KALP Barsa SOOTRA

Added to library: September 2, 2025

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First page of KALP Barsa SOOTRA

Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Kalpa Barsa Sutra," based on the scanned pages:

Title: Kalpa (Barsa) Sutra

Author/Compiler: Muni Deepratnasagar (M.Com., M.Ed., Ph.D.)

Publisher: Deepratnasagar

Source/Edition: This publication is based on a revised and edited version originally by Pujya Agamoddharak Acharya Shri Anand Sagar Surishwarji (Saganand Suriji), first published in 1914 (Vikram Samvat 1970). This specific edition is a re-compilation by Muni Deepratnasagar. The original work was published by Seth Devchand Lalbhai Jain Pustakoddhar Fund.

Context: The "Kalpa Sutra" (also known as "Barsa Sutra") is the eighth chapter (Adhyayana) of the "Dashashrutaskandha," which is the 34th Agama Sutra within the Cheda Sutra classification of Jain Agamas. It holds a significant place in the Jain tradition.

Purpose of this Edition: Muni Deepratnasagar states that this re-compilation is an effort to serve the Agamas and to provide the text in a "prat" (manuscript/book) format, respecting people's reverence for such publications and the legacy of Acharya Anand Sagar Surishwarji. While acknowledging the existence of many illustrated editions of the Kalpa Sutra, this edition focuses on presenting the original text with clarity.

Key Features of this Edition:

  • Preservation of Original Content: The compilation aims to retain the essence of the original text, with Pujya Shri's edited pages placed as they are.
  • Indexing and Referencing: The name of the sutra is placed at the top, along with references to the original sutra or gatha numbers. A "Deep Anukram" (Deep's index) is provided on the left for easy navigation.
  • Distinction between Sutras and Gathas: The compiler has used parentheses for sutra numbers and double lines (||-||) for gatha numbers to differentiate them.
  • Subject Index (Vishayanukram): A comprehensive index is included, listing the main sections of the Kalpa Sutra with their corresponding page numbers, facilitating easy access to specific topics.
  • Footnotes: Specific footnotes are provided at the bottom of many pages for added clarification.
  • Net Publication: This edition is initially released as an "Internet Publication" through jain_e_library.org for wider and more accessible reach.

Contents Highlighted in the Provided Pages (Indicative):

The extensive scanned pages reveal the detailed content of the Kalpa Sutra, primarily focusing on the biographies of the Tirthankaras and the events related to them. The text is presented in a granular manner, with each segment referencing specific sutra and gatha numbers. Key narratives and descriptions covered include:

  • Mangala (Invocation): The text begins with a prayer (Namaskar Pathan).
  • Lives of Tirthankaras:
    • Bhagwan Mahavir: Detailed accounts of his conception (Chyavan), birth, prenatal events (dreams of his mother, Trishala), the transfer of his embryo, the prophecy of his life by Rishabhadatta (interpreting Trishala's dreams), the dream interpretations for Trishala, his birth and early life, his renunciation, attainment of Kevalgyan (omniscience), and his Nirvana (liberation).
    • Bhagwan Adinath (Rishabhdev): His life and origin.
    • Bhagwan Parshvanath: His life and lineage.
    • Bhagwan Neminath: His life and lineage.
  • Commentaries on the Kalpa Sutra: The text also lists various commentaries (Vritti, Tika, Avachuri, Tippanak) on the Kalpa Sutra, along with their authors and approximate number of verses.
  • Establishment of Jain Sangha: The text details the structure of the Jain Sangha, including the number of Ganadharas, disciples, nuns, and lay followers associated with the Tirthankaras.
  • Sthaviravali (Lineage of Acharyas): A significant portion details the lineage of the great Jain monks (Sthaviras) from Sudharma Swami onwards, tracing the transmission of knowledge through various disciples and their lineages. This section is particularly extensive, showing the detailed succession of spiritual leaders.
  • Samachari (Rules of Conduct): The text includes sections on the rules of conduct for monks and nuns, particularly focusing on the "Varshavas" or Chaturmasa (the four-month rainy season retreat). This includes rules about where to stay, what kind of food and drink is permissible, and restrictions on travel and movement during this period.

Overall Significance:

The "Kalpa Sutra" is a foundational text in Jainism, providing crucial information about the lives of the Tirthankaras, their teachings, and the organizational structure of the monastic order. This edition, compiled by Muni Deepratnasagar, makes this important text accessible in its original form, honoring its historical significance and the contributions of earlier scholars. The detailed indexing and subject matter content clearly indicate the comprehensive nature of the original work and this compilation.