Bhagavati-sutra (Viyaha-pannatti)
by K. C. Lalwani | 1973 | 185,989 words
The English translation of the Bhagavati-sutra which is the fifth Jaina Agama (canonical literature). It is a large encyclopedic work in the form of a dialogue where Mahavira replies to various question. The present form of the Sutra dates to the fifth century A.D. Abhayadeva Suri wrote a vritti (commentary) on the Bhagavati in A.D. 1071. In his J...
Part 12 - Height of the vimānas of Śakrendra and Īśānendra
Q. 21. Bhante! Is it a fact that compared with the vimāna of Śakra, the Indra of the gods, their king, the vimāna of Īśāna, the Indra of the gods, their king, is placed at a higher level, and is located on a higher elevation? (Or, to put it otherwise,) is the vimāna of Śakra, the Indra of the gods, their king, at a lower level, and is placed lower than the vimāna of Īśāna, the Indra of the gods, their king?
A. 21. Gautama! You are right in what you have said about the Indras. (They are like that.)
Q. 22. Bhante! What’s the reason for this?
A. 22. Gautama! Just as a certain portion of the palm is slightly higher, and more elevated than other portions, and a certain other portion is slightly lower, somewhat depressed, so, Gautama, (the vimāna) of Śakra, the Indra of the gods, their king,... till located at a lower level.
Notes (based on commentary of Abhayadeva Sūri):
(There is no commentary available for this section).