Karma Hare Bhavjal Tare

The provided text is the Gujarati book "Karma Hare Bhavjal Tare" (कर्म हरे भवजल तरे), authored by Muni Shri Harshshilvijay and published by Aatmashreya Prakashan. The book's catalog link is also provided.

This book appears to be a collection of illustrated biographies of the 24 Tirthankaras of Jainism, as indicated by the title "Shree Chovis Tirthankar Charitra" (श्री चौवीस तीर्थंकर चरित्र) which translates to "Biographies of the 24 Tirthankaras."

Here's a summary based on the content:

• Core Subject: The book details the lives and teachings of the 24 Tirthankaras, spiritual leaders in Jainism who have attained liberation.
• Purpose: The title "Karma Hare Bhavjal Tare" suggests the book aims to explain how understanding and following the path of these Tirthankaras can help in overcoming karma and crossing the ocean of worldly existence (Bhavjal - the cycle of birth and death).
• Structure: The text includes the initial pages of the book, such as:
  • Title page and acknowledgments, dedicating the book to respected Acharyas.
  • The Namokar Mantra (Navkar Mantra), a foundational prayer in Jainism.
  • Introductory remarks highlighting the importance and grace of the Tirthankaras.
  • A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the life story of the first Tirthankara, Bhagwan Rishabhdev (Adinath), detailing his various past lives and his eventual attainment of Tirthankar status. This section appears to be quite extensive, covering multiple rebirths and significant events.
  • Following Rishabhdev's biography, there are sections that begin to introduce the lives of other Tirthankaras, starting with Ajitnath, then Sambhavnath, Abhinandannath, Sumatinath, Padmaprabh, Suparshvanath, Chandraprabh, Suvidhinath, Sheetalnath, Shreyansnath, Vasupujya, Vimalnath, Anantnath, Dharmanath, Shantinath, Kunthunath, Aranath, Mallinath, Munisuvrat, Naminath, Neminath, Parshvanath, and finally Mahavir Swami. Each Tirthankara's section includes details about their previous lives, birth, key life events, family, disciples, and their attainment of omniscience (Kevalgyan) and liberation (Nirvan).
• Key Themes:
  • Karma: The central theme is how the actions (karma) of individuals lead to their rebirths and the cycle of suffering. The lives of the Tirthankaras serve as examples of how to overcome karma through righteous conduct, devotion, and renunciation.
  • Spiritual Journey: The biographies trace the spiritual evolution of these souls across many lifetimes, emphasizing the gradual purification and progress towards liberation.
  • Jain Philosophy: The book implicitly explains core Jain principles like non-violence (Ahimsa), detachment, equanimity, the nature of the soul, and the path to Moksha (liberation).
  • Devotion and Inspiration: The detailed accounts of the Tirthankaras' lives are meant to inspire devotion and provide a role model for followers.
• Illustrations: The book is described as "sachitra" (सचित्र), meaning it contains illustrations, which would enhance the reader's understanding and engagement with the narratives.
• Authorship and Editorship: The book is authored by Muni Shri Harshshilvijay and edited by Punya Panyas Prafar Shri Bhadrashilvijayji Ganivar's disciple, Muni Prafar Shri Kulshilvijayji M. The main sponsor is Shri Vadiyala Maganlal Vora and Smt. Gunvantiben Vadiyala Vora family from Palitana/Mumbai.

In essence, "Karma Hare Bhavjal Tare" is a comprehensive and inspiring guide to the lives of the 24 Tirthankaras, offering spiritual lessons and a path to overcome the bonds of karma and achieve liberation, as envisioned in Jainism.