Harichand Rajano Ras

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Harichand Rajano Ras" by Shravak Bhimsinh Manek, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Harichand Rajano Ras Author: Shravak Bhimsinh Manek (Compiler/Publisher) Original Author of the Ras: Kanaksundar Virachit (Attributed on Page 1) Publisher: Shravak Bhimsinh Manek Publication Details: Second edition, printed in Mumbai at Nirnay Sagar Press, Samvat 1953 (1897 CE).

Overall Summary:

"Harichand Rajano Ras" is a Jain narrative poem that recounts the life and trials of King Harishchandra, highlighting his unwavering commitment to truth, virtue (Shil), and his devotion to Jainism. The text emphasizes the power of righteousness (Dharma) and the consequences of actions (Karma), illustrating how adherence to these principles, even in the face of immense suffering and adversity, leads to ultimate liberation (Moksha) or spiritual advancement. The narrative is structured in a series of chapters ("Khand") and songs/stanzas ("Dhal," "Doha," "Chaupai").

Key Themes and Narrative Elements:

1. Devotion to Truth (Satyashil): The central theme is King Harishchandra's absolute adherence to truth. Despite losing his kingdom, family, and facing extreme hardship, he refuses to compromise his word, demonstrating the highest form of integrity.

2. The Power of Virtue (Shil): The narrative extols the virtue of chastity and moral conduct, particularly exemplified by Queen Taravati (Taralochani). Her steadfastness and unwavering devotion to Harishchandra, even when sold into servitude, showcase the immense power of virtue.

3. Karma and its Consequences: The text repeatedly emphasizes the principle of Karma. King Harishchandra's trials are presented as the result of past actions, and his current virtuous conduct is shown to be paving the way for future spiritual gain. The narrative illustrates that while karma is powerful, righteous actions can mitigate its negative effects and lead to positive outcomes.

4. Renunciation and Asceticism: The story progresses to Harishchandra's eventual renunciation of worldly pleasures and his adoption of an ascetic life. This is depicted as a natural progression for those who understand the impermanence of material existence and seek spiritual liberation.

5. Jain Principles and Practices: The text integrates core Jain tenets such as:

   • Ahimsa (Non-violence): Although not explicitly detailed in the provided pages, the context of Jainism implies this as a foundational principle.
   • Dana (Charity): The importance of giving, though Harishchandra himself is tested when he has nothing left to give.
   • Tapa (Austerity): Harishchandra and Taravati undertake severe austerities to purify themselves and overcome their karma.
   • Samyak Darshan (Right Faith) and Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct): These are shown to be crucial for spiritual progress.
   • Devotion to Tirthankaras: The narrative begins with devotion to Lord Parshva and mentions Lord Shantinath.

6. Nava Ras (Nine Emotions): The author, Kanaksundar, explicitly states his intention to describe the "Nava Ras" (Shringara, Karuna, Shanta, Veera, etc.) in the narrative, indicating a literary approach to convey the emotional journey of the characters.

7. The Role of Divine Intervention/Guidance: The presence of celestial beings (Sur) and the guidance of spiritual teachers (Guru, Muni) play a role in the narrative, often appearing to test or guide the characters. The appearance of a celestial being at the end (Chapter 4, Dhal 11) to acknowledge Harishchandra's truthfulness is a significant event.

Narrative Progression (Based on Available Pages):

• Chapter 1 (Dhal 1): The text begins with invocations to Lord Parshva and introduces the theme of King Harishchandra's unwavering truthfulness. It describes the glory of Ayodhya, the capital, and its righteous governance.

• Chapter 2 (Dhal 2, Dhal 3): This chapter likely details the initial setup and possibly the divine tests or early challenges faced by Harishchandra and his queen. It describes Ayodhya's prosperity and the king's just rule.

• Chapter 3 (Dhal 1-Dhal 9): This appears to be a significant portion detailing Harishchandra's trials. Key events suggested by the text include:

  • The Test of the Serpent (Naga), the Fisherman (Makhan), and the Washerman (Chandal): Though not explicitly detailed on these pages, the "Ras" format often includes these trials.
  • Selling his son, Rohitasva, and then his wife, Taravati: These are depicted as extreme acts of adherence to truth, even when facing immense personal loss and public disgrace.
  • The Taunt of the Tapasvi (ascetic): Harishchandra faces humiliation and abuse from ascetics, testing his patience and resolve.
  • His ordeal in the cremation ground (Masana): This is a pivotal part where he serves as a sweeper and upholds his truth, even in the most ignoble circumstances.
  • The role of the Chandal (untouchable): The Chandal King (Kal-dam Chamal) plays a crucial role in Harishchandra's suffering and eventual testing.
  • The intervention of celestial beings and the test by gods.

• Chapter 4 (Dhal 1-Dhal 4): This section seems to focus on further trials and the vindication of Harishchandra's truth.

  • The Tapasvi's ploy: A Tapasvi manipulates events, leading to further hardship.
  • The test involving a female ascetic's son and a prostitute: The King is tested with offering his wife and son to a king in need.
  • The role of the Shuka (parrot): The parrot seems to act as a messenger or witness, confirming Harishchandra's truth.
  • Celestial vindication: Eventually, divine beings acknowledge his truth, and he is restored.

• Chapter 5 (Dhal 1-Dhal 11): This chapter appears to describe Harishchandra's renunciation and his spiritual journey after his worldly trials.

  • Adoption of the Jain monkhood (Charitra): After achieving the ultimate test of truth, Harishchandra embraces asceticism.
  • His association with Queen Taravati: She also joins him in his spiritual path.
  • The trials faced by ascetics: The narrative describes the hardships and temptations that ascetics face, which Harishchandra and Taravati endure with great resolve.
  • The spiritual progress and eventual liberation: The text concludes by showing their attainment of higher spiritual states or liberation through their steadfast devotion to Jain principles.

Literary Style:

The "Ras" is written in a devotional and narrative poetic style, common in Jain literature. It uses various meters and musical modes ("Raag") for different sections, making it suitable for chanting or recitation. The language is Gujarati, and it aims to inspire devotion and convey moral lessons.

Significance:

"Harichand Rajano Ras" serves as a moral exemplar for followers, illustrating the profound spiritual rewards of unwavering truthfulness, virtuous conduct, and devotion to Dharma, even when confronted with the most severe adversities. It reinforces the Jain belief in the power of Karma and the ultimate triumph of righteousness.