Mahapurana Part 2

This is a summary of the Mahapurana, Part 2 (Nabhijaritra, Uttarardha), a Jain text by Pushpadant, compiled and edited by Dr. P. L. Vaidya, and published by Bharatiya Gyanpith. It is the second volume of the Hindi translation of Pushpadant's Mahapurana, covering chapters 19 to 57. This section of the text narrates the life story of the first Tirthankar, Rishabhdev, and his son, the first Chakravarti, Bharat.

Key themes and content:

• The Life of Rishabhdev and Bharat: The text details the life of Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar, and his son Bharat, the first Chakravarti. It highlights Rishabhdev as the founder of the karma-based culture and spiritual values, and Bharat as the expander of the social and state systems established by Rishabhdev.
• Social and State Systems: The summary describes the societal and governmental structures established by Rishabhdev and expanded by Bharat after his Digvijaya (conquest of the world). This includes the establishment of the three Varnas (Kshatriya, Vaishya, Shudra) by Rishabhdev, and the 'Brahmana' Varna by Bharat, which is contrasted with the Vedic concept of Brahmins originating from Brahma's mouth.
• Concept of Varna and Dharma: The text explores the Jain perspective on the Varna system and the definition of a Brahmin, emphasizing ethical conduct, non-violence, and spiritual understanding over birth.
• Critique of Practices: Rishabhdev's critique of future Brahmin practices is presented, foreseeing actions like meat consumption, engagement in sacrifices, indulgence in Soma, and adultery, which are attributed to the influence of the Kalka period (similar to Kali Yuga in Hindu Puranas).
• Bharat's Rule and Philosophy: Bharat's reign as a Chakravarti is depicted, emphasizing his understanding of statecraft, righteousness, and his personal spiritual inclination despite his temporal power. His principles of governance include protecting his lineage, maintaining a pure mind, observing justice, and ensuring the welfare of his subjects.
• Critique of Miserliness: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to criticizing miserliness and highlighting the futility of accumulating wealth without using it for good. The portrayal of a miserly person serves as a cautionary tale.
• Spiritual Ideals and Liberation: The narrative emphasizes that all major characters achieve liberation through penance and detachment, showcasing the ultimate Jain goal of Moksha.
• Philosophical Discussions: The text includes philosophical discussions on the nature of the universe (Lok), the self (Jiva), and the distinction between the material (Pudgal) and the conscious (Jiva). It critiques materialistic and materialistic philosophies like Charvaka and Shunyavada.
• Nature and Feminine Beauty: The text describes natural scenes, particularly during the spring season, and depicts the beauty of women, often using comparisons with nature. The descriptions, while appreciative, also reflect the societal context of the time, including polygeny.
• Emphasis on Karma and Rebirth: The detailed accounts of the past lives of various characters, including Rishabhdev and Bharat, underscore the Jain principle of karma and rebirth, showing how actions in one life influence subsequent existences.
• Illustrative Narratives: The text is replete with allegorical stories and examples, such as the story of the miser, to illustrate moral and spiritual lessons.
• Linguistic Style: The text is written in Apabhramsha, a literary precursor to modern Indo-Aryan languages, and is accompanied by a Hindi translation. The poetic descriptions and the analysis of subtle philosophical points highlight the richness of the Apabhramsha language and Pushpadant's literary prowess.

Overall, this part of the Mahapurana serves as a comprehensive narrative of the foundational figures in Jain tradition, blending historical accounts, philosophical insights, ethical teachings, and spiritual guidance, all presented through poetic language and insightful analysis of human conduct.