of 'Pratyanubhava' (recollection). The text delves into the nature of 'Putgal Parinam' (transformation of matter) and the causes of fire's manifestation. It examines the experiences of hell beings (Śataka 18, Chapter 6, Sūtras 531-555), including the detailed narrative of Goshala's life and teachings, his claims and refutations, and his eventual downfall. It also discusses the celestial beings' interactions and their varied powers, and the dialogue between Gautam Swami and Lord Mahavir on the nature of the soul and liberation (Śataka 18, Chapters 7-8, Sūtras 608-626), including the discussions on celestial beings' language, their various births, and the concepts of 'Upapata' (re-birth).

Century 19 (Śataka 19): This century further elaborates on the classification and characteristics of various life forms and their karmic activities. It starts with discussions on 'Leshya' (soul-colors) and their influence on the rebirth of souls (Śataka 19, Chapter 1, Sūtras 659-672). It provides a detailed analysis of 'Garbha' (embryo) and the process of 'Indriya Upachaya' (sense development). The text examines the characteristics of earth bodies (Prithvi-kaya) and their various states of existence and sensory experiences, and the classifications of celestial beings based on their realms and activities. It delves into the concepts of 'Maha-srav' (great influx of karma) and the paths to liberation, exploring the intricate details of celestial beings' actions and their karmic consequences, and the specific characteristics of celestial realms and their inhabitants. The century concludes with a profound discussion on the nature of 'Chalana' (movement) and the principles of 'Samvega' (passion/ardor), along with the concepts of 'Karma' and 'Dukha Vedana' (suffering), and the celestial beings' interactions and their karmic outcomes.

Century 20 (Śataka 20): This century continues the detailed classification and analysis of Jain philosophy, focusing on various categories of life forms and their karmic activities. It begins with an exploration of 'Dvi-Indriya' (two-sensed beings) and their characteristics (Śataka 20, Chapter 1, Sūtras 700-703), and the concept of 'Akasha' (space). It delves into 'Prana-Vadha' (killing of life) and its karmic implications, and the nature of 'Pudgala' (matter) and its various properties. The text examines the concept of 'Agni' (fire) and its role in existence, and the process of 'Ahar' (nourishment). It discusses the celestial beings' journeys and rebirths, and the complex dialogues between Gautam Swami and Lord Mahavir on various philosophical and ethical topics, including the nature of 'Acharya' (spiritual preceptors) and the importance of 'Samvega' (ardor/passion). It further explores the intricate details of 'Karma' and 'Dukha Vedana' (suffering), and the celestial beings' interactions and their karmic outcomes, including the classification of celestial beings based on their realms and activities. The century concludes with discussions on the nature of 'Dravya' (substance), the characteristics of various elemental bodies (Prithvi-kaya, Ap-kaya etc.), and the principles of 'Karma Bandha' (karma bondage) and 'Nirjara' (karma annihilation), emphasizing the intricate workings of the karmic cycle.

Century 21 (Śataka 21): This century focuses on the classification and characteristics of various life forms and their origins. It begins with an exploration of 'Shali' (paddy) and other grains, and their associated 'Upapata' (re-birth) (Śataka 21, Chapter 1, Sūtras 700-703). It details the origins and characteristics of 'Matar' (peas), 'Lasuna' (garlic), and various vegetable and herbaceous plants (Śataka 21, Chapters 2-8, Sūtras 704-708), examining their migratory patterns and existential states. The text clarifies the concept of 'Dvi-Indriya' (two-sensed beings) and their classifications, their nourishment, lifespan, and karmic implications, and discusses the specific characteristics of celestial beings and their realms.

Century 22 (Śataka 22): This century continues the classification of life forms and their origins, starting with 'Tala' (palm trees) and other single-sensed beings (Śataka 22, Chapter 1, Sūtras 704-706), detailing their migratory patterns and existential states. It explores the concept of 'Nim' (neem tree) and other single-bodied plants (Śataka 22, Chapter 2, Sūtras 705-706), examining their origins and characteristics. The text delves into 'Hadasandhari' (plants with thick roots) and other multi-seeded plants (Śataka 22, Chapter 3, Sūtras 673-676), and the classification of 'Guchha' (clusters of plants) and 'Gulma' (shrubs) (Śataka 22, Chapters 4-5, Sūtras 676-677). It examines the specific characteristics of celestial beings and their realms.

Century 23 (Śataka 23): This century focuses on the classification and origins of various life forms, starting with 'Aluka' (a type of root vegetable) and other root plants (Śataka 23, Chapter 1, Sūtras 707-708), discussing their migrations and existential states. It examines 'Rohitaka' and other plants with specific medicinal properties (Śataka 23, Chapter 2, Sūtras 613-626), detailing their origins and characteristics. The text delves into 'Shaival' (algae) and other aquatic life forms (Śataka 23, Chapter 3, Sūtras 676-677), and the classification of 'Virudha' (creeping plants) and 'Gulma' (shrubs) (Śataka 23, Chapters 4-5, Sūtras 676-677). It concludes with discussions on the specific characteristics of various plant life forms.

Century 24 (Śataka 24): This century provides an exhaustive analysis of 'Upapata' (re-birth) across various life forms and realms. It begins by detailing the origins of Nairayikas (hell beings) and their migrations into celestial realms (Śataka 24, Chapters 1-8, Sūtras 709-749). It then meticulously examines the re-birth of celestial beings into various states of existence, including human and lower life forms. The text provides detailed classifications of beings based on their lifespan, senses, knowledge, conduct, and activities, and explores the complex interplay of karma and rebirth. It discusses the influence of various 'Leshya' (soul-colors) on rebirth and the relative numbers and characteristics of beings in different realms. The century concludes with a comprehensive analysis of the journeys and transformations of souls, and the ultimate path to liberation.

Key Themes and Concepts:

• Karma and Rebirth: The text consistently emphasizes the law of karma, explaining how actions influence the cycle of rebirth across various realms of existence.
• Soul (Jiva) and Matter (Pudgala): The Bhagwati Sutra explores the fundamental Jain principles of soul and matter, their interactions, and their transformations.
• Celestial Beings: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to detailing the different types of celestial beings, their realms, lifespans, powers, and interactions.
• Cosmology: The text provides insights into the structure of the universe, including the different realms of existence, spatial dimensions, and astronomical phenomena.
• Asceticism and Liberation: The Bhagwati Sutra highlights the importance of ascetic practices, ethical conduct, and the pursuit of liberation (Moksha) from the cycle of birth and death.
• Knowledge and Perception: The text discusses various types of knowledge, perception, and their limitations, particularly in relation to omniscient beings (Kevali).
• Syadvada: The concept of conditional predication, central to Jain philosophy, is implicitly explored in the discussions on the multi-faceted nature of reality.

This summary, while extensive, only scratches the surface of the profound and intricate teachings contained within the Bhagwati Sutra. Its detailed classifications and philosophical inquiries offer a comprehensive framework for understanding the Jain worldview.