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ŚRĪ JAMBŪDVIP PRAJÑAPTI SŪTRA
5TH UPÃNGA SUTRA
GEOGRAPHY, ASTRONOMY, AND HISTORY
Keeping in mind the varied interests of the people of this world, Bhagwan Mahāvīra has given geographical, astronomical and historical explanations of not only our earth but also of the universe. The different countries on earth and their geographical constitutions have been explained in this Sūtra. The planet Earth where we live is a part of Jambūdvip (Jambu Island). The length, breadth and constitution of Jambudvīp are specified. In the centre of it is Mount Meru. The magnanimity of this mountain and what it is made up of is explained. The humungous nature of the sea waves of Jambūdvip and how earth is protected by these waves, how tsunamis are formed and its effect have been explained by Bhagwan Mahāvīra in this Agama. This Agama explains the composition of the earth. It also contains the description of the inspirational lives of people who lived in Jambudweep and the 56 Dishakumaris who came to tie Rakhi (protection band) on the wrist of Rishabhdev at the time of his birth. It also describes the life style of people living in India lacs of years before the birth of the first Tirthankara Rishabhdev. Bhagwan Mahāvīra has also explained here the method and specified different places in Jambūdvip from where the soul can attain salvation. This Agama is beneficial to those disciples
who have deep interest in geography and astronomy.