Indrabhuti Gautam Ek Anushilan

This comprehensive summary is based on the provided Jain text, "Indrabhuti Gautam Ek Anushilan" (A Study of Indrabhuti Gautam), authored by Shree Ganesh Muni Shastri and edited by Shreechand Surana 'Saras', published by Sanmati Gyan Pith, Agra.

Book Overview:

This book is a profound and original research-based exploration of the life and personality of Indrabhuti Gautam, the chief Ganadhara (chief disciple and organizer of teachings) of Lord Mahavir. It was published in October 1970 in commemoration of the 2500th Nirvana anniversary of Lord Mahavir. The book aims to bring to light the immense and multifaceted personality of Gautam, who bridged the gap between the Shraman and Brahmin traditions, paving the way for cultural integration and intellectual acceptance.

Key Themes and Content:

The book delves into various aspects of Indrabhuti Gautam's life, contextualizing him within the socio-cultural and philosophical landscape of ancient India.

1. Introduction and Commendations:

• The book begins with blessings and tributes from prominent Jain scholars like Upadhyay Amar Muni and Narayan Prasad Jain, highlighting Gautam's significant role in shaping Jain Agam literature and his exemplary character. They praise the author's detailed research and the book's contribution to Jain scholarship.

2. Historical and Cultural Context:

• Cultural Heritage of Magadha: The book emphasizes Magadha's pivotal role in the development and spread of Shraman culture, with Lord Mahavir, Lord Buddha, and Indrabhuti Gautam being key spiritual figures from this region.
• Brahmin-Kshatriya Conflict: It discusses the intellectual and social clashes of the era, particularly the challenges posed by Kshatriya traditions to the prevailing Brahminical dominance, their emphasis on non-violence, and resistance to caste-based hierarchies.
• Promoters of Self-Knowledge: The text highlights the contribution of Kshatriyas in promoting self-knowledge and spiritual disciplines, citing examples from Upanishadic literature where Kshatriya princes were gurus to Brahmins.
• The Yajna at Pawapuri: The book details the grand Yajna (ritual sacrifice) organized by Arya Somil, a prominent Brahmin scholar, in Pawapuri. This event aimed to counter the growing influence of Vedic-agnostic ideologies and attract the general populace back to Vedic thought. Indrabhuti Gautam, as a renowned logician and scholar, was leading this Yajna.

3. Indrabhuti Gautam: A Detailed Introduction:

• Early Life and Parentage: Gautam was born in Gobar village in Magadha, to parents Vasubhuti and Prithvi, and belonged to the Gautam clan.
• Intellectual Prowess: He was a renowned scholar and logician, well-versed in the fourteen Vidyas (branches of knowledge prevalent at that time, including the Vedas, Vedangas, logic, and astronomy). He had a large following of five hundred students.
• Encounter with Lord Mahavir: The narrative describes Gautam's encounter with Lord Mahavir at Pawapuri. Initially, driven by intellectual pride and a desire to debate, Gautam approached Mahavir. However, witnessing the divine aura, the presence of numerous celestial beings, and Lord Mahavir's profound wisdom, his arrogance dissolved, and he was drawn to Mahavir with a deep sense of reverence and curiosity.
• Resolution of Doubts: The book highlights Gautam's pivotal role in the formation of Jain Agam literature. His questions and doubts, articulated with intellectual rigor, prompted Lord Mahavir's profound discourses, which became the foundation of the Twelve Limbs of Jain knowledge (Dvadashanga). The book details his intellectual journey from skepticism to profound understanding, particularly regarding the existence and nature of the soul.
• His Questions and Mahavir's Answers: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the dialogues between Gautam and Lord Mahavir, categorizing Gautam's inquiries into:
  • Metaphysical/Spiritual Questions: On the nature of the soul, its attachment (guru-laghu), the purpose of asceticism, the fruit of devotion, the relationship between knowledge and action, the qualities of a renunciate, the cause of kashayas (passions), the nature of the Siddhas, and the difference between various spiritual paths and traditions (e.g., Keshi Kumar's dialogue).
  • Karma Theory Questions: On the causes of suffering and happiness, the consequences of actions, and specific examples like the stories of Pradesh Raje, Mruga Putra, and Subahu Kumar, illustrating the workings of karma.
  • Cosmological Questions: On the structure of the universe, the nature of atoms (eternal vs. impermanent), existence vs. non-existence, the divine realms, and the composition of beings.
  • Miscellaneous Questions: Covering various topics like the nature of madness, possessions, the significance of specific locations, and the classification of philosophies and deities.
• Discipleship and Role in the Sangha: Gautam's intellectual journey culminated in his acceptance of Lord Mahavir's teachings and his initiation into the monastic order, becoming the foremost Ganadhara. He played a crucial role in organizing and compiling Mahavir's sermons into the Dvadashanga.
• Personality Traits: The book paints a vivid picture of Gautam's personality, emphasizing his:
  • Humility: Despite his vast knowledge and power, he remained humble and receptive to truth, as exemplified by his interaction with Anand Shravak.
  • Simplicity and Affection: He interacted with all beings, including children, with great affection and simplicity.
  • Fearlessness and Clarity in Teaching: He was a fearless and clear teacher, guiding even other traditions towards the right path.
  • Devotion to Mahavir: His profound devotion and affection for Lord Mahavir are highlighted, even to the extent that it delayed his attainment of Kevala Jnana (omniscience).
  • Aspiration for Kevala Jnana: The narrative details his quest for omniscience and his ultimate attainment of it on the night of Lord Mahavir's Nirvana.
  • Asceticism: He practiced rigorous asceticism, adhering to strict disciplines, which contributed to his spiritual attainment.
  • Intellectual Curiosity: His relentless pursuit of knowledge and understanding is portrayed as the driving force behind the rich corpus of Jain Agam literature.

3. Gautam's Farewell and Nirvana:

• The book describes Lord Mahavir's final moments and the profound grief of Gautam. It recounts Gautam's struggle with attachment to Mahavir, which was the primary obstacle to his own omniscience.
• The book concludes with Gautam's attainment of Kevala Jnana and his eventual Nirvana, leaving behind a legacy of profound wisdom and devotion.

Overall Significance:

"Indrabhuti Gautam Ek Anushilan" is a seminal work that not only illuminates the life of a pivotal figure in Jainism but also provides a deep dive into the philosophical and spiritual currents of ancient India. It highlights the importance of intellectual inquiry, humility, and unwavering devotion in the path of spiritual liberation. The book serves as a valuable resource for understanding the genesis of Jain Agam literature and the enduring impact of Gautam's life and teachings.