Bhagwati Sutra Vyakhyan Sangraha Part 01 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided text, focusing on the essence of the Jain text "Bhagwati Sutra Vyakhyan Sangraha Part 01":

Title: Bhagwati Sutra Vyakhyan Sangraha Part 01 Author: Sudharmaswami (original author of Bhagwati Sutra), Vijaylabdhisuri (commentator/expounder) Publisher: Chimanlal Nathalal Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/023148/1

Overall Theme and Purpose:

This text is the first part of a commentary (Vyakhyan Sangraha) on the Bhagwati Sutra, a significant Anga (limb) of Jain scriptures. The primary focus of this volume is Shri Jinstuti (Praise of Jinas), which serves as the auspicious invocation and introduction to the profound teachings of the Bhagwati Sutra. The commentary is presented by Acharya Shri Shrimad Vijaylabdhisurishwarji Maharaj, a highly respected Jain scholar and spiritual leader.

Key Content and Structure:

The provided text, although fragmented and presented page by page, covers the following essential aspects:

Introduction to the Bhagwati Sutra:
- It clarifies that the Bhagwati Sutra, also known as "Vivahapannatti," is the fifth Anga of the Dwadashangi (the twelve Angas of Jain scripture).
- It emphasizes the profound significance of this scripture, recognized by its respectful appellation "Bhagwatiji."
The Role of the Original Author and Commentator:
- Original Author: Ganadhar Bhagwan Shri Sudharmaswami, the fifth Ganadhar of Bhagwan Shri Mahavir Swami.
- Commentator (Tikakar): Bhagwan Shri Simandhar Swami (in the context of the vastness of Jain knowledge), and crucially, the author of the commentary's detailed explanation, is Acharya Bhagwan Shrimad Abhaydevsurishwarji Maharaj, renowned as the "Navangi Tikakar" (commentator of nine Angas).
- Expounder (Vyachyakhyankar): The current lectures are delivered by Acharya Shrimad Vijaylabdhisurishwarji Maharaj, whose teachings are being compiled in this work.
The Significance of Jinstuti (Praise of Jina):
- The text explains why Jinstuti is crucial at the beginning of any auspicious undertaking, especially a spiritual discourse.
- Jinstuti is presented as a means to purify the mind and speech, to invoke divine grace, and to prepare the listener's mind to receive the profound spiritual knowledge that follows. It fosters reverence and humility, which are essential for true understanding.
- The praise is described as "prayatnpurvak" (effortful, done with great diligence), highlighting the seriousness and devotion involved.
Attributes of the Jina (Praise of the Tirthankara):
- The core of this volume is the detailed explanation of the Jinstuti verse, which describes the Jina (the Victorious One) through fifteen epithets:
  - Sarvajna (Omniscient): Knowing everything, everywhere, at all times, without the need for sensory input or external means. This highlights the Jina's absolute and perfect knowledge.
  - Ishwar (Sovereign Lord): Possessing supreme spiritual power and authority, but not in the sense of a creator deity. It refers to the Jina's mastery over oneself and the principles of the universe.
  - Anant (Infinite): Referring to the Jina's infinite knowledge, perception, bliss, and power.
  - Asang (Unattached/Detached): Free from any worldly possessions or worldly relationships, demonstrating pure and unhindered spiritual existence.
  - Adhrushya (Unseen/Invisible to worldly senses): Beyond the perception of ordinary senses.
  - Saavaya (Having an impure body): This is presented as a unique Jain concept, where the Jina's body is described as pure from all karmic impurities.
  - Amara (Immortal): Free from the cycle of birth and death.
  - Anisha (Without a lord): Not dependent on any external power or deity.
  - Aneeh (Without desire): Completely free from all worldly desires and passions.
  - Iddha (Radiant/Luminous): Possessing an inner radiance emanating from their pure soul.
  - Siddha (Liberated/Perfected): Having attained liberation from all karma and the cycle of rebirth.
  - Shiva (Auspicious/Peaceful): Possessing eternal peace and tranquility.
  - Shivkar (Giver of Auspiciousness/Peace): The Jina's teachings lead others to peace and liberation.
  - Karanavyapeta (Without activity/action): Free from actions driven by karma or desire.
  - Jitripu (Conqueror of Enemies): Having vanquished internal enemies like anger, pride, deceit, and greed (kashayas).
The Process of Jain Knowledge Transmission:
- The text delves into the concept of the Dwadashangi being initially transmitted through the Tripadi (three essential statements) by Bhagwan Mahavir, which empowered the Ganadharas to compose their respective Angas.
- It discusses the subtle differences and similarities in the Dwadashangi composed by different Ganadharas, emphasizing that while the words might vary, the essence (meaning) remains identical.
The Importance of the Commentator (Abhaydevsurishwarji):
- The text highlights the exceptional qualities and divine inspiration (from Shasan Devi) of Acharya Abhaydevsurishwarji Maharaj, who undertook the monumental task of commenting on nine Angas, including the Bhagwati Sutra. His humility and deep reverence for the original teachings are emphasized.
- The narrative of how Acharya Abhaydevsurishwarji Maharaj was inspired to write the commentary, overcoming his initial hesitation, is shared.
Narrative Examples and Moral Teachings:
- Throughout the text, various stories and examples are woven in to illustrate the teachings. These include the story of Nagketu's past life, the wisdom of King Bhartrihari, the devotion of Nandishen, the concept of karma and its effects, the importance of right intention, and the contrast between true spiritual practice and superficial rituals (like the story of the ignorant ascetic in the Ganges).
The Nature of the Jina's Existence and Attributes:
- The text elaborates on the Jina's transcended state, emphasizing their freedom from desires (Aneeh), their detachment (Asang), and their inherent perfection (Siddha).
- It touches upon the concept of the Jina's subtle body and miraculous powers, often referred to as "Atishays," which are a result of their advanced spiritual state.

Key Jain Principles Highlighted:

Karma: The text implicitly and explicitly discusses the role of karma in shaping destinies, the ripening of good and bad karma, and the importance of righteous actions for spiritual progress.
Ahimsa (Non-violence): The emphasis on "Na Hantavyam" (do not kill) and the Jina's teachings on non-violence are central. The stories illustrate the consequences of violence and the benefits of compassion.
Anekantavada (Multi-faceted reality): While not explicitly detailed in the provided excerpts, the underlying Jain philosophy of understanding things from multiple perspectives is evident in the depth of the commentary.
Ahimsa in daily life: The examples emphasize the practical application of Jain principles, such as carefulness in daily actions to avoid harming subtle life forms, even in mundane activities like bathing.
The Path to Liberation: The ultimate goal of Jainism, liberation (Moksha), is subtly alluded to as the consequence of following the Jina's path and purifying the soul from karma.

Language and Style:

The text is in Gujarati, characterized by deep philosophical and devotional language. It uses storytelling and narrative examples to convey complex spiritual concepts effectively. The commentary is presented with reverence for the spiritual masters and the original scriptures.

In essence, this first part of the Bhagwati Sutra Vyakhyan Sangraha serves as a foundational exposition, establishing the context, the supreme authority of the Jinas, and the essential principles of Jainism through devotional praise and illustrative narratives, all under the esteemed guidance of Acharya Vijaylabdhisuri.