Mahavira Vachanamruta - Book Summary

Mahavira Vachanamruta, compiled by Pandit Dhirajlal Shah 'Shatavadhani' and translated by Pandit Rudradev Tripathi, is a seminal work published by Jain Sahitya Prakashan Mandir, Mumbai. This book is a comprehensive collection of the teachings of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, presented in a structured and accessible manner.

The text aims to make Lord Mahavira's profound spiritual and ethical doctrines available to a wider audience, particularly Hindi-speaking readers, by translating them from Ardhamagadhi and other Jain scriptural sources. The work meticulously compiles 1008 verses attributed to Lord Mahavira, organizing them into 40 distinct 'Dharas' or sections, each covering a crucial aspect of Jain philosophy and practice.

Key Themes and Structure:

The book is structured to provide a holistic understanding of Mahavira's teachings, covering a wide spectrum of topics, including:

Cosmology and Ontology: Understanding the fundamental principles of the universe ('Vishvatantra'), the nature of living beings ('Samsari Jivon ka Swaroop') and liberated souls ('Siddha Jivon ka Swaroop').
Karma Theory: A detailed explanation of karma, its types, how it binds the soul, and its role in the cycle of rebirth ('Karma-vad', 'Karma ke Prakar').
Spiritual Path and Practice: The path to liberation ('Moksha-marga'), the stages of spiritual practice ('Sadhana-kram'), ethical conduct ('Dharmacharana'), and the importance of vows like Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possession).
Monastic Life: The general duties and conduct of monks ('Samanya Sadhu-dharma', 'Sadhu ka Acharan'), including principles like begging ('Bhichari'), identifying a true monk, discipline, and the importance of humility ('Vinay').
Ethical Principles: The book emphasizes core ethical principles like Ahimsa, Satya, Asteya, Brahmacharya, and Aparigraha, elaborating on their significance in daily life and spiritual progress.
Spiritual Development: It discusses the process of soul purification, the pursuit of self-knowledge, and the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation.
Specific Concepts: The text delves into various Jain concepts such as 'Kashaya' (passions), 'Leshya' (subtle psychic states), the nature of death ('Mrityu'), the afterlife ('Parabhav'), and the spiritual path ('Samayika', 'Acharya', 'Tapasya').
The Life and Teachings of Lord Mahavira: While primarily a collection of his sayings, the book also includes introductory and supporting material that contextualizes his teachings within his life and the broader Jain tradition.

Key Contributions and Features:

Comprehensive Collection: It compiles teachings from key Jain scriptures like the 'Uttaradhyayan Sutra' and 'Dashavaikalik Sutra', providing a broad overview of Mahavira's core message.
Structured Presentation: The organization into 40 'Dharas' makes it easier for readers to navigate and understand specific topics.
Verse Citations: Each verse is accompanied by its source citation from the original scriptures, ensuring authenticity and facilitating further study.
Commentary and Explanation: The inclusion of 'Vivechan' (explanation or commentary) by the editor, Pandit Dhirajlal Shah, provides valuable insights into the meaning and practical application of the verses.
Spiritual Significance: The book highlights the transformative power of Mahavira's words, referring to them as 'Amrit-tulya' (nectar-like), capable of alleviating worldly suffering and guiding seekers towards spiritual enlightenment.
Inspirational and Practical: 'Mahavira Vachanamruta' serves not only as a theological treatise but also as a practical guide for spiritual aspirants, offering guidance on ethical conduct, mental discipline, and the path to ultimate freedom.

The book is dedicated to Vinoba Bhave, recognizing his lifelong commitment to truth and non-violence, and acknowledges the contributions of various scholars and spiritual leaders through their prefatory remarks and blessings. The publisher, Narendra Kumar D. Shah, expresses hope that the Hindi edition will be warmly received and will encourage readers to embrace the teachings of Lord Mahavira for their spiritual welfare and the well-being of all humanity.