Uttaradhyayan Sutra Part 01

This document is the first part of the Uttaradhyayana Sutra, translated and explained in Gujarati by Muni Shri Akalankvijayji. It is published by Akalank Granthmala as Pushpa-166.

The book aims to present the teachings of the Uttaradhyayana Sutra, a fundamental text in Jainism, to a wider audience. The preface highlights the importance of Jinagam (Jain scriptures) in this era of spiritual decline (Dushamkal) and emphasizes the need for studying and publishing these ancient texts.

Key aspects of the Uttaradhyayana Sutra as presented in the preface and early chapters:

• Core Jain Philosophy: The sutra is considered a foundational text for monks, guiding them from the beginning of their spiritual journey. It's crucial for understanding and practicing Jain conduct (Charitra).
• Content and Structure: The sutra is described as containing 36 chapters (Adhyayanas). Some chapters are derived from Angas and Upangas, some are direct teachings of Mahavir Bhagwan (Jinbhashit), and some are dialogues with individuals like Pratyek Buddhas.
• Purpose of the Sutra: The Uttaradhyayana Sutra is described as containing profound and inspiring words that encourage the traveler on the path of liberation (Moksha Marg) to practice the three jewels (Ratnatrayi): Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct.
• Importance for All: The teachings are not only for monks but also serve as a valuable guide for householders (Shravakas) in their religious practices.
• Author's Contribution: Muni Shri Akalankvijayji is praised for his diligent effort in translating and explaining this text in a simple and accessible style, making it beneficial for seekers of spiritual knowledge.
• The Published Volume: This first part contains the first ten chapters with their meanings.

Summary of the First Ten Chapters (as indicated in the text):

1. Vinay Adhyayan: Emphasizes the importance of humility and obedience as the root of Dharma. It outlines the characteristics of a humble and an unhumble disciple, the fruits of vinaya, and the duties of guru and shishya.
2. Parishah Adhyayan: Details the 22 types of hardships or trials (Parishahs) that ascetics must endure with equanimity to shed karma. It includes explanations with examples.
3. Chaturangiya Adhyayan: Discusses the four extraordinary causes for liberation (Mukti).
4. Asanskruta Adhyayan: Explains that life's essence cannot be regained after death. It highlights the impermanence of life, the bitter fruits of negative karma, and the principle that one reaps what they sow. It advises living diligently and conquering passions.
5. Akamarniya Adhyayan: Differentiates between types of death – untimely death (Akala Maran), immature death (Bal Pandit Maran), and wise death (Pandit Maran). It describes the consequences of actions and the state of beings in different circumstances.
6. Shullak Muni Adhyayan: Describes the nature of a humble monk, the importance of renouncing attachment (Mamata), and achieving liberation through the combined practice of knowledge and action.
7. Or Briy Adhyayan: Discusses the plight of beings attached to desires and the five philosophical points (Mudras) with illustrative examples, emphasizing the impermanence of sensual pleasures.
8. Kapiliya Adhyayan: Narrates the life story of Muni Kapil, including his past lives, the path he adopted, his teachings, the essence of true knowledge, and the need to renounce worldly attachments, especially those related to women.
9. Nami Rajya Adhyayan: Presents the dialogue between King Nami and Lord Indra, where Nami, in the guise of a Brahmin, questions Indra, and Nami Raja provides insightful answers.
10. [The text seems to skip directly to the 10th chapter description, but based on the structure and the following content, it seems to cover aspects of conduct and detachment.] The text mentions that the collection of the first ten chapters provides knowledge of the path of conduct.

The later parts of the document detail the 22 Parishahs with their respective stories and explanations, and then move on to other chapters of the Uttaradhyayan Sutra, including detailed narratives and philosophical discussions.

The document also includes a list of other published books by Akalank Granthmala, covering various aspects of Jain literature and philosophy. It concludes with appreciation letters from prominent Jain scholars and monks, endorsing the value and importance of the published works.