Bhagvana Mahavira

This document is an excerpt from the book "Bhagavan Mahavira" by Acharya Tulsi, published by Jain Vishva Bharati. The book, translated and edited by Muni Mahendra Kumar, aims to provide an authentic and historical account of Bhagavan Mahavira's life and philosophy.

The introductory section emphasizes that the book is an "essay on Truth," portraying Bhagavan Mahavira as the embodiment of truth rather than just a historical figure. It highlights his dedication to the pursuit, attainment, and dissemination of truth, and his practice of rigorous asceticism. The book intends to shed light on Mahavira's profound philosophies of anekāntavāda (relativism) and ahiṁsā (non-violence), suggesting that true appreciation comes from practicing these ideals.

The preface by Ganadhipati Tulsi underscores Bhagavan Mahavira's doctrine of the "freedom of soul," asserting that the soul is not a part of God but maintains an independent existence even after liberation. In the 20th century, Mahavira is seen as a "Saviour of mankind" for liberating people from dependence on external forces and fostering self-reliance and spiritual exertion. While Mahavira did not deny the existence of God, he rejected the notion of a creator or controller of human fate, stating that "Man himself is the maker of his own fate." The text also notes that Mahavira's philosophy was grounded in realism, presenting truths relevant to the present age and advocating for universal ideals such as freedom, relativity, coexistence, harmony, and equality.

The book's table of contents reveals a structured exploration of Bhagavan Mahavira's life and teachings, covering:

• Before the Advent: Discussing the social and religious conditions of ancient India, the Śramana and Vedic traditions, and the significance of Bhagavan Pārśva.
• Thirty Years of Family Life: Detailing his birth, childhood, name (Vardhamana), fearlessness, education, marriage, and eventual renunciation of worldly life.
• The Period of Sadhana (Spiritual Discipline): Describing his intense ascetic practices, his encounters with challenges (like the snake Caṇḍakauśika), and his commitment to non-violence and equality.
• Kaivalya (Omniscience) and the Bhagavān's Sermons: Covering his attainment of omniscience and his foundational sermons, including the fourfold path (Samyak darśana, jñāna, caritra, tapa), and the five major vows (ahiṁsā, satya, asteya, brahmacharya, aparigraha). It also touches upon his teachings for householders and his emphasis on inwardness and equality.
• Foundation of Religious Order: Explaining the establishment of the fourfold tirtha (monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen) and the importance of anekāntavāda.
• Transvaluation: Discussing his egalitarianism, the social value of religion, and how his teachings offered solutions to societal problems.
• Relevance of the Jaina Religion to Modern Problems: Connecting Mahavira's principles of ahiṁsā, non-possessiveness, liberty, equality, and synthesis (anekāntavāda) to contemporary issues.
• Nirvāņa (Liberation): Describing his final moments and attainment of liberation, and the impact on his disciples.
• Philosophy and Exhortation: A compilation of quotes and teachings attributed to Mahavira, summarizing his core philosophical principles.

The book emphasizes Bhagavan Mahavira's role in reforming societal norms, challenging casteism, and promoting a spiritual path based on self-discipline, non-violence, and the pursuit of truth. His philosophy of anekāntavāda is presented as a means to synthesize diverse viewpoints and resolve conflicts. The text aims to reintroduce the profound relevance of Mahavira's teachings for modern life.