Sutra Samvedana Part 05

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sutra Samvedana Part 05" by Prashamitashreeji, based on the provided text:

Overview:

"Sutra Samvedana Part 05" (Translated from Gujarati: "Sutra Samvedana - 5") is the fifth volume in a series dedicated to expounding the essential sutras (scriptural verses) of Jain daily rituals, specifically focusing on the Aavashyak Kriya (necessary daily observances). Authored by Sadhviji Shri Prashamitashreeji, a disciple of Param Pujya Vidushi Sadhviji Shri Chandrananashriji Maharaj, and published by Sanmarg Prakashan (also referred to as Janma Prakashan and Satmaarth Prakashan), this book aims to provide a bhavagrahi vivechan (a commentary that connects with the inner feelings and spiritual intent) of these sacred verses.

Scope of Volume 05:

This particular volume, Part 05, covers sutras starting from Aayariya Uvajjhaae up to Sakala Tirth Vandana. It delves into the spiritual significance and practical application of these verses within the framework of Jain practice.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Aayariya Uvajjhaae Sutra (Sutras 1-12):

   • This sutra is also known as the 'Vamala Sutra' or 'Maryadri Kshamaapana Sutra' because it involves seeking forgiveness from all beings, starting from the Acharyas (spiritual preceptors) and Upadhyayas (teachers), and extending to disciples, fellow practitioners (Saudharmik), and all living beings.
   • The core message emphasizes the paramount importance of eradicating kashaya (passions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed) as they are significant obstacles to moksha (liberation).
   • The sutra beautifully illustrates the vastness and subtle spiritual insights of Jainism, embodying the principle of "treating all beings as oneself" (Atmavats sarvabhooteshu). It stresses the need for introspection and genuine apology for any wrongdoings committed through thought, word, or deed.
   • The sutra includes detailed explanations of how to approach forgiveness, acknowledging one's own faults, and extending forgiveness to others, fostering a spirit of amity and mutual respect.
   • It is used in the fifth Kausharga (meditative posture) of Aavashyak and in Devasik and Ratrai Pratikraman (daily and nightly repentance rituals).

2. Namo'stu Vardhamaanaay Sutra (Sutras 17-18):

   • This is a hymn of praise dedicated to Lord Vardhaman Swami, the last Tirthankar of this era, Lord Mahavir. It is also known as 'Vardhaman Stuti'.
   • The sutra is chanted after the completion of the six Aavashyaks by men as a concluding auspicious hymn. It is composed in three different poetic meters of Sanskrit.
   • It follows the tradition of praising the supreme Jin first, then all Jins, and finally the scripture (Agam or Shruta Gyan).
   • The verses describe Lord Mahavir's victory over karma and internal enemies, his attainment of moksha, and his transcendence for non-believers (kuteethin).
   • It includes a poetic description of the Tirthankaras' divine feet and the auspiciousness of their teachings, comparing the Lord's speech to refreshing rain.

3. Vishala-Lochan Sutra (Sutras 19-24):

   • Also known as 'Prabhaatika Stuti' or 'Prabhaatika Veer Stuti', this sutra is recited as a mangal (auspicious invocation) after the six Aavashyaks during the morning Pratikraman.
   • It follows the traditional structure of praising the supreme Jin, all Jinendras, and finally the Agam (scripture).
   • The verses describe the Lord's lotus-like face, vast eyes, and radiant smile, comparing them to a blooming lotus and the sun's rays.
   • It highlights the joy and devotion experienced by Surendra (chief of gods) during the Janmabhishek (birth consecration) of Tirthankaras, to the extent that they disregard heavenly pleasures.
   • The final verse praises the Agam as an unparalleled moon, dispelling the heat of kashayas (passions) and spreading the light of knowledge.

4. Shruta-Devata Stuti (Sutras 25-27):

   • This section is dedicated to the invocation and praise of Shruta-Devi (the goddess of scripture/knowledge).
   • It emphasizes that moksha is attained through right knowledge (Samyak Gyan) and right conduct (Samyak Kriya). Right conduct is impossible without right knowledge, which in turn depends on the destruction of Gnanavarniya Karma (knowledge-obscuring karma).
   • The sutra is a prayer to Shruta-Devi for the destruction of this karma, seeking her aid through devotion and study of the scriptures.
   • While typically recited by monks, it is also chanted in congregation by nuns and laywomen.

5. Shruta-Devata Stuti - 2 (Kamaldal Stuti) (Sutras 28-29):

   • This is a continuation of the praise of Shruta-Devi, focusing on her description.
   • It describes Shruta-Devi with beautiful analogies, comparing her eyes to lotus petals, her face to a lotus, and her complexion to the inner part of a lotus.
   • The prayer is for the attainment of Shruta-Siddhi (perfection in scriptural knowledge), implying that through this knowledge, one can overcome obstacles and progress on the path to liberation.

6. Kshetra-Devata Stuti - 1 & 2 (Sutras 30-33):

   • These sutras are dedicated to the praise of Kshetra-Devatas (deities presiding over specific regions or areas).
   • They express gratitude for the protection and conducive environment provided by these deities for the spiritual practices of monks and nuns.
   • The verses highlight the importance of righteous conduct (Charitra), encompassing right perception (Darshan), right knowledge (Gyan), and right conduct itself, as essential for achieving moksha.
   • The prayers are for the deities to remove obstacles and ensure the smooth progress of spiritual endeavors.

7. Bhuvan-Devata Stuti (Sutras 34-35):

   • This section praises the Bhuvan-Devatas (deities presiding over specific dwellings or habitations).
   • It emphasizes that a disturbance-free environment is crucial for monks and nuns to focus on their spiritual discipline (Sanyam).
   • The prayer is for these deities to ensure a peaceful and conducive atmosphere, enabling the practitioners to achieve their spiritual goals and ultimately moksha.

8. Adhaijjesu Sutra (Sutras 36-42):

   • This sutra is an invocation and respectful salutation to all monks (Sadhu Bhagavanto) across the universe.
   • It acknowledges the spiritual discipline and strict adherence to vows (Mahavrata) and codes of conduct (Sheelanga) that these monks maintain, even in challenging circumstances.
   • The sutra highlights the immense difficulty and dedication required for sanyam (asceticism) and expresses profound reverence for those who uphold it, such as the eighteen thousand Sheelanga.
   • It is recited with deep respect, bowing the head and joining the hands in prayer.

9. Vara Kanaka Sutra (Sutras 43-45):

   • This sutra, a Sanskrit composition, praises 170 Tirthankaras who were contemporaries during the time of Lord Ajitanath in this Avsarpini era.
   • It describes their divine physical attributes and inner qualities, including their golden complexion, their transcendence of kashayas and moha (attachment/delusion), and their worship by all gods.
   • The sutra serves as a reminder of the divine spiritual heritage and the potential for spiritual attainment.

10. Laghu Shanti Stava Sutra (Sutras 46-64):

    • This is a shorter version of the Brihat Shanti Stotra and is specifically dedicated to Lord Shantinath, the 16th Tirthankar.
    • It originates from a historical event where Sadhviji Prashamitashreeji's spiritual lineage (likely related to Manadevsuri) composed this stotra to alleviate a plague in Takshashila city. The water used for washing the feet of the Suriji along with reciting this stotra is believed to have brought peace.
    • The stotra praises Lord Shantinath for his peaceful nature, his victory over passions and obstacles, and his ability to grant peace and prosperity. It also invokes the assistance of Jaya and Vijaya deities.
    • It concludes with a prayer for the well-being of the entire community and the propagation of the Jain faith.

11. Chaukasa Sutra (Sutras 118-128):

    • This sutra praises Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Tirthankar.
    • It highlights his victory over the four kashayas (passions) and the arrows of Kama (desire/lust).
    • The verses describe his serene, blue complexion and his elephant-like gait, and his role as the lord of the three realms.
    • It is recited during the final Chaityavandan of the day, helping to pacify negative tendencies and internal conflicts.

12. Bharata-esvar Bahubali Sajhay (Sutras 129-206):

    • This is a collection of verses (Sajhay) that recount the inspiring life stories of various spiritual exemplars in Jainism, including kings, monks, and nuns.
    • It serves as a form of Swadhyay (self-study) and encourages the reader to emulate the virtues of these great souls.
    • The narratives focus on their unwavering devotion, detachment from worldly pleasures, adherence to vows, and their ultimate journey towards liberation (moksha).
    • It includes the stories of Bharata Chakravarti, Bahubali, Abhayakumar, Dhundhan, Shriyak, Arnikaputra, Gajasukumal, Avantisukamal, Dhanakumar, Mallikumar, Keishigandhar, Karakamu, Hull, Vihll, Sudarshan, Shal, Mahashal, Shalibhadra, Bhadrabahu Swami, Dasharana Bhadra, Prasannachandra, Yashobhadra, Jambuswami, Vankachul, Nagdatt, Maitarya, Thulabhadra, Vajraswami, Nandishen, Singhagiri, Krutpunya, Sukoshal, Pundrik, Karakamu, and others, as well as numerous great nuns (Mahasattis) like Sulasa, Chandanbala, Manoramā, Damayanti, etc.
    • The purpose is to inspire the reader by showcasing how these individuals overcame worldly attachments and adverse situations through spiritual practice and virtuous conduct.

13. Sakal Tirth Vandana (Sutras 207-258):

    • This extensive section is dedicated to the veneration of all sacred places (Tirth) in the three realms of the universe.
    • It begins with salutations to the Sthavar Tirth (immovable sacred sites) in the upper, lower, and middle realms, detailing the vast numbers of Jinalayas (temples) and Jinabimbas (idols) in different heavens and regions.
    • It then moves to venerating Jangam Tirth (movable sacred places), which refers to the living exemplars of the faith: the Viharman Jin (Tirthankaras currently active in other realms) and the Siddha Paramatma (liberated souls), as well as the monks and nuns (Anagar) who uphold the highest principles of Jainism.
    • The text provides detailed counts of sacred sites and idols in various heavenly realms (like the 12 heavens, 9 Graiveyak, 5 Anuttar Vimanas), the lower realms (Adholok), and the middle realm (Tiryaklok), including specific mentions of famous sites like Sammetshikhar, Ashtapad, Girnar, Abu, Shankheshwar, Kesariyaji, Taranga, Antariksha, etc.
    • It emphasizes the spiritual significance of these sites and the merit gained by visiting and venerating them.

Overall Purpose and Message:

"Sutra Samvedana Part 05" aims to deepen the practitioner's understanding and feeling towards the essential sutras of Jain rituals. It seeks to transform ritualistic observance into a deeply felt spiritual experience (bhavanushthan), leading to purification of the soul, detachment from worldly desires, and progress on the path to moksha. The book encourages not just intellectual understanding but also the internalization of these spiritual principles into daily life and practice. It serves as a guide to connect with the profound spiritual essence of Jain traditions.