Ovavaiya Suttam

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Ovavaiya Suttam (Aupapātika-sūtra) based on the provided text:

The Ovavaiya Suttam, critically edited by N. G. Suru, is a significant Jain text, presented in Ardha-Māgadhi. This edition was prepared to meet the requirements for the University of Bombay's Intermediate Arts Examination and aims to make the text accessible to students in India who are accustomed to Devanagari script. The editor acknowledges the previous edition by Dr. Leumann (in Roman characters) and an edition by Āgamodaya Samiti (with Sanskrit commentary), noting the availability issues and convenience factors. The editor expresses gratitude for the assistance received from Mr. Motilal Ladhaji and the Bhandarkar Oriental Institute.

The text begins with Sutra 1, which describes the city of Champa as a prosperous, well-populated, and well-fortified city. It details its abundance of resources, beautiful architecture, and vibrant life, emphasizing its suitability for a king.

Sutra 2 shifts focus to a sacred place outside Champa, a Chaitya named Punnabhadda located in the northeast. This Chaitya is described as ancient, well-established, and adorned with flags, bells, garlands, incense, and fragrant flowers, indicating its importance as a place of worship and devotion for the populace.

Sutra 3 describes the Punnabhadda Chaitya being surrounded by a vast forest. The forest is characterized by its dense foliage, varying shades of green, blue, and black, and its delightful and imposing appearance.

Sutra 4 details the magnificent trees within the forest. These trees are described in extensive detail, covering their roots, trunks, branches, leaves, flowers, and fruits. The text highlights their majestic growth, the diversity of their leaves (green, fallen, vibrant), and their ability to bear flowers and fruits year-round. The trees are also noted for the presence of various birds and the sweet sounds they produce.

Sutra 5 specifically mentions a prominent Ashoka tree in the center of the forest, described as having a strong, well-formed trunk and being adorned with flowers and leaves.

Sutra 6 lists other significant trees like Tilaka, Lauda, Sirisa, Saptaparna, Lodhra, Chandana, and Arjuna, surrounding the Ashoka tree, emphasizing the richness and diversity of the forest.

Sutras 7 and 8 reiterate the beauty and characteristics of these trees and describe how they are intertwined with various creepers like Padma, Naga, Champaka, and Jasmine, further enhancing the lushness of the environment.

Sutras 9 and 10 describe auspicious symbols and ornate decorations found above the Ashoka tree and a special stone slab beneath it, all contributing to the sacred atmosphere.

Sutra 11 introduces King Kunika (or Kounika) of Champa, who is portrayed as a virtuous and prosperous ruler. He is described as coming from a pure lineage, possessing all the qualities of a king, being respected by his subjects, and ruling justly. He is described as a powerful warrior and a benevolent leader.

Sutra 12 introduces Queen Dharini, Kunika's consort. She is described as beautiful, accomplished, and devoted to the king, enjoying sensual pleasures with him.

Sutras 13 and 14 mention a messenger who informs the king about a significant event.

Sutra 15 states that King Kunika, along with his retinue of officials and dignitaries, was present in the outer pavilion.

Sutra 16 introduces Lord Mahavira, the Tirthankara, describing his divine form, immense spiritual powers, and the immaculate presence that commands respect and devotion. He is depicted as travelling with his disciples and attendants.

Sutras 17, 18, and 19 narrate the messenger's arrival at the King's court to convey the news of Lord Mahavira's arrival in Champa and his intention to visit the Punnabhadda Chaitya. The messenger expresses his joy and reverence.

Sutra 20 contains a detailed salutation to Lord Mahavira and the Tirthankaras, expressing deep reverence and respect.

Sutra 21 records the King's instruction to the messenger to convey his greetings and devotion to Lord Mahavira and to invite him to his palace.

Sutra 22 describes Lord Mahavira's departure from his abode in the early morning and his journey towards Champa, reaching the Punnabhadda Chaitya.

Sutra 23 states that Lord Mahavira, after arriving at the Chaitya, sat down at the foot of the Ashoka tree, engaged in meditation and spiritual practice.

Sutras 24-30 detail the different types of ascetics (Samanas) who were disciples of Lord Mahavira. This includes those with various types of knowledge (Abhinibodhika, Mana, etc.), those with extraordinary powers (like Charana, Vidyadhara), those who practiced severe austerities (like Khulla-sihinikiliya, Bhadra-pratima), and those with profound virtues and self-control. The text elaborates on their conduct, detachment, and devotion to the Jain path.

Sutras 31-36 describe the celestial beings (Asura Kumars, Bhavanavasis, Vanama-charas, Jyotishikas, and Vaimanikas) who descended to witness Lord Mahavira's presence. Their arrival is marked by magnificent processions, celestial music, and divine adornments, highlighting the grandeur and reverence associated with the Tirthankara.

Sutras 37 and 38 continue the description of the celestial beings and divine maidens (Apsaras) arriving to pay homage to Lord Mahavira. Their beauty, adornments, and graceful movements are described in detail.

Sutra 38 also describes the joyous atmosphere in the city of Champa due to Lord Mahavira's arrival. People are excited and eager to witness his presence and teachings, expressing their reverence and devotion. Many decide to follow the path of righteousness, some by renouncing the world and becoming ascetics, and others by adhering to lay vows.

Sutras 39-49 detail the preparations made by King Kunika for receiving Lord Mahavira. This includes preparing his royal elephant, arraying his army, decorating the city, and arranging for the procession of queens and various dignitary groups. The King's personal preparations, including bathing and adorning himself, are also described.

Sutras 50-52 describe King Kunika's grand procession towards the Punnabhadda Chaitya, emphasizing his regal splendor, the sounds of celebration, and the enthusiastic reception from the citizens.

Sutra 53 narrates the cheers and acclamations of the people towards the King, wishing him long life, prosperity, and victory.

Sutra 54 further elaborates on the King's magnificent procession, the sensory details of the event, and his arrival at the Punnabhadda Chaitya.

Sutras 55-56 describe the queens, led by Queen Subhadra, also arriving to pay their respects to Lord Mahavira, dressed in their finest attire and accompanied by their attendants.

Sutra 56 marks the beginning of Lord Mahavira's discourse, delivered in Ardha-Magadhi, which is understood by all present, regardless of their origin or language. He preaches about the existence of the soul and non-soul, bondage, liberation, sin, virtues, karma, and the path to salvation. He explains the principles of Jainism, emphasizing right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct.

Sutra 57 elaborates on the two types of dharma (righteousness): householder dharma and ascetic dharma. The ascetic dharma involves renouncing the world, shaving one's head, and observing vows of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession. The householder dharma involves observing vows like the five minor vows (anuvratas) and the three supporting vows (gunavratas), along with the four training vows (shikshavratas).

Sutra 58 describes the King, Queen Subhadra, and the large assembly listening to Lord Mahavira's teachings. Some dedicate themselves to asceticism, while others embrace the householder's vows.

Sutras 59-61 capture the enthusiastic response of the assembly to Lord Mahavira's teachings. They express their profound respect for his discourse and then depart.

Sutras 62-156 delve into a detailed dialogue between Lord Mahavira and his chief disciple, Indrabhuti Gautama, concerning various aspects of karma, rebirth, liberation, and the nature of the soul and the universe. This extensive section covers:

• The nature of karma: Discussing different types of karma, how they are acquired, and their consequences.
• Rebirth: Explaining the process of transmigration of the soul into different realms (hellish beings, animals, humans, and celestial beings) based on their actions.
• Austerities (Tapas): Detailing various forms of austerities practiced by ascetics, including fasting, abstaining from certain foods, physical mortalities, and meditation.
• Virtues and Vows: Emphasizing the importance of virtues like non-violence, truthfulness, compassion, and the observance of vows for spiritual progress.
• The path to liberation: Explaining that true liberation (moksha) is achieved by eradicating karma and attaining omniscience (Kevala-jnana).
• The nature of the liberated soul (Siddha): Describing the qualities of the Siddhas as perfect, pure, omniscient, and eternally blissful beings residing in the highest realm of the universe (Aloka).
• The limitations of sensory perception: Highlighting that ordinary beings (Chaudham-matha) cannot perceive the subtle qualities of the Siddhas and the subtle karma particles.
• The process of Kevala-Samohana and Samudghata: Detailing how a Kevali (omniscient being) attains the ultimate state of liberation.
• The nature of the Siddhas' existence: Their eternal bliss, their location in Aloka, and their formless state.

The text concludes with Sutra 189, which emphasizes the ineffable and incomparable bliss of the liberated souls (Siddhas).

Overall, the Ovavaiya Suttam is a foundational text in Jainism, offering a detailed account of the glorious city of Champa, the sacredness of the Punnabhadda Chaitya, the magnificence of the surrounding forest, the regal presence of King Kunika, and most importantly, the profound teachings and divine presence of Lord Mahavira. It also serves as a comprehensive exposition of Jain philosophy, detailing karma, rebirth, ascetic practices, virtues, and the ultimate goal of liberation.