Tattvartha Sutra

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Tattvarthsutra
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Samyak Darsana Chart

Tattvartha Sutra (also known as Tattvarthadhigama Sutra) is an ancient Jain text written by Acharya Umasvati (also known as Umasvami) around the 2nd century CE. It is one of the most authoritative and comprehensive texts in Jain literature, providing a systematic exposition of Jain philosophy and ethics.

Etymology[edit | edit source]

The term "Tattvartha Sutra" is derived from the Sanskrit words "Tattva" meaning "reality" or "truth" and "Artha" meaning "meaning" or "purpose". Thus, "Tattvartha Sutra" translates to "That which is the meaning of reality".

Structure[edit | edit source]

The Tattvartha Sutra consists of ten chapters, each dealing with different aspects of Jain metaphysics, cosmology, ethics, and spirituality. The chapters are as follows:

  1. Jiva (Soul)
  2. Ajiva (Non-soul)
  3. Asrava (Influx of karmas)
  4. Bandha (Bondage of karmas)
  5. Samvara (Stoppage of karmas)
  6. Nirjara (Shedding of karmas)
  7. Moksha (Liberation)
  8. Naraka (Hell)
  9. Dharma (Righteousness)
  10. Jnana (Knowledge)

Philosophical Concepts[edit | edit source]

The Tattvartha Sutra elaborates on the following key philosophical concepts:

  • Anekantavada: The doctrine of multiple viewpoints.
  • Syadvada: The theory of conditioned predication.
  • Karma: The mechanism of action and its consequences.
  • Moksha: The ultimate goal of liberation from the cycle of birth and death.

Ethical Teachings[edit | edit source]

The text emphasizes the importance of the Five Vows (Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya, and Aparigraha) and the practice of Samyak Darshan, Samyak Jnana, and Samyak Charitra (right faith, right knowledge, and right conduct).

Commentaries[edit | edit source]

Several commentaries have been written on the Tattvartha Sutra by various Jain scholars over the centuries. Some of the notable commentaries include:

Influence[edit | edit source]

The Tattvartha Sutra has had a profound influence on Jain thought and practice. It is studied by both the Svetambara and Digambara sects of Jainism and is considered a foundational text in Jain education.

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Categories[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD