Nitnit Prashnottari Agam Gyan Gangotri

This Jain text, "Nitnit Prashnottari Agam Gyan Gangotri" (નિતનિતા પ્રશ્નોત્તરી આગમ જ્ઞાન ગંગોત્રી) authored by Nitabai Swami, is a comprehensive question-and-answer compilation aimed at disseminating knowledge of Jain Agamas and philosophy. The book, published by Mansukhbhai J Medani, presents a vast repository of 5500 questions and answers, categorized into different sections to facilitate learning.

Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of the text based on the provided pages:

Core Purpose and Content:

• Agam Gyan: The title itself, "Agam Gyan Gangotri," signifies that the book is a source (Ganga) of Agamic knowledge. It aims to make the profound wisdom of Jain scriptures accessible to a wider audience through a question-answer format.
• Vast Coverage: The book claims to contain 5500 questions and answers, covering various aspects of Jainism.
• Structured Learning: The content is organized into sections, including:
  • 24 Dandalas: A detailed question-and-answer section specifically on the 24 Dandalas (categories of classification in Jainism), broken down by the number of 'dandaka' (e.g., 1 Dandaka, 2 Dandaka, up to 24 Dandaka). This is a significant portion of the book, providing in-depth analysis of these classifications.
  • 100 Question Series: Several series of 100 questions each, starting with different letters of the Gujarati alphabet ("Na," "De," "La," "Ga," "Pa," "Ja," "Mu," etc.), likely covering diverse topics or organized by competitive exams.
  • Mool Bhed (Fundamental Differences): A section focusing on the fundamental differences or classifications within Jainism, including "Mool Bhed ki Gatagat" (movement/context of fundamental differences) and "Mool Bhed ka Jivda" (life-force/essence related to fundamental differences). This suggests a deep dive into the intricate details of Jain ontology and classification.

Author and Spiritual Lineage:

• Author: Nitabai Swami (Nitabai Swami, also referred to as Sadhvi Shri Neeta, Nitabai Arya, and Ba. Brahmacharini Poojya Dr. Neetabai Swami) is presented as the compiler and author. She holds MA and PhD degrees, indicating a strong academic and scholarly background.
• Guru Parampara: The book is dedicated to her spiritual lineage, acknowledging the blessings and inspiration from:
  • P.P. Acharya Gurudev Shri Chotalalji Swami (her Guru, described as a guiding star of the Aath Koti Moti Paksh sect).
  • P.P. Pravartini Poojya Gurunee Shri Manibai Swami (her Guru's disciple and an influential figure).
  • P.P. Gurunee Shri Jayabai Swami (her teacher, recognized for her powerful oratory).
• Dedication: The author expresses profound gratitude and devotion to her gurus, attributing the success of this work to their divine grace.

Context and Motivation:

• Addressing Modern Challenges: The author notes the contemporary world's uncertainty, existential anxieties, and the disregard for spiritual and material balance, highlighting the Agamas as the sole means of salvation in such times.
• Value of Questions: Questions are regarded as a valuable treasure within the Agamas, making them the "essence" and "nectar" of Jain philosophy.
• Personal Inspiration: The inspiration to compile the questions arose while preparing her PhD thesis on the 24 Dandalas.
• Guidance: Dr. Jitendrabhai B. Shah, Director of LD Institute of Indology and her PhD guide, is credited with encouraging her and providing valuable insights for the book, recognizing its utility in Jainism.

Key Themes and Concepts:

• Dandalas (Classification): The extensive section on Dandalas indicates the importance of classification and systematic analysis in Jainism. The book delves into the "where and how" (kya laabh?) of these classifications across different contexts.
• Knowledge as Salvation: The text emphasizes that Agam knowledge is a "spiritual torch" and the key to becoming "niranjan" (unblemished).
• Spiritual Growth: The author hopes that by engaging with these questions, readers will expand their knowledge, reduce karmic burdens (kshayopasham), and burn away karmic obstacles (kshayopasham karman khapavavo).
• Dedication and Gratitude: The book is presented with deep reverence and gratitude to the gurus, demonstrating the importance of the Guru-disciple relationship in Jain tradition.
• Community Support: The publisher, Mansukhbhai J. Shah (C.A.), and the Ghanshyam Nagar Jain Sangh are acknowledged for their crucial role in bringing this work to fruition, highlighting community involvement in propagating religious knowledge.

Structure of the Content (as revealed by the Table of Contents):

• Section 1: 1 to 24 Dandalas Question-Answer: This is the most substantial part, systematically listing questions and their corresponding answers related to each of the 24 Dandalas. The sheer volume of questions for each Dandaka (e.g., up to 125 for a single Dandaka) demonstrates the depth of the analysis.
• Section 2: Akhil Bhartiya Shat Prashnottari Spardha (All India 100 Question Competitions): This section includes question papers and answers from 22 such competitions, further enriching the knowledge base.
• Section 3: Mool Bhed (Fundamental Differences): This section covers the core distinctions and classifications within Jainism, including Mool Bhed ki Gatagat and Mool Bhed ka Jivda, delving into the subtle aspects of Jain ontology.

Overall Impression: "Nitnit Prashnottari Agam Gyan Gangotri" appears to be a monumental work in Jain literature, designed to serve as a comprehensive guide and a gateway to the vast ocean of Jain knowledge. It combines scholastic depth (PhD thesis) with accessible presentation (question-answer format) and spiritual reverence, making it a valuable resource for seekers of Jain wisdom. The book is a testament to the author's dedication and the support of the Jain community in preserving and propagating these teachings.