Kalpsutra - Book Summary | JainGPT

Based on the provided pages of the Kalpasutra text and its associated commentary (Churni, Niryukti, and Tika by Prithvichandrasuri), here's a comprehensive summary in English:

Book Title: Kalpasutra Author(s): Bhadrabahuswami, Punyavijay, Bechardas Doshi Publisher: Sarabhai Manilal Nawab

Overall Nature of the Text:

The Kalpasutra, a foundational Jain text attributed to Acharya Bhadrabahuswami, is presented here with extensive commentaries, including the original text (with variants), the Churni (a detailed prose commentary), the Niryukti (a metrical explanation of key terms), and a Tika (a more elaborate commentary) by Prithvichandrasuri. The provided pages focus on the introductory sections, the life of Lord Mahavir, and the detailed rules and regulations (Paryushana Kalpa).

Key Contents and Themes:

Introduction and Editorial Notes (Pages 1-12):
- The publication is presented by the Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra, Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri Gyanmandir.
- It's noted as Series No. 5 of the Jain Art-Literature Research Office.
- The editors highlight the use of various ancient palm-leaf and paper manuscripts for their research, emphasizing the challenge of determining the absolute original text due to variations.
- A specific emphasis is placed on the manuscript from the Shri Shantinathji ancient Jain knowledge repository in Khambhat, dated to V.S. 1247 (1190 CE), as being the oldest used in this edition.
- The editorial notes delve into the complexities of Prakrit language evolution and its impact on Jain Agamas, discussing variations in spelling, pronunciation (e.g., the usage of 'gh'), and the absence of certain conjunct consonants like 'jña' in older Prakrit.
- The editors acknowledge the difficulty in definitively reconstructing the original language and text of the Agamas due to later scribal and editorial interventions. They strive to present a text as close to the original as possible by relying on the ancient manuscripts and the commentaries.
- The problem of inconsistent text numbering (Sutrank) and the editorial decision to create a numbering system based on their understanding is also mentioned.
The Life of Lord Mahavir (Pages 24-66):
- The Invocation (Namah Sri Sarvagnaya): The text begins with the traditional Jain invocation, saluting the omniscient, the Arihants, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and all the Sadhus in the world. The Panch Namokar Mantra is cited for its power to destroy sins and as the primary auspicious beginning.
- Lord Mahavir's Incarnation: The text details the divine descent of Lord Mahavir from the Mahaviman (a celestial abode) into the womb of Devananda, the wife of Rishabhdatta, a Brahmin in Mahakundagrama. This event is described as occurring under the Hastottara Nakshatra (Uttara Phalguni constellation). The text emphasizes the auspicious circumstances of this conception.
- Devananda's Dreams: The significant event of Devananda's fourteen auspicious dreams is described in meticulous detail. These dreams include an elephant, a bull, a lion, an abhiseka (consecration), a garland, the moon, the sun, a banner, a pitcher, a lotus lake, an ocean, a palace, a heap of jewels, and a fire. The interpretation of these dreams by Rishabhdatta signifies the birth of a great soul, a Tirthankara.
- Divine Intervention: Indra, the king of the Devas, upon learning of Lord Mahavir's conception in Devananda's womb, is moved by his divine compassion. Recognizing the karmic implications, he orchestrates a divine transfer of the embryo. Lord Mahavir's soul is moved from Devananda's womb to the womb of Trishala, the wife of Siddhartha, a Kshatriya in Kundagrama. This divine intervention ensures that the Tirthankara, destined for a noble lineage, is born into a royal Kshatriya family.
- Trishala's Dreams: The text then describes Trishala's fourteen dreams, which are essentially the same as Devananda's but are interpreted by Siddhartha as foreshadowing the birth of a Chakravarti (universal emperor) or a Tirthankara. The description of the dreams is extensive and symbolic.
- The Birth and Upbringing: The text narrates the auspicious circumstances of Lord Mahavir's birth, the divine celebrations, and his subsequent upbringing within the royal family. It mentions the naming of the child as Vardhamana, recognized for his continuous growth and prosperity.
- Lord Mahavir's Virtues: The text extols Lord Mahavir's qualities: his immense strength, courage, compassion, patience, adherence to vows, non-violence, truthfulness, self-control, and detachment. His attainment of Kevala Jnana (omniscience) after twelve years of asceticism is briefly mentioned.
- His Discourses: The text indicates that Lord Mahavir, as a Kevali, delivered sermons covering various aspects of Jain philosophy, karma, ethics, and conduct, benefiting all beings.
- His Nirvana: The text concludes the life narrative with Lord Mahavir's attainment of Nirvana (liberation) in Pavapuri after a long life of teaching and spiritual practice.
Paryushana Kalpa (The Rules of the Monsoon Retreat) (Pages 110-199 onwards):
- This section, as indicated by the title "Pajjusana Kappo Nam Adhyayanam" (The Chapter named Paryushana Kalpa), details the rules and regulations pertinent to the four-month monsoon retreat (Varshavas) observed by Jain monks and nuns.
- Rules for the Retreat: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the specific observances during Varshavas, including:
  - Movement Restrictions: Detailed rules regarding permitted and prohibited travel, especially concerning proximity to water bodies, populated areas, and specific times of the day.
  - Dietary Regulations: Strict guidelines on what types of food and drink can be accepted and consumed, including nuances related to collecting alms, the state of the food (freshness, preparation), and the prohibition of certain items during the retreat.
  - Conduct and Purity: Emphasis on maintaining purity in thought, word, and deed, especially concerning interactions with lay followers, handling of alms bowls, cleaning of living spaces (upasraya), and avoiding any action that might harm microscopic beings (nigodas).
  - Penance and Austerity: Mention of various forms of penance and austerity (tapas) that monks and nuns undertake, especially during the Varshavas period.
  - Hierarchy and Discipline: The text implicitly or explicitly refers to the importance of respecting senior monks (Sthaviras), following the guidance of Acharyas and Upadhyayas, and maintaining strict discipline within the monastic order.
- Specific Rules: The latter part of the provided pages (from around page 232 onwards) delves into highly specific rules of conduct during Varshavas, covering scenarios like accepting food, dealing with rain, handling alms bowls, and the importance of seeking permission for even minor actions. The detailed explanations of "Pana-Sukshma," "Panaka-Sukshma," and other minute details highlight the emphasis on Ahimsa (non-violence) in every aspect of Jain monastic life.
- Theravali (Lineage of Acharyas): A significant portion of the latter pages includes the "Theravali," the lineage of prominent Jain Acharyas, tracing their spiritual succession from Lord Mahavir through various important figures like Arya Bhadrabahu, Arya Sthulabhadra, and others, down to the authors' own lineage. This section is crucial for understanding the transmission of Jain knowledge and authority.

Commentaries and Significance:

Churni and Niryukti: These commentaries are essential for understanding the original Kalpasutra text, clarifying its archaic language and complex rules. They provide explanations of specific terms, historical context, and the reasoning behind certain observances.
Tika by Prithvichandrasuri: This commentary offers further elaboration and interpretation, making the text more accessible to scholars and practitioners.
Importance of the Kalpasutra: The Kalpasutra is a vital text for the Svetambara tradition of Jainism, primarily due to its detailed exposition of the Paryushana festival, the most important annual observance for Jains. It also contains biographical accounts of Tirthankaras, especially Lord Mahavir, and the early Jain monastic community.

Overall Value:

This publication represents a scholarly effort to preserve and present a critical edition of the Kalpasutra, integrating various commentaries to offer a comprehensive understanding of this significant Jain scripture. The editorial diligence in consulting multiple manuscripts and discussing linguistic and textual challenges is evident, making it a valuable resource for Jain studies. The text provides deep insights into the life of Lord Mahavir and the rigorous monastic discipline prescribed by Jainism, particularly concerning the sacred Varshavas period.

This summary covers the main aspects presented in the provided pages, focusing on the content and the editors' approach.