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The Jain philosophers and thinkers who have contemplated on "Pratmasatta" (Self-existence) or have achieved self-realization, have also extensively pondered upon the means and methods of self-development for the benefit of others. Their contemplation and discourse on the soul and its related aspects are known today by various names like Agam, Pitak, Ved, Upanishad, etc. Jain philosophy holds that the afflictions of the soul, such as raga (attachment), dvesha (aversion), etc., can be eliminated through spiritual practices. When these afflictions are completely eradicated, the powers of the soul, such as knowledge, bliss, and energy, are fully manifested. The complete illumination and development of these powers is called "Sarvgyata" (Omniscience). The words, speech, or pronouncements of an omniscient being are known as "Pagam". Agam refers to the scriptures, sutras, or received words that impart knowledge of the principles, self-knowledge, and proper conduct. Generally, the words or speech of an omniscient being are not compiled; they are like scattered flowers. However, specific, highly accomplished omniscient beings who establish the path of Dharma (righteousness) and institute the practice of Dharma in the monastic life are called Arihant or Tirthankara (ford-makers). The benevolent words of the Tirthankara are compiled by their highly learned disciples, the Ganadharas, into the form of "Pagam" or scriptures. In other words, when the free flow of the flowers of the words of the Jinas is bound together in the form of a garland, it takes the form of "Agam". This Pagam, the words of the Jinas, is the primary source of self-knowledge or liberation knowledge for us all. "Agam" was called "Ganipitak" in the ancient language. The entire body of scriptures, in the form of the pronouncements of the Arihants, is contained in the "Dwadashanga" (twelve parts). From the Dwadashanga, the Acharanga, Sutra Kritanga, and other parts and sub-parts have evolved. The study of this Dwadashanga is considered essential and beneficial for every seeker of liberation. The twelfth part of the Dwadashanga is considered a vast and comprehensive repository of scriptural knowledge. Only very special, talented, and learned practitioners could study it. Therefore, the study of the Ekadashanga (eleven parts) was prescribed for seekers, and everyone's focus remained on it. When there was no tradition of writing and the means of writing were very limited, the Agams/scriptures were preserved through memory or by memorizing them through the Guru-parampara (lineage of teachers). Perhaps this is why the knowledge of the Agam was called "Shrutajnana" (knowledge derived from hearing), and meaningful words like "Shruti" (hearing) and "Smriti" (memory) were used. For a thousand years after the Nirvana (liberation) of Lord Mahavira, the knowledge of the Agams was based on the tradition of memory and hearing. Later, due to various reasons such as weakening of memory, the breaking of the Guru-parampara, the effects of calamities, etc., the knowledge of the Agams gradually disappeared. The water of the great lake dried up, leaving only a small puddle. This was a matter of concern for the seeker Shramans.