Antim Tirthankar Mahavira

This comprehensive summary of "Antim Tirthankar Mahavira" by Shakun Prakashan Delhi, based on the provided text, aims to capture the essence of Lord Mahavira's life, teachings, and the Jain dharma.

Overall Theme:

The book "Antim Tirthankar Mahavira" presents Lord Mahavira as the ultimate spiritual guide whose life and teachings offer solace, wisdom, and a path to liberation for all of humanity. It emphasizes the timeless and universal nature of his message of truth and non-violence, highlighting its relevance even in the modern scientific age.

Key Sections and Their Summaries:

• Introduction/Editorial (Prakashakiya):

  • The book focuses on Lord Mahavira's life, emphasizing his relentless pursuit of truth through immense difficulties and his peaceful endurance of hardships.
  • It highlights Mahavira's profound Jain philosophy and ideal path, presented in his own words and discourses, designed to unravel life's complexities and lead to divine knowledge.
  • The book's significance extends beyond Jain followers, aiming to guide all of humankind towards welfare.
  • It addresses the contemporary understanding of Truth and Ahimsa (non-violence) in a complex world, questioning whether current interpretations are accurate.
  • Jainism is presented as a distinct and important philosophy.
  • The book stresses Mahavira's concept of an indivisible "truth" and his revolutionary idea, still valid today, that thoughts can evolve with time and circumstances. He advocated for logic and debate rather than imposing beliefs.

• "Live and Let Live" (Jiyo aur Jeene Do):

  • This section features a quote from Mahavira emphasizing that all enlightened beings (Arihants) preach the same principle: consider all living beings equal, do not harm, enslave, cause pain, or distress any creature.

• Table of Contents (Kram):

  • Lists the chapters covering various aspects of Jainism and Mahavira's life, including:
    • The Nectar of Dharma (Dharm Ka Amrit)
    • The Light of Jainism (Jain Dharm Ki Jyoti)
    • Lord Mahavira: A Great Soul (Bhagwan Mahavira: Ek Mahanatam Vibhuti)
    • Earth's Cry - Earth's Tears (Dharti Ka Rodan - Dharti Ke Aansu)
    • That Sacred Land, That Sacred Earth (Vah Punnya Desh, Vah Punnya Dhara)
    • When Divine Light Descended on Earth (Jab Divya Jyoti Dhara Par Utri)
    • Golden Rays of the Dawn (Balarun Ki Swarn-Rashmiyan)
    • The Golden Lotus of Renunciation (Virakti Ka Swarn-Kamal)
    • Memorable Victory March (Smaraniya Jay-Yatra)
    • The Darkness of Ignorance Faded, a Ray of True Knowledge Appeared (Agyan Ka Tam Dhala, Sacche Gyan Ki Kiran Phuti)
    • Steps to Nirvana (Nirvan Ki Sidhiyan)
    • Thirst and Fulfillment (Trisha aur Trripti)
    • The Auspicious Hour of Nirvana (Nirvan Ki Punnya Bela)

• The Nectar of Dharma (Dharm Ka Amrit):

  • Dharma is likened to nectar – cool, comforting, and dispelling suffering. It revitalizes life and brings stability. When Dharma manifests in its true form, it spreads happiness, peace, and joy, eradicating conflicts and bridging divides.
  • The book acknowledges the vast diversity of interpretations of Dharma, leading to numerous sects and around 2200 denominations globally.
  • It highlights India's significant contributions to Dharma research, mentioning prominent religions like Jainism, Vedic (Hinduism), and Buddhism, as well as others originating from Asia like Judaism, Islam, and Zoroastrianism.
  • The text asserts that all religious founders, including Mahavira, claimed to be revealing existing, eternal truth rather than introducing something new.
  • Mahavira's core teaching, shared by past and future enlightened beings, is "Savve Jiva Na Hantavva" – non-violence towards any living being.
  • Similar sentiments are found in Vedic and Buddhist scriptures. Mahavira's dharma is described as an ancient path followed by enlightened beings.
  • The conclusion is that Dharma is eternal, one, and has always existed and will always exist. Variations arise from interpretations.

• The Light of Jainism (Jain Dharm Ki Jyoti):

  • Jainism is defined by its "anekantavada" (many-sidedness) approach to understanding truth, emphasizing the consideration of all perspectives without bias. It condemns causing pain to any living being.
  • The origin of Jainism is difficult to pinpoint, as it is not attributed to a single person or scripture, suggesting it predates history. Some scholars believe it co-exists with the Earth itself.
  • Jainism is the religion taught by the Jinas, or Tirthankaras, who have appeared throughout history to guide humanity. Their teachings share a common core, making Jainism potentially the world's oldest religion.
  • The Tirthankaras' path leads to the welfare of all beings. They appear during times of spiritual decline to rekindle the light of Dharma.
  • The cycle of time in Jainism is divided into Utsarpini-kaal (progress) and Avasarpini-kaal (regress), each with six phases.
  • The current era is the Avasarpini cycle, currently in its fifth phase.
  • The first Tirthankara, Rishabhnath (Adinath), appeared in the third phase of this cycle. Lord Mahavira was the last of the 24 Tirthankaras.
  • Rishabhnath is considered the originator and law-maker of Jainism in this time cycle. His birth is dated to the ancient "Yugal-kaal" when human relationships were basic.
  • Rishabhnath's parents were King Nabhi and Queen Marudevi. He had two wives and 100 sons, including Bharat, after whom India (Bharatvarsha) is named.
  • Rishabhnath attained omniscience after a thousand years of penance, establishing social systems, arts, and teaching the Brahmi script to his daughter, Brahmi.
  • The Rigveda and Shrimad Bhagavatam praise Rishabhnath for his divine knowledge and his role as a protector of the world. His teachings emphasized self-control, detachment from worldly pleasures, and seeing all beings as equal.

• Lord Mahavira: A Great Soul (Bhagwan Mahavira: Ek Mahanatam Vibhuti):

  • Mahavira is described as an eternal, divine being whose legacy continues to resonate. He was revered even by gods and celestial beings, yet he remained humble and focused on spiritual austerity.
  • He achieved greatness through his own conduct and divine knowledge, embodying a path of virtue that leads to liberation.
  • Mahavira's birth was for the welfare of the world. He was the embodiment of divinity but never displayed his powers ostentatiously. Instead, he endured suffering to illuminate a path of true happiness and peace for humanity.
  • He is called "Mahavira" (Great Hero) for conquering his own desires and passions, not through physical warfare.
  • His life was a testament to achieving greatness through inner strength, self-discipline, non-violence, and detachment.
  • His divine nature was characterized by humility, equanimity, and boundless love for all beings, making him accessible to everyone regardless of social status.
  • He renounced worldly possessions and pleasures, facing adversities with immense courage and resolve, earning him the title "Mahavira."
  • Mahavira's fearlessness was absolute; he faced animals, weapons, diseases, and death itself with unwavering composure.
  • He was the embodiment of Ahimsa (non-violence), embodying it in thought, word, and deed. His non-violence was characterized by compassion, love, and humility, captivating even those who opposed him.
  • Through rigorous penance and self-control, he gained immense spiritual power and detached himself from worldly attachments, viewing the entire universe as his home and all beings as his family.

• Earth's Cry - Earth's Tears (Dharti Ka Rodan - Dharti Ke Aansu):

  • This section describes the dire social and spiritual conditions prevalent before Mahavira's birth.
  • Earth wept tears of sorrow due to rampant sin, injustice, and suffering.
  • The period was characterized by widespread inequality, with wealth concentrated in the hands of a few, while the majority suffered as slaves or dependents.
  • Luxurious living led to moral decay, with people indulging in sinful desires and unethical practices.
  • Relationships were devoid of chastity and modesty. Men were driven by lust, abandoning ethical conduct, discipline, and self-control.
  • Sexual violence, abduction, and exploitation were rampant, leading to widespread sorrow and anguish.
  • There was a complete focus on the physical body, neglecting the spiritual and inner self. Rituals and austerities were abandoned for materialistic pursuits.
  • Animal sacrifice, intoxication, gambling, and moral corruption created a hellish environment on Earth.
  • The text details the discriminatory social structure where Brahmins held supreme status, looking down upon and oppressing other castes, particularly Shudras and Dalits.
  • Religious practices often involved violence and hypocrisy. The established social order (Varnashrama Dharma) was distorted for personal gain.
  • Even within Jainism, societal divisions and differing interpretations existed.
  • The chapter concludes that Mahavira's advent was a response to humanity's desperate cries for salvation from this abyss of suffering and darkness.

• That Sacred Land, That Sacred Earth (Vah Punnya Desh, Vah Punnya Dhara):

  • This section extols the sanctity of lands where great souls are born, especially those who focus on inner transformation.
  • Political and social reformers can awaken society but may also create conflict and competition.
  • True peace and happiness arise from inner purification, the eradication of selfishness, and the realization of the soul's true nature.
  • Lands where such Mahatmas are born become sacred pilgrimage sites, their soil imbued with divine fragrance for ages. Ayodhya, Mathura, Kashi, Kund Gram, Vaishali, and Champapuri are cited as examples.
  • Mahavira's birthplace, Kund Gram (near Vaishali) in the Bihar region, is highlighted as a particularly sacred place where his divine presence transformed the land into a heavenly abode.

• When Divine Light Descended on Earth (Jab Divya Jyoti Dhara Par Utri):

  • The birth of a divine soul is heralded by auspicious signs: nature rejoices, seasons become favorable, and people experience joy and spiritual inclination.
  • Mahavira's birth was preceded by such signs, with the land around Kund Gram becoming prosperous and people turning towards virtuous living.
  • His parents were King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala Devi, sister of King Chetak of Vaishali. Trishala Devi was known for her elevated thoughts, and Siddhartha was a wise, just, and disciplined ruler.
  • During Mahavira's gestation, Trishala Devi experienced divine visions, including sixteen auspicious dreams (elephant, bull, lion, garland, moon, sun, fish, kalash, lake, ocean, Lakshmi, throne, viman, nag-bhavan, gem treasury, fire without smoke). These dreams were interpreted by Siddhartha, foretelling Mahavira's future as a Tirthankara, a great preacher, a powerful warrior, renowned, divinely knowledgeable, fortunate, destined for spiritual absorption, and ultimately achieving liberation.
  • The exact date of Mahavira's birth is stated as the 13th day of the bright half of Chaitra, a Monday, in the spring season, 599 years before the Common Era.
  • His birth was celebrated with great joy, with festivals, the release of prisoners, and widespread charity. Even celestial beings are said to have participated in his consecration.

• Golden Rays of the Dawn (Balarun Ki Swarn-Rashmiyan):

  • Describes Mahavira's infant appearance as fair-complexioned, with a strong build, broad shoulders, a moon-like face, and large eyes, emanating a divine radiance.
  • Astrologers and ascetics predicted his future as a great spiritual leader, free from worldly influences, possessing extraordinary attributes.
  • His birth brought prosperity to his kingdom, leading his father to name him "Vardhmana" (one who increases).
  • Vardhmana also had other names like Videh, Vichhedit, Vanshalik, Jnatraputra, Ativira, Nirgrantha, and Sanmati, the last given by two sages who recognized his spiritual purity.
  • His parents followed the teachings of Tirthankara Parshvanath.
  • Even at eight years old, Vardhmana practiced principles of compassion, truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and restraint of desires, demonstrating his innate divinity.
  • Anecdotes from his childhood highlight his supernatural abilities, such as his fearlessness when confronting a serpent manifested by an envious god.

• The Golden Lotus of Renunciation (Virakti Ka Swarn-Kamal):

  • Mahavira was a natural renunciate, born for the spiritual upliftment of humanity. He waged war not against external enemies but against internal enemies like desire and passion.
  • Despite his royal upbringing, he remained detached from worldly pleasures, like a lotus untouched by water.
  • His childhood aversion to worldly grandeur and his empathy for the suffering of others foreshadowed his renunciation.
  • At the age of thirty, after a fulfilling youth marked by detachment, he formally renounced his kingdom to pursue his spiritual mission.
  • He undertook intense penance and contemplation on twelve reflections (anitya, asharan, sansar, ekatva, anyatva, ashuchi, asrav, samvar, nirjara, lok, bodhi durlabh, dharm-anupreksha) to affirm his resolve.

• Memorable Victory March (Smaraniya Jay-Yatra):

  • Mahavira's "victory march" was not for territorial conquest but to conquer the internal enemies of desire, lust, and passions that enslave humanity.
  • He is celebrated for his bravery in overcoming these inner foes, offering liberation from suffering, disease, and vices.
  • The text uses an analogy of a king who, having conquered all earthly enemies, finds himself powerless against the internal enemies of poverty, sorrow, disease, old age, sin, anger, ego, deceit, greed, and pride. Mahavira, however, conquered these internal enemies.
  • At age thirty, on the tenth day of the waxing moon in Magha, Mahavira renounced his worldly life, leaving his kingdom, palace, wealth, and family in a public ceremony. This was both a moment of sorrow for his loved ones and joy for those anticipating his mission of liberation.
  • He shed his royal attire and jewels, becoming a naked ascetic, vowing to observe 28 specific virtues, including the five great vows (Mahavratas) and five restraints (Samitis) for careful conduct, speech, sustenance, and handling objects.
  • His journey included arduous penance for 12.5 years, often without food or water, and minimal sleep. He travelled extensively, encountering various challenges and spiritual experiences.
  • During monsoons, he would stay in one place for Chaumasa (four months). Specific locations like Asthigram, Nalanda, Champa, Rajgriha, Ujjain, and Ladha are mentioned for his retreats.
  • Tales of his time in Ladha, where he faced the fierce and violent "Anaryas," demonstrate his unwavering patience, forgiveness, and the transformative power of his presence. They eventually surrendered and sought his forgiveness.
  • The story of Chandana highlights Mahavira's compassion in accepting food from her when she was humiliated and enslaved, redeeming her life.
  • His encounter with the astrologer Pushpa, who initially mistook him for an emperor but realized he was a Tirthankara, underscores his divine nature.
  • His resilience against celestial temptations and divine beings, like Indra, showcased his absolute self-control.
  • The story of Gopala, a cowherd, and his stolen oxen, and Indra's intervention, reveals Mahavira's commitment to his spiritual path, rejecting external help for self-realization.
  • His encounter with Chandakoushik, a venomous serpent, illustrates Mahavira's extraordinary power of compassion, transforming the serpent's venom into milk.
  • His experiences in Ujjain, challenging the practice of animal sacrifice, demonstrate his courage against societal norms.
  • Mahavira's penance was marked by immense suffering, but his unwavering resolve, patience, and forgiveness earned him the titles of "Mahavira" and "Ativira" (Extremely Brave).
  • He endured extreme austerities, often fasting for extended periods and minimizing sleep, demonstrating unparalleled control over his body and mind.

• The Darkness of Ignorance Faded, a Ray of True Knowledge Appeared (Agyan Ka Tam Dhala, Sacche Gyan Ki Kiran Phuti):

  • After 12.5 years of intense penance, Mahavira attained Kevala Jnana (omniscience) under a Sal tree by the Rijukula river in Jambhrik village.
  • This event marked the dawn of true knowledge, illuminating humanity's path to liberation.
  • He understood the mysteries of life, the universe, the soul, the body, and death, as well as the paths to Nirvana, Moksha, and Kevala.
  • He achieved mastery over anger, jealousy, conflict, disease, sorrow, and aging, establishing equanimity in all circumstances.
  • For thirty years, he traveled extensively, preaching his message, dispelling ignorance, alleviating suffering, and guiding people towards spiritual liberation.
  • He attracted a large following of monks (14,000, including 11 Ganadharas like Indrabhuti Gautam, who were former Vedic scholars), nuns (36,000), and lay disciples (millions of householders and kings like Shrenik of Magadha and Chetaka of Vaishali).
  • The text recounts the conversion of Indrabhuti and his brothers, who were renowned scholars but arrogant, to Mahavira's teachings through philosophical debate initiated by Indra.
  • The stories of Shrenik (Bimbisara), Abhay Kumar, Megh Kumar, and Varishana highlight their transformations and devotion to Mahavira's teachings. Shrenik, initially an opponent, became a devoted follower after witnessing the miraculous effects of Jain principles. Abhay and Megh Kumar, royal princes, renounced their worldly lives after being profoundly influenced by Mahavira's discourses. Varishana, wrongly accused of theft, found spiritual liberation through his unwavering faith.
  • The narrative also includes the stories of Vadhra, who, after a difficult life, found solace and spiritual growth in the Jain order, and Chandana, who was rescued from a life of hardship.
  • Mahavira's influence extended beyond India to Persia and Iran. His message of universal welfare resonated with people from all walks of life and nations.

• Steps to Nirvana (Nirvan Ki Sidhiyan):

  • Nirvana, the ultimate goal of human life, is the soul's realization of its true divine nature.
  • The text emphasizes that inner purification of the mind and soul is paramount, more so than external rituals like sacrifices, pilgrimages, or temple worship.
  • Mahavira's teachings are presented as the "steps to Nirvana," all pointing towards conquering desires and purifying the soul.
  • He advocated for inner revolution rather than external changes. He conquered desire, lust, violence, falsehood, pride, and attachment, achieving liberation and divinity.
  • His teachings on Ahimsa (Non-violence) are presented as the supreme principle. He considered Ahimsa not just a part of Dharma but Dharma itself. The text elaborates on Ahimsa's qualities and its importance across various religions and philosophies.
  • Satya (Truth): Mahavira emphasized the inseparable connection between Ahimsa and Satya. Truth is defined as that which is revealed by the Vitaragas (the detached). The text highlights the universal reverence for truth in scriptures and the importance of speaking truthful but not harmful words.
  • Asteya (Non-stealing): This principle extends beyond physical theft to include exploitation, unfair trade practices, and misappropriation of rights. Practicing Asteya leads to inner wealth and societal well-being.
  • Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Chastity): Mahavira stressed the importance of conserving vital energy for spiritual growth, applicable to both householders and ascetics.
  • Aparigraha (Non-possession/Detachment): This involves detachment from material possessions, emotions, and worldly attachments, which are seen as the primary bonds leading to suffering. Contentment is a key aspect of Aparigraha.

• Thirst and Fulfillment (Trisha aur Trripti):

  • This section presents a series of questions and answers, likely from dialogues between Mahavira and his disciples, illustrating the karmic consequences of various actions and virtues.
  • It explains how wealth, beauty, intelligence, spiritual attainment, fearlessness, strength, pleasant speech, popularity, and social standing are outcomes of specific virtuous deeds like generosity, compassion, penance, adherence to vows, respectful service, truthful speech, and good conduct.
  • Conversely, it explains the causes of negative outcomes like poverty, suffering, loss, and unfortunate births, attributing them to pride, arrogance, cruelty, deceit, and sinful actions.

• The Auspicious Hour of Nirvana (Nirvan Ki Punnya Bela):

  • Mahavira's 30-year ministry concluded with him reaching Pavapuri, where he attained Nirvana (Moksha) at the age of 72 in 527 BCE on the 14th day of the dark half of Kartik.
  • His passing marked the end of his earthly mission to spread the light of knowledge and compassion.
  • Pavapuri became a sacred pilgrimage site, also known as "Apapuri" (city without sin), where his footprints are believed to be preserved.
  • The book concludes with a summary of key facts about Lord Mahavira, including his birth details, renunciation, attainment of omniscience, the significance of Diwali in his memory, and his central message of "Jiyo aur Jeene Do" (Live and Let Live) and Ahimsa. His symbol is the lion, and the Vir Nirvana Samvat (era) commenced from the day of his liberation.

Overall Message:

"Antim Tirthankar Mahavira" offers a comprehensive devotional and philosophical exploration of Lord Mahavira's life and teachings. It presents him as a beacon of spiritual wisdom, compassion, and non-violence, whose universal message continues to guide humanity towards truth, peace, and liberation from suffering. The book emphasizes the internal transformation and ethical conduct as the true path to spiritual realization.