Ayurved Mahavir

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Ayurved Mahavir" by Nemichand Pugaliya:

Title: Ayurved Mahavir (आयुर्वेद महावीर) Author: Nemichand Pugaliya (नेमीचन्द पुगलिया) Publisher: Usha evam Mina (उषा एवं मीना) Theme: This book creatively integrates the principles and practices of Ayurveda with the teachings and philosophy of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism. It aims to highlight the connection between health and spiritual well-being, suggesting that adherence to Mahavir's principles can lead to physical and mental health.

Key Aspects and Content:

1. Integration of Ayurveda and Jainism: The core concept of the book is to draw parallels between specific Ayurvedic medicines and treatments and the core tenets of Jainism as exemplified by Lord Mahavir. Each verse often mentions an Ayurvedic medicine or its effect, followed by a connection to a principle or aspect of Mahavir's life or teachings.

2. Structure and Style:

   • The book is composed of verses, with each verse typically having two lines. The first line describes the property or use of an Ayurvedic medicine, while the second line relates it to Lord Mahavir.
   • The language is intended to be simple, accessible, and poetic, making it easy for readers to understand and internalize the messages.
   • The author, Nemichand Pugaliya, has compiled these verses based on an ancient Prakrit text called the "Stambhanak Parshvanath Stotra" (स्तंभनक पार्श्वनाथ स्तोत्र), attributed to Shri Jindatta Suri (a prominent Jain Acharya). This suggests a deep respect for traditional Jain literature and practices.

3. Specific Examples from the Text: The book lists numerous Ayurvedic formulations and their effects, linking them to Mahavir's teachings. Some examples include:

   • Kapoor Vati (कपूर वटी): Effective for diarrhea, analogous to the benefit derived from devotion to Mahavir.
   • Arshkuthar Ras (अर्शकुठार रस): Treats hemorrhoids, paralleled by Mahavir's significant struggle against violence.
   • Panchasakara Churna (पंचषकारचूर्ण): Aids digestion, similar to Mahavir accepting the first plea.
   • Sarasaparila (सार्सापरिला): Treats blood disorders, and Mahavir sought authority over the soul.
   • Sitopaladi Churna (सितोपलादि चूर्ण): Relieves cough and cold, and devotion to Mahavir wards off desires.
   • Makardhwaj (मकरध्वज): A potent rejuvenator, while Mahavir's effort is paramount.
   • Chyavanprash (च्यवनप्राश): Known for rejuvenation and longevity, representing the profound benefits of Mahavir's spiritual discipline.
   • Phal Ghrita (फलघृत): Helps with female infertility, and Mahavir's teachings give women a sacred place.
   • Shishusanjivani (शिशुसंजीवनी): A remedy for children's ailments, mirroring Mahavir's teachings that bring peace to life's disturbances.

4. Underlying Philosophy: The book emphasizes that true health and well-being are not solely dependent on physical remedies but also on spiritual understanding, faith, and righteous living. It suggests that a combination of proper medical treatment and devotion to Mahavir leads to holistic health and spiritual liberation. The author stresses the importance of faith and proper practice in deriving benefits from medicines, mantras, and devotion.

5. Author's Intent and Contribution:

   • Nemichand Pugaliya, a resident of Bikaner, authored this book with the objective of making simple medical knowledge and the remembrance of Lord Mahavir accessible.
   • The book was released during the 25th Nirvana Centenary celebrations of Lord Mahavir, indicating its significance in commemorating the Tirthankara.
   • The author is recognized for his dedication to social service and his other literary contributions, which include works on Homeopathy, Nature Cure, and Astrology, all in a similar vein of connecting spiritual principles with practical life aspects.
   • The preface by Vaidya Sohan Lal Sharma highlights the book's unique approach and the author's dedication.
   • The author's note explains that the book is a modern creation based on ancient methods to prevent the blending of spiritual devotion with medicinal and mantra sciences from fading away.

In essence, "Ayurved Mahavir" is a devotional and educational work that bridges the worlds of traditional Indian medicine (Ayurveda) and Jain philosophy. It presents a unique perspective where physical healing is intertwined with spiritual enlightenment, suggesting that embracing the virtues and teachings of Lord Mahavir is a path to holistic well-being.