Ashtapad Maha Tirth 01 Page 249 To 335 - Book Summary

This comprehensive summary covers the provided Jain text, focusing on the life and teachings of Bhagwan Rishabhdev, with particular attention to the Ashtapad region and related narratives.

Book Title: Ashtapad Maha Tirth 01 Page Range: 249 to 335 Author(s): Rajnikant Shah, Kumarpal Desai Publisher: USA Jain Center America NY

Overall Theme: The text delves deeply into the life, significance, and legacy of Bhagwan Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar of Jainism, and his connection to the sacred pilgrimage site of Ashtapad. It explores his role as the progenitor of civilization, his spiritual journey, and his influence on both Jain and broader Indian cultural and religious traditions.

Key Sections and Themes:

1. Vandan (Salutations) to Tirthankaras:

The text begins with prayers and salutations to various Tirthankaras: Suparshvanath, Chandrapraabhu, and Suvidhinath. These verses praise their divine qualities and seek their protection and guidance.
Suparshvanath: Praised as a pillar of strength and likened to sandalwood, offering protection.
Chandrapraabhu: Depicted as a moon in the lineage of King Mahasen and a swan in the lake of Devi Lakshmana, offering protection.
Suvidhinath: Referred to as a son of King Sugriva and a wish-fulfilling tree in the garden of Devi Rama, invoked for swift welfare.

2. Shri Rushabhpanchashika (Praise of Rishabhdev):

This section features verses from the Rushabhpanchashika by Dhanpal, a poetic eulogy of Bhagwan Rishabhdev.
Praise for Rishabhdev: He is described as a wish-fulfilling tree (Kalpa-vriksha), a moon for the lotus-like devotees, the leader of ascetics, and a jewel adorning the three worlds. He is compared to the sun that dispels the darkness of delusion.
Overcoming Delusion: His arrival is likened to the dawn that makes the lotuses of the virtuous bloom and dispels the darkness of ignorance, symbolized by moths.
Impact on Divine Beings: The text notes that the splendor of celestial beings paled in comparison when Rishabhdev descended into the lineage of Kulakars.
Transforming Society: Rishabhdev's advent is seen as a golden era for the era of time. His birth on this earth marked a transformation, making the world shine like a golden wheel of time.
Ashtapad Significance: The two Ashtapad (Meru) mountains are highlighted: one where he was consecrated and another near Vinita city where he attained liberation. These mountains are considered crowns of the entire mountain range.
Devotees' Blessings: Those who witnessed his sacred coronation, performed by Indra with lotus leaves, are considered blessed.
Contribution to Civilization: Rishabhdev is credited with imparting knowledge of arts, sciences, and societal conduct, including agriculture, animal husbandry, trade, and marriage, thus transforming society from a state of nature to one of civilized living.
Renunciation: His detachment from worldly possessions, including his kingdom, and his pursuit of a spiritual path are emphasized. His beautiful, dark, matted locks are poetically described.

3. Bhagwan Rishabhdev: Karmayogi and Aatmadharma-Praneta (Karma-Yogi and Propounder of Self-Dharma):

This section provides a biographical account of Bhagwan Rishabhdev, highlighting his foundational role in Indian culture and thought.
Precursor to Shraman Culture: He is recognized as the initiator of the Shraman culture, mentioned in ancient literature and archaeology.
Origin of Jainism: Rishabhdev is considered the founder of Jainism, which was known by names like Shraman, Vratya, Arhat, and Nirgranth in its early stages.
Creator of Civilization: He is also credited with establishing agricultural civilization and urban life.
Pre-Adamic Era: His existence is placed in the early phase of the current time cycle, referred to by modern historians as the Stone Age. This era was characterized by underdeveloped social consciousness and primal relationships (Yugaliya culture), where life was sustained by nature's bounty (Bhoga-yuga).
Kulakars and the Transition: Fourteen Kulakars preceded him, educating people in life-sustaining activities. The fourteenth Kulakar, Nabhiraja, guided people towards a Karma-bhumi (era of action) from the Bhoga-bhumi. Rishabhdev was born to Nabhiraja and Marudevi.
Birth and Family: His birth is described on Ashadh Krishna Dwitiya, with his actual birth on Chaitra Krishna Navami. Due to dreams featuring a bull (Vrishabha), he was named Vrishabhdev, signifying a great religious leader. He is believed to have possessed knowledge from birth. He married Yashaswati and Sunanda, fathering Bharat, Brahmil, Bahubali, and Sundari, along with ninety-eight other sons.
Education and Arts: Rishabhdev established the foundation for education, composing texts on grammar, meter, and rhetoric. He is credited with the invention of script (Brahmilipi) and numerals (Ankavidya), taught to his daughters Brahmil and Sundari, respectively. He also imparted knowledge of economics, dance, music, and painting to his sons. He taught seventy-two arts and sixty-four sciences, transforming the Bhoga-yuga into a Karma-yuga.
Agriculture and Urban Civilization: With the decline of Kalpa-vrikshas, Rishabhdev introduced the six essential occupations: Asi (sword-making for protection), Masi (writing), Krishi (agriculture), Vidya (arts and learning), Vanijya (trade), and Shilp (craftsmanship). He also taught the use of fire and the potter's wheel, ushering in an era of agriculture and urban civilization. The people honored him with the title "Prajapati" (Lord of the People).
Varna System and Governance: The introduction of occupations led to the formation of the Varna system based on skills and qualities. He also established state and penal systems, leading to the creation of royal lineages and societal structures.
Ascetic Life: A turning point came with the sudden death of the dancer Neelanjana, which inspired immense renunciation in Rishabhdev. He renounced his kingdom, entrusting it to his sons, and embarked on an ascetic path.
Tapas and Kevalgyan: He practiced severe austerities, earning the name Keshin. King Shreyans offered him the first sustenance of sugarcane juice, now celebrated as Akshaya Tritiya. After a thousand years of asceticism, he attained Kevalgyan (omniscience) in Prayag.
Dharma Chakra Pravartan: Upon attaining omniscience, he delivered his first sermon in the Samavasarana, establishing the Jain religious order. His congregation included 84,000 monks, 350,000 nuns, and 800,000 lay followers.
Nirvana from Kailash: After spreading his teachings, he attained Nirvana (liberation) on Mount Kailash. This event is linked to the significance of Shivaratri. Mount Kailash became a holy pilgrimage site due to Rishabhdev's liberation.
Syncretism and Ancient Roots: Rishabhdev's ancient origins are evidenced by his parallels with Shiva in various aspects. His influence is traced back to the Indus Valley Civilization. He is considered a unifying figure in Indian culture, embodying both worldly duties and spiritual pursuit. He is seen as a complete human who lived and taught the four Purusharthas (goals of life: Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha).

4. Jain Mahapuran: A Classical Study:

This section highlights Rishabhnath (Adinath) as the first Tirthankar and founder of Jainism.
Connection to Shiva: Rishabhdev is linked to Shiva through their shared symbolism (bull) and attributes. He is described using names associated with Shiva, such as Shumbha, Shiva, Maheshwar, Shankar, and Trilochana. The jatamukuta (matted hair crown) of Shiva and the hanging locks of Rishabhdev, along with the Gomukh Yaksha, further reinforce this connection.
Ancient Indian Tradition: Rishabhdev's connection to the Vedic Keshin and Vatarashana munis, mentioned in the Rigveda, suggests Jainism's ancient origins potentially dating back to 1500 BCE.
Vedic and Jain Parallels: The text notes many similarities between Rishabhdev and Shiva, including their asceticism, attire (digambara), dwelling on Kailash, and control over the god of love (Kamadeva).
Birth and Lineage: His birth is stated to be in Ayodhya, the city founded by Indra, to King Nabhiraja, the last of the fourteen Kulakars. Shvetambara tradition places his birth on Chaitra Shukla Ashtami. The name Vrishabhdev originated from Marudevi's dream of a bull and a bull symbol on his chest. Digambara tradition mentions Indra naming him Vrishabhdev.
Founding of Ikshvaku Dynasty: Indra named his lineage as Ikshvaku after witnessing Rishabh's interest in sugarcane.
Marriage and Social Reform: Rishabhdev's marriage to Yashaswati and Sunanda was a significant step in establishing marital customs and regulating societal passions.
Initiator of Karma-Yuga: He initiated the Karma-yuga by teaching the six occupations, shifting society from a state of dependence on Kalpa-vrikshas. He was also called 'Krita-yuga' and 'Prajapati' for this role.
Renunciation and Kevalgyan: The account of Neelanjana's sudden death inspired his renunciation. He attained Kevalgyan on Fagun Krishna Ekadashi.
Nirvana: He attained Nirvana on Mount Kailash on Magha Krishna Chaturdashi.
Syncretism: Rishabhdev's ancientness makes him comparable to Rama and Krishna in Vedic tradition, considered an avatar of Vishnu. The Atharvaveda is cited to support his invocation as a pure, non-violent king.

5. Rishabhdev: An Analytical Study:

This extensive section analyzes Rishabhdev's portrayal across various Jain literary traditions and other religious texts.
Jain Literature:
- Agam Literature: Mentions in Sutrakritanga Sutra (teaching his 98 sons), Sthananga Sutra (details on his height, lineage, and the four-fold sangha), Samavayana Sutra (knowledge of Brahmilipi, first Deva-deva), Bhagavati Sutra (brief mention), Prajapana Sutra (knowledge of 18 scripts), Jambudvipa Prajnapti Sutra (detailed account of his life and the establishment of the four-fold sangha), and Uttaradhyayana Sutra (mentions his influence on the Dharma).
- Niryukti, Bhashya, Churni Literature: Detailed accounts of his life, previous births, family, teachings, and renunciation are found in commentaries like Avashyak Niryukti, Vishesh Avashyak Bhashya, and Avashyak Churni.
- Prakrit Poetry: His life is depicted in works like Vasudev-Hindi and Pauychariyam.
- Sanskrit Literature: Mahapuraana (Adi-purana and Uttara-purana by Jinasena and Gunabhadra), Harivamsha Purana by Jinasena, Trishashti Shalakapurush Charitra by Hemachandracharya, Bhaktamar Stotra by Manatunga, and Padmananda Mahakavya by Amarchandra Suri are cited for detailed narratives.
Vedic Literature:
- Rigveda: Rishabhdev is identified with Agni, Hiranyagarbha, Rudra (Shiva), and Keshin. His teachings on self-knowledge and the four-fold nature of the soul are linked to Vedic hymns.
- Yajurveda & Atharvaveda: Rishabhdev is invoked as a potent, light-giving deity, beyond mortality and darkness. The Atharvaveda's verses are seen as a direct call to Rishabhdev.
- Bhagavata Purana: Rishabhdev is described as an avatar of Vishnu, and his teachings on detachment, yoga, and the path of the Parama-hamsa are detailed. His sons, including Bharat, are also described.
- Smritis and Puranas: Manusmriti, Linga Purana, Shiva Purana, Agneya Purana, Brahmanda Purana, Vishnu Purana, Kurma Purana, Narada Purana, and Varaha Purana are mentioned as containing descriptions of Rishabhdev's life and family.
Buddhist Literature: Rishabhdev and Mahavira are mentioned together. The concept of "Mahasamanta" in Buddhist tradition might relate to Rishabhdev. The Arya Manjushri Mulakalpa refers to him as the first emperor and a steadfast observer of vows.
History and Archaeology: Archaeological findings from Mohenjo-daro, such as seals depicting a yogi and a bull, are interpreted as evidence of Rishabhdev's worship. Inscriptions from Mathura further corroborate his importance in ancient times. Scholars like Dr. Hermann Jacobi and C. Vincent A. Smith are cited for their research on the historicity and antiquity of Jainism and the Tirthankaras, with Rishabhdev being consistently identified as the founder.
Western Scholars' Findings: The text highlights the diffusion of Jainism and Rishabhdev's worship across Asia, with mentions in Chinese and Japanese traditions. His worship as a sun deity, agricultural deity, and bull deity in various cultures is discussed, with linguistic parallels drawn between "Reshef" and "Rishabh."

6. Jain Dharma Ka Maulik Itihas (Original History of Jainism):

This section, by Acharya Hastimalji, reiterates Rishabhdev's role as the first Tirthankar and founder of the Dharma Tirtha.
Dharma Tirtha Establishment: Rishabhdev's first sermon on Fagun Krishna Ekadashi laid the foundation for the four-fold sangha (monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen).
Kevalgyan and Nirvana: His attainment of Kevalgyan and Nirvana on Ashtapad mountain is described, with the elaborate Nirvana ceremony performed by Indra and other deities.
Establishment of Stupas: The creation of stupas at his cremation site and those of his Ganadharas and disciples is mentioned, with a connection drawn to the later worship of the Shivling.
Ganadharas: A list of Rishabhdev's 84 Ganadharas is provided, with Rishabhsen identified as the chief Ganadhara.

7. Shree Rishabhdev Charitra (Brief Biography):

This is a visual chart summarizing key aspects of Rishabhdev's life:
- Parents: Nabhiraja and Marudevi
- Birthplace: Ayodhya
- Lifespan: 84 lakh Purva (an immense period of time)
- Height: 500 Dhanush
- Complexion: Golden
- Symbol: Bull (Vrishabh)
- Key Life Events: Previous births leading to the attainment of right faith, marriage to Sunanda and Sumangala, fathering 100 sons (including Bharat and Bahubali) and 2 daughters (Brahmil and Sundari), ruling for 63 lakh Purva, renunciation at 1 lakh Purva, six-day fast and four-punch hair-plucking during initiation, receiving sugarcane juice at Hastinapur, attaining Kevalgyan after 1000 years of asceticism, preaching at Samavasarana on Shatrunjaya, and Nirvana on Ashtapad with 10,000 monks.

8. Bharat Chakravarti:

This section from Trishashti Shalakapurush Charitra describes Emperor Bharat's grief after Rishabhdev's Nirvana and his eventual renunciation and attainment of Kevalgyan.
Grief and Renunciation: Bharat is depicted deeply mourning his father and shedding tears upon returning to his capital, Vinita. He contemplates the impermanence of life and the futility of worldly adornments, leading to his detachment.
Kevalgyan: Upon shedding all his attachments and entering the path of Shulka Dhyana (pure meditation), he attained Kevalgyan. Indra celebrated this event.
Dharma Tirtha Continuation: Bharat continued the Dharma Tirtha established by Rishabhdev, preaching and spreading the teachings.
Nirvana: Like his father, Bharat also attained Nirvana on Mount Ashtapad after a long period of spiritual practice.

9. Sundari and 98 Brothers:

This section narrates Sundari's desire for renunciation, which was initially opposed by her brother Bharat.
Sundari's Austerity: Due to Bharat's disapproval, Sundari undertook severe austerities (Ayambila tap), weakening her physically but strengthening her resolve.
Rishabhdev's Sermon and Sundari's Initiation: She expresses her desire for initiation to Rishabhdev, who, after witnessing her resolve and the futility of worldly pursuits, grants her permission. She is initiated into the order of nuns.
Rishabhdev's Sermon to His Sons: Rishabhdev also preaches to his 98 sons, who, influenced by his teachings on detachment and the dangers of worldly desires, also renounce their kingdoms and seek initiation. The sermon emphasizes overcoming internal enemies like anger, pride, deceit, and greed.
Bharat's Role: Bharat continues to manage the kingdom, while his brothers and sister pursue spiritual paths.
Sagar Chakravarti's Sons: This section describes the story of Sagar Chakravarti's 60,000 sons and their ill-fated encounter with the Nagas on Ashtapad mountain while attempting to protect the Tirtha. Their actions led to their demise through the power of the Nagas, highlighting the consequences of pride and disregard for divine places.

10. Ravan and Vali Muni:

This narrative describes Ravana's encounter with Vali Muni on Mount Ashtapad.
Ravana's Arrogance: Ravana, enraged by his flying chariot being obstructed by Vali Muni, attempts to move the mountain itself.
Vali Muni's Power and Compassion: Vali Muni, through his yogic power, easily counters Ravana's strength, teaching him a lesson about humility and the true nature of power.
Ravana's Transformation: Ravana, humbled, recognizes Vali Muni's superiority and offers apologies.
Devotional Acts: Ravana then proceeds to worship the deities on Ashtapad and engage in devotional singing. Dharanendra, the king of Nagas, is also present and pleased with Ravana's devotion.
Vali Muni's Kevalgyan and Nirvana: The story concludes with Vali Muni attaining Kevalgyan and Nirvana, celebrated by gods and humans.

Overall Significance: The text serves as a rich source of information about Bhagwan Rishabhdev's life, his profound impact on establishing Jainism and Indian civilization, and the sanctity of Ashtapad as a pilgrimage site. It highlights the interconnectedness of spiritual and societal development, the importance of renunciation, and the underlying principles of Jain philosophy that resonate across different religious traditions in India. The narrative seamlessly blends historical accounts, philosophical teachings, and mythological elements to create a compelling portrayal of this pivotal figure.