Bhavyajan Kanthabharanam

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bhavyajan Kanthabharanam" by Arhaddas, with translation by Pt. Kailaschandra Shastri:

Book Title: Bhavyajan Kanthabharanam (The Jewel for the Necks of the Virtuous) Author: Kavi Arhaddas Translator: Pt. Kailaschandra Shastri (Principal, Syadvada Mahavidyalaya, Benares) Publisher: Jain Sanskruti Samrakshak Sangh, Solapur Publication Year: 1954 (Veer Samvat 2481)

Overall Purpose and Theme:

The "Bhavyajan Kanthabharanam" is a Jain scripture composed in Sanskrit verse, translated into Hindi by Pt. Kailaschandra Shastri. The core purpose of this work, as stated in the publisher's note, is to guide householders towards true faith (Sammyaktva) by understanding the nature of the true Dev (God). The author, Arhaddas, aims to dispel misconceptions about divinity and establish the correct understanding of the Jain Tirthankaras and the path to liberation. While it might appear critical of other deities, its intention is not to condemn but to illuminate the truth, thereby removing delusion.

Key Contents and Structure:

The book, comprising 242 verses, systematically presents the core principles of Jainism, focusing on the Ratnatraya (Three Jewels): Sammya-darshan (Right Faith), Sammya-jnana (Right Knowledge), and Sammya-charitra (Right Conduct).

1. Invocation and Dedication: The text begins with an invocation to the Pancha-Parameshti (the five supreme beings in Jainism) and the Jinagamas (Jain scriptures). Arhaddas declares his intention to compose this work for the benefit of the virtuous.

2. The Supremacy of the True Dev (Apta):

   • The author meticulously defines the nature of an Apta (a truly liberated and omniscient being, i.e., a Tirthankara).
   • A significant portion of the text is dedicated to critiquing Aptabhasas (false or imitation "gods"). Arhaddas analyzes various deities and figures worshipped in prevalent traditions, including Hindu deities like Shiva, Brahma, Vishnu, Ram, Buddha, and various demigods, celestial beings, and planetary deities.
   • He argues that these figures exhibit flaws like attachment, anger, ignorance, indulgence in sensual pleasures, violence, and lack of omnipotence and omniscience.
   • The author uses logical arguments and draws upon knowledge of Hindu Puranas to demonstrate that these figures do not meet the criteria of a true Apta.
   • The critique extends to different sects within Jainism as well, highlighting potential deviations from core Jain principles.

3. The True Nature of the Apta (Tirthankara):

   • Following the critique of false deities, the text expounds upon the true nature of an Apta.
   • The author defines Tirthankara as one who shows the "Tirtha" – the path that leads across the ocean of worldly existence.
   • He describes the profound qualities of a Tirthankara, including their omnipotence, omniscient knowledge, detachment from all impurities, inherent purity, pleasant speech, and the presence of divine manifestations during their sermons (Samavasarana).
   • The text details the celestial signs and manifestations accompanying a Tirthankara's life and teachings.

4. The Ratnatraya (Three Jewels):

   • After establishing the identity of the true Dev, the work elaborates on the Ratnatraya.
   • Sammya-darshan (Right Faith): This is presented as the most crucial of the three, as it is the foundation for Right Knowledge and Right Conduct. It involves correct faith in the Apta, Agamas, and Guru. The text describes the characteristics of Sammya-darshan, including the eight angas (limbs) and the absence of twenty-five doshas (faults), such as the three mudhatas (delusions), eight madas (prides), and other afflictions.
   • Sammya-jnana (Right Knowledge): This refers to the accurate knowledge of reality, free from doubt, wrong perception, and exaggeration. It is attained through the grace of Sammya-darshan.
   • Sammya-charitra (Right Conduct): This involves practicing vows and adhering to ethical conduct to prevent the influx of new karma and shed existing karma.

5. Other Jain Principles:

   • The book also briefly touches upon other key Jain concepts like the seven tattvas (realities), the nature of the soul (Atma), the inanimate (Ajiva), influx (Asrava), bondage (Bandha), cessation of influx (Samvara), elimination of karma (Nirjara), and liberation (Moksha).
   • It also discusses the seven excellent states (Sapt Paramasthanas) achieved through the path of liberation.

6. Author's Background and Style:

   • The preface and author's notes reveal that Arhaddas was a learned poet with a deep understanding of Puranic literature and Jain logic.
   • His style is characterized by logical reasoning, clear explanations, and a poetic approach.
   • The translator, Pt. Kailaschandra Shastri, is praised for his beautiful and simple Hindi translation, making the complex philosophical concepts accessible to a wider audience.
   • The text also includes details about the potential timeframe of Arhaddas, suggesting he lived sometime after Pt. Ashadharji (around the 13th-14th century CE), based on his references.

Significance and Contribution:

"Bhavyajan Kanthabharanam" serves as a foundational text for Jains, especially householders, guiding them in discerning true spiritual principles from erroneous beliefs. It emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and adherence to the teachings of the Tirthankaras as the sole path to liberation. By systematically dissecting various religious beliefs and practices, the book aims to provide a clear and unwavering focus on the Jain path to ultimate bliss.