Kalpsutra Part 02 Sthanakvasi

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, focusing on the key themes and content presented across the pages:

Book Title: Kalpsutra Part 02 Author: Ghasilal Maharaj Publisher: A B Shwetambar Sthanakwasi Jain Shastroddhar Samiti

Overall Nature of the Text: This document, "Kalpasutra Part 02," authored by Ghasilal Maharaj and published by the A B Shwetambar Sthanakwasi Jain Shastroddhar Samiti, appears to be a detailed commentary or explanation of the Kalpasutra, a significant Jain scripture. The provided pages (1-25 and further sections covering detailed content through page 448) are from a multi-language edition, likely including Gujarati, Hindi, and Sanskrit, with a detailed table of contents. The text delves deeply into the narrative and teachings related to the life and preachings of Lord Mahavir Swami.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Devotional Obeisance (Page 1): The text begins with the universally recited Jain invocation, "Namo Arihantanam..." the Panch Namaskar Mantra, highlighting its significance as a cleanser of sins and the primary auspicious chant.

2. Publication Details (Pages 2-5): Pages 2-5 provide publisher information, the organizer of the publication scheme (Shree Chandra P. Doshi), website details, and details about the commentary (Kalpa Manjari by Munishri Kanaiyalalji Maharaj), and the Hindi-Gujarati translation by Ghasilal Maharaj. The publication date is noted as Vir Samwat 2485 (1959 AD). Financial assistance from Seth Shree Maneklal Amulkhray Mehta is acknowledged for the first and second parts.

3. Publisher's Message (Page 6): The publishers express gratitude to Acharya Shree Ghasilalji Maharaj for his significant contribution in preparing this comprehensive edition based on numerous scriptures. They highlight the societal debt owed to him and thank Seth Shree Maneklalbhai for his financial support in publishing the second part, encouraging further community support for this sacred work.

4. Guidelines for Swadhyaya (Study) (Pages 7-11): A significant portion of the text is dedicated to detailed instructions on the proper times and conditions for studying the "Mulpath" (original text) of the Kalpasutra. This includes:

   • Timing: Specific times of day and night are prescribed for study.
   • Prohibited Times: Certain periods like dawn, dusk, midday, and midnight are to be avoided for study. Specific durations around sunrise and sunset are also mentioned.
   • Astrology/Omens (Asvadhyaya): A comprehensive list of 32 "Asvadhyaya Prasangas" (circumstances or omens when study is prohibited) is provided. These are categorized into:
     • Celestial (Akash Sambandhi): Falling stars (Ulkapat), directional fire (Digdah), loud thunder (Garjarav), divine roars (Nirdhat), lightning flashes (Vidyut), specific twilight conditions (Yupak), light resembling lightning (Yakshadit), fog (Dhumika Krishana), white mist (Mahika Shweta), and dust storms (Rajo Udhghat).
     • Bodily/Physical (Audarik Sharir Sambandhi): Remains of bones/flesh/blood not fully consumed by fire or washed by water, broken eggs, excreta/urine, cremation grounds (within a certain radius), lunar and solar eclipses, royal disturbances (Rajavyudgat), deaths of rulers/important figures, dead bodies within or near the Upashraya (monastic dwelling), and specific festival days (four Mahotsavas and four Pratipada days).
   • Discretionary Guidelines: The text clarifies that these Asvadhyaya rules apply to the original text, not translations. It emphasizes that "Vinay" (respect and adherence to guidance) is the root of Dharma, and in difficult situations, the wishes and instructions of the Guru or elders should be prioritized.

5. Detailed Table of Contents (Pages 12-19): This section provides an extensive and granular index of the topics covered in the second part of the Kalpasutra. It meticulously lists the subject matter with corresponding page numbers, covering:

   • The Life of Lord Mahavir: Descriptions of his birth, celestial attendants' arrival, naming ceremony, childhood, education, departure for asceticism, and subsequent spiritual journey.
   • Vows and Asceticism: Details about his vows, austerities, and the attainment of various stages of knowledge (Manahparyav Gyana, Keval Gyana).
   • Encounters and Ordination: Descriptions of interactions with gods (Indra), individuals like Gopala and Chandanbala, overcoming obstacles (Upsarga), and the assembly of disciples and their subsequent spiritual progress.
   • Teachings and Disciples: Chapters on ethical conduct (Samiti, Gupti), divine dreams, philosophical discussions, and the ordinations of prominent disciples like Indrabhuti and other learned Brahmins.
   • Later Events: The text continues to cover events like the establishment of the Chaturvidh Sangha (four-fold community), Mahavir's Dharma Deshna (sermons), and his Nirvana.

6. Commentary on the Birth of Lord Mahavir (Pages 19-38): This section provides the original text followed by the commentary (Kalpa Manjari), explaining the divine circumstances surrounding Lord Mahavir's birth. It describes the auspicious omens, celestial music, cessation of suffering for hell-dwellers, rains of auspicious elements (flowers, clothes, gold, jewels), and the joyous atmosphere that pervaled the universe. It also details the arrival of fifty-six Dik-Kumaris (directions-attendant maidens) who prepared the birthplace and sang hymns.

7. Shakra's Actions and Divine Festivities (Pages 39-59): The text describes Indra's (Shakra) reaction to the divine birth. His throne shakes, he uses his divine knowledge, bows to the Siddhas and the divine child, and commands the deity Harinegameshi to announce the birth with a divine bell. The sound of the bell causes joy and awakens the celestial beings. The text then elaborates on the roles of various divine beings, the five manifestations of Indra, and their specific duties in celebrating the birth.

8. The Procession and Abhishek (Pages 59-65): The text details the commencement of the divine celebration, including the arrival of sixty-four Indras and their retinues. It describes Indra's contemplation about the infant Lord Mahavir's strength and the arrangements for the divine bath (Abhishek) on Mount Meru, specifically at the refuge of the mythical Pāduka-Kambalā.

9. The Miraculous Event of Meru's Tremor (Pages 65-75): This section covers the miraculous event of Mount Meru trembling upon Indra's touch of his throne, signifying the divine presence and the Lord's greatness. The text details the subsequent fear and confusion among the three worlds, Indra's realization of his mistake, and his subsequent apology to the Lord.

10. Lord Mahavir's Name and Divine Acknowledge (Pages 72-77): It describes how Indra, after witnessing the Lord's divine power and realizing his own mistake, names the infant "Mahavir" (great hero). This event is presented as a testament to the Lord's extraordinary nature, even as an infant.

11. Lord Mahavir's Childhood and Virtues (Pages 90-102, 110-119, 125-126, 150-158, 170-178, 180-197, 201-208, 210-217, 222-227, 240-248, 250-257, 330-344, 370-380, 384-398, 400-408, 410-424, 427-438, 440-442): The text extensively covers Lord Mahavir's childhood, highlighting his divine qualities, his exceptional strength, his inherent virtues, and his innate detachment from worldly desires. It portrays his innate knowledge and wisdom, his profound equanimity, and his ability to overcome even the most formidable obstacles (Upsarga).

12. Overcoming Challenges (Upsarga) (Pages 161-200, 201-208, 210-248, 250-280, 330-344, 370-408): A significant portion of the commentary describes various instances where Lord Mahavir faced and overcame numerous challenges and adversias (Upsarga) from demonic beings (Yaksh, Sangam Dev), wicked humans (Gopala, Anarya), and even natural elements. These narratives emphasize his divine patience, forbearance, non-violence, and spiritual fortitude in the face of adversity.

13. Intellectual Debates and Ordination of Disciples (Pages 370-439): The text then details the intellectual prowess of Lord Mahavir in his debates with various learned Brahmins like Indrabhuti, Agni-bhuti, Vayu-bhuti, Vyakt, Mandik, and Akampit. It explains how he clarified their doubts, revealed profound spiritual truths, and consequently, these scholars along with their numerous disciples were inspired to renounce the worldly life and embrace Jainism. Their ordinations highlight the Lord's ability to impart true knowledge and guide souls towards liberation.

14. The Renunciation and Austerities (Pages 117-145, 173-180, 220-228, 315-344): The narrative progresses to Lord Mahavir's renunciation of his royal status, his acceptance of Nandi-vardhan's plea for a brief period, and his subsequent austere practices. It describes his exemplary adherence to vows, his spiritual practices, and his unwavering commitment to spiritual upliftment.

15. The Ascetic Life and Divine Manifestations (Pages 208-215, 270-280, 344-369): The text continues to describe Lord Mahavir's ascetic life, his selfless acts, and the divine manifestations that occurred during his journey. The descriptions of his exemplary conduct and the miracles that accompanied him further emphasize his divinity.

16. The Concept of Karma and Renunciation (Pages 400-414): The commentary elaborates on the Jain philosophy of Karma, explaining how actions (Karma) lead to consequences (Phal) and how renunciation (Vairagya) and adherence to Dharma are crucial for liberation. The refutation of atheistic views and the emphasis on the existence of the soul and its journey through various life forms are also discussed.

Overall Significance: The "Kalpasutra Part 02" with its commentary provides a comprehensive and scholarly exposition of Lord Mahavir's life, his teachings, and the underlying philosophical tenets of Jainism. It serves as a valuable resource for Jain scholars and devotees seeking a deeper understanding of this foundational scripture and the life of the Tirthankara. The detailed instructions on Swadhyaya underscore the importance of respectful and disciplined study in Jain tradition.