Kalpasutra

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, the Kalpasutra, based on J. Stevenson's translation and accompanying preface:

Overall Purpose and Significance:

The Kalpasutra is presented as a highly sacred and important Jain religious work. Stevenson emphasizes its significance by noting that it occupies a substantial portion of the eight days devoted to reading sacred texts by the Jains. The translation aims to illuminate Jain religion and philosophy for a European audience, highlighting its unique aspects and its historical context, particularly its relationship with Buddhism.

Content and Structure:

The Kalpasutra primarily focuses on the legendary history of Mahavira, the last of the 24 Tirthankaras (spiritual legislators). It details his life, from his conception and birth to his ascetic practices and eventual attainment of Nirvana. The book also includes the lives of other significant sages, though Stevenson notes that the accounts of Tirthankaras beyond the first few are likely later additions.

Key Figures and Concepts:

• Mahavira: The central figure, described as the "Hero" of the Jain religion. His life story forms the core of the text. He is presented as a Digambara (naked ascetic) and a spiritual reformer.
• Tirthankaras: The 24 deified spiritual legislators in Jainism, with Rishabha as the first and Mahavira as the last. The text details their attributes, colors, and emblems.
• Asceticism and Renunciation: A core theme is the life of an ascetic, characterized by detachment from worldly possessions, self-denial, and rigorous spiritual practices. Mahavira's journey from householder to ascetic is a prime example.
• Dualism (Digambara and Svetambara): The text touches upon the historical split within Jainism between the Digambaras (sky-clad) and Svetambaras (white-clad), with Mahavira and Rishabha being Digambaras, and the Svetambara practice of wearing white garments stemming from a later adaptation.
• Cosmology and Time Cycles: Jain cosmology involves vast cycles of time (Avasarpini and Utsarpini) and a belief in an eternal world created by inherent natural powers, not a divine creator.
• Karma and Rebirth: The concept of karma and the cycle of transmigration (rebirth) is fundamental, with liberation (Moksha or Nirvana) being the ultimate goal.
• Nava Tatva (Nine Principles): The appended Nava Tatva section provides a systematic breakdown of Jain philosophy, covering principles like animate and inanimate matter, merit, demerit, passions, self-denial, means to liberation, worldly attachments, and final deliverance.
• Jain Ethics: The five great vows (Ahimsa - non-violence, Satya - truth, Asteya - non-stealing, Brahmacharya - chastity, Aparigraha - non-possession) and the avoidance of five sins are crucial ethical guidelines.

Historical and Comparative Context:

• Dating Mahavira: Stevenson discusses various dates for Mahavira's death, leaning towards B.C. 569, which aligns with the Jain tradition of Mahavira being a preceptor of Gautama Buddha (whose death is dated around B.C. 543).
• Relationship with Buddhism: The translation highlights the close historical and philosophical connections between Jainism and Buddhism, noting that the Jains consider Mahavira as Buddha's preceptor. However, it also points out distinct differences, such as the Jain emphasis on the 24 Tirthankaras versus the Buddhist lineage of Buddhas.
• Sanskrit vs. Magadhi: The appendix discusses the language of the original texts, identifying it as a form of Magadhi Prakrit, and contrasts it with Sanskrit and Pali. Stevenson notes the linguistic evolution and regional variations in ancient Indian languages.

Specific Elements and Anecdotes:

• Trisala's Dreams: A significant portion details the auspicious dreams of Mahavira's mother, Trisala, interpreted by Brahman priests and King Siddhartha. These dreams are seen as prefiguring the greatness of her son.
• Devanandi's Dreams and Transfer: The text describes Mahavira's initial conception in the womb of Devanandi, a Brahman woman, and the subsequent divine intervention by Indra to transfer him to Trisala's womb, ensuring his birth into a royal Kshatriya family.
• Mahavira's Ascetic Life: The narrative recounts Mahavira's strict asceticism, including his nudity, his indifference to physical discomfort, his practice of fasting, and his renunciation of all worldly possessions.
• Monastic Rules (Sámáchári): The book outlines detailed rules for ascetics during periods of religious observance, particularly the Paryushana festival, covering aspects like diet, movement, conduct, and purification.
• The Sthiravali (List of Sages): A genealogical list of the spiritual heads of the Jain community after Mahavira is provided, tracing the lineage of teachers.
• Stories and Illustrations: The text includes various illustrative anecdotes, such as the story of the Rishi Panchami and the debate between Ganga the oilman and the Southern Pandit, which serve to convey moral lessons or highlight Jain beliefs.

Translator's Perspective (J. Stevenson):

Stevenson expresses a nuanced view of Jainism. While acknowledging the "Eastern extravagance" in some of their historical accounts, he finds their early chronology and the unbroken lineage of teachers more credible than those of Brahmans and Buddhists. He highlights the Jains' moderation in early periods, contrasting it with their later "absurdity" in attributing thousands of years to Tirthankaras' lives. He also notes the significant practice of confession (Padikaman) in Jainism, comparing it to similar practices in other religions.

In essence, the Kalpasutra, as translated by Stevenson, serves as a foundational text for understanding the biography of Mahavira, the core tenets of Jain philosophy, and its place within the broader religious landscape of ancient India.