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 - Killer of a monk or no-monk
Q. 81. Bhante! In killing a monk (ṛṣi), does one kill a monk or no-monk?
A. 81. Gautama! He kills both.
Q. 82. Bhante! Why so?
A. 82. Gautama! The killer has the feeling that he is killing only the monk, but in fact, he is killing life in other forms too.
Q. 83. Bhante! In killing a man, is one touched by malice against the man or against no-man?
A. 83. Gautama! As a rule, he is touched by malice against the man; but he may also be touched by malice against the man as well as a no-man or many a no-man. Likewise about a horse, till a cittalaga.
Q. 84. Bhante! In killing a monk, is one touched by malice against the monk or against no-monk?
A. 84. Gautama! As a rule, he is touched by malice against the monk; but he may also be touched by malice, till many a no-monk.