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This text is a detailed description of the Jain scriptures known as "Cheda Sutras". Here's a translation preserving the Jain terms:
**The Symbolism**
This text is a detailed account of the birth, austerities, teachings, and travels of the Tirthankaras, starting with Lord Mahavira. It also describes the lineage of disciples, the boundaries of the Arya and Anarya regions, and the contemporary kings, princes, and other religious sects. The ancient Jain scriptures (Agamas) infused a new consciousness into every aspect of life. They presented a vibrant and realistic perspective on life, stating that the goal of life is not to get entangled in worldly desires, but to illuminate life through renunciation, detachment, and self-control. This is why the Jain Agamas constantly inspire the seeker to practice self-control, austerities, devotional practices, and introspection.
**The Cheda Sutras**
Acharya Devavachana, in the Nandi Sutra, divided the Agamas into two parts: Anga-Pravesht and Anga-Bahya. The Cheda Sutras are part of the Anga-Bahya Agamas. The Cheda Sutras provide a detailed analysis of the rules of conduct for Jain monks and nuns. This analysis was originally presented by Lord Mahavira himself, making it unique and extraordinary.
Later Acharyas further developed these rules. The Cheda Sutras analyze various methods of atonement that monks and nuns must follow when they break the rules. The Cheda Sutras were created to maintain the purity and integrity of monastic life. Therefore, studying the Cheda Sutras is not only necessary but also mandatory for the proper conduct of monastic life.
**The Origin and Classification of Cheda Sutras**
The term "Cheda Sutra" first appears in the "Aavashyak Niyukti". It is not found in any earlier ancient literature. Later, Acharya Jinabhadragani Kshamashraman mentioned the Cheda Sutras in the "Vishesh Aavashyak Bhashya", and Sanghadasagana mentioned them in the "Nishith Bhashya". The reason for classifying the Cheda Sutras separately and including the "Nishith" and other texts under them is not explicitly explained. It is clear that the texts we call Cheda Sutras are primarily atonement scriptures. The terms "Vyavahar", "Aalocana", "Shodhi", and "Prayashchitta" are considered synonyms in the "Vyavahar Bhashya". Based on this, the Cheda Sutras can be called "Vyavahar Sutras", "Aalocana Sutras", "Shodhi Sutras", and "Prayashchitta Sutras". Acharya Malayagiri used the terms "Padavibhag" and "Samachari" for the Sutras in the "Aavashyak Niyukti" commentary. Both "Padavibhag" and "Cheda" convey the same meaning. It is possible that the Cheda Sutras were named after this concept.
**The Structure of Cheda Sutras**
The Cheda Sutras are independent of each other. Each Sutra is self-contained. The interpretation of these Sutras is also done from the perspective of "Cheda" or "Vibhag".
**References**
1. Nandi Sutra 72
2. Vyavahar Bhashya 2.90
3. Aavashyak Niyukti 777
4. Vishesh Aavashyak Bhashya 2295
5. Nishith Bhashya 5947
6. Aavashyak Niyukti 665, Malayagiri Vritti