Apaschim Tirthankar Mahavira Part 02

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Apaschim Tirthankar Mahavira Part 02," based on the provided pages:

Title: Apaschim Tirthankar Mahavira Part 02 (The Non-Last Tirthankara Mahavira, Part Two) Publisher: Shri Akhil Bharatvarshiya Sadhumargi Jain Sangh, Bikaner Author(s): Implied to be Mahasati Shri Vipulashri Ji Masaji, with inspiration from Acharya Shri Ramesh and Acharya Shri Ramlalji Masaji.

Overall Purpose: This book is the second part of a series dedicated to Lord Mahavira, aiming to elucidate his life, teachings, and the spiritual journey of those who followed him. It delves into the philosophical and practical aspects of Jainism, emphasizing the path of equanimity, self-control, and non-violence.

Key Themes and Content:

1. The Publisher's Note (Page 5-6):

   • Highlights Jainism's ancient lineage, emphasis on compassion, and its distinct and influential position among various religions in India.
   • Commends the Sadhumargi Jain Sangh for its historical connection to all Tirthankaras and its commitment to the principles of equanimity, soul-purity, non-violence, self-control, penance, and detachment.
   • Praises the current leadership of Acharya-Pravar 1008 Shri Ramlalji Masaji, noting his insightful discourses, disciplined approach, and deep scriptural knowledge.
   • Introduces Mahasati Shri Vipulashri Ji Masaji as the author, acknowledging her profound knowledge of ancient Jain scriptures (Agamas) and her dedication to Mahavir's principles.
   • Explains the motivation for this book, stemming from a need to explore Lord Mahavira's principles and lifestyle, initiated by the inquiries of senior members Shri Pirdanji Parakh and Shri Harisinghji Raka.
   • Credits Shri Sujanmalji Karnawat of Bangalore and his family for generously sponsoring the publication, as they did for Part One.

2. Dedication (Page 7):

   • The book is respectfully dedicated to Acharya Pravar 1008 Shri Ramlalji Maharaj Sa, referred to as a beacon of the Sadhumargi tradition, a visionary, and a proponent of peaceful revolution.

3. Introduction of the Financial Sponsor (Page 9):

   • Introduces Shri Sujanmalji Karnawat and his wife Shrimati Gunmalaji Karnawat as the generous sponsors for this "unique creation" that presents scriptural teachings in new words and sentences.
   • Highlights Shri Sujanmalji's commendable work in various fields (commercial, religious, social, educational) and his family's dedication to the Jain faith and its leaders.

4. Table of Contents (Page 10):

   • The book is structured around "Anuttar Gyancharya" (Supreme Knowledge Practice), divided into five years, with chapters titled:
     • First Year: The Fragrance of Dedication
     • Second Year: The Unveiled Mystery
     • Third Year: The Haven Found for the Virtuous
     • Fourth Year: The Devoted Mind Becomes Detached
     • Fifth Year: The Cruelty of the State
   • Includes a "References" section.

5. Chapter 1: Anuttar Gyancharya - The First Year: The Fragrance of Dedication (Page 11-18):

   • The Celestial Celebration: Describes the grand celebration of Lord Mahavira attaining Kevala Gyan (omniscience) on the banks of the Rujubalika river, attended by gods.
   • Indra's Realm: Details the structure and grandeur of the Saudharma Devaloka (Indra's abode), a thirteen-tiered celestial realm with millions of beautifully arranged palaces (vimanas) and ornate halls (avatsakas).
   • Shakra Indra's Contemplation: Shakra Indra, after the celestial celebration, returns to his abode. While presiding over the Sudharma Sabha, his mind is deeply engrossed in contemplating Lord Mahavira's extraordinary life. He reflects on Mahavira's self-reliance, his ability to endure hardship, his attainment of detachment, and his mastery over his own karmic bonds in a mere 12.5 years.
   • Mahavira's Unwavering Resolve: Indra marvels at Mahavira's absolute self-dependence, his lack of attachment to praise or aversion to criticism, and his constant effort to conquer himself. He recalls an incident on Mahavira's first day of renunciation where a cowherd attempted to strike Mahavira. Indra intervened, but Mahavira emphasized that enduring hardship is the path to omniscience and declined Indra's protective presence.
   • The Nature of Equanimity: The text extols Mahavira's ability to maintain equanimity (samabhava) in all situations, whether facing suffering, anger, or abuse. It highlights the difficulty of practicing this principle in daily life.
   • Mahavira's Inner Purity: Mahavira is described as having embodied dispassion (nishkayabhav) in every fiber of his being, protecting his mind, speech, and body from the "terrible disease" of passions (kashaya). He navigated the "ocean of desires" (lobh ke bhishan paaravar) with the "boat of scriptures and conduct" (shrut sheel ki nauka).
   • Recollection of Rujubalika: Indra's thoughts drift to the Rujubalika river, which was sanctified by Mahavira's presence. He envisions the serene beauty of the riverbank, the joyful sounds of nature, and the vibrant greenery, all reflecting the purity and power of Mahavira's arrival.
   • The Moment of Kevala Gyan: The narrative vividly describes the progression of the day, culminating in the attainment of Kevala Gyan (omniscience) by Mahavira as the sun begins to set. This attainment is attributed to his pure intentions, speech, and actions, and the shedding of the four destructive karmas (ghati karmas).
   • Indra's Admiration: Indra reaffirms his profound admiration for Mahavira, recognizing him as the "Apaschim Tirthankara" (non-last Tirthankara, signifying his supreme status).

6. Chapter 2: Anuttar Gyancharya - The Second Year: The Unveiled Mystery (Page 19-36):

   • The Somil Brahmin's Yajna: The story shifts to Somil Brahmin of Moderate Pava, a wealthy individual who decides to conduct a grand yajna (ritual sacrifice) and invites renowned scholars.
   • Invitation to Scholars: Somil Brahmin sends invitations to prominent scholars, including Indrabhuti Gautam and his brothers Agnibhuti and Vayubhuti, Vyaktibhuti, Sudharma, Mandit, Maurya Putra, Akampita, Vasu, Nanda, Maitarya, Bal, and Prabhas.
   • The Yajna and Celestial Signs: The yajna commences with great fanfare. During the ritual, celestial vehicles (deva vimanas) are observed in the sky, leading Indrabhuti Gautam to proudly declare their attendance due to the yajna's glory.
   • The Appearance of Mahavira's Samavasarana: The celestial vehicles stop, causing confusion. Somil explains that Mahavira, an omniscient being, has arrived for his Samavasarana (a divine assembly), and the spectacle in the sky is due to his presence.
   • Indrabhuti's Challenge: Indrabhuti Gautam, filled with pride in his own scholarship, challenges Mahavira, viewing him as a "magician" who has deceived the gods. He resolves to confront Mahavira and dismantle his "illusion."
   • Indrabhuti's Encounter with Mahavira: Indrabhuti, accompanied by his 500 disciples, approaches the Samavasarana. Impressed by its splendor, his arrogance gradually subsides.
   • Mahavira Resolves Doubts: Mahavira addresses the scholars one by one, resolving their deeply held doubts stemming from conflicting interpretations of Vedic texts.
     • Vyaktibhuti's Doubt: Mahavira clarifies the apparent contradiction in Vedic statements about the world being like a dream versus the existence of tangible elements (earth, water, etc.). He explains that the "dream-like" description is meant to foster detachment, not deny reality.
     • Sudharma's Doubt: Mahavira resolves Sudharma's confusion regarding Vedic texts that suggest humans become humans and animals become animals after death, versus other texts that describe transformations (e.g., becoming a jackal if cremated with impurities). Mahavira explains that one's destiny is governed by karma and that rebirths into different forms are possible based on one's actions and the names (gotras) attached to those actions.
     • Mandit's Doubt: Mandit questions whether beings are bound or liberated. Mahavira explains that while souls are inherently pure, attachment (rag-dwesh) binds them with karma. Liberation is achieved by destroying these attachments and the karma they generate.
     • Chaitanya's Doubt: Chaitanya, a scholar, doubts the existence of gods. Mahavira confirms the existence of various types of celestial beings and clarifies that their divine lifespans are temporary, earned through specific actions.
     • Yajñadatta's Doubt: Yajñadatta questions the nature of birth and death. Mahavira explains the cycle of birth and death driven by karma.
     • Maithilya's Doubt: Maithilya inquires about the path to liberation. Mahavira guides him towards renunciation and right conduct.
     • Bhallaka's Doubt: Bhallaka seeks understanding on the nature of soul and body.
   • The Scholars' Renunciation: Impressed and enlightened by Mahavira's wisdom, Indrabhuti Gautam and the other scholars, along with their disciples, renounce their worldly lives and embrace the Jain monastic path.
   • The Formation of the Sangha: This section highlights the establishment of the four-fold Jain Sangha (monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen) through the conversion of these learned individuals.

7. Chapter 3: Anuttar Gyancharya - The Third Year: The Haven Found for the Virtuous (Page 182-199):

   • The Tale of Anand Shreshthin: The narrative focuses on Anand, a wealthy merchant in Vanijyagram, who is deeply devoted to Jainism. Despite his immense wealth (possessing vast quantities of gold, cattle, land, and vehicles), he practices significant austerities and follows the twelve vows of a lay follower with great discipline.
   • Anand's Generosity and Austerity: Anand's adherence to Jain principles is exemplified by his meticulous limitations on his possessions and activities. He defines strict boundaries for his wealth, cattle, land, vehicles, and even his daily consumption of food and water, demonstrating profound detachment.
   • Mahavira's Teachings on Vows and Their Transgressions: Lord Mahavira explains the importance of the twelve vows for lay followers and the associated transgressions (aticharas) that can occur. These transgressions are categorized for each vow (e.g., five for non-violence, five for truthfulness, etc.).
   • The Strictness of Jain Lay Practices: The detailed explanation of Anand's vows and their associated transgressions underscores the rigor and meticulousness required in Jain lay practice. The text emphasizes the importance of avoiding even minor lapses that could compromise spiritual progress.
   • Anand's Profound Devotion: Anand's actions and his earnest desire to follow Mahavira's teachings perfectly illustrate the ideal lay follower. His deep understanding and commitment to the principles of right faith, knowledge, and conduct are highlighted.

8. Chapter 4: Anuttar Gyancharya - The Fourth Year: The Devoted Mind Becomes Detached (Page 206-243):

   • Shalibhadra's Detachment: The narrative follows Shalibhadra, Anand's son, who, despite immense wealth and eight wives, is moved by the example of his sister-in-law Suhadra and his own brother Dhanna's renunciation. Inspired by the teachings of Acharya Dharmaghosha, he cultivates detachment and resolves to take diksha (initiation).
   • The Test of Dhanna: Dhanna, Shalibhadra's brother, initially mocks Shalibhadra's gradual renunciation. However, when Dhanna himself experiences the transformative power of spiritual guidance and the insights of the teachings, he too decides to embrace monastic life, urging his eight wives to join him.
   • The Story of Shali and Dhanna: The chapter recounts the past lives of Dhanna and Shalibhadra. Dhanna's previous life as a cowherd named Sangam, who showed compassion by not harming a trapped rabbit and later as a cowherd named Sangam who offered his mother's kheer to a muni, leading to his birth as Dhanna, is detailed. Shalibhadra's previous life as a lion, who, out of compassion for a trapped rabbit, kept his paw raised for days, is also narrated. These stories highlight the karmic consequences of compassion and the path to spiritual merit.
   • The Rarity of True Renunciation: The narrative emphasizes that while renunciation is a noble path, true detachment comes from within, not just external actions. The text contrasts the superficial adherence of some with the genuine inner transformation required for spiritual liberation.

9. Chapter 5: Anuttar Gyancharya - The Fifth Year: The Cruelty of the State (Page 246-263):

   • King Udaiyan and His Dilemma: The story shifts to King Udaiyan of Vitisthaya, a devout follower of Jainism. Despite his piety, his ministers, driven by negative intentions, sow seeds of doubt and fear in him regarding his nephew Keshikumara.
   • The King's Misguided Actions: Influenced by these whispers, Udaiyan makes decisions that ultimately lead to suffering. He cruelly abandons his nephew Abichikumara and attempts to poison his ascetic uncle, Udaiyan Muni.
   • The Unwavering Equanimity of Udaiyan Muni: Despite facing such hardships and betrayals, Udaiyan Muni maintains profound equanimity and forgiveness. His understanding of karma and the nature of existence allows him to transcend personal suffering and continue on his spiritual path.
   • The Story of Kubja: The narrative includes the story of Kubja, a hunchbacked maidservant who gains divine favor through her devotion and receives magical pearls that transform her into a beautiful woman named Suvarnagullika. This highlights how sincere devotion and good deeds can lead to positive transformations.
   • The Story of Rohineya the Thief: Rohineya, a notorious thief, is introduced. Despite his father's warning to avoid Mahavira's teachings, an accidental encounter with Mahavira's discourse and a thorn in his foot lead him to re-evaluate his life. He eventually reforms, returns stolen property, and takes diksha, demonstrating the transformative power of Mahavira's teachings.
   • The Story of Shalibhadra's Renunciation: The narrative returns to Shalibhadra, who, after experiencing the fleeting nature of worldly pleasures and the influence of his brother Dhanna's detachment, decides to take diksha. His mother Bhadra's initial reluctance and eventual acceptance of his spiritual path are described.
   • The Story of Megha Kumar: Megha Kumar, the son of King Shrenik and Maharani Dharini, is inspired by Mahavira's teachings to renounce the world. His parents' attempts to dissule him are met with his unwavering resolve, showcasing the power of spiritual conviction.
   • The Story of Nandisena: Nandisena, Shrenik's son, also follows the path of renunciation after being moved by Mahavira's sermons. The text details his previous life experiences and how his karma influences his journey.
   • The Story of Kounika: Kounika, Shrenik's son, is born with unusual circumstances, hinting at his complex karmic background. His upbringing and eventual involvement in worldly affairs are briefly touched upon.
   • The Story of Dhanna and Shalibhadra's Final Renunciation: The chapter culminates in Dhanna and Shalibhadra's full renunciation. Dhanna's initial jest about Shalibhadra's gradual detachment leads to a challenge, resulting in both brothers taking diksha together. The text highlights their advanced spiritual practices and eventual attainment of liberation.
   • The Significance of Anuttar Gyancharya: The repeated use of "Anuttar Gyancharya" throughout the chapters signifies the process of striving for supreme, unexcelled knowledge and spiritual realization.

Overall Message:

"Apaschim Tirthankar Mahavira Part 02" serves as a profound exploration of Lord Mahavira's life and the enduring principles of Jainism. It emphasizes the importance of detachment, self-control, equanimity, and compassion. Through the detailed narratives of various individuals—scholars, merchants, kings, and even thieves—the book illustrates the transformative power of Mahavira's teachings and the intricate workings of karma. It highlights that true spiritual progress lies not in external possessions or status but in the internal conquest of passions and the unwavering pursuit of the liberated soul's path. The text underscores that even the most worldly individuals can find salvation through sincere devotion and adherence to the Jain path.