Navsuttani - Book Summary | JainGPT

This comprehensive summary synthesizes the information extracted from the provided Jain text, "Navasuttani," based on the catalog link and the supplied pages.

Book Title: Navsuttani (नवरुत्ताणि) Author(s): Tulsi Acharya (वाचना प्रमुख आचार्य तुलसी), Mahapragna Acharya (संपादकः आचार्य महाप्रज्ञ) Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati, Ladnun (Rajasthan) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/003556/1

Overall Summary:

"Navasuttani" is a significant publication by Jain Vishva Bharati, Ladnun, presented as the fifth part of their Agama literature series. The title "Navasuttani" (meaning "Nine Sutras") reflects its content, which comprises nine essential Jain Āgamas. This work is a result of extensive research, critical editing, and dedicated effort by esteemed Jain scholars Acharya Tulsi and Acharya Mahapragna, with contributions from Muni Sudarshan, Muni Madhukar, and Muni Hiralal. The book aims to present the original Āgamic texts with critical annotations, variant readings, and word lists, making them accessible to scholars and researchers. The publication highlights the challenges of editing ancient texts, the evolution of language and thought over millennia, and the Jain tradition's commitment to preserving and disseminating its sacred scriptures.

The Nine Āgamas included in Navasuttani:

The book critically edits the original texts of the following nine Āgamas:

Āvassayam (आवस्सयं): This essential text, also known as Avashyaka, is considered compulsory for both monks and lay followers. It is named so because it outlines essential duties. The text details six main studies (adhyānas): Sāmāyika (equanimity), Chaturvimshatstava (Praise of the 24 Tirthankaras), Vandana (Salutation), Pratikramaṇa (Atonement), Kāyotsarga (Self-reflection/meditation), and Pratyākhyāna (Renunciation). The introduction discusses its historical context, its derivation from Mahavira's teachings, and its philosophical import, including the six types of pratikramaṇa and its significance in Jain ethics.
Dasaveālikam (दसवेआलियं): Also known as Dashavaikalika, this Āgama is significant for its ten chapters (adhyānas) and its composition around vikāla (a specific time or context). Attributed to Shrutakevali Shyyambhav, it was composed for his disciple Manak. The text focuses on ethical conduct, discipline, and the practical aspects of Jain practice, including discussions on the nature of monkhood, conduct, and the proper methods of begging and sustenance. The book provides critical text and variant readings from various manuscripts.
Uttarajjhayaṇāni (उत्तरज्झयणाणि): Uttaradhyayana is a highly important Āgama, referred to in both Śvetāmbara and Digambara traditions. It consists of thirty-six chapters, compiled from various sources. The title itself suggests "later" or "subsequent" studies, possibly in relation to other earlier Āgamas. The content covers a wide range of topics, including the teachings of both Lord Parshva and Lord Mahavira, ethical principles, spiritual doctrines, philosophical concepts, and dialogues. Its textual analysis highlights the complexities of compiling such ancient and varied texts.
Nandi (नंदी): This text, whose name signifies "bliss," is deeply connected with the history of Jain Āgamic recitation (Vāchanā). It mentions the various Āgamic councils and the compilation efforts, including the Mathuri Vāchanā under Skandilācharya. The Nandi is crucial for understanding the development and organization of the Jain canon. The book delves into its name, authorship (attributed to Devavachaka, disciple of Drishyagani, around the 10th century VN), and its contents, which form a list or overview of Āgamas known at the time of Devarddhigani's council.
Anuogdarāi (अणुओगदाराई): Also known as Anuyogadvāra, this is a foundational text on the methodology of Āgamic interpretation and exposition. Its authorship is attributed to Aryarakṣitasūri. The text systematically outlines the four-fold method of exposition (Upakrama, Nikṣepa, Anugama, Naya) and discusses the five types of knowledge and the four means of valid knowledge (pramāṇa). It also provides a detailed classification of the Āgamas themselves.
Dasāo (दसाओ): This text, also known as Dashashrutaskandha, is described as having ten chapters or divisions ("daśa"). Its authorship is linked to Chaturdasha-purvi Aryabhadrasūri, with its content being derived from the Pratyakṣyāṇa Pūrva. The book notes that the eighth chapter, in particular, presents a concise narrative, which has been expanded in later compilations. It is presented as a supplement to the Kalpasūtra, encompassing the life of Mahāvīra and the lineages of monks.
Kappo (कप्पो): Known as Kalpasūtra, this Chedasūtra deals with rituals and codes of conduct. Its name is closely related to "Paryushana Kalpa" and "Prakalpa." The book acknowledges the possibility of the name "Brihatkalpa" originating from the commentary on the Kalpasūtra. The text is divided into six Uddeśakas (chapters), focusing on rules and regulations for monks.
Vavaharo (ववहारो): This Chedasūtra, Vyavahāra, means "conduct" or "criticism," referring to the rules concerning penance and purification. It is attributed to Chaturdasha-purvi Bhadrabahu Swami and comprises ten Uddeśakas that detail various penitential procedures and ethical guidelines for monks.
Nisīha-ajjhayaṇam (निशीहज्झयणं): The ninth text, Nishītha, is a Chedasūtra known for its detailed exploration of disciplinary rules and exceptions (apavāda-bahu). Its name, "Nishītha," signifies darkness or secrecy, reflecting the need for careful study by mature individuals. The text is organized into twenty Uddeśakas, with nineteen focusing on various forms of penance (prāyaścitta) and the twentieth outlining the procedure for imposing it. The editors have made efforts to complete the text, drawing from multiple sources and adhering to a detailed interpretive style.

Key Features and Contributions of the Publication:

Critical Edition: The book provides a critically edited version of the nine Āgamas, based on extensive manuscript research and textual comparison.
Variant Readings: It includes variant readings from different manuscripts, crucial for understanding the textual evolution and accuracy.
Introductions: Short introductions to each Āgama provide context regarding their names, authorship, content, and historical significance.
Editorial Rigor: The work is a testament to the meticulous efforts of Acharya Tulsi and Acharya Mahapragna, acknowledging the complexities of editing ancient Prakrit texts with their unique linguistic and conceptual streams.
Scholarly Collaboration: The project involved numerous monks and nuns from the Jain Vishva Bharati community, fostering a collaborative spirit in preserving this invaluable heritage.
Resource for Researchers: The inclusion of word lists and the detailed description of manuscripts used are particularly beneficial for scholars and researchers in Jain studies.
Revival of Ancient Wisdom: The publication is a significant contribution to making the profound and practical teachings of the Jain Āgamas accessible to a wider audience, reinforcing the enduring relevance of Jain philosophy and practice.
Dedication and Patronage: The second edition is dedicated to the readers and made possible through the generous support of the Shree Chhotulal Sethia Charitable Trust, Calcutta.

Overall Significance:

"Navasuttani" represents a monumental effort in the field of Jain textual scholarship. It not only preserves ancient Jain scriptures in their original forms but also provides scholars with the necessary tools for deeper study and understanding. The collaborative nature of the project, under the visionary leadership of Acharya Tulsi and Acharya Mahapragna, underscores the Jain tradition's commitment to knowledge and spiritual heritage.