Be Sakhi

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Be Sakhi" by Harilal Jain, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Be Sakhi (Two Friends) Author: Bra. Harilal Jain Publisher: Kundkund Kahan Digambar Jain Trust Subject: Biography of Sati Anjani, mother of Hanuman, and the life of her devoted friend Vasantamala, highlighting their faith, resilience, and the teachings of Jainism.

Core Theme: The book narrates the life story of Sati Anjani, a devout Jain woman and the mother of Hanuman. It emphasizes the importance of faith, perseverance, and the spiritual guidance of Jain gurus and principles, even amidst severe adversities. The story also highlights the strong bond of friendship between Anjani and her intelligent and supportive friend, Vasantamala.

Summary of Key Events and Teachings:

• Anjani's Parentage and Early Life: Anjani was the virtuous daughter of King Mahendra of Mahendrapur. Her father, seeking a suitable match, was advised by his ministers. One minister suggested Saudaminiprabh (Vidyutprabh), a powerful Vidyadhar prince, but another minister, Sandeha-parag, cautioned that Vidyutprabh was inclined towards renunciation and would likely become a monk at a young age, leaving Anjani widowed. He recommended Vayukumar (Pavananjaykumar), son of King Prahlad of Adityapur, as a suitable groom due to his valor, beauty, and virtuous character.

• Anjani and Pavananjay's Marriage Arrangement: The marriage was arranged at the Mansarovar during the auspicious Ashtalika festival. Pavananjay, eager to see Anjani, secretly visited her palace with his friend Prhasta. He was enchanted by her beauty, but unfortunately, overheard a conversation where Anjani's friend Mishrakeshi praised Vidyutprabh and criticized Pavananjay. This led to Pavan Sanjay developing a strong dislike and anger towards Anjani, leading him to decide to abandon her.

• Pavan Sanjay's Disaffection and Anjani's Suffering: After the marriage, Pavan Sanjay's disinterest and neglect caused Anjani immense sorrow and emotional suffering. She was deeply heartbroken by his coldness and continued to pine for him, losing her health and vitality. Her devoted friend Vasantamala tried to comfort and encourage her.

• The War and Pavan Sanjay's Return: Pavan Sanjay was called to assist King Ravana in a war against King Varuna. Before leaving, he visited Anjani, but his harsh words caused her great distress, and she fainted. He then departed for the war. During the campaign, Pavan Sanjay was reminded of Anjani's suffering through the sight of a pair of Chakwa birds separated at sunset. He realized his mistake and, with the help of his friend Prhasta, secretly visited Anjani.

• Anjani's Pregnancy and Disgrace: Pavan Sanjay and Anjani were reunited, and she became pregnant. However, upon their return, Anjani's mother-in-law, Ketumati, falsely accused her of misconduct due to her own suspicion and possibly a non-Jain upbringing. Despite Anjani showing evidence of Pavan Sanjay's visit (a ring and bracelets), Ketumati banished her from the city with her friend Vasantamala.

• Anjani's Exile and Sufferings: Abandoned and dishonored, Anjani, along with Vasantamala, endured immense hardship. They faced hunger, thirst, and the dangers of the forest. Anjani's father, King Mahendra, also refused to shelter her due to societal pressure and fear of dishonor to his lineage. Anjani lamented her fate and the cruelty of her family.

• Encounter with the Muni and Past Life Revelation: Lost in a dense forest, Anjani and Vasantamala stumbled upon a cave where they found a Jain Muni in deep meditation. The Muni, possessing profound knowledge, revealed Anjani's past life. In a previous birth, as Queen Kankodari, she had disrespectfully removed an idol of Lord Jinendra from a temple, leading to suffering in her current life. The Muni explained that her suffering was a consequence of this past transgression. He also revealed that the child in her womb was a future Tirthankara or a highly spiritual soul destined for liberation, prophesying great strength and renown for him.

• Anjani's Birth of Hanuman: The Muni's words provided comfort and encouragement. Anjani gave birth to a son, Hanuman, in the cave. His birth brought immense radiance and joy, illuminating the cave. Anjani, though in distress, blessed her son with longevity.

• Vasantamala's Role and Divine Intervention: Vasantamala, with her wisdom and perhaps spiritual powers, ensured Anjani's well-being and provided comfort. A Gandharva deity, Manichool, and his wife, Ratnachula, witnessed their plight. The Gandharva, transforming into an Ashtapad (a celestial being), rescued Anjani and Vasantamala from a lion. He then sang devotional songs to Lord Jinendra, further inspiring the two women.

• Reunion with Pavan Sanjay: Anjani's maternal uncle, King Pratisurya, discovered her and her infant son in the cave. He recognized her and, after the initial reunion and the birth of Hanuman, took them to his kingdom, Hunurud Dweep. Meanwhile, Pavan Sanjay, wracked with guilt and anxiety over Anjani's disappearance, searched for her tirelessly. He was ultimately reunited with her and their son, Hanuman, in Hunurud Dweep.

• Hanuman's Extraordinary Childhood: Hanuman displayed incredible strength and divine qualities from infancy. He once fell from a celestial chariot onto a rock, shattering it, yet remained unharmed. His strength and valor were evident from a young age, indicating his destined path of spiritual accomplishment. The auspicious circumstances of his birth and his early feats led to his names, Shailakumar and Hanuman.

• Pavan Sanjay's Remorse and Anjani's Forgiveness: Pavan Sanjay deeply regretted his earlier actions and sought Anjani's forgiveness. Anjani, a model of forgiveness and devotion, welcomed him, and they were reunited with their son.

• Teachings on Karma, Faith, and Friendship: The story illustrates several Jain principles:

  • Karma Siddhanta: The consequences of past actions (karma) influence present circumstances, leading to both suffering and joy.
  • Devotion (Bhakti): Faith in Lord Jinendra, the gurus, and the Dharma provides solace and strength during trials.
  • Friendship: The unwavering support and loyalty of Vasantamala are crucial for Anjani's resilience.
  • Forgiveness: Anjani's gentle nature and Pavan Sanjay's eventual remorse highlight the importance of forgiveness.
  • Resilience: Anjani's ability to endure extreme hardships while maintaining her faith is a testament to her spiritual strength.
  • Renunciation and Liberation: The story subtly points towards the ultimate goal of liberation from the cycle of birth and death, a path exemplified by the Muni and foreshadowed in Hanuman's destiny.

Overall Message: "Be Sakhi" is a story that inspires devotion, steadfastness in the face of adversity, and the profound impact of true friendship and spiritual guidance. It showcases the power of Jain principles in navigating life's challenges and ultimately achieving spiritual fulfillment. The narrative emphasizes that even after immense suffering, righteousness and devotion can lead to divine grace and liberation.