Hindi Jain Kalpasutra

This document is a Hindi translation of the Jain Kalpasutra, a significant religious text in Jainism. The translation is attributed to the Atmanand Jain Sabha and published by the same. The text is presented as a scanning project from the Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra, Acharya Shri Kailas Sagar Suri Gyan Mandir, Kobe, Gujarat.

The Kalpasutra is a foundational text for Jain monks and nuns, outlining the rules and regulations for their conduct, particularly during the Chaturmas (four-month retreat). The provided text covers a substantial portion of the Kalpasutra, detailing:

• Introduction and Acknowledgements: The initial pages include dedications to various Jain spiritual leaders and acknowledgments of the organizations and individuals involved in the project.
• The Purpose of the Translation: The preface explains that the translation into Hindi was done for the benefit of those unfamiliar with Gujarati, especially in Punjab. It highlights the guidance and assistance of respected Acharyas.
• The "Kalpasutra" and its Significance: The text emphasizes that the Kalpasutra is considered a supreme scripture among all Jain texts, holding deep reverence for Jain followers.
• The Ten "Kalpas" (Rules/Practices): The core of the provided text delves into the detailed explanation of the ten Kalpas, which are fundamental aspects of monastic life:
  1. Achelakya (Nudity/Lack of Clothing): Discusses the concept of being without clothes, differentiating between the practices of earlier Tirthankaras and others, and the interpretation of wearing old or minimal clothing as being "Achelak."
  2. Auddeshik Kalpa (Belonging to a Specific Person): Explains rules regarding food and items prepared specifically for one monk versus those for the monastic community.
  3. Shayyata Kalpa (Belonging to the Dwelling Owner): Details rules concerning alms and possessions related to the owner of a place of residence (upasraya).
  4. Rajpinda Kalpa (Royal Alms): Addresses rules related to alms received from royalty or those in positions of power.
  5. Kritikarma Kalpa (Ritual Actions): Focuses on the etiquette and rituals of greeting and showing respect among ascetics.
  6. Vrat Kalpa (Vows): Explains the great vows (Mahavratas) and how their observance might differ among monks from different Tirthankaras' periods.
  7. Jyeshtha Kalpa (Hierarchy/Seniority): Discusses the rules of seniority based on initiation, even among family members taking diksha together.
  8. Pratikraman Kalpa (Confession/Repentance): Outlines the rituals of confession and repentance for monks, and when they are mandatory.
  9. Masakalpa Kalpa (Monthly Observances): Details the rules regarding staying in one place for a month and the conditions for moving or staying longer.
  10. Paryushana Kalpa (The Annual Retreat): Explains the observance of the Paryushana festival, including the duration and specific rituals.
• Theological Underpinnings of Differences: The text addresses the question of why there are differences in practices among monks from different Tirthankaras' lineages. It attributes these differences to the inherent nature of the souls (Jivas) in those periods – being simpler and less intelligent in the early and later Tirthankaras' times, and more adept in understanding and practicing Dharma in the middle Tirthankaras' times. Examples are provided to illustrate these differences in understanding and behavior.
• Mahavir Swami's Life and Teachings: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the life of Lord Mahavir Swami. This includes:
  • His birth, including the auspicious dreams his mother, Trishala, experienced.
  • His lineage and name.
  • His celestial journey (from the Mahaviman to the womb).
  • The divine ceremony of his birth, involving celestial beings.
  • His childhood activities, including demonstrating exceptional strength and wisdom.
  • His education and mastery of various arts and sciences.
  • His marital life, his daughter, and grandson.
  • His renunciation (Diksha) and ascetic practices, including the intense austerities he undertook.
  • The various "upargas" (afflictions/challenges) he faced and overcame with equanimity.
  • His attainment of Keval Gyana (omniscience).
  • The establishment of the four-fold Jain community (Sadhu, Sadhvi, Shravak, Shravika).
  • His Nirvana (liberation).
• Lives of Other Tirthankaras: The text also provides brief biographical accounts of other Tirthankaras, including Lord Parshvanatha and Lord Neminatha, detailing their birth, renunciation, key life events, and Nirvana. It also includes the life of Lord Rishabhanatha, the first Tirthankara.
• The Fourteen Púrvas and the Kalpasutra's Origin: The text states that the Kalpasutra is derived from the fourteenth Púrva, composed by the foremost Acharya Shrutakevali Shribhadra Bahuswami, highlighting its profound and authoritative nature.
• The Importance of Paryushana and Kalpasutra Recitation: The text stresses the spiritual benefits of observing Paryushana and listening to the Kalpasutra, comparing its significance to various important entities in the universe.
• The Role of Divine Beings: The text frequently mentions the involvement of celestial beings (Devas) in the lives of Tirthankaras, from their birth ceremonies to their renunciation and Nirvana.
• Commentary and Interpretation: The translation includes explanations of verses, interpretations of rules, and justifications for the practices described.
• The Ten "Aascharyas" (Wonders): The text outlines ten unusual or wondrous events that occurred during the time of the Tirthankaras, including the birth of a female Tirthankara (Malli) and the descent of the Sun and Moon from their original abodes.
• The "Sthaviravali" (Lineage of Acharyas): The latter part of the text details the lineage of important Jain Acharyas, tracing their succession and the schools (Gachhas and Shakhas) that emerged from them. This section highlights the importance of the Guru lineage in Jain tradition.

In essence, the "Hindi Jain Kalpasutra" translated and published by the Atmanand Jain Sabha, as presented in this document, serves as a comprehensive guide to the foundational principles of Jain monasticism, the lives and teachings of the Tirthankaras (with a focus on Mahavir Swami), and the historical continuity of Jain spiritual tradition through its Acharyas.