Arya Jambuswami

This Jain text, titled "Arya Jambuswami" and authored by Bapulal K. Sadhani, narrates the early life and pivotal decision of Jambukumar, who would later become the renowned Jain monk Arya Jambuswami. The story begins with Jambukumar's heartfelt plea to his father, the wealthy merchant Rishabhadatta, and his mother, Dharini, to allow him to renounce the worldly life and become a disciple of Sudharmaswami, the successor of Lord Mahavir.

Jambukumar, despite being on the verge of his marriage to eight daughters of prominent merchants, feels an overwhelming spiritual calling. He expresses his desire to become a messenger of Lord Mahavir, stating that his very being yearns for this path. His parents are distraught, as the wedding preparations are complete, and the families of the brides are expecting the marriage to take place.

The text then shifts to a meeting of the eight wealthy merchants, who are equally shocked and dismayed by the news. They express their concern about breaking their promises to their daughters and the potential damage to their family's reputation. The bride, Samudrashri, and her seven companions, who are also deeply devoted to Jambukumar, reveal their own profound understanding of spirituality. They express their willingness to follow Jambukumar on the spiritual path, even joining the order of nuns.

The narrative culminates in Jambukumar's marriage ceremony, where the eight brides, in a remarkable display of their spiritual inclination, accept him not as a husband in the worldly sense, but as a guide on their spiritual journey. They express their desire to accompany him to the feet of Sudharmaswami and become nuns, following the example of Chandanbala.

The story takes a dramatic turn when a notorious thief named Prabhav arrives, seeking to rob Jambukumar. However, upon hearing the spiritual discourse of Jambukumar with his brides, Prabhav's heart is transformed. He renounces his criminal ways and seeks to become Jambukumar's disciple, along with his 500 followers.

The text concludes with Jambukumar, his brides, and Prabhav, all proceeding together to the presence of Arya Sudharmaswami, symbolizing a collective embrace of the spiritual path. The narrative highlights the profound spiritual awakening that can overcome worldly desires and societal expectations, leading individuals towards liberation. It emphasizes the power of renunciation, spiritual guidance, and the universal nature of the soul, irrespective of gender.