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 4 - Experience with and without desiring
Q. 123. Bhante! There are one-organ living beings without mind, such as the earth bodies, till flora, and the sixth, some mobile beings who are ignorant, idiotic, engrossed in darkness, handicapped by nescience and entangled in the snares of attachment. Can it be said about these that they experience without desiring?
A. 128. Yes, it can be said like that about these who are without mind.
Q. 129. Bhante! Is it possible that even when they are capable, (i.e., they have the faculty of mind), they still experience without desiring?
A. 129. Yes, they do.
Q. 130. Bhante! Why does it happen like this?
A. 130. Gautama! Those beings who are capable, but cannot see things in darkness without the aid of a lamp, who cannot see things in front of them without looking at it, who cannot see anything in the rear without turning back, who cannot see anything on both the sides without looking, who cannot see things above or below without discussion, such ones experience without desiring.
Q. 131. Bhante! Is it ever possible that those who are capable do experience with utmost desire?
A. 131. Yes, they do.
Q. 132. Bhante! How does it happen?
A. 132. Gautama! Those who are incapable to reach the other end of the ocean, to see things at the other end of the ocean, who are incapable to go to heaven and who cannot see things in heaven, such ones, though capable, experience with utmost desire.
Bhante! Right you are. It is truly so.
Chapter Seven ends.
Notes (based on commentary of Abhayadeva Sūri):
(There is no commentary available for this section).