Bhagwan Arishtanemi Aur Karmayogi Shreekrushna - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bhagwan Arishtanemi aur Karmayogi Shreekrushna" by Devendramuni Shastri, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Bhagwan Arishtanemi aur Karmayogi Shreekrushna: Ek Anushilan (Lord Arishtanemi and Karmayogi Shri Krishna: A Study) Author: Devendramuni Shastri Publisher: Shri Tarak Guru Jain Granthalay, Padara, Rajasthan First Publication: April 8, 1971 (Mahavir Jayanti)

Overall Aim and Significance:

This book is presented as a pioneering work in Indian literature, offering a simple, clear, and comparative analysis of the glorious lives of two prominent figures in Indian culture: Lord Arishtanemi and Karmayogi Shri Krishna. While extensive literature exists independently on both personalities, this work is significant for its attempt to highlight their comparative aspects from an authentic and scholarly, neutral perspective. It aims to break down perceived distances and divisive lines created by sectarian viewpoints and present a unified, divine, cultural, and syncretic vision of these two great souls.

Key Themes and Content:

The book explores the lives and significance of Lord Arishtanemi (the 22nd Jain Tirthankara) and Shri Krishna (considered the 9th and last Vāsudeva in Jain tradition) through a comparative lens. It delves into various aspects of their lives, including:

Comparative Significance: The book highlights that both Arishtanemi and Krishna are considered great souls in Jainism. Arishtanemi is a Tirthankara and will be a Tirthankara in the upcoming cycle of time. Krishna, a Vāsudeva, is also a significant figure who will become a Tirthankara in a future life. Both are from the Yadu dynasty, contemporaries, and belonged to the same family.
Jain Perspective on Great Souls: The text emphasizes that Jainism categorizes great human beings. Tirthankaras are "Dharma Purusha" (men of Dharma), Chakravartis are "Bhoga Purusha" (men of enjoyment), and Vāsudevas are "Karma Purusha" (men of action). Jain Agamas mention five types of exalted beings: Arhats, Chakravartis, Baladevas, Vāsudevas, and Angāras. Tirthankaras are considered the most supreme.
Arishtanemi's Life and Teachings:
- Historical Context: The book discusses Arishtanemi's birth at Shauripur and his significant life events, including his renunciation of marriage upon hearing the cries of animals, his initiation, attainment of Kevala Jnana, and Nirvana, all considered auspicious occasions ("Kalyanak").
- Inspirational Life: Arishtanemi's life is presented as inspirational, particularly his renunciation and the ideal of chastity presented by Rajulmati. The text notes the vast body of literature (like "Barahmase," "Ras," "Chaupai," etc.) dedicated to the story of Nemi-Rajul.
- Previous Lives: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to detailing Arishtanemi's previous lives, illustrating his spiritual journey from an ordinary being to a Tirthankara. These lives demonstrate the gradual purification of the soul and the accumulation of merits through virtuous actions. The previous lives discussed include:
  - Dhanakumar and Dhanavati
  - Being celestial beings in Saudharma Devaloka (as phenomenal deities)
  - Chitragaati and Ratnavati
  - Being celestial beings in Mahendrakalpa
  - Aparajita and Pritimati
  - Aparajita
  - Shankha
  - Arishta (in his final life before becoming Arishtanemi)
- Jain Philosophy: The text highlights key Jain principles exemplified in Arishtanemi's life, such as the emphasis on non-violence (Ahimsa) extending to all beings, vegetarianism, and the ideal of detached action.
Shri Krishna's Life and Teachings:
- Jain Perspective on Krishna: The book emphasizes that in Jain literature, Krishna is considered a "Maha-manav" (Great Human) or "Vāṣudeva," not a god in the Vedic sense. His life is depicted with compassion, respect for parents and gurus, and a focus on humanitarian actions. The text contrasts the Jain portrayal of Krishna (focusing on his humanity) with the Vedic portrayal (often focusing on his divine "leelas").
- Historical Context: Krishna is identified as the 9th Vāsudeva, and his birth in the Yadu dynasty is acknowledged.
- Moral Teachings: Krishna's teachings in the Bhagavad Gita are noted for their similarity to Jain principles like non-attachment and the synthesis of different philosophies, reflecting the Jain concept of Anekānta.
- Impact on Society: Krishna's advocacy for cow protection is recognized as a significant contribution, while the concept of "Panjrapol" (animal sanctuaries) is attributed to Arishtanemi's broader principle of compassion for all living beings.
- Pravritti vs. Nivritti: Krishna is described as a "Karmayogi" embodying "Pravritti" (active engagement), while Arishtanemi represents "Nivritti" (renunciation and detachment). The book suggests that the blend of these two aspects forms the essence of Indian culture.
- Jain Sources: The text acknowledges that Jain scriptures contain unique details about Krishna not found in non-Jain texts, underscoring the importance of comparative study.
Authorship and Approach:
- Originality: The reviewer of the book, Shri Chand Surana 'Saras,' highlights the author's profound study, comparative vision, and appreciation for inter-faith harmony.
- Addressing Misconceptions: The author, Devendramuni Shastri, aims to correct widespread misconceptions about Arishtanemi and Krishna, especially the notion that they were entirely separate figures.
- Scholarly Rigor: The book is based on extensive research, drawing from Jain, Buddhist, and Vedic traditions to provide a comprehensive and neutral account.
- Literary Style: The author's style is praised for its simplicity, fluency, and ability to present complex subjects in an engaging manner.
Specific Events Discussed:
- Birth and Marriage: The details of Arishtanemi's birth and the events surrounding his intended marriage to Rajulmati, which he left without consummating due to his vows of non-violence, are discussed.
- Krishna's Life: Various incidents from Krishna's life are presented, including his interactions with Kamsa, his time in Gokul and Mathura, his activities in Dwarka, the war with Jarasandha, Draupadi's swayamvar, the Mahabharata war, and his final moments.
- Family Trees: Comparative charts of the Yadu dynasty and family connections are provided to illustrate the relationship between Arishtanemi and Krishna.
- Historicality: The book explores the historical context of Arishtanemi, citing references from Vedic literature (Rigveda, Yajurveda), Upanishads, Mahabharata, Puranas, and the views of various historians. It addresses the challenges in dating these figures precisely due to sectarian interpretations.
- Critique of Vedic Texts: The author notes certain discrepancies or omissions in Vedic texts regarding the Yadu lineage and Arishtanemi, suggesting potential biases or selective reporting.
- Radha: The book explicitly states that the figure of Radha is absent in Jain literature, and discusses the historical debate surrounding Radha's antiquity and presence in Vedic texts.
- Kamsa: The narratives surrounding Kamsa's birth, his tyrannical rule, and his eventual demise at Krishna's hands are presented from both Jain and Vedic perspectives.
- Draupadi's Swayamvar and Abduction: The events leading up to Draupadi's marriage and her subsequent abduction are detailed, highlighting the roles of Krishna and the Pandavas.
- Mahabharata War: The book discusses the causes and consequences of the Mahabharata war, Krishna's role as a peace envoy, and his position as Arjuna's charioteer.
- Various Incidents: The summary also touches upon discussions of miraculous events ("Chamatkari Bheri"), self-praise, incantations, tests of character (like Draupadi's), soul's purification, Krishna and spirits, the death of Sisupala, and the eventual destruction of Dwarka.

Conclusion:

"Bhagwan Arishtanemi aur Karmayogi Shreekrushna" is a significant contribution to comparative religious and historical studies, offering a balanced and insightful portrayal of two towering figures of Indian culture. It promotes understanding and harmony by transcending sectarian boundaries and highlighting the shared ethical and spiritual values present in different traditions, particularly within the Jain framework.