Jainagam Pathmala

This comprehensive summary of "Jainagam Pathmala" by Akhileshmuni, published by Sanmati Gyan Pith Agra, is based on the provided text which includes the title page, publisher information, preface, and the initial chapters of the book.

Book Title: Jainagam Pathmala (जैनागम पाठमाला) Author: Akhileshmuni (अखिलेश मुनि) Publisher: Sanmati Gyan Pith, Agra (सन्मति ज्ञानपीठ, आगरा) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/010329/1

Overall Purpose and Context: The book is presented as a compilation of sacred Jain texts, intended for educational and devotional purposes. It was published in May 1974, commemorating the 25th Nirvana Centenary of Lord Mahavir. The collection aims to make essential Jain scriptural passages accessible for regular study by monks, nuns, and lay followers.

Preface (Page 5-9): The preface highlights the importance of literature as a source of light and inspiration, especially when it guides life-building. It emphasizes that the Jain Agamas, though originally in Prakrit, are deeply inspiring and can be understood by dedicated scholars as if they were in their mother tongue. The book is a collection of these important Agamic texts, compiled by the diligent Shri Akhilesh Muni. The preface also acknowledges the contributions of Shri Chandji Surana 'Saras' in refining the compilation and proofreading, alongside the scholarly support of Munishri Nemichandji Maharaj.

Core Philosophy and Content (Pages 6-9): The text distinguishes between material knowledge (which focuses on worldly pursuits like livelihood, status, and fame) and self-knowledge (which relates to the soul). True knowledge, it states, cultivates virtues like tolerance, self-control, universal love, and the ability to control sensory perceptions. Merely memorizing scriptural terms is not true self-knowledge; it requires experiential realization and the manifestation of these virtues.

The Agamas are presented as the voice of great souls, offering insights into the true nature of life and the world. They are considered a reliable source of knowledge, uninfluenced by personal biases or limited perspectives, and serve as a guide to distinguish what should be accepted (upadeya) from what should be rejected (heya). The text quotes the Bhagavad Gita to emphasize the authority of scriptures in determining right and wrong actions.

The importance of Svadhyaya (self-study) of the Agamas, specifically through the five methods of Vachana (reading), Prachchana (questioning), Paritana (recitation), Anupréksha (contemplation), and Dharmakatha (religious discourse), is stressed. It is through Svadhyaya that one can overcome ignorance and attain right knowledge, leading to the shedding of Jnana-avaraniya (knowledge-obscuring) karma.

The Title "Jainagam Pathmala": The name itself signifies a "garland of Jain Agamic lessons," indicating a curated selection of important verses and teachings from the sacred texts.

Included Texts (Page 10): The book includes verses from several key Jain scriptures:

1. Dashavaikalika Sutra (दशवैकालिक सूत्र)
2. Uttaradhyayana Sutra (उत्तराध्ययन सूत्र)
3. Nandi Sutra (नंदी सूत्र)
4. Sukhavipak Sutra (सुखविपाक सूत्र)
5. Uvavaha Sutra (उववाह सूत्र) - Twenty-two verses
6. Dashashrutaskandha (दशाश्रुतस्कन्ध) - Fifth Chapter
7. Vira Stuti (वीरस्तुति)
8. Tattvartha Sutra (तत्त्वार्थसूत्र)
9. Sunapita Gathas (सुनापित गाथाएँ)

Content Samples (Pages 11-344 onwards): The provided pages offer a glimpse into the content, primarily consisting of the sacred texts themselves, presented in their original Prakrit script with some accompanying Devanagari transliteration. The excerpts include:

• Dashavaikalika Sutra: Chapters detailing ethical conduct, detachment from worldly desires, and the path of renunciation. For example, Chapter 1 discusses Dharma as auspicious, non-violence, restraint, and penance, which even deities respect. Chapter 2 emphasizes renunciation of sensual pleasures and attachments. Chapter 3 describes the conduct of ascetics, focusing on principles of begging for food and adhering to strict Jain practices. Chapter 4 introduces the concept of Chha-Jeevanikaya (the six categories of living beings – earth, water, fire, air, plants, and mobile beings) and the vow of non-violence (Ahimsa) towards them. Chapters 5 and 6 provide further details on the conduct of monks, including rules for receiving alms and avoiding actions that harm living beings.

• Uttaradhyayana Sutra: This section seems to be a substantial part of the text, covering numerous chapters (Adhyayanas). The content focuses on spiritual discipline, ethics, the nature of karma, the path to liberation, and the importance of equanimity in facing difficulties (parisaha). Various chapters discuss topics such as:

  • The importance of contemplation and self-reflection.
  • The dangers of attachment and the need for detachment.
  • The nature of vows and their proper observance.
  • The significance of knowledge and discernment.
  • The consequences of actions and the path to spiritual progress.
  • The characteristics of a true ascetic and their way of life.
  • The importance of proper conduct in daily activities, interactions, and receiving alms.
  • The different types of karma and their effects.
  • The ultimate goal of liberation.

• Nandi Sutra (Pages 274-347): This section deals with knowledge (Jnana) and its various types, particularly focusing on the meticulous study and understanding of Jain scriptures. It enumerates the five types of knowledge (Jnana) and elaborates on Avadhi Jnana (clairvoyance) and Manah-paryaya Jnana (telepathy). The text also details the importance of Svadhyaya in its various forms, emphasizing the methodical study of scriptures, the understanding of different classifications of beings and their life spans, and the practices for spiritual progress.

• Sukhavipak Sutra (Pages 348-354): This excerpt appears to be a collection of narratives illustrating the consequences of actions (karma), particularly focusing on the positive outcomes of virtuous deeds and the suffering resulting from unvirtuous ones. Stories of individuals who attained spiritual heights through righteous conduct are likely presented.

• Virastuti (Page 352-353): This section is a hymn or praise dedicated to Lord Mahavir, highlighting his virtues and significance.

• Tattvartha Sutra (Pages 355-371): The concluding pages contain excerpts from Tattvartha Sutra, a fundamental Jain philosophical text. These excerpts cover the core principles of Jainism, including the six realities (dravyas), the nature of soul (jiva) and non-soul (ajiva), the causes of bondage (asrava), restraint (samvara), shedding of karma (nirjara), and liberation (moksha). It also touches upon the different types of knowledge (jnana) and the path to attain it.

Overall Impression: "Jainagam Pathmala" is a foundational text for Jain spiritual education, providing a structured approach to studying the Agamas. The compilation reflects the Jain emphasis on knowledge, righteous conduct, self-control, and the pursuit of liberation. The inclusion of multiple core scriptures suggests a comprehensive introductory curriculum for understanding Jain philosophy and practice.