Kshemraj

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Kshemraj" by Chunilal V. Shah, based on the provided pages:

The text "Kshemraj" by Chunilal V. Shah is a historical narrative deeply rooted in Jain philosophy, exploring themes of duty, renunciation, and spiritual realization. It centers around Kshemraj, son of King Bhimdev of Gujarat, and his eventual choice to renounce worldly power for a life of contemplation.

The Early Life and the King's Dilemma:

The story begins with King Bhimdev facing repeated conflicts with the Parmar king of Chandravati. Despite Bhimdev forcing the Parmar king to acknowledge his subordinate status, the Parmar king remained defiant. In a decisive battle, Bhimdev defeated and imprisoned the Parmar king, Krishnadev. Years later, a nobleman from Nadol intervened, requesting Krishnadev's release. Krishnadev verbally agreed to remain a subordinate, which led Bhimdev to release him, much to the surprise of his sons, Kshemraj and Karnadev.

Bhimdev explained his decision by emphasizing the importance of giving an obedient neighbor a chance, even if he was a past adversary. Kshemraj remained silent, but Karnadev expressed concern, reminding his father of past betrayals. Bhimdev, however, believed in offering a chance to those who pledge loyalty. Kshemraj perceived a growing mental weakness in his father, masked as generosity, influenced by the nobleman from Nadol.

Bhimdev's Later Years and Spiritual Awakening:

During Bhimdev's later years, his ministers actively managed state affairs, with the princes acting as his assistants. Bhimdev, no longer issuing direct orders, began to express his wishes to his sons and the chief minister.

The narrative then introduces Muni Suracharya, a learned scholar and follower of Jainism, who visits Patan. Bhimdev, who held deep respect for Suracharya not just for his religious devotion but also for his intellect and mastery of various fields of knowledge, receives him with reverence. Suracharya's spiritual guidance deeply impacts Bhimdev, who, upon hearing that his health is declining, reflects on the nature of aging.

Suracharya emphasizes that understanding the onset of old age and dedicating oneself to duties of later life is the true success of human life. When Bhimdev asks for clarification on these duties, Suracharya explains it involves renouncing the transient and embracing the eternal, shifting focus from worldly matters to spiritual pursuits.

The Example of King Somchandra:

To illustrate his point, Suracharya recounts the story of King Somchandra of Patanpur. Upon noticing his hair turning gray, Somchandra decided to embrace the Vanaprastha (forest-dwelling) stage of life. He informed his son and queen of his decision. While his son accepted, the queen, who was pregnant, requested to accompany him. The king found it difficult to accommodate her condition.

Kshemraj, present during this discussion, suggested either postponing the renunciation until after the birth and infancy of the child or the queen abandoning the idea. Suracharya, however, highlighted that true determination in following one's dharma means not deviating from it due to such circumstances. King Somchandra, therefore, decided to reside in a hermitage on the banks of the Vetas river with his queen. After seeking forgiveness from his loved ones, officials, and citizens, and releasing prisoners, they departed.

The queen gave birth to a son in the hermitage, but tragically passed away shortly after. The child was raised by a nurse, who also died later, leaving King Somchandra to bring up the boy. The king raised his son in the hermitage, integrating him into the life of contemplation and study. At the age of fourteen, the son left the hermitage to join his brother in Patanpur, while King Somchandra found spiritual fulfillment in his renunciate life.

Bhimdev's Decision and Kshemraj's Renunciation:

Inspired by the example of King Somchandra and Mulrajdev, Bhimdev resolves to follow the path of renunciation. He asks Purohit Somasharma to find an auspicious time for Kshemraj's coronation. This sudden decision surprises everyone. Bhimdev expresses his desire to relinquish worldly responsibilities, having fulfilled his kingly duties through wars and governance, and wishes to dedicate his remaining years to spiritual pursuits.

The news spreads, and Queen Udayamati also expresses her wish to join him in his spiritual journey. Preparations for Kshemraj's coronation begin. However, Kshemraj approaches his father and confesses that he has no desire to become king. He explains that he lacks interest in ruling and does not feel enthusiastic about the coronation.

Bhimdev is initially surprised, questioning why a Kshatriya son would lack interest in his dharma. Kshemraj clarifies that his disinterest is not due to fear or any negative event, but rather a shift in his priorities. He feels a greater calling towards spiritual seeking and believes renouncing power before the destined time is a path to his own welfare. He mentions that his stepmother and Devprasad (his younger brother, likely referring to Karnadev if the narrative implies a slight name inconsistency or if Devprasad is a different son altogether) support his decision.

Bhimdev is left pondering Kshemraj's words, wondering if Muni Suracharya's teachings or the example of King Somchandra have influenced him so deeply. He considers Kshemraj's decision to be unusual for a prince accustomed to state affairs.

The Revelation of Kshemraj's True Nature:

Queen Udayamati, unable to comprehend Kshemraj's decision, discusses it with Bhimdev. Bhimdev reveals a profound secret: Kshemraj's birth mother, Bakuladevi, was a temple dancer at Somnath who was also a yogini. She had accepted Bhimdev, but remained devoted to her spiritual path. Bhimdev believes that Kshemraj is the son of a soul that had undergone spiritual downfall in a previous life and is now born as Kshemraj to fulfill its incomplete spiritual austerities. This insight explains Kshemraj's detachment from worldly power. Udayamati is stunned but trusts her husband's words, her previous feelings of rivalry towards Bakuladevi dissolving into understanding and compassion.

The Coronation and Kshemraj's Final Path:

On the appointed day, Karnadev is crowned as the king of Gujarat, welcomed by the regional rulers and citizens. Bhimdev's deteriorating health prevents him from embarking on his intended spiritual retreat, and he passes away soon after.

Karnadev, as the new king, appoints Kshemraj as the ruler of the Dadhishthali mandala. Kshemraj settles there with his family, living a life of contemplation and spiritual meditation. Devprasad, who viewed service to the state and parents as equal duties, continues his life in service and later becomes the Mahamandalishwar of Dadhishthali after Kshemraj's demise.

The narrative concludes with the storyteller departing, having presented a beautiful, simple, and heartwarming historical tale of dedication. The author, Chunilal V. Shah, wrote this story on May 9, 1965, for the golden jubilee of Shri Mahavir Jain Vidyalay. The text also includes a poignant note from the editor, expressing sorrow that the author did not live to see the publication of this work. The editor commends Shah's dedication to learning, his serene scholarship, and his simple, dignified lifestyle, acknowledging the continued presence of his writing's grace, composure, and eloquent style even in this final work.