KalpaSutra Mool Gujarati Anuwad

This document is the Gujarati translation and commentary of the KalpaSutra, specifically the section known as "Barasa Sutra" (બારસા સૂત્ર). Here's a comprehensive summary of its content, based on the provided pages:

Overall Context:

• Title: KalpaSutra Mool Gujarati Anuwad (કલ્પસૂત્ર મૂળ ગુજરાતી અનુવાદ)
• Author/Translator: Muni Deepratnasagar (મુનિ દીયરત્નસાગર)
• Publisher: Deepratnasagar (દીપરાત્નસાગર)
• Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/009033/1
• Format: This is Part 42 of a larger series of "Agam Sutra Satik Anuwad" (આગમ સૂત્ર સટીક અનુવાદ - Commented Translation of Agam Sutras).
• Purpose: To provide a simple, accurate, and detailed translation with commentary of Jain Agamas (scriptures) for the benefit of those who may not have access to the original Prakrit or Sanskrit texts or the linguistic expertise to understand them.

Key Content of Part 42 - KalpaSutra (Barasa Sutra):

1. Identification of the KalpaSutra (Barasa Sutra):

   • It's clarified that the KalpaSutra, also referred to as "Barasa Sutra" (meaning "twelve hundred," referring to its approximate verse count), is not an independent Agama but an eighth chapter within the Chedasutra known as Dashashrutaskandha (દશાશ્રુતસ્કંધ).
   • However, due to its independent significance and widespread recitation during the Paryushana festival, it's given a separate place in this series.
   • The term "Barasa" (twelve hundred) is explained as relating to its verse count.
   • The common misconception that "Barasa Sutra" refers to the part recited on Samvatsari and KalpaSutra to the preceding four days is debunked, stating that both terms refer to the same scripture.

2. The Importance of the KalpaSutra:

   • It's highlighted that prominent Acharyas like Acharya AnandSagarsurishwarji have included it in their compilations of Agamas.
   • The text aims to present the original KalpaSutra's translation and commentary, acknowledging the popularity of Acharya Vinay Vijayji's commentary (Subodhika), which has overshadowed other commentaries. The translator's intention is to provide a more accessible and direct translation of the original sutras.

3. The Core Narrative: The Life of Lord Mahavir and other Tirthankaras:

   • The bulk of the provided text consists of detailed Vyakhyans (વ્યાખ્યાન - discourses or explanations) of the KalpaSutra. These Vyakhyans cover significant events in the lives of Tirthankaras, primarily Lord Mahavir and Lord Parshvanath, and Lord Arishtanemi.
   • Vyakhyan 1-8: These primarily focus on the descent of Lord Mahavir from heaven into the womb of Devananda (a Brahmin woman), the divine dreams experienced by Devananda and later by Trishala (his destined mother), the transfer of the embryo by Indra from Devananda to Trishala, the royal life and upbringing of Mahavir by King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala, his renunciation (initiation), and his eventual attainment of Kevala Jnana (omniscience).
   • Key Events Described:
     • Embryo Transfer: The divine intervention by Indra to move the embryo from the Brahmin womb to the Kshatriya womb of Trishala is detailed.
     • Divine Dreams: The fourteen auspicious dreams experienced by the mother of a Tirthankara are meticulously described for both Lord Mahavir's mother (Trishala) and Lord Parshvanath's mother (Vama Devi). These dreams are interpreted by astrologers.
     • Mahavir's Childhood and Renunciation: The text touches upon his early life, his renunciation of worldly possessions, his ascetic practices, and the acceptance of the monastic path.
     • The Role of Gods (Devas): The involvement of celestial beings, particularly Indra, in significant events like the embryo transfer and the birth of Tirthankaras is prominent.
     • Details of the Birth: The auspicious timing, celestial events, and the subsequent celebrations in the city are vividly described.
     • Naming of Mahavir: The reasons behind his names "Vardhaman" (one who flourishes/increases) and "Mahavir" (great hero) are explained.
     • The Ascetic Life: The rigorous ascetic practices and the overcoming of obstacles (upasharga) by Lord Mahavir are described.
     • Attainment of Kevala Jnana: The moment of omniscience is narrated.
     • Disciples and Spiritual Lineage (Sthiravali): A significant portion of the later Vyakhyans (especially from the 8th onwards) details the spiritual lineage (Gachchha) of Lord Mahavir, tracing the prominent disciples (Gana-dharas) and their successors through various monastic lineages. This is presented as a crucial part of understanding the transmission of Jain knowledge.
     • Lives of Other Tirthankaras: The Vyakhyans also include detailed accounts of the birth, life, and renunciation of Lord Parshvanath and Lord Arishtanemi, highlighting the significance of their respective birth constellations (Vishakha for Parshvanath, Chitra for Arishtanemi) and their timelines relative to Lord Mahavir.
     • The Rules of Conduct during the Rainy Season (Vashavas): The latter part of the text (Vyakhyans 6-9) delves into the detailed rules and regulations for monks and nuns during their Vashavas (monsoon retreat). This includes guidelines on:
       • The duration of the retreat.
       • Prohibitions on certain foods and activities.
       • The importance of seeking permission for various actions.
       • Rules regarding water and its purification.
       • The proper handling of various substances and their potential for causing harm to microscopic beings (sukshma).
       • The conduct related to charity, visiting houses, and performing essential tasks while adhering to strict principles of non-violence.
       • The significance of mindfulness and awareness in all actions.

4. Other Mentioned Jain Literature:

   • The latter part of the document (Pages 10-16) lists other publications by Muni Deepratnasagar, showcasing a vast collection of Jain Agamas in original and translated forms, commentaries, dictionaries, ritualistic texts, and studies on Jain philosophy. This provides context for the extensive work undertaken by the translator.

In essence, this part of the KalpaSutra translation is a rich compilation of:

• The biographical accounts of Tirthankaras, focusing on the key events of their lives, especially Lord Mahavir's birth, renunciation, and omniscience.
• The theological and cosmological explanations behind these events, as interpreted through Jain scriptures and commentaries.
• The detailed rules of monastic conduct, particularly those pertaining to the Vashavas period, emphasizing non-violence, mindfulness, and adherence to the teachings of the Tirthankaras.
• The genealogical and authoritative transmission of Jain knowledge through the lineage of Gana-dharas.

The text is presented in Gujarati with a clear, simple, and commentary-rich translation, aiming to make these profound scriptures accessible to a wider audience.