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 - Ability of the masters of 14 Pūrvas
Q. 82. Bhante! Are the masters of the 14 Pūrvas (śruta-kevalins) capable to demonstrate a thousand jars out of a single jar, a thousand clothes out of a single cloth, a thousand mats out of a single mat, a thousand chariots out of a single chariot, a thousand umbrellas out of a single umbrella, and a thousand wands out of a single wand?
A. 82. Yes, Gautama, they are so capable.
Q. 83. How are the masters of the 14 Pūrvas capable..., till out of a single wand?
A. 83. Gautama! These masters of the 14 Pūrvas have acquired power to demonstrate infinite objects by dint of what is called utkarikā-bheda20; they have attained this power and it is at their disposal, because of which they are capable to demonstrate,...till out of a single wand.
Bhante! So they are. Glory be to the Lord! So saying Bhagavān Gautama paid his homage and obeisance to the Lord, and having done so, he withdrew to his seat.
Chapter Four end.
Notes (based on commentary of Abhayadeva Sūri):
20. Breaking of matter (pudgala) may give one or another of the five results:
Khaṇḍa—breaking into pieces as it happens when a piece of stone is thrown;
Pra[?]ara [prastara/prastāra]—breaking into layers as is the case with the inside of the earth;
Cūrṇika—Breaking (crushing) into powder;
Anutaṭikā— breaking the ground as it happens when the bed of a river or a tank dries up; and
Utkarikā—breaking from one into many as it happens in case of the eraṇḍa (Calotropis gigantea) fruit.