Bhagwati Sutra Vyakhyan Part 01 02 - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Bhagwati Sutra Vyakhyan Part 01 02" by Jawaharlal Acharya, published by Jawahar Vidyapith. The text is a detailed commentary and explanation of the Bhagwati Sutra, a foundational text in Jainism.

The summary covers the following key aspects:

1. Introduction and Publisher's Note (Pages 1-6):

Book Title & Author: "Shri Jawahar Kiranavali: Shri Bhagwati Sutra Vyakhyan, Part 1 & 2" (श्री जवाहर किरणावली: श्री भगवती सूत्र व्याख्यान, भाग १ व २).
Speaker: Acharya Shri Jawaharlalji M.S. (आचार्य श्री जवाहरलालजी म.सा.).
Editor: Pt. Shri Shobhachandra Bharill, Nyayateerth (पं. श्री शोभाचन्द्र भारिल्ल, न्यायतीर्थ).
Publisher: Shri Jawahar Vidyapeeth, Bhinasar, Bikaner (श्री जवाहर विद्यापीठ, भीनासर, बीकानेर).
Praise for Acharya Jawaharlalji: The text extols Acharya Jawaharlalji as a revolutionary saint, a visionary, truth-abiding, and a tapasvi (ascetic). His independent thinking, renunciation, eloquence, and devotion are highlighted as beneficial for self and others. His teachings are considered timeless and universally applicable.
Jawahar Vidyapeeth's Mission: The Vidyapeeth was established to make Acharya Jawaharlalji's teachings accessible and to preserve his vast literary works. The publication of "Jawahar Kiranavali" (collections of his discourses) is a significant part of this mission. The text details the evolution of the "Kiranavali" series, from its initial 33 volumes to 53, and then repackaged into 32 "Kiran" (rays).
Role of Akhil Bharatiya Sadhumargi Jain Sangh: The Sangh is credited with a significant role in the promotion and sale of these works, making them accessible to both Jain and non-Jain audiences worldwide.
Financial Support: The publication was made possible through the generous contributions of various individuals and families, including Smt. Rajkunwar Bai Maloo and Shri Dhulchandji Pannalalji Kataria, who are recognized as patrons of this specific volume.

2. Life of Acharya Shri Jawaharlalji M.S. (Page 6):

Provides key biographical details: birth place, date, parents, initiation, key positions (Yuvacharya, Acharya), and date of demise.

3. Glimpses of Acharya Shri Jawaharlalji M.S. (Jawahar Jyotikan - Page 7-8):

A poetic tribute highlighting his life's journey, spiritual practices, intellectual contributions, impact on societal reform, revolutionary thinking, emphasis on faith and emotion, and his interactions with national leaders like Mahatma Gandhi. It emphasizes his fearless propagation of truth and principles.

4. Lineage of Acharyas (Page 9):

Lists the lineage of Acharyas in the Sadhumargi Jain tradition, starting from Acharya Shri Hukumchandji M.S. up to the current Acharya Shri Ramlalji M.S., with their initiation and demise dates and brief descriptions of their contributions.

5. Introduction to the Bhagwati Sutra (Page 12-16):

The Bhagwati Sutra's Place: It is the fifth Anga (limb) of the Shrut (scriptural knowledge) of Lord Mahavir, also known as "Viyahpannatti" (विवाहप्रज्ञप्ति / व्याख्याप्रज्ञप्ति).
Authorship: Composed by Shri Sudharma Swami.
Mangalacharan (Invocation): The text begins with a detailed explanation of the mangalacharan (auspicious invocation) consisting of three parts:
- Namaste to Panch Parameshthi: The five supreme beings (Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyay, Sadhu).
- Namaste to Lipi (Script): Specifically, Brahmi Lipi.
- Namaste to Shrut (Scriptural Knowledge).
Elaboration of Divine Qualities: The commentary elaborates on the various epithets used to describe the Jinendras (Jain Tirthankaras) in the invocation, such as Sarvajna (omniscient), Jitaripu (conqueror of enemies like anger, greed), Ananta (infinite), Asanga (unattached), Agrhya (supreme), Sarviya (benefactor of all), Asmara (free from lust), Aneesh (without a superior), Anih (desireless), and Ittha (endowed with knowledge and radiance). Each quality is explained in detail, emphasizing the philosophical underpinnings of Jain doctrine.
The Nature of "Siddha": The text clarifies the meaning of "Siddha" in the context of the invocation, explaining it as the perfection of principles, the state of being accomplished, and the auspiciousness of the realized soul.
The meaning of "Shiva" and "Karanvyapet": Shiva (auspicious) is explained in terms of freedom from afflictions, and the absence of instruments or organs for knowing, highlighting the omniscience of the liberated soul.

6. Explanation of the Name "Viyahapannatti" / "Bhagwati Sutra" (Page 23-26):

The text delves into the etymology and meaning of the sutra's names.
- Viyahapannatti (व्याख्याप्रज्ञप्ति): Explained as a text that "Vyas" (explains) in "Vividh" (various) ways, "A" (limitation/boundary) by "Khyan" (utterance) and "Prajnapti" (exposition). It refers to the detailed exposition of various elements like soul, karma, etc.
- Bhagwati: This name is given due to the sutra's reverence, sacredness, and its comprehensive explanations, making it "Bhagwati" (divine or auspicious).

7. The Importance of Mangalacharan (Pages 26-29):

Purpose of Mangalacharan: To remove obstacles, encourage interest, and follow the tradition of great saints.
Types of Mangala: Name Mangala, Dravya Mangala, Bhava Mangala.
Superiority of Bhava Mangala: Bhava Mangala (mental invocation) is considered supreme as it is pure and unchanging, unlike material or verbal invocations.
The Efficacy of Namokar Mantra: The Namokar Mantra is highlighted as the most potent form of Bhava Mangala, destroying sins and serving as the primary auspicious act.

8. Detailed Analysis of the Mangalacharan (Pages 30-57):

"Namo Arihantanam": Detailed explanation of the meaning of "Arihant" (one who has destroyed internal enemies like anger, ego, deceit, greed), the concept of omniscience, the importance of Vitaragta (freedom from passions), and the derivation of the word "Arhant" from various roots emphasizing worshipability, victory, and freedom from attachment. It discusses the eight karmas (Ghatiya and Agatiya) and how Arihants overcome them.
"Namo Sidhanam": Explanation of "Siddha" (liberated soul), their eternal nature, and their role as ideals for spiritual progress. It clarifies that Siddhas, while liberated, are still revered for their inherent qualities.
"Namo Ayariyanam": Definition of an Acharya as a guide who uphleges the scriptures, embodies the principles, and leads the monastic order. It discusses the qualities of an Acharya and their importance in maintaining the purity of the lineage.
"Namo Upajjhayanam": Definition of an Upadhyay as a teacher who imparts scriptural knowledge, focusing on the study and teaching of the twelve Angas.
"Namo Loae Savvasahunnam": Explanation of Sadhu (monk) as one who practices equanimity, renounces worldly possessions, and strives for liberation. The text emphasizes the importance of "Savva" (all) Sadhus, recognizing the diversity in their practices but unity in their ultimate goal.

9. The Concept of "Chalit" and "Achalit Karma" (Pages 34-38):

This section delves into the philosophical distinction between "Chalita" (moving) and "Achalita" (non-moving) karma.
- Chalita Karma: Karma that is in the process of manifesting its effects, or is currently active.
- Achalita Karma: Karma that has been bound but has not yet reached its ripening stage.
The text explains that while Nidhattana and Nikachita karma are generally considered "Achalita," the process of their removal or destruction (Nirjara) is what makes them "Chalita" in the context of liberation.

10. Naraki Jiv (Hell-dwelling beings) (Pages 40-44, 60-66, 72-74, 77-79, 100-101, 112-113, 140-142, 144-146, 170-174, 197-208, 210-217, 221-227, 230-235, 237-244, 246-258, 261-267, 270-280):

This is a significant portion of the text, detailing various aspects of the Naraki Jivas based on the Bhagwati Sutra.
- Lifespan: Jughanya (minimum) ten thousand years, Utkrushta (maximum) thirty-three Sagaropama.
- Respiration: Explained with reference to "PragnaPanna Sutra," indicating continuous respiration.
- Ahar (Food): They are "Ahararthi" (desiring food). The nature of their Ahar is described as "Abhoga-nirvartita" (unintentional) and "Anabhoga-nirvartita" (intentional). The text explains the frequency and nature of their intake, which is often repulsive and painful, reflecting their karmic state.
- Karma and Time: The interaction of karma with time is analyzed, distinguishing between past (ateeta), present (pratyutpanna), and future (anagata) karma in relation to their binding (bandha), ripening (udaya), modification (vedana), transfer (sankrama), etc. It emphasizes that only "Achalita" (unmanifested) karma is bound, and "Chalita" (manifested) karma is experienced. Nirvana is achieved through the "Chalita" (moving/active) karma.
- Nature of Punishments and Experiences: While not explicitly detailed in this summary, the context implies the severe suffering and repulsive nature of their existence due to past karma.
- Body and Senses: The text briefly touches upon their physical form and senses, noting their limited but still functioning sensory apparatus for their harsh environment.

11. Dev Jiv (Celestial beings) (Pages 51-52, 59-60, 67-71, 80-83, 90-93, 101-113, 123-125, 140-146, 151-159, 263-270, 277-303):

Vaimanika Devas: Their lifespan, respiration, and food intake are discussed, noting the vast durations and specific processes involved.
Jyotishka Devas: Similar to Vaimanikas, with specific details on their respiration and food intake timing.
Vanavyantara Devas: Their lifespan varies, and their respiration and food intake are described, generally following the pattern of Nagakumara and other Bhavanavasi deities.
Bhavanavasi Devas (Asura Kumara, Naga Kumara, etc.): The text details their lifespans, respiration, and the nature of their "Ahar" (food). The distinction between "Abhoga-nirvartita" (unintentional) and "Aanabhoga-nirvartita" (intentional) desire for food is made. Their karma related to time is also discussed, differentiating between past, present, and future karma in their activities.
Qualities of Tirthankaras: A significant portion is dedicated to describing the divine qualities of Lord Mahavir as an "Adikara" (one who initiates), "Tirthankara" (one who establishes the path of liberation), "Sahashambuddha" (self-enlightened), "Purushottam" (best among men), "Purushsingh" (lion among men), "Purushvarapundrik" (lotus among men), "Purushvaragandhahasti" (fragrant elephant among men), "Lokottam" (transcendent to the world), "Loknath" (lord of the world), "Lokapradeepa" (lamp of the world), "Abhayadada" (giver of fearlessness), "Margadada" (giver of the path), "Sharandada" (giver of refuge), "Dharmadata" (giver of Dharma), and "Dharmasarathi" (charioteer of Dharma). The text elaborates on the profound meaning behind each epithet, often using analogies and philosophical reasoning.

12. The Nature of Living Beings and Karma (Pages 30-38, 209-217, 221-227, 261-267, 270-280, 284-288):

The Ninefold Classification of Existence: The text presents a classification of living beings into "Dandakas" (categories) that describes their existential states, karma, and lifespan. This includes Naraki, Asura Kumara, Nagakumara, Vanavyantara, Jyotishka, Vaimanika, Prithvikaya, Apkaya, Teukaya, Vayukaya, Vanaspatikaya, Beeindriya, Triindriya, Chaturindriya, and Panchindriya (including humans and animals).
Karma and its Stages: The concepts of "Bandha" (binding), "Udaya" (manifestation), "Vedana" (experience), "Apavartana" (reduction in duration), "Sankrama" (transference), "Nidhattana" (fixed karma), and "Nikachita" (accumulated karma) are explained in relation to "Chalita" (active) and "Achalita" (inactive) karma. It is emphasized that only "Chalita" karma leads to "Nirjara" (shedding of karma).

13. Jain Philosophy and Principles:

Anekantavada: The underlying principle of seeing reality from multiple perspectives is evident throughout the commentary.
The Goal of Moksha: The ultimate aim of life is liberation from the cycle of birth and death (Moksha), achieved through right faith, knowledge, and conduct (Ratnatraya).
The Role of Acharya and Guru-Shishya Parampara: The text underscores the importance of a guru in guiding the disciple, emphasizing humility, respect, and the proper method of seeking knowledge.
The Importance of Renunciation and Tapasya: The practice of asceticism and renunciation is highlighted as crucial for spiritual purification and liberation.
The Nature of Soul and Karma: The discussion on karma and the soul's interaction provides a glimpse into the Jain understanding of existence, bondage, and liberation.

Overall Tone and Style: The commentary is scholarly, deeply rooted in Jain philosophy, and aims to provide a thorough understanding of the Bhagwati Sutra. It utilizes detailed explanations, analogies, and references to other Jain scriptures to elucidate complex concepts. The language is formal and reverent, befitting a religious and philosophical text.

This summary aims to capture the essence of the provided text, acknowledging the vastness of the content. The Bhagwati Sutra itself is considered one of the most extensive and profound texts in Jainism, and this commentary reflects that depth.