Bhagavati Sutra is the fifth of the twelve prime canonical texts in Jainism. It is also known as Vyakhyaprajnapti or Viyahapannatti. Bhagavati Sutra is the most sacred and important of the Jaina canons. It is encyclopedic in nature and carries 36,000 questions and answers regarding the universe. The vast range of subjects covered in this canon includes cosmology, sociology, psychology, epistemology, metaphysics, politics, astronomy, and mathematics among others. Besides the above, we also find a description of the life of Mahavira, various doctrines prevalent at the time of Mahavira and the kingdoms, clans, tribes and races that flourished 2600 years ago.
Bhagavati Sutra also gives a comprehensive picture of the political,
social and economic conditions prevalent in those times. There are 41 Shatakas
(sections) and each section is further sub-divided into ten uddeshakas
(chapters). The exposition of Bhagavati Sutra is in the form of a dialogue
between Mahavira and his disciple Indrabhuti Gautama.
The fundamental principle of the Jainas is ahimsa, and the
highest ideal is nirvana. The contents of Bhagavati Sutra are in total
agreement with the other Jaina scriptures. The canon inspires one and all to
take a holistic view of life and living.
Bhagavati Sutra opens with obeisance to Panca Parmestis; the
Brahmi lipi (script) is worshipped. Karma theory, self-created misery and
descriptions of the various cells, substance, etc., are discussed in 41
sections. Bhagavati Sutra is written in varying styles, being descriptive at
times and explanatory at others, making use of similes and analogies to expound
the doctrines of Mahavira.
The linguistic, literary, religious and philosophical developments
at the time of Mahavira can be traced throughout Bhagavati Sutra. The canon is
important for its metaphysical exposition of reality.