Ek Safar Rajdhani Ka

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Ek Safar Rajdhani ka" by Muni Atmadarshanvijay, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Ek Safar Rajdhani ka (A Journey of the Capital) Author: Muni Atmadarshanvijay Publisher: Diwakar Prakashan

Overview: "Ek Safar Rajdhani ka" is a Jain text presented in a narrative style, ideal for children, teenagers, and adults alike. It recounts various significant events and places associated with Rajgir (Rajgrihi), the ancient capital of Magadh, which holds immense importance in Jainism. The book uses two fictional characters, Raju (meaning "essence-knowing") and Sanju (meaning "essence-dissolving"), to guide the reader through the historical and spiritual landscape of Rajgir. Raju, a knowledgeable individual with a deep understanding of history, and Sanju, his inquisitive companion, embark on a journey exploring these sacred sites.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Rajgir's Significance: The book emphasizes Rajgir's importance as a holy land in Jainism, highlighting:

   • It's a Kalyanak-bhumi (land of auspicious events) for the 20th Tirthankar, Shri Munisuvrat Swami.
   • It's the Karmabhumi and Dharmabhumi (land of action and religion) of Lord Mahavir.
   • It's the Nirvan-bhumi (place of liberation) for eminent Ganadharas like Gautama.
   • It's the site of the final samadhi of Dhanna Angar, a prominent disciple of Lord Mahavir.
   • It was the capital of Emperor Shrenik, a great devotee of Lord Mahavir.
   • It's the birthplace of great souls like Jambukumar.
   • It's a land that witnessed the renunciation of wealthy individuals like Dhanna and Shilibhadra.
   • It's where even fierce individuals like Arjunmali were initiated into Jainism.
   • It's the land of virtuous lay devotees (shravaks) like Mahashatak and Puniya.
   • It's associated with great monks like Nandishen, Metarya, and Meghkumar, and noble nuns like Chetna and Sulsa.
   • It's where King Prasenjita's son, Prasen Chandra, attained liberation.
   • It's a place that signifies the balance between wealth and dharma.

2. Narrative Journey: Raju and Sanju visit various locations in Rajgir, bringing historical and religious narratives to life. Each visit is accompanied by detailed descriptions and stories:

   • The Entrance Gates of the Capital: The initial journey begins with exploring the city.
   • Shrenik's Samyaktva Place: The book describes how King Shrenik attained initial right faith.
   • The Story of Shrenik and Chetna: A detailed account of the religious discussions and debates between King Shrenik (a staunch Buddhist) and his wife Chetna (a devout Jain). A dramatic incident involving a Jain monk, a prostitute, and Shrenik's conspiracy is narrated, showcasing the monk's control over his senses and cleverness in foiling the plot, which deeply impressed Shrenik.
   • Elephant Stables (Hastishala): The narrative visits the remnants of Shrenik's elephant stables, linking it to a story where Chetna, feeling the cold, expresses concern for a meditating monk. Shrenik, misunderstanding her concern as affection for another man, orders the palace (Antahpur) to be burned. His son Abhaykumar, to save the palace, sets fire to the old elephant stables instead. This leads to a revelation and Shrenik's realization of Chetna's chastity and his son's intelligence.
   • Shilibhadra's Haveli: The story of Shilibhadra, a wealthy merchant who, despite immense riches and possessions (eight "Gokuls" of cows, sixteen crore gold coins, multiple mansions), remained detached and became an "ekavtari" (one who attains liberation in the next life). His indifference to material possessions and devotion to Lord Mahavir are highlighted.
   • The Haveli of Sulsa Shravika: Sulsa is presented as a paragon of Jain faith, who faced trials and remained steadfast in her devotion. Her unwavering faith was praised even by celestial beings.
   • Mankhaliputra Goshala's Birthplace: The text describes Goshala's origins and his rivalry with Lord Mahavir. It recounts his learning of the "Tejoleshya" (a potent spiritual power) and his eventual downfall due to his own powers and misdeeds, emphasizing the importance of not disrespecting one's guru.
   • Nalanda: The importance of Nalanda as a sacred site where Lord Mahavir spent many Chaturmases (four-month rainy seasons) is emphasized. The narratives of prominent figures like Jambu, Shilibhadra, Dhanna, Abhaykumar, and Arjunmali are linked to this region.
   • The Story of Amar Kumar and the Navkar Mantra: A compelling narrative about Amar Kumar, a young boy, who was to be sacrificed. His knowledge of the Navkar Mantra, taught by a Jain monk, saved him from the ritual and later helped him gain divine intervention when he was about to be sacrificed. The story highlights the immense power of the Navkar mantra.
   • The Story of Nand and the Nandini Vav: Nand, a wealthy merchant, despite becoming a follower of Jainism, fell due to his attachment to his self-built reservoir ("Vav"). He was reborn as a frog in that very reservoir. However, due to his past good deeds, he recognized Lord Mahavir's arrival and attained divine status after death. This highlights the consequences of attachment and the efficacy of even past virtuous deeds.
   • Gunasheel Garden: This garden is depicted as a place where Lord Mahavir and his disciples often resided and delivered sermons. It is described as a place of immense spiritual significance.
   • The Story of King Prasen Chandra: The text recounts how King Prasen Chandra attained Kevalgyan (omniscience) at a cremation ground, which later became a memorial site. His story illustrates the profound impact of the mind's state and the swiftness of karma.
   • The Story of Jambukumar: A detailed account of Jambukumar's life, his wealth, his eight marriages, and his eventual renunciation and attainment of liberation. The "Jumbu Mahal" is described as a magnificent palace showcasing his life story.
   • The Story of Maman Seth: A narrative about a famously miserly merchant, Maman Seth, who accumulated wealth through honest means but was so stingy that he lived a life of deprivation. His story illustrates the concept of "Pap-anubandhi-punya" (merit that leads to misfortune due to underlying attachment) and contrasts it with "Punya-anubandhi-punya" (merit that leads to good fortune).
   • The Story of Shilibhadra and Dhanna: The text recounts the exemplary lives of Shilibhadra and Dhanna, who, despite their immense wealth, renounced the world for spiritual liberation. Their stories emphasize the transient nature of worldly possessions and the ultimate value of spiritual pursuits.
   • The Story of Metarya Muni: Metarya Muni, a devout monk, faced severe persecution from a goldsmith. His story highlights his forbearance, control over senses, and his ultimate attainment of liberation through immense spiritual fortitude.
   • The Story of Arjunmali: The transformation of Arjunmali, a notorious killer, into a monk is narrated, emphasizing the power of Lord Mahavir's teachings to reform even the most hardened criminals.
   • The Story of the Wooden Cart Driver (Lakadhaara): This story highlights the importance of maintaining the dignity of the Jain faith and the negative consequences of public criticism and disrespect towards spiritual leaders.
   • The Name "Rajgir": The origin of the name "Rajgir" is explained through a story involving King Prasenjita, his son Shrenik, and a prophecy about a fire, leading to the formation of the city.

3. Artistic Presentation: The book is noted for its "Bhavpurna rangin chitron ke saath" (with emotionally rich colorful pictures), which enhance the storytelling and make the historical and spiritual narratives more engaging, especially for younger readers.

4. Spiritual Insights: The book aims to instill moral and spiritual values, emphasizing concepts like:

   • The power of the Navkar Mantra.
   • The consequences of karma (good and bad).
   • The importance of renunciation and detachment.
   • The value of controlling senses and desires.
   • The significance of sincere devotion and faith.
   • The concept of "Samyaktva" (right faith).
   • The importance of virtuous conduct and spiritual practice.

Overall Message: "Ek Safar Rajdhani ka" serves as an engaging and informative guide to the sacred sites and inspiring stories of Rajgir within the Jain tradition. By weaving together history, spirituality, and narrative through the journey of Raju and Sanju, the book encourages readers to connect with the profound legacy of Jainism and reflect on the path to spiritual liberation. The author, Muni Atmadarshan Vijay, has made a commendable effort to present complex spiritual concepts in an accessible and captivating manner.