Uvavai Suttam - Book Summary | JainGPT

This is a comprehensive summary of the "Uvavai Suttam" (also known as Aupapatika Sutram) based on the provided text, highlighting its content and the historical context of its publication.

Book Title: Uvavai Suttam (Aupapatika Sutram) Author: Sthavira Bhagavantara (as the original composer) Commentary: Navangi Teeka by Acharya Abhayadevasuri Editor & Compiler: Acharya Vijay Munichandrasuri Publisher: Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalay, Mumbai

Summary of the Uvavai Suttam and its Publication Context:

The provided text is a detailed introduction and context for the publication of the Uvavai Suttam, a significant Jain Agama. It delves into the history of Jain Agama publishing, the meticulous work of scholars and monks in preserving and editing these ancient texts, and the importance of the Uvavai Suttam itself.

1. Historical Context of Jain Agama Publishing:

Early Publishing: The printing of scriptures began in Murshidabad, Bengal, about 125 years prior, initiated by Rai Dhanpat Singhji. His efforts focused on available manuscripts from the 15th-16th centuries (Vikram era).
Scarcity of Ancient Texts: Ancient palm-leaf manuscripts were primarily located in places like Jaisalmer, Patan, and Khambhat. Obtaining these for printing was difficult.
Post-Dhanpat Singh Era: Acharya Sagarānandasuriji Maharaj played a pivotal role in revitalizing Agama publishing. He single-handedly published numerous texts with high-quality paper and typography, which remain attractive and popular even after 75-80 years.
The Role of Punyavijayji Maharaj: Despite earlier efforts, many pure texts from ancient palm-leaf manuscripts remained unpublished. Acharya Shri Chandravijayji Maharaj and his disciple, Agama Prabhakar Acharya Shri Punyavijayji Maharaj, dedicated eighteen years in Patan to organizing and cataloging hundreds of thousands of manuscripts. Punyavijayji Maharaj also painstakingly organized the collections in Jaisalmer, undertaking significant hardship to create comprehensive lists. The current task for researchers is to bring these pure texts to light.
Succession of Editors: After the passing of Punyavijayji Maharaj, Agama Prajna Muni Shri Jambuvijayji Maharaj took over the editing work, publishing several important Agamas. Following the unfortunate demise of Jambuvijayji Maharaj, Acharya Vijay Munichandrasuri and Acharya Vijay Dharmadhurandhar Maharaj accepted the responsibility of continuing the critical edition of the Agamas.

2. Significance of the Uvavai Suttam (Aupapatika Sutram):

First Upanga: The Uvavai Suttam is considered the first Upanga Agama, holding a similar foundational importance to the Achārānga Sutra within the Anga category.
Content: The Sutra is descriptive and richly detailed. It provides extensive and engaging accounts of:
- Lord Mahavir's Samavasarana: The divine assembly where Lord Mahavir preached.
- Lord Mahavir's Physical Attributes: Detailed descriptions of His body, limbs, and auspicious marks (lāñchana), stated to be over 8,000 in number, a unique feature not found in other Agamas.
- The City of Champa: A vivid portrayal of its architecture, grandeur, inhabitants, and significance as a trading center.
- King Kūṇik (Bimbisāra/Ajātśatru): His devotion to Lord Mahavir, his piety, and his interactions with the Tirthankara. The text emphasizes Kūṇik's deep connection to Jainism over Buddhism, citing his multiple encounters with Lord Mahavir and his attendance at the dharma sabhā of Sudharma Svāmī after Mahavir's nirvana.
- Queen Dharini (Subhadra): Her description and role.
- Asceticism and Penances (Tapas): Detailed descriptions of the severe austerities practiced by various ascetics and their philosophies, including their diet, practices, and motivations. This section is particularly rich in detailing various sects and their practices, which offers valuable insights into the religious and philosophical landscape of ancient India.
- Rebirth and Causality (Upapāta): The core subject matter, explaining the causes and destinations of beings in different realms based on their karma and conduct.
- Cosmology and Geography: Descriptions of various celestial beings (Devas), realms, and geographical locations.
Scholarly Value: The detailed descriptions, especially of Lord Mahavir's physical form and the city of Champa, are considered foundational for later literature. The language is noted for being rich in metaphors, compound words, and adjectives, with the first chapter being more complex than the second. The scriptural usage of certain words is compared to Kautilya's Arthashastra, suggesting an ancient origin for the text.
Historical Context: The text highlights the historical context of various philosophical and religious traditions prevalent at the time of Lord Mahavir, discussing different ascetic groups and their beliefs. The meticulous details about their practices provide valuable data for scholars studying ancient Indian religious history.

3. The Editorial Process and Acknowledgements:

Critical Edition: The publication is a critical edition, prepared by utilizing various palm-leaf and paper manuscripts. The editor, Acharya Vijay Munichandrasuri, expresses gratitude to all the scholars, institutions, and individuals who provided support, including the L.D. Institute of Indology, Jinbhadrasuri Gyan Bhandar (Jaisalmer), Kailas Sagar Suri Gyan Mandir (Koba), and Nemi Vigyan Kastoori Suri Gyan Mandir (Surat).
Legacy of Editors: The editorial work is presented as a continuation of the legacy of Acharya Punyavijayji and Acharya Jambuvijayji Maharaj, who dedicated their lives to the critical study and publication of Jain Agamas.
Appreciation: The publication is made possible through the blessings of various spiritual leaders and the dedication of the editorial team and institutions, aiming for the spiritual upliftment of the readers.

In essence, the Uvavai Suttam is a foundational Jain text offering profound insights into the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir, the societal and religious milieu of ancient India, and the intricate workings of karma and rebirth, all presented through rich and detailed narratives. The publication itself is a testament to the enduring efforts of Jain scholars in preserving and disseminating their rich spiritual heritage.