Mahavir Jivan Prabha

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Mahavir Jivan Prabha" by Anandsagar:

Title: Mahavir Jivan Prabha (The Radiance of Mahavir's Life) Author: Shree Anandsagarji Maharaj (described as a powerful orator and scholar of Jain principles) Publisher: Shree Anandsagar Gyan Bhandar Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/034546/1

This book, "Mahavir Jivan Prabha," aims to present an ideal biography of Lord Mahavir, encompassing his life from his previous existences to his ultimate liberation (Moksha). The author emphasizes that the book will not only be historical, theoretical, or practical but will also strive to be a treasure trove of legends, while remaining objective and free from biases or fabricated events. The primary goal is to present the ethical principles and teachings of Lord Mahavir to the public, enabling them to purify their lives and attain salvation.

The book is structured into seven chapters, detailing various aspects of Lord Mahavir's life and teachings:

Chapter 1: Purvakal (Previous Lives)

• This chapter discusses the 27 previous lives of Lord Mahavir, according to Jain principles. It highlights that the count of lives towards spiritual progression typically begins after attaining Right Belief (Samyaktva).
• Key events mentioned:
  • First life: Lord Mahavir attained Samyaktva in his first life as Naysar, a village chief, in Pratishthan Pattana, where he offered food to monks with great devotion.
  • Third life (Marichi): In this significant life, as Marichi, son of Bharat Chakravarti, he renounced the path of asceticism due to pride and adopted the life of a "Tridandi" (a religious mendicant with specific vows and practices). Despite his wrong conduct and propagation of incorrect doctrines, he was foretold to become the 24th Tirthankar, "Mahavir." This life is used to explain the rigorous practices of Jain monks, including their vows, dietary discipline, and renunciation of worldly comforts.
  • 25th life: Lord Mahavir attained the "Tirthankar Nam Karma" by performing the "Bhees Sthanak Tapasya" in his 25th life as King Nandan.
  • 26th life: He was born as a god in the Pushpottara Vimana in the tenth heaven.
  • 27th life: His final life as Lord Mahavir.

Chapter 2: Garbhavastha (Gestation Period)

• This chapter focuses on Lord Mahavir's time in the womb of Queen Trishala.
• Key aspects:
  • Gyanatraya (Three Types of Knowledge): Even in the womb, he possessed Mati (sensory knowledge), Shruta (scriptural knowledge), and Avadhi (clairvoyant knowledge).
  • Swapna Darshan (Dream Visions): Queen Trishala had fourteen auspicious dreams upon conceiving the child, which were interpreted by King Siddhartha as highly auspicious and indicative of his future greatness and divine status. These dreams include seeing a lion, an elephant, a bull, Lakshmi, a garland, the moon, the sun, a flag, a pitcher, a lotus lake, the ocean, a celestial mansion, a treasure of jewels, and a smokeless fire.
  • Dhan Vriddhi aur Dhanya Vrishti (Increase in Wealth and Granaries): During the gestation period, due to divine influence, wealth and grains miraculously increased in King Siddhartha's kingdom.
  • Karuna, Shok, Pratigya, Harsh (Compassion, Grief, Vow, Joy): This section details the experiences within the womb. Mahavir maintained stillness out of compassion for his mother, causing her distress and grief. He then moved slightly to alleviate her sorrow, fulfilling a promise to her, which brought her immense joy.
  • Garbha Raksha aur Palan (Protection and Nurturing of the Fetus): The chapter emphasizes the strict adherence to a healthy diet and lifestyle by Queen Trishala, following principles of Ayurveda to ensure the well-being of the fetus.
  • Dohale (Cravings): Queen Trishala experienced several auspicious cravings, such as visiting holy places, honoring ascetics, freeing prisoners, and distributing alms, which were fulfilled by King Siddhartha and divine beings.

Chapter 3: Janma (Birth)

• This chapter describes the circumstances of Lord Mahavir's birth.
• Key events:
  • Time of Birth: Lord Mahavir was born approximately 2530 years ago, during a period of significant violence (animal sacrifice in Vedic rituals), social injustice (oppression of the lower classes and the subjugation of women).
  • Astrological Conjunction: The birth occurred when all seven planets were in auspicious positions, indicating a momentous event.
  • Parents' Identity: King Siddhartha, a ruler of Vaishali and Kundgram, and Queen Trishala, a princess of a noble lineage, were his parents. They were devout followers of Lord Parshvanath.
  • Impact of Birth: His birth brought light and joy to the three worlds, even offering a moment of peace to beings in hell.
  • Sautik Karma (Post-natal Rituals): Fifty-six guardian deities performed rituals for the newborn, including preparing a clean space, showering fragrant flowers, bathing the infant, and adorning him.
  • Janmabhishek (Birth Ceremony): Sixty-four Indras (chief deities) performed an elaborate celestial consecration ceremony, bathing Lord Mahavir with sacred waters. This event showcased his divine power and the immense devotion of the celestial beings.
  • Janma Mahotsav (Birth Celebration): King Siddhartha organized a grand ten-day celebration with widespread distribution of wealth, remission of taxes, and joyous festivities for the populace.
  • Naam Karan (Naming Ceremony): He was named "Vardhamana" (one who grows or increases) due to the prosperity that followed his conception and birth. He was also known as "Mahavir" (great hero) by the gods due to his immense strength and bravery, and "Shraman" due to his renunciation.
  • Shaishav Kaal (Childhood): Even as a child, Mahavir displayed extraordinary strength and divine qualities. An incident is described where he overpowered a proud deity who tried to scare him during a game. The text also mentions the composition of the "Jainendra Vyakarana" during his childhood.
  • Vivah (Marriage): He was married to Yashoda Kumari, daughter of King Samvarvir, and had a daughter named Priyadarshana, who was later married to Jamali.
  • Tyag ke Sanmukh (On the Verge of Renunciation): After the demise of his parents and attaining the age of 28, he sought permission for renunciation from his elder brother, Nandi Vardhan, who requested a two-year delay. During this period, he lived as an ascetic and performed "Varshidan" (annual donation of wealth).

Chapter 4: Diksha (Renunciation)

• This chapter details Lord Mahavir's renunciation and his subsequent ascetic life.
• Key events:
  • Mahotsav (Grand Ceremony): The deities celebrated his renunciation with great pomp and ceremony.
  • Pravas Kram (Journey of Renunciation): He left his worldly possessions and embraced asceticism, adorned with divine attire and symbols.
  • Indra ki Prarthana Asvikar (Rejection of Indra's Plea): When Lord Mahavir faced hardships (upasargas) during his ascetic practices, Indra offered his assistance. Mahavir politely refused, emphasizing self-reliance and the attainment of spiritual knowledge through personal effort.
  • Pratham Parana (First Breaking of Fast): His first sustenance after renunciation was offered by a Brahmin named Bahul.
  • Abhigraha (Austerities/Vows): Lord Mahavir adopted strict vows, including living in places of displeasure, observing silence (Mauna), maintaining a standing posture, not accepting hospitality from householders, and eating only from an alms bowl.
  • Vividh Upasarga (Various Afflictions): The text describes numerous adversities faced by Mahavir from humans, deities, and animals, including an incident with a cowherd, the demon Shulapani, the serpent Chandakaushik, a malevolent deity, villagers, thieves, a blacksmith, the demoness Katputna, and the demon Sangam. These events highlight his immense patience, forbearance, and compassion.
  • Samudrik Pandit ka Prasang (Incident with the Physiognomist): A physiognomist named Pushpa recognized Mahavir's divine marks on the sand and approached him, realizing the spiritual benefit of his service.
  • Gaushalak ka Sanyog (Association with Gaushala): Gaushala, a disciple who later formed his own sect, initially followed Mahavir. The text recounts Gaushala's troublemaking nature, his attempts to challenge Mahavir's teachings, and his eventual departure to establish his own philosophy of determinism.
  • Tapascharan (Penance): Lord Mahavir performed intense penance for 12 years, 6 months, and 15 days, consuming food for only 11 months and 20 days during this period. This section details various types of fasts and ascetic practices he undertook.
  • Vilakshan Abhigraha (Exceptional Vows): An example of an exceptionally difficult vow undertaken by Mahavir is described, involving a princess in distress who could only offer alms under specific, severe conditions. This highlights the extreme nature of his ascetic practices.
  • Rehan-Sahan (Way of Life): His lifestyle was characterized by renunciation, equanimity, control of senses, adherence to vows, and fearlessness in his movements. He exhibited qualities like the strength of a lion, the radiance of the sun, the calmness of the moon, and the resilience of the earth.
  • Chhadmasth Kaaleen Chaturmas (Monsoon Retreats during the period before omniscience): The book details the 12 monsoon retreats (Chaturmas) he observed, including instances of divine intervention, association with Gaushala, and encounters with other ascetics and rulers.

Chapter 5: Kaivalya (Omniscience)

• This chapter describes the attainment of omniscience by Lord Mahavir.
• Key events:
  • Kaivalya: On the 10th day of the bright half of the month of Vaishakh, during the 13th year of his asceticism, under the Utara Phalguni nakshatra, by the bank of the Rijuvalika river, he attained Keval Gyan (omniscience) and Keval Darshan (omniscience). This divine knowledge is described as infinite, absolute, and free from all limitations.
  • Samavsaran ki Rachana (Construction of the Samavasarana): Following the attainment of omniscience, gods constructed a magnificent celestial assembly hall called Samavasarana for his sermons.
  • Pratham Deshna (First Sermon): His first sermon, delivered in the Samavasarana, was aimed at spiritual upliftment. Although initially, it was not widely adopted by the assembled deities, it later became a source of inspiration.
  • Sundar Prasang (Beautiful Incident): An incident involving the Brahmin Somil and his students highlights the profound impact of Mahavir's teachings on scholars and the populace, leading to the conversion of prominent figures like Indrabhuti Gautam.
  • Gautam Rishi ka Garv (Pride of Gautam Rishi): The pride of Indrabhuti Gautam, a renowned scholar, is described, and how Mahavir's wisdom shattered his ego, leading him to become Mahavir's first chief disciple (Gandhar).
  • Sangh Sthapana (Establishment of the Congregation): Lord Mahavir established the four-fold congregation (Muni, Aryika, Shravak, Shravika), laying the foundation for the Jain monastic order.
  • Megh Kumar ka Uddhar (Liberation of Megh Kumar): An example of Mahavir's compassion is shown through his guidance to Megh Kumar, who was experiencing distress during his monastic life, leading him to understand his past lives and persevere in his spiritual journey.
  • Kaunika ki Shraddhapurna Bhakti (Kounika's Devoted Reverence): The unwavering devotion of King Kounik towards Mahavir is highlighted, emphasizing his practice of not eating until he received news of Mahavir's well-being.
  • Gaushalak ka Upadrav (Gaushala's Disturbances): The chapter reiterates Gaushala's continued opposition and attempts to disrupt Mahavir's spiritual mission.
  • Samasta Chaturmas (All Monsoon Retreats): A summary of the 42 monsoon retreats observed by Mahavir is provided.
  • Bhagwant ki Deshnayein (Lord's Sermons): The nature and impact of his sermons are described, noting their profound influence on listeners, leading many to embrace Jainism and asceticism.
  • Bhagwan ka Parivar (Lord's Congregation): The immense size and spiritual caliber of his followers (monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen) are mentioned, including those who attained omniscience and other spiritual powers.

Chapter 6: Moksha (Liberation)

• This chapter describes the final liberation of Lord Mahavir.
• Key events:
  • Indra ki Prarthana (Indra's Plea): Indra requested Mahavir to extend his life to mitigate the effect of a malefic astrological influence, but Mahavir refused, stating that destiny cannot be altered.
  • Nirvana (Final Release): After living for 72 years, Lord Mahavir attained Nirvana (Moksha) at Pawapuri, relinquishing his earthly existence. The celestial beings performed his final rites.
  • Muniyon ka Moksha (Liberation of Monks): The text mentions that many of his disciples also attained liberation.

Chapter 7: Avshesh (Remnants/Aftermath)

• This final chapter provides supplementary information and reflections.
• Key sections:
  • Gautam Ganadhar: Details Gautam Swami's role as the chief disciple, his spiritual prowess, humility, and eventual attainment of omniscience and liberation.
  • Gaushalak ka Atma-Pashchataap (Gaushala's Self-Repentance): Even though Gaushala was a rival, he ultimately realized his errors and repented before his death, urging his followers to embrace Mahavir's teachings.
  • Mahatvapurna Dikshaen (Significant Initiations): Mentions notable disciples like Abhaykumar, Nandiṣeṇa, Śālībhadra, Harikeśī, and Jambukumar, highlighting their spiritual journeys.
  • Bhavana ka Pradhanya (Importance of Sentiments/Intentions): Emphasizes that true spiritual progress comes from inner intentions and sentiments, using the example of King Praśnacandra.
  • Shravakottam (Foremost Lay Disciples): Highlights the exemplary lay followers like Ānanda, Kamadeva, and others who were wealthy yet detached and dedicated to the spiritual path.
  • Shasan Ratna (Gems of the Order): Lists prominent monks and scholars who served the Jain tradition, emphasizing their contributions to Jain philosophy and practice.
  • Bhakt Nripendron (Devoted Kings): Mentions kings like Chetaka, Śreṇika, Koṇika, Pradyota, and Udāyana who were devout followers of Mahavir.
  • Bhavī Tirthankar (Future Tirthankaras): Lists individuals who, through their devotion to Mahavir, earned the karmas to become future Tirthankaras.
  • Shasan Kaal (Period of the Order's Influence): Discusses the duration of Lord Mahavir's teachings and the cyclical nature of the Jain Dharma.

Conclusion: The author concludes by urging readers to study and reflect on Mahavir's life, seek guidance from learned individuals to resolve doubts, and adopt his teachings with a discerning mind. The book emphasizes the importance of unity within the Jain community and the need to uphold the core principles of Jainism, such as non-violence, truth, and detachment, in a world often characterized by internal conflicts and external challenges. The author also touches upon the philosophical concepts of Jainism like Anekantavada (non-absolutism) and Syadvada (the doctrine of conditional predication).

In essence, "Mahavir Jivan Prabha" is a detailed narrative of Lord Mahavir's life, intended to inspire readers with his spiritual journey, teachings, and the ethical values he embodied.