Buddha Ane Mahavira

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Buddha ane Mahavira" by Kishorlal Mashruwala, based on the provided pages:

The book, "Buddha ane Mahavira" (Buddha and Mahavir), published by Navjivan Prakashan Mandir, is part of a series titled 'Dharmne Samjo' (Understand Religion). This series aims to provide readers with introductions to major world religions and their founders.

Core Philosophy and Approach:

• Religious Harmony (Sarvadharma-sambhav): The book is deeply rooted in the Gandhian philosophy of respect for all religions and the understanding of religion for the spiritual development of students, emphasizing non-violence (ahimsa) and truth (satya).
• Comparative Religion: Gujarat Vidyapith, where this publication originated, has made the study of all religions a compulsory part of its curriculum, reflecting the growing importance of value education and comparative religious studies in higher education.
• Challenging Traditional Notions of Divinity: The author, Kishorlal Mashruwala, aims to present a rational and humanistic perspective on figures like Buddha and Mahavir, moving beyond blind faith and miraculous claims. He argues that true greatness lies in their wisdom, compassion, and self-effort, rather than divine intervention or supernatural powers. The author criticizes the tendency to deify these figures and attributes their greatness to their ethical conduct and insightful teachings. He believes that understanding the human aspect of these great souls is crucial for emulating their virtues.
• Focus on Inner Transformation: The book emphasizes that true worship and connection with these spiritual giants come from internalizing their teachings and striving to embody their principles in one's own life, rather than mere recitation of names or rituals.

Content Summary:

The book is structured to present the lives and teachings of Lord Buddha and Lord Mahavir, drawing upon various historical and religious texts.

Part 1: Buddha

• Introduction to Siddharth: The book begins with the birth of Prince Siddharth, later known as Buddha. It describes his royal upbringing, his compassionate nature, and his early contemplative disposition.
• The Quest for Truth: Siddharth's detachment from worldly pleasures and his profound realization of suffering (old age, sickness, death) are highlighted. This led him to embark on a spiritual quest to find a solution to human suffering.
• The Great Renunciation (Mahabhinishkraman): The text details Siddharth's renunciation of his princely life, family, and luxury to seek enlightenment.
• Asceticism and the Middle Path: It describes his period of intense asceticism and self-mortification, which he eventually realized was not the path to liberation. This led him to adopt the "Middle Path" (Madhyam Marg), rejecting both extreme indulgence and extreme austerity.
• The Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path: The core teachings of Buddhism, the Four Noble Truths (explaining suffering and its causes) and the Eightfold Path (the way to end suffering), are explained. The author stresses the rational and practical nature of Buddha's teachings.
• The Sangha and Buddha's Disciples: The establishment of the Buddhist monastic order (Sangha) and the diverse backgrounds of Buddha's disciples (from kings and wealthy merchants to humble artisans and courtesans) are discussed, emphasizing Buddha's inclusivity and the absence of caste discrimination in his order.
• Ethical Principles and Conduct: Various rules and guidelines for lay followers and monks are outlined, covering daily conduct, speech, and mental discipline. Examples include the "Six Directions" teaching (representing duties towards family, friends, teachers, etc.) and the ten virtues.
• Buddha's Compassion and Tolerance: The book recounts instances of Buddha's unwavering compassion and tolerance, even towards his detractors and those who tried to harm him, such as the incident with the elephant. It highlights his ability to transform enemies through his love and wisdom.
• Critique of Miracles: The author distinguishes between true spiritual power and mere "magic tricks," suggesting that the real miracles are the transformation of human character and the dissemination of wisdom.
• Buddha's Legacy: The book concludes the section on Buddha by emphasizing his focus on inner transformation and the practical application of his teachings, rather than adherence to rituals or external forms of worship.

Part 2: Mahavir

• Mahavir's Background: The text introduces Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar of Jainism, placing his birth a few years before Buddha's. It mentions his parents, Siddhartha and Trishala, and his given name, Vardhaman.
• Early Life and Character: Vardhaman is described as a loving son, compassionate, and inclined towards renunciation from a young age. His physical strength and bravery are also noted.
• Marriage and Renunciation: Despite his inclination towards asceticism, Vardhaman married Yashoda at the insistence of his parents. After their passing, and at the age of 28, he renounced worldly life.
• The Twelve Years of Austerity: The book details Mahavir's rigorous twelve years of spiritual practice, enduring extreme hardships, insults, and persecution. This period is presented as a testament to his self-control, patience, and determination to find the truth.
• The Five Great Vows (Pancha Mahavrata): The core principles of Jainism, as taught by Mahavir, are highlighted: non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness (satya), non-stealing (asteya), chastity/celibacy (brahmacharya), and non-possession/non-attachment (aparigraha).
• The Concept of Jivadayal (Compassion for Life): The profound emphasis on compassion for all living beings, including the smallest insects, is a central theme in Mahavir's teachings.
• Syadvada (The Doctrine of Manifold Aspects): The book explains Mahavir's philosophical contribution, Syadvada, which suggests that truth is relative and can be viewed from multiple perspectives. This encourages intellectual humility and acceptance of differing viewpoints.
• Mahavir's Influence and the Jain Sangha: The text touches upon Mahavir's impact on society, the establishment of the Jain order, and the eventual schism that led to the Svetambara and Digambara traditions.
• Mahavir's Nirvana: The book briefly mentions Mahavir's passing at the age of 72, marking the end of his earthly existence.

Concluding Remarks and Author's Perspective:

• Author's Limitations: The author acknowledges that his account of Mahavir is not as detailed as he would have liked due to the scarcity of historically verifiable information and the influence of sectarian biases in existing Jain texts.
• Enduring Relevance: Despite these challenges, Mashruwala believes his portrayal captures the true spirit of these great men. He expresses hope that the book will inspire readers to understand and emulate their teachings, fostering a sense of universal brotherhood and spiritual growth.
• Critique of Religious Practices: Throughout the text, Mashruwala subtly critiques superficial religious practices, blind faith, and the tendency to create elaborate rituals and dogma that obscure the essential message of compassion, truth, and self-discipline.

In essence, "Buddha ane Mahavira" is a thoughtful exploration of two pivotal spiritual figures, presented through a lens of rational inquiry and a deep commitment to interfaith understanding and personal ethical development.