Bharatesh Vaibhav - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Bharatesh Vaibhav," focusing on its content and its connection to Acharya Shri Deshbhushanji Maharaj:

Bharatesh Vaibhav: A Glorious Saga of Mind's Control Over Sensory Pleasures

This text, a review by Sumatprasad Jain, discusses the monumental Jain work "Bharatesh Vaibhav," penned by Ratnakar Varni in 1551 CE. It is lauded as the "Geet Govind" of Karnataka literature and holds a revered status within the Jain community, akin to the "Ramcharitmanas" in the Hindu society. The review highlights how this epic poem has been a deeply inspiring and guiding scripture for Acharya Shri Deshbhushanji Maharaj, whose life and spiritual practice are closely intertwined with its teachings.

Acharya Shri Deshbhushanji Maharaj and Bharatesh Vaibhav:

The core of the review emphasizes the profound impact of "Bharatesh Vaibhav" on Acharya Shri Deshbhushanji Maharaj. It states that the great life values espoused in the epic have become the subject of his conduct and spiritual discipline. His discourses frequently feature verses from "Bharatesh Vaibhav," and to spread its message globally, he personally translated and summarized it into Hindi, Marathi, and Gujarati, and inspired Dr. Shyam Singh Jain to translate it into English.

Chakravarti Bharat: A Symbol of National and Spiritual Unity:

The review draws parallels between Chakravarti Bharat, the protagonist of the epic, and Acharya Shri Deshbhushanji Maharaj.

National Unity: Chakravarti Bharat is credited with uniting India under a central government, envisioning national unity. Similarly, Acharya Shri Deshbhushanji Maharaj, as a spiritual leader, has undertaken extensive pilgrimages across India, successfully attempting to unite the Jain community in this era.
Linguistic and Cultural Harmony: Acharya Shri is described as a constructive saint who fostered linguistic unity by translating works between South Indian languages (Tamil, Kannada, Marathi) and Hindi, and vice versa. He has also created and edited original literature in Sanskrit, Prakrit, Gujarati, Bengali, Kannada, and Hindi. This dedication mirrors Bharat's role in establishing emotional unity in the nation.

The Essence of Bharatesh Vaibhav:

The epic is described as a "glorious saga of the mind's control over sensory pleasures." It imparts lessons on:

Enjoyment of pleasures in life.
Valor in the battlefield.
Magnanimity in the realm of arts.
Humility amidst prosperity and generosity.
Detachment during moments of contemplation.

Acharya Shri Deshbhushanji Maharaj's life philosophy is deeply rooted in the ideals of this text, making it a constant companion and source of inspiration for him.

The Narrative of Emperor Bharat:

The text then delves into the story of Emperor Bharat, the eldest son of the first Tirthankara, Bhagwan Shri Rishabhdev.

Spiritual Upbringing: Bharat received his education at the feet of his father, the revered Rishabhdev, and led a virtuous and dignified life.
Popularity and Dharma: Despite being born into luxury and prosperity, Bharat gained immense popularity through his valor, manliness, and righteous conduct. He was a connoisseur of knowledge, a devoted protector of his subjects, and a guardian of dharma.
Spiritual Pursuit: Bharat dedicated his life to the path of spiritual practice to truly understand the secrets of dharma and the soul. He spent his time in religious activities like worship, self-study, associating with ascetics, and offering food donations.
Humility and Devotion: A notable anecdote describes Bharat humbly offering food to the monks Shri Chandragati and Shri Adityagati, expressing his flawed nature but their love for him as a disciple.
Significance of Human Incarnation: Witnessing Bharat's devout act of charity, the celestial Indra recognized the superiority of the human form. It is in this human incarnation that one can attain control over senses, shed karma, achieve spiritual growth, and ultimately attain liberation. The text emphasizes the opportunities available in human life for self-reflection, effort, understanding the distinction between self and others, performing religious rituals, and offering alms.
Inner Vision: The review quotes Acharya Shri, who states that the body is a temple for the Jina, and the mind is its throne. The pure soul is the 'Jina' himself. By renouncing external distractions and closing one's eyes, one can realize the 'Jina' within.
Charity and its Impact: The text highlights the importance of offering alms with pure intentions. It contrasts the divine beings' inability to perform such charitable acts with Bharat's generosity, emphasizing that true fulfillment lies in such selfless giving.
Moral Wealth: Acharya Shri's philosophy underscores the importance of ethical means in acquiring wealth. He states that wealth obtained through unrighteous methods leads to negative consequences.

Bharat's Victories and Governance:

The narrative shifts to Bharat's achievements as a conqueror and ruler.

Unification of the World: Bharat, with foresight, recognized the need to unite the entire world under one flag to establish the reign of dharma. He embarked on a victory campaign, relinquishing the comforts of monarchy, and was recognized as a "Chakravarti Samrat."
Humane Leadership: His victory campaigns were marked by an exemplary humanistic and liberal approach. Most kings willingly submitted to him, feeling honored by his magnanimity. His conquests were characterized by dignity and respect, ensuring that defeated or surrendered kings did not feel humiliated.
Bharat's Political Philosophy: Bharat's political aim was not territorial gain or wealth, but the subjugation of kings who would bow their heads before him. This philosophy of governance, where respect and submission were paramount, was established by him.
Balance of Duty and Spirituality: Even amidst his military campaigns, Bharat remained attentive to his daily, religious, social, and family life. He established a code of conduct that preserved the sentiments and culture of the conquered states, earning him the reverence of the populace, who named their country "Bharatvarsha" after him.
The "King Yogi": Bharat is referred to as a "King Yogi" due to his profound understanding of the distinction between the soul and matter from a young age. Despite being an adept ruler, his heart yearned for the company of saints. While enjoying worldly pleasures, his inner mind remained detached from worldly affairs.
Detachment from Worldly Pleasures: The text quotes poet Divij Kaladhar, who praises Bharat for being detached and experiencing self-realization even while possessing immense wealth, a rare quality.
Dharma as the Path to Wealth: Bharat understood that wealth is attained through dharma and remained dedicated to it. Those who disregard dharma in pursuit of worldly pleasures are depicted as fools destined for continuous suffering in the cycle of birth and death.
Focus on Liberation: Despite fulfilling his administrative duties, Bharat's gaze was consistently fixed on liberation from the bonds of the cycle of existence. The text uses the analogy of a dancer maintaining balance on her head while performing, to illustrate how Bharat managed his royal duties while keeping his sight focused on the path to salvation.
The King and the Yogi: Bharat's spiritual practices reached such a peak that it became difficult for the common people to distinguish between King Bharat and Yogi Bharat.
Unusual Qualities: The text highlights Bharat's exceptional nature, suggesting he possessed a unique quality where, unlike other beings, he "ate but did not excrete," implying a spiritual purity and control over bodily functions.
Profound Renunciation: Bharat's detachment and spiritual fervor were so intense that even Saraswati, the goddess of learning, felt incapable of fully describing his glory. He is described as the first Chakravarti and a source of inspiration for attaining liberation in this very life.

Acharya Shri's Motivation and Dedication:

The review concludes by addressing why Acharya Shri Deshbhushanji Maharaj chose to dedicate his literary efforts to "Bharatesh Vaibhav."

Motive for the Work: Acharya Shri's initial prayer reveals his intention: to sing the glory of Bharat, leading to liberation in this life, the destruction of karmic bonds, and the attainment of self-knowledge like the first son (Bharat).
Path to Salvation: The epic's themes guide individuals away from worldly attachments and towards eternal happiness, cleansing them of sinful deeds.
Acharya Shri's Life as an Example: Acharya Shri adopted the Digambara way of life and has been consistently engaged in self-inquiry as a Digambara ascetic, aligning his life with the pursuit of this ultimate happiness.
Reconciling Renunciation with Social Responsibility: The text addresses the common perception of Jain monks being solely detached from the world. It argues that "Bharatesh Vaibhav" instills an interest in Brahmavidya (knowledge of the ultimate reality) without promoting an escapist attitude. Acharya Shri has spent five decades imparting teachings on faith and creation.
The Ideal of a Monk: The text emphasizes that Jain scriptures encourage monks to inspire householders towards monasticism. Acharya Shri's divine personality encourages the Jain community to follow the path of dharma.
Duality of Renunciation and Action: Despite rigorous penance as a Digambara saint, Acharya Shri remains actively engaged in his social responsibilities. His character exemplifies a harmonious blend of renunciation and engagement. He has performed rigorous vows and fasting, demonstrating his commitment to controlling his senses.
Service to Humanity: Beyond his spiritual practices, Acharya Shri has contributed significantly to the construction of Jin temples, development of pilgrimage sites, and establishment of charitable institutions like rest houses, dispensaries, libraries, and schools, embodying the generous and philanthropic spirit of Jainism.
Bharat as Inspiration: Chakravarti Bharat's virtuous character serves as Acharya Shri's inspiration. His concluding prayer expresses a desire for the strength to overcome worldly sufferings and a plea for the grace of the "Chidambar Purush" (the all-pervading soul).

In essence, "Bharatesh Vaibhav" is presented not just as a historical epic but as a profound spiritual guide that has shaped the life and mission of Acharya Shri Deshbhushanji Maharaj, inspiring him to spread its timeless message of self-control, spiritual pursuit, and universal harmony.