Mahavir Charitra

This document is the English summary of the Jain text "Mahavir Charitra" by Niranjan U. Trivedi. The book, published by Sadguna Niranjan Trivi, is presented as an unpublished doctoral thesis. The summary is comprehensive and detailed, covering various aspects of Lord Mahavir's life, philosophy, and the socio-historical context of his era.

Key Aspects Covered in the Summary:

• Author and Publisher: The book is authored by Niranjan U. Trivedi and published by Sadguna Niranjan Trivedi.

• Translator: Dr. Chimanbhai S. Raval.

• Dedication: The book is dedicated to "Guru-Nath Charane" and "Sada Sahachari Sadguna."

• Author's Wife's Foreword (Sadguna Trivedi): This section expresses deep admiration and love for her husband, Niranjan Trivedi, highlighting his scholarly nature, dedication to education, and virtuous character. She describes their long-standing relationship, starting from their student days, and cherishes him as both a husband and a guru. She speaks of his intellectual depth, kindness, impartiality, and unwavering commitment to principles. She also expresses her desire to bring his unpublished thesis, written 58 years prior, to light as a tribute to him.

• Introduction (Vinod Advaryu): This section delves into the author's personal connection with Niranjan Trivedi, recalling their shared living arrangements and the period when the research for this book was conducted. He describes Niranjan as a reserved but articulate individual, deeply engrossed in his studies, and possessed of a rich inner life. The author emphasizes the need for an open and liberated mindset to appreciate Niranjan's research, especially given its connection to "Dhamma." He also touches upon Niranjan's decision not to present the thesis for his degree, attributing it to his commitment to principles, even at the cost of academic recognition.

• Author's Foreword (Niranjan U. Trivedi - from the thesis): Niranjan Trivedi explains his objective to study Mahavir's life from a different perspective, focusing on his teachings and actions. He acknowledges deviating from traditional narratives in some instances to present his own viewpoint. He highlights Mahavir as a representative figure of his era, whose teachings challenged the prevailing Brahmanical traditions. He emphasizes Mahavir's progressive nature and his distinctiveness from the ascetics of his time. Trivedi aims to present his research logically and scientifically, striving for criticality and avoiding overly debated points to maintain focus. He expresses gratitude to his guides, Dr. Bhayani, Dr. Gopani, and Mr. Anderson, as well as his respected guru, Muni Jinavijayji, for their invaluable support.

• Brief Summary of the Thesis:

  • Aim and Objective: To understand Vardhaman Mahavir as a reformer of Jainism and to correct misconceptions about him. The author stresses the Indian tendency towards devotion over historical analysis and the tendency to embellish figures with divine qualities.
  • Structure: The thesis is divided into four parts: Mahavir's life, his era and background, his contemporaries (Buddha, Gosala), and his teachings and their evaluation.
  • Key Discoveries/Arguments:
    • Mahavir was a historical figure, not mythical.
    • Mahavir was a human being with human limitations, not an omnipotent god.
    • Kevalgyan (omniscience) was the result of gradual efforts over many lifetimes, not just the last one.
    • Original study of Mahavir's character, distinguishing him from contemporary ascetics.
    • Analysis of the shift in Brahmanical viewpoints.
    • Critique of traditional accounts like the story of his birth transfer, Trishala's dreams, childhood incidents, and daily routines.
    • Mahavir advocated for human equality and self-purification through virtues.
    • He recognized women's potential and rights, though he also referred to women as the greatest obstacle for those seeking liberation.
    • The Kriyavadin principle and the non-existence of God within it.
    • Mahavir's view on deities and their secondary status.
    • His hopes for society, including the rise of protective classes striving for higher social status.
    • Emphasis on mental development for achieving this excellence.
    • Clarity on all forms of fear and the establishment of specific rules.
    • Mahavir's goal was reinforcement of religion, not its propagation.
    • His life as an ideal example for those seeking a spiritual life.
    • His unique preaching style, magnetic personality, and influential speech.
    • His deep understanding of life's realities.
    • His suggestion of higher, better, and nobler paths in all aspects.
    • His unique relationship with his disciples.
    • His development of a distinct style.
    • His profound seriousness, calmness, and composure.
    • His desire to reconcile principles with others' wishes without creating bitterness.
    • His beautiful nature.
    • His wish to live as a human among humans, not as an expert with dormant powers.
    • His true love for all living beings.
    • His superior strength for the love of truth and tolerance.

• Introduction to Sources: Discusses the primary sources for Mahavir's life, including Agam Granthas like Achārānga and Sūtrkrutanga, while also acknowledging the limitations and potential biases of sectarian traditions.

• Detailed Examination of Events and Concepts: The summary extensively covers key events and philosophical concepts, including:

  • Past Lives: The narrator traces Mahavir's past lives and the events that shaped his spiritual journey, highlighting the concept of developing perfections (paramitas) over eons.
  • Conception and Birth: The narrative critically examines traditional accounts of Mahavir's conception, including the transfer of the embryo and Trishala's dreams, often questioning their literal historicity and suggesting symbolic interpretations.
  • Childhood and Youth: The text discusses Mahavir's childhood, his education, his inherent qualities, and the societal context of his upbringing. It also touches upon his marriage to Yashoda and the birth of his daughter, Priyadarshana.
  • Renunciation and Asceticism: The summary details Mahavir's renunciation of worldly life, his severe penances, and the hardships he endured. It scrutinizes the challenges faced by ascetics and the motivations behind them.
  • Encounters and Teachings: The summary outlines Mahavir's interactions with various figures, including Makkali Gosala and Buddha, and provides insights into his core teachings on non-violence, self-control, karma, and the equality of all beings.
  • Key Events: The text covers significant events such as his conversion of prominent individuals like Keshikumar, Meghkumar, Shali Bhadra, Dhania, Sudharma, and Indrabhuti Gautam. It also discusses his encounters with challenging situations, such as the snake Chandkaushik, the attacks by demons (Sangamaka), and the social prejudices he faced.
  • Philosophical Debates: The summary highlights Mahavir's engagement in philosophical discussions with various sects and his emphasis on critical inquiry.
  • The Concept of Karma and Liberation: The text explains the Jain understanding of karma and its role in the cycle of birth and death, and the path to liberation (moksha).
  • Critique of Rituals and Brahmanism: The summary touches upon Mahavir's challenge to the prevailing Brahmanical rituals and the caste system, advocating for a more egalitarian approach.
  • The Role of Women: It discusses Mahavir's recognition of women's spiritual potential and their inclusion in the monastic order.
  • Comparison with Buddhism: The summary implicitly and explicitly draws parallels and distinctions between Mahavir's teachings and those of Gautama Buddha, particularly regarding their paths to enlightenment and societal impact.
  • The Concept of "Ahimsa": The summary underscores the central role of non-violence (Ahimsa) in Mahavir's philosophy.
  • The Nature of Reality: It explores the Jain perspective on the nature of reality, including the concepts of soul, karma, and liberation.
  • The "Six Heretical Teachers": The summary provides brief discussions on the philosophies of Mahavir's contemporaries, including Makkali Gosala, Ajita Kesakambali, Pakudha Katyayana, and Sanjaya of the wanderers, highlighting their distinct views and the interactions they had with Mahavir.
  • The Nature of Asceticism: It delves into the rigorous practices of Jain ascetics, their challenges, and their pursuit of liberation.
  • The Role of Deities: The text explores the concept of deities within the Jain framework and their relative status compared to Tirthankaras.
  • The Importance of Conduct: The summary emphasizes the Jain focus on right conduct, right knowledge, and right faith as the path to liberation.

The summary is extensive and appears to be a thorough analysis of the original work, aiming to provide a deep understanding of Mahavir's life, teachings, and their historical and philosophical significance within the context of ancient Indian thought.