Lord Mahavira Vol 02

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Book Title: Lord Mahavira Vol. II Author: S.C. Rampuria (Editor) Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati Institute, Ladnun (Rajasthan), India Publication Date: First Edition, April 6, 2001 (on the 2600th Birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira)

This volume is part of a three-volume set dedicated to the life and teachings of Lord Mahavira, compiled from writings of eminent scholars. The preface highlights the enduring relevance of Mahavira's message of non-violence, truth, self-control, and non-possession in a world prone to violence and intolerance. It expresses gratitude to the many scholars, some of whom are no longer living, who contributed their valuable insights.

The book's contents are presented through a collection of essays by various scholars, covering diverse aspects of Mahavira's life, philosophy, and the Jain tradition. The summaries below draw from these individual essays:

Key Themes and Content from the Essays:

• Mahavira's Life and Background:

  • Born in the 6th century BCE in Bihar, India, to Kshatriya parents Siddhartha and Trishala Devi. His clan was the Jnatrika clan.
  • The dates of his birth and death are generally accepted as 599 BCE and 527 BCE respectively, though some variations exist.
  • The volume discusses differing traditions regarding his marriage: Svetambaras believe he married Yashodhara and had a daughter, Priyadarshana, while Digambaras maintain he remained celibate.
  • He renounced his princely life at the age of 30, embracing asceticism for twelve years of intense penance, meditation, and hardship.
  • He attained omniscience (Kevala Jnana) at the age of 42, after which he spent 30 years preaching his philosophy.
  • His travels spanned across ancient Indian regions, particularly in Bihar and surrounding areas, establishing his religious order.
  • He passed away (Nirvana) at the age of 72 in Pava, celebrated by Jains as Diwali.

• Mahavira's Philosophy and Teachings:

  • Ahimsa (Non-violence): This is presented as the supreme principle of his teachings, encompassing non-violence in thought, word, and deed towards all living beings, down to the smallest microorganisms. This principle is seen as a foundation for social harmony and peace in the modern world.
  • Aparigraha (Non-possession/Non-greed): Mahavira emphasized the importance of detachment from material possessions and sensual pleasures, advocating for self-control and a life of minimal needs.
  • Satya (Truthfulness) and Asteya (Non-stealing): These are fundamental ethical principles integral to his teachings.
  • Brahmacharya (Celibacy/Self-control): This vow, particularly emphasized by Mahavira, was added to the four vows of his predecessor Parsvanatha, contributing to the distinction between Svetambara and Digambara traditions.
  • Kriyavada (Doctrine of Action/Karma): Mahavira strongly upheld the law of karma, emphasizing individual responsibility for one's actions and their consequences, thereby rejecting fatalism (Niyativada).
  • Anekantavada (Non-absolutism/Many-sidedness): This philosophical principle highlights that reality is complex and can be understood from multiple viewpoints. It encourages tolerance and appreciation of diverse perspectives.
  • Syadvada (Conditional Predication): A logical framework derived from Anekantavada, Syadvada uses qualified statements like "may be" to describe reality, acknowledging the limitations of human knowledge and expression.
  • Rejection of God as Creator: Mahavira did not accept a creator God. He believed the universe is eternal and governed by natural laws, and that individuals achieve liberation through their own efforts. The concept of "gods" in Jainism refers to perfected souls (Arhats, Siddhas, Tirthankaras).
  • Tirthankaras: Mahavira is presented as the 24th Tirthankara, a "ford-maker" who guides humanity across the ocean of suffering. These Tirthankaras are not divine incarnations but enlightened beings who have achieved perfection through their own spiritual efforts.
  • Caste System and Social Equality: Mahavira challenged the Brahmanical caste system and preached the equality of all souls, regardless of birth, gender, or social status. He accepted individuals from all walks of life into his order.
  • Ardhamagadhi Language: He delivered his sermons in the common language of the people, Ardhamagadhi, making his teachings accessible to all.
  • Asceticism (Tapas): The volume details the rigorous ascetic practices Mahavira undertook, including fasting, nudity, and enduring immense physical suffering, as a means of spiritual purification.
  • Spiritual Discipline (Ratnatraya): The path to liberation is described as the "Triple Jewel": Right Faith (Samyak Darshana), Right Knowledge (Samyak Jnana), and Right Conduct (Samyak Charitra).

• Jainism in its Historical Context:

  • Mahavira is placed within the "Axis Age" (7th-6th century BCE), a period of profound intellectual and spiritual upheaval in India and globally, where new philosophical and religious ideas emerged.
  • He is seen as a reformer and systematizer of the existing Sramana tradition, building upon the teachings of his predecessor Parsvanatha.
  • The volume discusses Mahavira's relationship and doctrinal differences with contemporaries like Gosala Mankhaliputta (founder of Ajivikism) and Buddha.
  • It highlights the development of Jain canonical literature, including the Angas and Upangas, and the historical councils that attempted to compile and preserve it.
  • The essays touch upon the historical evidence for Jainism, including archaeological findings and references in other religious texts (Buddhist and Vedic).
  • The distinction between the Digambara (sky-clad) and Svetambara (white-clad) traditions, partly stemming from differing interpretations of Mahavira's practice of nudity, is noted.

• Mahavira's Influence and Legacy:

  • The essays emphasize Mahavira's lasting impact on Indian thought, culture, and ethics, particularly his emphasis on ahimsa, which influenced figures like Mahatma Gandhi.
  • Jainism's contribution to art, architecture, literature, and language development is acknowledged.
  • The volume stresses the practical applicability of Mahavira's teachings for individual spiritual upliftment and for addressing contemporary global crises like violence and materialism.
  • The concept of Mahavira as a "culture" and a "way of life" rather than just an individual is presented, highlighting the universal appeal of his principles.

In essence, "Lord Mahavira Vol. II" offers a multifaceted exploration of the life, teachings, and philosophical contributions of Lord Mahavira, presenting him as a pivotal figure in Indian religious history whose message of compassion, self-control, and non-violence continues to resonate.