Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir Ni Deshna Part 5

Based on the provided text, here's a comprehensive summary of "Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir ni Deshna Part 5" by Trilokmuni:

Overall Purpose and Context:

This book, "Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir ni Deshna Part 5," is part of an 8-volume series aiming to present Jain Agamas in an accessible and "sweet" (mithi mithi) manner, making the teachings of Lord Mahavir relatable and understandable. This particular volume (Part 5) focuses on Tattva Shastra-1, specifically providing a complete summary of the Bhagvati Sutra. The series is published by Jain Agam Navnit Prakashan Samiti, Surendranagar, and edited by Aagam Manish Shri Trilok Muni Ji.

Content and Focus of Part 5 (Tattva Shastra-1):

The core of this volume is the comprehensive summary of the Bhagvati Sutra, also known as Vyakhyaprajnapti Sutra. The text highlights the Bhagvati Sutra's immense importance within the Jain Agamas. It's described as the "best literature" among current religious texts and holds a special, significant position among the 32 Agams. Its authority is so great that even presenting its text can significantly influence opponents in debates, often leading them to respect or hesitate in arguing against it.

Key Aspects of the Bhagvati Sutra as Presented in the Book:

• Vastness and Complexity: The Bhagvati Sutra is recognized as being exceptionally large and complex compared to other Agams, making its study challenging. However, its significant and intriguing subject matter drives its popularity in the field of spiritual study.
• Comprehensive Explanations: The sutra offers detailed and extensive explanations (sankshipt-vistrut vyakhyan) of a wide range of elements (vishal tattvo) and subjects. This depth is why its original name is Vyakhyaprajnapti Sutra (Sutra of Explanatory Knowledge). The addition of "Bhagvati" signifies its greatness.
• Q&A Format: The Agama is primarily characterized by its prose-based question-and-answer format.
• Diverse Subject Matter: The topics covered are described as both engaging (rochak) and sometimes profoundly serious (atyant gambhir). It includes religious narratives (dharm katha) alongside subtle mathematical concepts and profound philosophical truths (tattvajnana).
• Volume and Structure: The Bhagvati Sutra is said to contain 36,000 questions. While the exact number in the current available text might be influenced by scriptural evolution, it still offers a vast compilation of topics presented in the form of questions. The sutra is divided into Shataks (chapters) and Uddeshaks (sections within chapters). Traditionally, there are 32 Shataks, with the latter ones also having Antar Shataks. In total, there are 41 Shataks, and when considering Antar Shataks, the total comes to 138. The text mentions varying numbers of Uddeshaks per Shatak, with a total of 1923 Uddeshaks available. The traditional verse count is estimated at 1575.
• References to Other Agams: The sutra frequently refers to or recommends (atidesh/nirdesh/suchan/bhalavan) passages from other Ang and Ang Bahya Agams, including Upapatik Sutra, Rajprashniya Sutra, Jivabhigam Sutra, Prajnapana Sutra, Jambudvipa Prajnapti Sutra, Nirayavalika Sutra, Nandi Sutra, and Anuyogdwar Sutra.
• Literary Versions and Commentaries: The book acknowledges the existence of the ancient commentary by Upacharya Shri Abhayadev Suri Ji, translated and commented upon by Pandit Becherdas Ji Doshi. It also mentions publications by Agama Foundation, Sethiya Parmathik Sanstha Bikaner (in 9 volumes), Sanskriti Rakshak Sangh Rolana (in 7 volumes), and the Agama Prakashan Samiti Bavla (in 4 volumes). The commentary by Shri Ghasilal Ji M. Sa. is available in 13 volumes in Hindi, Gujarati, and Sanskrit. The initial Hindi translation by Shri Amolak Rishi Ji M. Sa. is also mentioned as a foundational publication for the Sthanakvasi community.
• Book's Approach: The summary aims to simplify and abbreviate the vast subject matter while also presenting mathematical, philosophical (bhag), and elemental (tattva) topics concisely or expansively, often with the aid of charts.
• Goal and Appeal: The authors express hope and confidence that students of this summary will find the essence (navneet - essence/butter) of the Bhagvati Sutra, leading to unparalleled satisfaction and fulfillment.

Key Features of the Book's Presentation:

• Trilok Muni's Expertise: The author, Trilok Muni Ji, is recognized as "Aagam Manish" (a scholar of Agams), indicating deep knowledge and understanding of these scriptures.
• Collaborative Effort: The book is presented as a collaborative effort with co-editors and contributors, including Mahasatijis and lay individuals, reflecting a broad community involvement.
• Detailed Table of Contents: The provided pages include an extensive table of contents outlining the topics covered in each Shatak and Uddeshak, demonstrating the book's thoroughness. This table of contents is highly detailed, listing specific subjects discussed within each section of the Bhagvati Sutra, such as karma, soul, cosmology, and various philosophical concepts.
• Emphasis on Knowledge and Self-Realization: The editorial section emphasizes that samyak jnan (right knowledge) is the first step towards moksha (liberation). Acquiring this knowledge through listening to aptavani (teachings of the enlightened) and studying the Agams is paramount for spiritual progress.

In essence, "Mithi Mithi Lage Che Mahavir ni Deshna Part 5" is a detailed and scholarly yet accessible rendition of the complex Bhagvati Sutra, designed to facilitate a deeper understanding of Jain philosophy and spiritual principles for seekers.