Bhagawan Parshwanath Part 02 - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Bhagawan Parshwanath Part 02" by Kamtaprasad Jain, based on the scanned pages:

Overall Purpose and Context:

This book, "Bhagawan Parshwanath Part 02 (Uttararddha)", is presented as a gift to the subscribers of the "Digambar Jain" monthly magazine in its 22nd year. Edited by Babu Kamtaprasad Jain, it is published by Mulchand Kisandas Kapadia. The book is an in-depth historical and religious exploration of the life and teachings of Bhagawan Parshwanath, the 23rd Tirthankar of Jainism. It aims to present this information in a modern, comparative, and historically grounded style.

Author's Approach and Philosophy:

Kamtaprasad Jain is presented as a renowned Jain historian who has meticulously researched and edited Jain historical texts. He emphasizes the importance of presenting ancient Jain teachings and figures through a modern historical lens, correcting what he perceives as misinterpretations or inaccuracies in existing discourse. He acknowledges the devotional aspect of writing such works but also stresses the need for rigorous historical analysis and factual presentation. He is critical of those who dismiss ancient Puranic narratives as mere fiction, arguing for the historical grounding of Jain figures and scriptures.

Key Themes and Content Areas:

The book delves into various aspects of Bhagawan Parshwanath's life and the broader context of Jainism, including:

Historical Context and Bhagawan Parshwanath's Existence: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to establishing Bhagawan Parshwanath's historical reality. The author cites archaeological evidence (Udayagiri-Khandagiri inscriptions, Mathura's Kankali mound sculptures), mentions in Puranic and Buddhist literature, and the opinions of modern scholars (Indian and Western) to argue that Parshwanath was a real historical figure, not mythical. He counters the notion that Jainism was founded by Mahavira, asserting its much older origins, potentially with Rishabhdev as the original propagator.
Jainism's Ancient Origins: The author presents a strong case for the antiquity of Jainism, drawing evidence from Vedic literature (mentions of Rishabha, Arishtanemi, Arhats, Shramanas), Puranic accounts (Rishabhdev as Vishnu's avatar, accounts in Vishnu Purana, Bhagavata Purana, Varaha Purana, Agni Purana), and the presence of Jain elements in ancient Indian texts like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. He discusses the concept of 'Vratyas' and their potential connection to early Jains, highlighting the presence of Jainism during the Vedic period and even before.
Bhagawan Parshwanath's Biography: The book provides a detailed account of Parshwanath's life, including:
- Early Life: Born as a prince to King Vishwasen (or Ashwasen) and Queen Vama (or Brahmani) in Varanasi. His divine beauty and upbringing.
- Renunciation and Asceticism: His father's attempt to arrange his marriage, Parshwanath's firm refusal, his adoption of vows (Anuvrat), his decision to renounce worldly life, and his spiritual journey.
- Ascetic Practices: Description of his severe penance, his mantra, and the duration of his asceticism.
- Enlightenment (Keval Gyan): The acquisition of omniscience, often described as occurring at a place near Varanasi. The role of overcoming obstacles (like those presented by the being who was Kamatha in a previous life) in his path to enlightenment.
- Religious Preaching and Influence: His teachings, the establishment of his fourfold Jain order (monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen), and his profound impact on the religious landscape of his time. The book details his interactions with various individuals, including kings, merchants, and ascetics.
- Key Disciples and their Roles: Mention of his major disciples, including Ganadharas like Swayambhu. The text also discusses the role of prominent disciples like Piphitashrav, the events surrounding Kamatha's transmigration and subsequent attempts to obstruct Parshwanath's asceticism and enlightenment, and the support he received from Dharanendra and Padmavati (serpent deities).
- Differences with Mahavira: The author engages in a comparative analysis of Parshwanath's teachings and practices with those of Bhagawan Mahavira, particularly regarding the differences in the number of vows or the emphasis on certain practices. He attributes these differences to the changing times and the evolving nature of disciples, as suggested by Jain scriptures like the Mulachar.
- Places of Significance: The text identifies and discusses various locations associated with Parshwanath's life and teachings, including Varanasi, Sammed Shikhar (where he attained Nirvana), Ahichhatra, Tamralipti, Nagpuri, and numerous other pilgrimage sites. He attempts to map some of these ancient locations in the modern world.
Philosophical and Doctrinal Exposition: The book explains core Jain principles as propagated by Parshwanath, including the nature of the soul (Jiva) and non-soul (Ajiva), the concept of karma, the path to liberation (Moksha) through the Three Jewels (Samyak Darshan, Samyak Gyan, Samyak Charitra), and the concept of "Syaadvada" (the doctrine of manifold predications) as a tool for understanding reality.
Literary and Scholarly Contributions: The author meticulously lists and discusses various Jain and Jain-influenced texts related to Parshwanath, both Digambar and Shwetambar. He acknowledges the contributions of previous scholars and poets in documenting Parshwanath's life. He also touches upon his own research methodology, which involves historical critical analysis.
The Author's Personal Journey: In the "Grathkar ka Parichay" (Author's Introduction), Kamtaprasad Jain shares his personal journey towards Jainism, his early life influences, his work in promoting Jain literature, and his motivation for writing this book—which stems from a desire to correct historical inaccuracies and present the truth about Jainism's origins and figures.

Specific Narratives and Examples:

The book includes several notable narratives:

The Story of Kamatha and Marubhuti: This detailed account highlights the karmic repercussions of actions and the long-standing karmic ties between individuals across lifetimes, exemplified by the enmity between Kamatha and Parshwanath (Marubhuti).
The Story of King Arindama and the Elephant: This narrative likely illustrates the impact of virtuous actions and the presence of spiritual influence.
The Story of Anand Kumar: This would likely showcase the spiritual path of a prominent lay follower.
The Story of King Vishwasen and Queen Vama: Depicting the royal parents of Parshwanath.
The Story of King Vasupal and the Painter: This narrative might focus on the influence of art and devotion, or perhaps the consequences of actions related to image creation.
The Story of King Kar kandu: A significant narrative detailing his adventurous life, his spiritual journey, and his connection to Parshwanath.
The Story of Sagaradatta and Bandhudatta Shreshthi: These stories, particularly from Shwetambar traditions, likely illustrate themes of karma, spiritual practice, and overcoming worldly attachments.
The Story of Vidyuchar Muni: This narrative likely focuses on the ascetic path and its transformative power.
The Story of King Vasupal and the Painter: This highlights the interaction between royalty, art, and spiritual figures, possibly with a moral lesson on purity or devotion.
The Incident of the Serpent Dharanendra and Padmavati: A key event demonstrating divine intervention or the consequences of past karma, showing their devotion to Parshwanath.
The Encounter with Shambaradeva (Kamatha's previous life): A dramatic depiction of the struggle between asceticism and demonic forces, highlighting Parshwanath's steadfastness.
The Influence of Parshwanath's Teachings: The book extensively discusses how Parshwanath's emphasis on peace, non-violence, self-reliance, and rational understanding impacted the religious and social climate of his era, leading to conversions and a shift away from ritualistic violence.

Conclusion:

"Bhagawan Parshwanath Part 02" is a comprehensive effort by Kamtaprasad Jain to provide an accurate, historically informed, and devotional account of Bhagawan Parshwanath. It aims to solidify Parshwanath's place as a significant historical figure in Jainism and reinforce the antiquity and philosophical depth of the Jain tradition, challenging prevailing misconceptions and presenting a rich tapestry of Jain history, philosophy, and practice.