Bhagvana Mahavira

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bhagvan Mahavira" by Acharya Tulsi, published by Jain Vishva Bharati.

Book Title: Bhagvan Mahavira Author: Acharya Tulsi (Ganadhipati Tulsi) Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati, Ladnun (Rajasthan) Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/003115/1

This book, presented in Hindi, offers a profound exploration of the life, philosophy, and teachings of Bhagavan Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, as interpreted by the esteemed Acharya Tulsi.

Key Themes and Content:

• Bhagavan Mahavira as Truth, Not Just a Person: The book emphasizes that Bhagavan Mahavira embodies truth itself. Devotion to him is devotion to truth. His entire life was dedicated to the search, attainment, and dissemination of truth. He is portrayed as a rare and prolonged ascetic.

• Reviving Mahavira's True Image: The preface highlights the 25th Nirvana-shatabdi (anniversary of his enlightenment) as a significant occasion to unveil Mahavira's image, which may have been obscured by time. The book aims to provide a deep understanding of his life and principles to achieve this.

• Relevance of Renunciation (Nivritti) in a World of Activity (Pravritti): Acharya Tulsi notes that while modern society is characterized by a multitude of activities (pravritti), Mahavira lived a life of renunciation (nivritti). He argues that renunciation is itself a form of effort (purushartha) and essential for spiritual attainment.

• Timeless and Contemporary Truths: Mahavira's teachings, according to the author, contain both eternal and contemporary truths. Modern society's growing popularity of concepts like freedom, relativity, coexistence, harmony, and equanimity makes his message particularly relevant today. The book aims to integrate Mahavira's teachings into this modern current to bring welfare to all.

• Mahavira's Life as a Circle of Non-Violence (Ahimsa): The book describes Mahavira's life as a testament to Ahimsa, where his equanimity (Samyayoga) was so profound that there was no room for violence. Samyayoga is presented as the natural confluence of truth, auspiciousness, and beauty.

• Acharya Tulsi's Experiential Understanding: The book is noted for presenting Mahavira's life and teachings through Acharya Tulsi's inner realization and experience rather than mere intellectual understanding. His humility towards Mahavira, reality, and expression is evident.

• Structure and Content (Table of Contents): The book delves into various aspects of Mahavira's life and teachings:

  • Chapter 1: Before Bhagavan Mahavira: Discusses the Shramana tradition and Bhagavan Parshvanath, the social and religious conditions of Mahavira's era, and the Vajji confederacy.
  • Chapter 2: Thirty Years in Household Life: Details Mahavira's birth, childhood, education, marriage (mentioning the differing traditions regarding Yashoda and his marriage), and his renunciation.
  • Chapter 3: Period of Sadhana (Spiritual Practice): Covers his ascetic practices, significant encounters (like with Chandakoushika the snake), and the hardships he faced.
  • Chapter 4: Kevala and Religious Discourse: Describes his attainment of Kevala Jnana (omniscience) and his first sermon, outlining the "Chaturang Marga" (Fourfold Path) of Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct, and Right Asceticism. It also discusses monastic and householder dharma, the importance of inner perspective, human unity, the soul as the supreme being, effort, and eleven foundational principles.
  • Chapter 5: Establishment of the Religious Order: Explains the dual nature of dharma (monastic and householder) and the mantra of Anekanta (non-absolutism).
  • Chapter 6: Value Transformation: Discusses the social value of religion.
  • Chapter 7: Jainism's Contribution to Current Problems: Explores the relevance of Ahimsa in relation to freedom, equality, coexistence, and harmony. It also delves into the philosophical principles of soul and non-soul, karma, the cycle of suffering, and the means of liberation.
  • Chapter 8: Nirvana: Details Mahavira's attainment of liberation.
  • Chapter 9: Philosophy and Enlightenment: Presents a collection of Mahavira's insightful sayings (Suktisan-graha).

• Key Principles Highlighted:

  • Ahimsa (Non-violence): Presented as the core principle, encompassing non-harming, non-aggression, non-domination, and non-enslavement.
  • Anekanta (Non-absolutism/Plurality of Viewpoints): Emphasized as a means to resolve conflicts and understand reality from multiple perspectives.
  • Renunciation (Nivritti): Portrayed as a vital path for spiritual growth, even in an active world.
  • Samata (Equanimity): The foundation of Ahimsa and a state of being free from attachment and aversion.
  • Self-Discipline (Atmanushasana): The key to true freedom and happiness.
  • Karma Theory: Explains how actions influence one's destiny and the possibility of transforming karma through conscious effort and spiritual practice.
  • Importance of Inner Transformation: The book stresses that true spirituality lies within, not in external rituals or appearances.
  • Human Unity and Equality: Mahavira's teachings broke down caste barriers, emphasizing the inherent equality of all souls.

Overall Significance:

"Bhagavan Mahavira" by Acharya Tulsi serves as an accessible yet profound guide to understanding the life and teachings of Lord Mahavira. It highlights the timeless relevance of his message of Ahimsa, Anekanta, and self-discipline for addressing contemporary social and spiritual challenges. The book is recognized for its clear explanations and its ability to connect Mahavira's ancient wisdom with modern life, making it a valuable resource for both spiritual seekers and those interested in Indian philosophy. The inclusion of Mahavira's sayings at the end further enriches the reader's understanding of his profound philosophy.