Jinagam Sharanam Mama - Book Summary

The provided Jain text, "Jinagam Sharanam Mama" (taken from Jainqq.org), is a comprehensive work detailing various aspects of Jain Agamas and the life and teachings of Acharya Anandasagar Surishwarji Maharaj. The book, published by Agamoddharak Pratishthan, serves as an extensive guide and tribute to the Jain scriptures and their preservation.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content presented in the text:

1. Tribute to Acharya Anandasagar Surishwarji Maharaj: The text heavily focuses on the life, achievements, and legacy of Acharya Anandasagar Surishwarji Maharaj, often referred to as "Agamoddharak Anandasagar Suri." He is depicted as a monumental figure whose life was dedicated to the revival, preservation, and dissemination of Jain Agamas.

"Agamoddharak" (Reviver of Agamas): This title highlights his pivotal role in protecting and propagating the Jain scriptures.
Milestones in his life: The text details significant events in his life, including his influence in various regions, miraculous healings attributed to his blessings, his renunciation, his deep study and teaching of Agamas, his activism against the misuse of sacred sites, and his final rites in Surat.
Inspirational Figure: He is portrayed as a person of immense spiritual stature, a scholar, a prolific writer, and a source of inspiration for the Jain community. His life exemplified Jain principles of non-violence, self-control, penance, truth, faith, and devotion.

2. The Importance and Essence of Jain Agamas: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to explaining the profound significance of the Jain Agamas, the sacred scriptures of Jainism.

"Jinagam Sharanam Mama": The title itself signifies the ultimate refuge found in the Jain Agamas.
Agamas as a Mirror: The Agamas are likened to a mirror that reflects truth and helps one identify and remove blemishes (flaws) from one's life.
Knowledge and Enlightenment: The Agamas are presented as a source of profound knowledge, guiding individuals towards spiritual liberation (Moksha). The text emphasizes that true understanding comes from studying the Agamas, and they illuminate the path to spiritual enlightenment.
The Value of Shrutgyan (Scriptural Knowledge): The text contrasts Shrutgyan with Kevalgyan (omniscience), highlighting that while Kevalgyan is the ultimate form of knowledge, Shrutgyan is essential for the sustenance and propagation of the Jain tradition and for guiding beings in this world.
Detailed Overview of Agamas: The text provides a chapter-by-chapter summary of many of the 45 Jain Agamas, including the 11 Angas (primary scriptures) and 12 Upangas (secondary scriptures). For each Agama, it briefly describes its content and importance. This includes detailed explanations of texts like:
- Acharanga Sutra: Focuses on conduct, ethics, and the practice of non-violence towards all living beings.
- Sutrakritanga Sutra: Critically examines various philosophical viewpoints and establishes the supremacy of Jain philosophy.
- Sthananga Sutra & Samavayanga Sutra: These are presented as foundational texts for understanding Jain cosmology, philosophy, and categorizations of phenomena, often using numerical frameworks.
- Bhagavati Sutra: Described as a treasure trove of knowledge, especially in Dravyanoog (metaphysics), containing dialogues and philosophical discussions.
- Dashavaikalika Sutra: Highlights the importance of detachment, equanimity, and the path to liberation, particularly emphasizing the "Sanyam" life.
- Nishitha Sutra & Brihat Kalpa Sutra: These are presented as highly serious texts dealing with monastic discipline and the application of rules, requiring careful and private study.
- Pannavanasutra: A comprehensive encyclopedic text on Jain philosophy and principles.
- Surya Prajnapti & Chandra Prajnapti: Texts detailing Jain astronomy and the celestial bodies.
- Jambudvipa Prajnapti: A treatise on Jain geography and cosmology.
- Pindniryukti: Focuses on the principles of pure alms-seeking (Gochari).
- Nandi Sutra & Anuyogadvara Sutra: Presented as keys to understanding the Agamas.

3. The Process of Agama Preservation and Transmission: The text sheds light on the historical efforts made to preserve and transmit the Jain Agamas.

Six Agam Vachanas: It mentions the six significant councils or assemblies (Vachanas) held over centuries to compile, organize, and preserve the Jain scriptures, emphasizing the immense efforts of ancient Acharyas and scholars.
The Role of Acharyas: The contributions of various revered Acharyas like Haribhadrasuri, Maladhari Hemchandracharya, Abhaydev Suri, and specifically Anandasagar Surishwarji Maharaj are highlighted for their critical role in editing, commenting on, and printing the Agamas.
Challenges and Dedication: The text acknowledges the challenges faced in preserving the Agamas, including periods of famine, political turmoil, and the decline of oral traditions, underscoring the dedication of Jain monks and scholars in overcoming these obstacles.

4. The Importance of Following Jain Principles: Throughout the text, the core tenets of Jainism are implicitly and explicitly emphasized:

Non-violence (Ahimsa): The paramount importance of non-violence towards all living beings is a recurring theme.
Self-control (Sanyam): The discipline and restraint required in monastic and lay life are stressed.
Truthfulness (Satya): The commitment to speaking the truth, even when difficult, is presented as a virtue.
Faith and Devotion: The text celebrates unwavering faith in the Tirthankaras, Gurus, and the Agamas.
The Role of Gurus: The reverence and importance of Gurus (spiritual preceptors) in guiding disciples are deeply ingrained in the narrative.

5. Modern Relevance and Initiatives: The text also reflects on contemporary efforts to promote Jain knowledge.

Agam Parichay Vachana: The book itself is a result of initiatives like "Agam Parichay Vachana" (Introduction to Agamas sessions) organized in various locations like Palitana, Surat, and Ahmedabad, aiming to educate the community about the Agamas.
The Role of Organizations: The publisher, Agamoddharak Pratishthan, and other supporting individuals and families are acknowledged for their contributions to this endeavor.

In essence, "Jinagam Sharanam Mama" is a monumental work that not only serves as a biographical tribute to a great Jain Acharya but also as a comprehensive exposition of Jain Agamas, their historical journey, and their enduring relevance for spiritual growth and liberation. It is a testament to the Jain tradition's commitment to its scriptures and the wisdom passed down through generations.