Jain Dharm Ki Kahaniya Part 23

This document is the 23rd installment in the "Jain Dharm Ki Kahaniya" (Stories of Jainism) series, published by the Akhil Bharatiya Jain Yuva Federation. It is part of the Shrimati Dhudhibai Khemraj Gidiya Granthmala.

The book primarily focuses on the early life and first alms-taking (Ahaar/Paarana) of Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar of Jainism. It also includes several other narratives from the previous lives of Tirthankaras and other significant figures in Jain tradition, illustrating key Jain principles.

Here's a breakdown of the content:

Key Narratives and Themes:

• The First Alms-taking of Lord Rishabhdev: This is a central theme, detailing how Rishabhdev, after a long period of asceticism, received his first meal. The story highlights the significance of Ahaar-daan (offering food to monks) and its immense merit. The narrative begins with Rishabhdev's past life as King Vajrajang, who, along with his wife Shrimati, offered food to two celestial monks (Damdhar and Sagarsena). The miraculous events that followed the offering, like the showering of jewels and flowers, are described, emphasizing the power of pure intention and righteous giving. The story also delves into the past lives of King Vajrajang's companions (minister, priest, treasurer, and general), explaining how their past actions led them to their current roles and their future connections with Rishabhdev.
• The First Alms-taking of Lord Mahavir: The book narrates the story of Chandanbala, who, despite facing extreme adversity and false accusations, remained steadfast in her devotion. She ultimately offered alms to Lord Mahavir, marking his first Paarana. This section emphasizes the importance of inner purity, faith, and detachment from external circumstances, even in the face of suffering and social stigma. Chandanbala's past lives and the karmic consequences of her actions, including a past instance where she falsely accused her sister-in-law, are also explored.
• Past Lives of Tirthankaras: The book includes narratives from the previous lives of other Tirthankaras, such as:
  • Lord Chandranath's previous lives: The stories of Ajitsen Chakravarti and King Padmanabh are presented, illustrating the long journey of a soul towards Tirthankarship and the consequences of one's actions across multiple lifetimes.
  • Lord Shantinath's previous lives: The story of Megharath, who recognized the karmic cycle of suffering through the example of fighting roosters, is detailed. This highlights the concept of Kashayas (anger, pride, deceit, greed) and their role in perpetuating suffering.
  • Lord Mahavir's previous lives: The narrative of Vishwanandi, a prince who, after experiencing the ill effects of attachment and conflict, embraced asceticism, is included. It also touches upon the life of Vishuchari, a prince who fell into a life of crime and later found spiritual solace.
  • Lord Parshvanath's previous lives: The story of a prince who renounced worldly pleasures after witnessing the suffering of a bull is mentioned.
  • Lord Krishna's background and birth: The lineage of Lord Krishna is traced, emphasizing the role of previous karma in shaping one's destiny, even for great souls. The story of Vasuraj, Krishna's father, and his interaction with monks, as well as the birth and early life of Krishna, are described.
• The Power of Karmic Consequences: A recurring theme is the impact of past actions (karma) on present and future lives. The book illustrates how even seemingly minor actions or intentions can lead to significant consequences, both positive and negative. It emphasizes that true spiritual progress lies in understanding and overcoming the influence of karma through right faith, knowledge, and conduct.
• The Importance of Detachment and Equanimity: Throughout the stories, the characters who achieve spiritual liberation are those who practice detachment from worldly pleasures and possessions, maintain equanimity in the face of adversity, and focus on their inner spiritual journey.
• The Merit of Offering and Supporting Religious Literature: The book highlights the contributions of various individuals and families who have supported its publication, underscoring the Jain belief in the merit of contributing to the propagation of religious knowledge.

Key Figures Mentioned:

• Lord Rishabhdev: The first Tirthankar.
• Lord Mahavir: The 24th Tirthankar.
• Chandanbala: A devoted laywoman.
• King Vajrajang and Queen Shrimati: Past lives of Rishabhdev and his mother.
• King Somprabh and Shreyans Kumar: King and brother who offered alms to Rishabhdev.
• King Ajitsen: A past life of Lord Chandranath.
• King Padmanabh: Another past life of Lord Chandranath.
• King Meghrath: A past life of Lord Shantinath.
• King Vishwanandi: A past life of Lord Mahavir.
• King Krishna and Baldev: Important figures in Jain and Hindu traditions, whose previous lives are explored in a Jain context.
• Kans: The antagonist in Krishna's story.
• Various monks and ascetics: Who guide the characters towards spiritual liberation.

Publishing Information:

• Authors: Brahmachari Haribhai (Songadh), Pandit Premchand Jain (Khairagarh), Pandit Rameshchandra Jain Shastri (Jaipur).
• Publisher: Akhil Bharatiya Jain Yuva Federation, Khairagarh and Shri Kahana Smriti Prakashan, Songadh.
• Granthmala: Shrimati Dhudhibai Khemraj Gidiya Granthmala.

In essence, "Jain Dharm Ki Kahaniya Part 23" serves as a collection of inspiring narratives that illustrate fundamental Jain teachings on karma, reincarnation, the path to liberation, the importance of righteous conduct, and the profound spiritual significance of acts of devotion and charity.