Answer

In Jain Dharma, the Agamas are the sacred scriptures that preserve the teachings of Bhagwan Mahavir and the Jain tradition.

There are different Agam lists in different Jain traditions, but the most well-known is the Śvetāmbara Agam canon. Below is a simple explanation of the main Agams and what each one is about.

Explanation

1. Āchārāṅga Sūtra

This Agam explains the conduct of a monk, non-violence, discipline, renunciation, and the ideal Jain way of living.

2. Sūtrakṛtāṅga Sūtra

This Agam explains Jain philosophy and also answers wrong beliefs and non-Jain views. It teaches the truth of Jain Dharma.

3. Sthānāṅga Sūtra

This text presents teachings in numbered form. It explains many Jain subjects in groups of 1, 2, 3, and so on.

4. Samavāyāṅga Sūtra

Like Sthānāṅga, this Agam also teaches through numbers and classifications. It contains vast collections of Jain knowledge.

5. Vyākhyā Prajñapti / Bhagavatī Sūtra

This is one of the largest and most important Agams. It contains deep discussions between Bhagwan Mahavir and his disciples on soul, karma, karma bondage, rebirth, universe, and spiritual practice.

6. Jñātādharmakathāṅga Sūtra

This Agam teaches through stories and examples. It explains dharma in a simple and memorable way.

7. Upāsakadaśāṅga Sūtra

This Agam describes the lives and conduct of ten lay followers of Bhagwan Mahavir. It shows how householders can live a religious life.

8. Antakṛddaśāṅga Sūtra

This text describes devotees who attained liberation or the final spiritual goal through strong practice and devotion.

9. Anuttaropapātikadaśāṅga Sūtra

This Agam explains the souls who were reborn in the highest heavenly realms because of their good karma and spiritual merit.

10. Praśnavyākaraṇa Sūtra

This Agam originally dealt with questions and answers, and it teaches about auspicious and inauspicious actions, vows, and karmic results.

11. Vipāka Sūtra

This Agam explains the results of karma. It shows how good and bad actions produce happiness or suffering.

12. Dṛṣṭivāda

This was considered the most extensive and ancient Ang Agam, but it is now lost. Jain tradition says it contained very deep philosophical and doctrinal knowledge.

Spiritual Understanding

The Agamas guide a Jain seeker in:

• Right conduct
• Non-violence
• Self-control
• Truthfulness
• Detachment
• Understanding karma and liberation

Their purpose is not only to give knowledge, but to help the soul move toward moksha.

Takeaway

If you want to understand the Agamas simply, remember this:

• Āchārāṅga teaches conduct
• Sūtrakṛtāṅga teaches right philosophy
• Bhagavatī teaches deep spiritual discussion
• Upāsakadaśāṅga teaches lay practice
• Vipāka teaches karma results

If you want, I can also give you the full explanation of all Jain Agam categories like Ang Agams, Upāngas, Cheda Sūtras, Mūla Sūtras, and Prakīrṇakas in the same simple style.