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 2 - Air-bodies’ power to transform
Q. 90. Bhante! Are the air-bodies capable to transform themselves into a vast woman form, a man form, an elephant form, a chariot form, or form of any other vehicle called (locally) jugya-gillī-thillī- śivikā-syandamānikā21?
A. 90. Gautama! This is not correct. (If at all,) air-bodies may transform themselves into a big-sized banner.
Q. 91. Bhante! Are the air-bodies, when transformed into a big-sized banner, capable to go over a distance of many yojanas?
A. 91. Yes, they are.
Q. 92. Bhante! Do they go by their own capability? Or, by others’ capability?
A. 92. Gautama! They go by their own capability, not by others’ capability; (and furthermore,) by the activity of their own soul, by the exertion of their own soul—this much is to be stated.
Q. 93. Bhante! Does it (the banner) go erect? Or, downcast?
A. 93. Gautama! Sometimes it goes erect, and sometimes it goes downcast.
Q. 94. Bhante! Does it go like a single banner? Or, like a double banner?
A. 94. Gautama! It goes like a single banner, not like a double banner.
Q. 95. Bhante! Are the air-bodies banners?
A. 95. Gautīima! Air-bodies are they, not indeed banners.
Notes (based on commentary of Abhayadeva Sūri):
21. jugga—It is very similar to a ricksaw. It has an accomodation about 2 cubits in length.
gillī—a chariot drawn by an elephant.
thillī—a chariot drawn by a horse, a tuṅga.
sīa—a palanquin.
saṃdamāṇīya—a big vehicle of the size of a man.