Sachoornik Aagam Suttaani 07 Uttaradhyayan Niryukti Evam Churni Aagam 43 - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sachoornik Aagam Suttaani 07 Uttaradhyayan Niryukti Evam Churni Aagam 43," based on the provided text:

Book Title: Sachoornik Aagam Suttaani 07 Uttaradhyayan Niryukti Evam Churni Aagam 43 Author(s): Anandsagarsuri, Dipratnasagar, Deepratnasagar Publisher: Param Anand Shwe Mu Pu Jain Sangh Paldi Ahmedabad Catalog link: https://jainqq.org/explore/035057/1

Core Subject Matter:

This text is the seventh volume in the "Sachoornik Aagam Suttaani" series and specifically focuses on the Uttaradhyayan Sutra. It presents the original Jain text (Mool Sutra), along with its Niryukti (a commentary explaining the context, meaning, and interpretation of the sutra, often in verse) composed by the venerable Bhadrabahuswami, and the Churni (a detailed prose commentary explaining the Niryukti and the original sutra), composed by Jinadasagani Mahattar.

Key Highlights and Content:

Preservation and Editing: The text is presented as a result of the inspiration of Acharya Shri Harshasagarsuri Maharaja, highlighting a project initiated and funded by the Shri Param Anand Shwetambar Murti Pujak Jain Sangh in Paldi, Ahmedabad. The foundational work of the series, including the original texts and Niryukti, was meticulously researched and corrected by the esteemed Agamoddharak Acharya Shri Anandsagarsurishwarji Maharaj Saheb. Munishri Deepratnasagarji is credited as the compiler and editor.
Dedication and Sponsorship: The publication is dedicated to the memory of the highly revered Gacchadhipati Acharya Dev Shrimad Devendrasagar Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb, the founder of the Sangh. The project was entirely funded by the Param Anand Shwetambar Murti Pujak Jain Sangh, Vitarag Society, Ahmedabad, underscoring their commitment to preserving and disseminating Jain Agam literature. The Sangh's facilities, including a temple, living quarters for monks and nuns, an Ayambil hall, and a library, are also mentioned, showcasing their dedication to religious and educational pursuits.
The Uttaradhyayan Sutra:
- Central Theme: The Uttaradhyayan Sutra is a significant Jain scripture that forms part of the Shvetambara canon. It is known for its comprehensive teachings on various aspects of spiritual conduct, ethics, and the path to liberation.
- Content: The text includes the original sutra, the Niryukti by Bhadrabahuswami, and the Churni by Jinadasagani. The Niryukti provides a metrical commentary, while the Churni offers a detailed prose explanation, making the complex philosophical and practical teachings accessible.
- Structure: The presence of a detailed index (Table of Contents) listing various Adhyayans (chapters) from 01 to 36 (though the text seems to cover only a portion in the provided pages) with their respective sutra numbers and page references indicates a well-organized and scholarly presentation. The text explicitly mentions covering Adhyayans from 01 (Vinay Sutra) onwards.
- Purpose of Churni: The Churni is considered valuable for understanding the meaning of the sutras and for exploring the richness of Jain philosophical literature. Although not always strictly necessary for understanding the sutra's essence, it provides significant insights for scholars and those interested in the nuances of Jain tradition.
Editorial Approach: Munishri Deepratnasagarji, in his introduction, explains the editorial process. He notes that while previous Churni publications might have omitted the original sutras and Niryukti, this edition aims to present the Agam name, the sequence of the Shrut Skandhas, Adhyayans, sections, and root sutras for better contextualization. The unique formatting with page numbers from the original printed versions and the inclusion of a "Deep Anukram" (Deep Index) aims to facilitate cross-referencing across their various Agam publications. The editorial decision to adapt the presentation style for the Churni compared to the Vritti (another form of commentary) is explained due to the Churni's nature, which often relies on incomplete sutra/gatha fragments to build its explanations.
Scholarly and Devotional Effort: The publication is a testament to the dedication of the authors, editors, and the sponsoring organization in preserving and making accessible ancient Jain scriptures. The introductory pages also offer biographical sketches of key spiritual leaders like Acharya Shri Anandasagarsurishwarji Maharaj and Acharya Shri Devendrasagar Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb, highlighting their profound contributions to Jainism and their personal commitment to spiritual practice and scholarship. Acharya Shri Harsha sagarsuriji Maharaj Saheb is acknowledged as the inspiration and patron behind the entire series of "Sachoornik Aagam Suttaani."

Overall Significance:

This volume is a crucial resource for students, scholars, and practitioners of Jainism seeking to understand the profound teachings of the Uttaradhyayan Sutra through its original text, the Niryukti, and the detailed Churni commentary. It represents a significant effort in the meticulous preservation and dissemination of ancient Jain literature, made possible by the dedicated efforts of the Sangh and the esteemed scholars involved. The text emphasizes the importance of ethical conduct, spiritual discipline, and the pursuit of liberation as expounded in this fundamental scripture.