Jambuswami Charitra

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jambuswami Charitra" by Deepchand Varni, based on the provided pages:

The book, Jambuswami Charitra, translated into Hindi by Pt. Deepchand Varni and published by Mulchand Kisandas Kapadia, is a narrative detailing the life and teachings of Jambuswami, a prominent Jain figure. This particular edition is the third reprint, indicating its popularity and acceptance within the Jain community.

Introduction and Cosmology:

The text begins by establishing the Jain cosmological framework. It describes Jambudvipa, a continent shaped like a lotus, with Mount Sudarshan at its center. The geography includes mountains, forests, and celestial abodes. It highlights the existence of eternal, uncreated Jain temples (Chaityalayas) on Mount Sudarshan, where celestial beings and fortunate humans perform worship and meditation for spiritual upliftment. The text then details the divisions of Jambudvipa into various regions, including the Videha region where the 24 Tirthankaras are eternally present, and other regions like Bharat and Airavat.

The Setting and the Arrival of Lord Mahavir:

The narrative then focuses on Bharat Kshetra, specifically in Magadha country, near the city of Rajagriha. The beauty of Rajagriha is described, mentioning its palaces, temples, and gardens. The story then introduces King Shrenik, the ruler of Magadha, who is described as just, wise, and powerful.

A significant event occurs when a gardener informs King Shrenik that Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankara, has arrived in his Samavasarana (divine assembly) on Mount Vipulachal. King Shrenik is overjoyed and immediately proceeds to pay his respects to the Lord.

Lord Mahavir's Teachings and the Story of Vidyutmali:

At the Samavasarana, King Shrenik asks for guidance on escaping the cycle of birth and death. Lord Mahavir's divine speech, interpreted by his chief disciple, Gautam Swami, explains the suffering inherent in the transient world. Gautam Swami elaborates on the insatiable nature of desire and the ultimate emptiness of worldly pleasures. He then expounds on the two types of dharma (righteousness): Sagara (for householders, involving vows) and Anagara (for ascetics, involving great vows), both leading to true happiness and liberation.

During the discourse, a radiant celestial being, Vidyutmali, is present. King Shrenik inquires about Vidyutmali's exceptional radiance, especially considering his remaining lifespan of only three days. Gautam Swami then narrates the story of Vidyutmali's past lives, which explains his current state.

The Story of Bhavdev and Bhudev (Vidyutmali's Past Lives):

The narrative shifts to the city of Vardhamanpur, ruled by King Nabhikpal. A deeply misguided Brahmin lived there with his two intelligent sons, Bhudev and Bhavdev. The Brahmin led his sons astray with his false teachings. After the Brahmin's death, the sons continued their misguided ways.

However, upon encountering a great ascetic, Bhavdev became disaffected with worldly pleasures. Realizing the impermanence of life and the selfish nature of worldly relationships, he recognized the ascetics as his true guides. Inspired by the teachings, Bhavdev renounced the world and took Jain initiation.

Later, Bhavdev (now a muni) visited his hometown and encountered his younger brother, Bhavdev, who was on the verge of getting married. Bhavdev attempted to dissuade his brother from the marriage and embrace the spiritual path. Despite Bhavdev's earnest efforts, Bhavdev was initially swayed by worldly attachments and only took minor vows (Anuvrat) while reluctantly accompanying his brother towards the ascetic assembly. Bhavdev's intention was to return home. However, Bhavdev's sincere brotherly love led him to bring Bhavdev to the assembly, where, through further spiritual guidance and the influence of the environment, Bhavdev eventually took full initiation.

The brothers endured severe austerities and eventually attained the sixth heaven (Brahmaottara). The text highlights the power of Jain dharma, which transformed even those influenced by strong misconceptions.

The Story of Vidyudveg (Vidyutmali's Future Life) and his Family:

The narrative then explains that Vidyutmali, the radiant being, would be reborn as Vidyudveg in the future. The story of Vidyudveg's parents, Arhaddas and Jinmati, is presented. It mentions an event involving a Yaksha, who was Arhaddas's brother Rudradas in a past life, and his joyous dance upon hearing about the birth of a spiritual descendant.

Vidyudveg (who is Vidyutmali) is born as the son of Arhaddas and Jinmati. As a prince, Jambukumar (later Jambuswami) exhibits extraordinary qualities. He subdues a wild elephant, impressing the king and populace. He is betrothed to four noble daughters of wealthy merchants.

Jambukumar's Renunciation and Spiritual Journey:

During a diplomatic mission to King Mrigank of Keralpur, Jambukumar witnesses an injustice by King Ratnachul, who is attempting to forcibly marry Princess Manju, betrothed to King Shrenik. Jambukumar, despite his young age, displays immense courage and wisdom. He intervenes, defeats Ratnachul in combat, and secures the princess for King Shrenik. This act further solidifies his reputation.

Upon returning to Rajagriha, Jambukumar's desire for spiritual liberation intensifies. He rejects worldly pleasures, including his impending marriage and the affection of his family. His mother, Jinmati, and his four fiancées attempt to dissuade him, employing various strategies and stories. However, Jambukumar remains steadfast in his resolve.

He receives further spiritual guidance from a muni, revealing his past lives and the ultimate futility of worldly attachments. Inspired, he renounces all worldly possessions and affiliations, including his fiancées and his family's pleas. His mother, Jinmati, and his four fiancées also embrace the spiritual path, taking vows as female ascetics (Aryikas). Vidyudveg, who was also present and witnessing these events, renounces the world and becomes a muni.

Jambuswami's Attainment of Kevalgyan and Nirvana:

After his initiation, Jambuswami undertakes rigorous penance and attains Kevalgyan (omniscience). He then travels, spreading the Jain teachings, explaining the nature of suffering in the four realms, the importance of vows for ascetics and householders, and the path to liberation. He ultimately attains Nirvana in Mathura. The text also details the eventual fates of other characters, their rebirths, and their spiritual journeys, emphasizing the transformative power of Jain dharma.

Conclusion and Exhortation:

The book concludes with a reiteration of the auspiciousness of hearing or reading the story of Jambuswami. It encourages the readers to follow the path of righteousness, understand the self, and work towards their own spiritual welfare. The narrative emphasizes that those who sincerely embrace the Jain faith, even if initially motivated by fear or social obligation, can attain ultimate happiness and liberation. The text ends with blessings and a prayer for peace.