Ambad Charitra - Book Summary | JainGPT

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Ambad Charitra," based on the provided pages:

Introduction and Purpose:

The "Ambad Charitra" (The Life of Ambad) is presented as a biography of Ambada, a significant figure who is described as a powerful and virtuous individual destined to be a savior in a future epoch of time, similar to the Tirthankaras of the present cycle. The text emphasizes the Jain tradition of revering not only the Tirthankaras of the past, present, and future but also all great souls who have contributed to spiritual progress. The author, Pandit Shri Amarsuri, is credited with writing this narrative in simple Sanskrit, and the current publication is based on his work. The publisher, Jain Sansti Vanchanmala, aims to spread moral and religious teachings through such stories, hoping they will be beneficial for readers of all ages, contributing to their spiritual welfare. The book asserts that true happiness and ultimate liberation (moksha) stem from Dharma (righteousness).

The Story of Ambad:

The narrative begins by introducing King Vikramsingh of Vasnagar, renowned for his virtuous deeds and philanthropy. His court is visited by a radiant, though currently impoverished, man. This man, revealed to be Ambada's son, Kurubaka, seeks audience with the King. Kurubaka explains that his father, Ambad the Kshatriya, was initially very poor. Despite attempting various spiritual practices and diligently seeking wealth, his poverty persisted. Ultimately, Ambad sought refuge with Gorakh Gini, a yogini residing on Dhanagiri mountain. Through Gorakh Gini's guidance and Ambad's own valor, their family acquired eight siddhis (supernatural powers) and nine nidhis (treasures).

Ambad's Quest and Trials:

The text then delves into Ambad's extraordinary exploits, beginning with his first directive from Gorakh Gini: to retrieve a fruit from the Shatsharkara tree located in the Gunavadana garden to the east.

Ambad's journey leads him to a city where societal norms are inverted: men perform women's duties, and women are strong and assertive. He encounters men who are fearful of speaking about women's dominance and observes women riding horses with authority. This unusual social structure perplexes Ambad. He is approached by an old woman who recognizes him and invites him to her home for clarification and rest.

At her home, Ambad meets a beautiful young woman named Chandravati, who is engrossed in a game with four celestial orbs (representing the Sun, Moon, Rahu, and Ketu). Ambad is struck by her beauty. The old woman, Chandravati's mother, reveals that she is a disciple of Gorakh Gini and that Ambad cannot leave the city without their permission. She proposes a game to Ambad: whoever drops a ball in a game will be subservient to the other. Chandravati, with her exceptional skill, eventually defeats Ambad.

During his stay, Ambad learns about the inverted society and Chandravati's unique powers. He also witnesses the extraordinary abilities of the women there. He is then instructed by Gorakh Gini to embark on further quests:

Second Commandment: To bring back Adharika, the daughter of Kamal Kanchan Yogi, from the island of Harichhatra in the sea. Ambad successfully navigates this challenge, encountering a forest where he is initially lured by fruits but is redirected by a monkey. He then meets Kamal Kanchan Yogi himself in disguise, who reveals that Adharika is his daughter and that Ambad's arrival was foreseen. Ambad faces a trial where he transforms into a rooster and is mistreated by Kamal Kanchan Yogi's wives, Kali and Nagi. He is eventually released from this curse by the water from a special well. Ambad then rescues Adharika, who reveals her story of transformation and her father's deception. Ambad marries Adharika and then proceeds to rescue her from her predicament using his acquired powers. He then reunites with his father and returns home.
Third Commandment: To obtain a gem-studded necklace from Queen Chandravati in Sinhala island. Ambad, disguised as a dancer, infiltrates the palace. He encounters the king's daughter, Rajal Devi, who is revealed to have a special connection to the Sun God and possesses a divine robe. Ambad performs a captivating dance, winning the admiration of the people. He also witnesses the power of his own illusory creations. He later learns that Rajal Devi's father is under a curse. Ambad, using his powers, frees the king, cures him of his ailment, and receives half the kingdom and Rajal Devi's hand in marriage. He also marries five other women, daughters of wealthy merchants.
Fourth Commandment: To bring back Lakshmi and a monkey (vandari) from the house of a wealthy merchant named Navlakha in Navlaksha city. Ambad encounters a bewitching maiden in a forest who tests him. He learns of various kings and their fates, including King Devaaditya, who was cursed to become a parrot and later resurrected. Ambad then ventures to the city of Navlaksha, where he encounters the merchant's daughter, Rupini, who possesses a magical monkey and a powerful gem. Ambad uses his wiles to win Rupini's affection, marries her, and obtains the treasures. He also frees her from a curse that turned her into a monkey. He then encounters King Malayachandra, whom he turns into a donkey to secure his kingdom and daughter Viramati. Ambad marries Viramati and then proceeds to rescue Princess Chandrakanta from a sorcerer, restoring her to human form and marrying her as well.
Fifth Commandment: To bring back a divine staff called Sarvasiddhina from Brahmin Someshwar in Kodin city in Savira country. Ambad's journey involves encountering a Brahmin who seeks to learn his "Mohini Vidya" (enchantment). Ambad agrees to an exchange of knowledge. He then transforms himself into a mendicant to test Rohini, the daughter of King Sagarachandra. After failing to impress Rohini with his disguises as Brahma, Shiva, and Vishnu, Ambad assumes the form of a Jain Tirthankara, but Rohini remains steadfast in her devotion to Jainism. Ambad then reveals his true identity and impresses Rohini with his abilities. He learns about her father's misfortunes and his devotion to Jainism. Ambad then aids the king, curing him of a severe illness with the water from a sacred well and helping him regain his kingdom. He then marries Rohini and others.
Sixth Commandment: To bring back the jewel necklace from the crown of Queen Chandi in Soparak city in Sirastra country. Ambad's quest leads him to a forest where he is tested by a monkey and a magical mango tree. He is transported to Nandana forest where he learns of King Hansa's fate, who was cursed by a sorcerer, and the divine intervention of Dharanendra who restored him and established the city of Patalpur. Ambad witnesses a spectacle orchestrated by King Hansa and learns about the prophecy of King Vikramaditya's arrival. Ambad, with the help of a Brahmin, eventually rescues Princess Adharika from the sorcerer, and through a series of trials and transformations, secures the divine staff. He then restores the kings and princes to their original forms and returns with the treasures.
Seventh Commandment: To bring back a garment from the crown of King Chandi in Soparak city. Ambad's journey takes him through a beautiful forest where he encounters a monkey who poses riddles and challenges. He learns the story of King Shivankar, who was cursed and transformed into a female due to his actions. Ambad witnesses his power and eventual transformation, aided by the magical powers of a well. He then aids King Shivankar's son, Dharanendra Chudamani, in establishing Patalpur and restoring his lineage. Ambad also learns of the significance of the Tirthankara Parshvanatha and the rituals associated with him. He then proceeds to Soparak city.

Ambad's Spiritual Growth and Legacy:

Throughout his trials, Ambad demonstrates great courage, resourcefulness, and an unwavering commitment to his vows. He utilizes various supernatural powers and disguises to overcome obstacles. His encounters with different societies and individuals broaden his understanding and refine his character.

Ultimately, Ambad achieves great spiritual merit. He receives divine blessings and attains the status of a Tirthankara in a future epoch. The narrative highlights his journey from poverty to immense power and spiritual attainment, emphasizing the Jain principles of Dharma, karma, and the pursuit of liberation. The story concludes with Ambad embracing a life of piety and devotion, surrounded by his many wives and devoted followers, having fulfilled all the commands of Gorakh Gini and achieved his spiritual goals.

The book also includes promotional material for other Jain literature published by Jain Sansti Vanchanmala, recommending historical and devotional books for personal and community growth.