Mallinatha Purana

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Mallinatha Purana" by Acharya Sakalkirti, based on the provided pages:

The text is the Hindi translation of the original Sanskrit work by Acharya Sakalkirti, with a Hindi commentary by Pandit Gajadhar Lal Ji Nyayacharya. It is published by Vitrag Vani Trust in Tikamgadh, Madhya Pradesh.

Author's Background (Page 4-5):

• Acharya Sakalkirti was a prominent Jain scholar and writer who flourished in the 14th-15th century CE. He played a significant role in preserving and propagating Sanskrit and Prakrit literature.
• He was influential in establishing Jainism in various regions, undertaking pilgrimages, consecrating temples, and installing Jain images.
• Sakalkirti was well-versed in Sanskrit, Apabhramsa, and Rajasthani languages.
• Born in 1386 CE, he belonged to the Huvad caste from Anhilpur Patan. Despite an early marriage, his heart was drawn to spiritual pursuits.
• At the age of 18 (1406 CE), he renounced his wealth and joined the lineage of Bhattaraka Padmanandi.
• He later became an Acharya and actively spread Jain teachings, particularly in the Bagad and Gujarat regions, where Jain presence was sparse.
• He is credited with initiating the Balatkara Gana Idar branch of Jainism and establishing a Bhattaraka seat in Galia Kot in 1435 CE.
• His life was marked by asceticism and adherence to strict vows.
• His scholarly contributions are vast, including numerous Puranas (narratives of Tirthankaras and other significant figures), philosophical treatises, and works on Jain conduct (Muniyachara and Shravakachara). The provided text lists over 25 Sanskrit works and several Rajasthani works attributed to him.

Introduction to Jainism and the Purana Tradition (Page 6-8):

• The text begins by invoking Lord Mahavira Swami, highlighting his transformative teachings on compassion, truth, non-violence, and self-reliance.
• It then introduces the Fourfold Classification of Jain Agamas (Anuyogas):
  • Prathamanuyoga: Contains stories, biographies, and Puranas, detailing the lives of righteous individuals and the goals of life (Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha). It is considered "right knowledge" (Samyak Jnana) and aims to educate those with less knowledge.
  • Karananuyoga: Explains the principles of Karma, cosmology, time cycles, and the four states of existence, acting like a mirror to reveal truths and aid in shedding sinful activities.
  • Charananuyoga: Focuses on the conduct and practices of both ascetics (Muni) and householders (Shravak), guiding individuals towards detachment.
  • Dravyanuyoga: Delves into the nature of substances (Dravyas) – sentient (Jiva) and non-sentient (Ajiva), outlining principles like virtue, sin, bondage, and liberation.
• The publisher expresses pride in releasing 26 Jain Agamic texts, including this one, in Hindi to commemorate the 2600th birth anniversary of Lord Mahavira.

Summary of "Mallinatha Purana" Content:

The Purana narrates the life and teachings of Lord Mallinatha, the 19th Tirthankara. The summary covers key aspects of his life, his parents, the auspicious events surrounding his birth, his spiritual journey, and his path to liberation.

Chapter-wise Breakdown (based on the provided text):

• First Chapter: Description of Ratnatraya (Pages 12-27):

  • This chapter focuses on the Three Jewels (Ratnatraya): Samyak Darshan (Right Faith), Samyak Jnana (Right Knowledge), and Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct).
  • It emphasizes the foundational importance of Samyak Darshan, describing its eight supporting virtues (Angas) like Nishankita (doubtlessness) and Prabhavana (propagation).
  • Samyak Jnana is explained as the knowledge that illuminates reality and helps distinguish between what is beneficial and what is not. The text highlights its role in controlling the senses and overcoming internal enemies like lust.
  • Samyak Charitra is detailed through the practice of five great vows (Mahavratas), three disciplinary vows (Gunavratas), and four auxiliary vows (Shikshavratas). The paramount importance of Samyak Charitra is stressed, stating that even a moment lived with it is more valuable than a long life without it.
  • The chapter also includes a narrative of King Vaishravana, who, after witnessing the impermanence of life through the destruction of a banyan tree, renounces his kingdom and undertakes severe penance to achieve Ratnatraya. His virtuous life and spiritual attainment are highlighted.

• Second Chapter: Description of Ahimindra Birth (Pages 27-48):

  • This chapter recounts the past life of Lord Mallinatha as King Vaishravana and his subsequent rebirth as an Ahimindra (a celestial being of the highest order in Jain cosmology) in the Aparajita Vimana.
  • The description of the Ahimindra life details the immense pleasures, longevity, and divine experiences enjoyed in such a celestial existence.
  • The chapter emphasizes the role of virtuous actions and the Ratnatraya Vrat (vow of the Three Jewels) in attaining such a favorable rebirth.
  • It also describes the dreams of Queen Prajavati that foreshadowed the birth of a Tirthankara, including the auspicious vision of an elephant entering her mouth.

• Third Chapter: Description of Birth of Mallinatha (Pages 48-58):

  • This chapter narrates the birth of Lord Mallinatha in Mithila, the capital city of King Kumbha and Queen Prajavati.
  • It describes the auspicious events surrounding the Tirthankara's descent into the womb, including the divine showers of jewels from Kubera, the presence of celestial beings, and the fulfillment of the sixteen auspicious dreams by Queen Prajavati.
  • The chapter details the infancy and childhood of Lord Mallinatha, showcasing his divine attributes, his early display of wisdom, and the care provided by celestial attendants.

• Fourth Chapter: Description of Mallinatha's Childhood and Keval Gyana (Pages 58-90):

  • This chapter continues the narrative of Lord Mallinatha's childhood, his auspicious upbringing, and his early signs of renunciation.
  • It describes the divine gifts and attention showered upon him by the gods.
  • The text then moves to his renunciation (Diksha). It highlights his youthful detachment from worldly pleasures and his decision to embrace asceticism.
  • The Laukantika Devas (a specific class of celestial beings) appear to offer prayers and acknowledge his spiritual resolve.
  • The chapter details the celestial coronation (Abhisheka) performed by the gods on Mount Meru after his birth and the subsequent period of his life leading up to his Keval Gyana (omniscience).
  • The elaborate description of the Samavasarana (divine assembly) where the Tirthankara imparts teachings is also included, detailing its architectural magnificence and the various beings present.
  • The chapter highlights the Tirthankara's attainment of Keval Gyana (omniscience) and the profound spiritual impact of his first sermon.

• Fifth Chapter: Description of Mallinatha's Renunciation and Keval Gyana (Pages 80-90):

  • This chapter focuses on the specific events leading to and following Lord Mallinatha's renunciation. It reiterates his early detachment and the admiration he received from the gods.
  • It details the process of his renunciation, including the giving away of his possessions and embracing asceticism.
  • The chapter also elaborates on his Keval Gyana and the subsequent preaching of the Dharma, emphasizing the profound teachings on the nature of reality, the Soul, Karma, and the path to liberation.

• Sixth Chapter: Mallinatha's Teachings and Nirvana (Pages 90-115):

  • This chapter details the sermons delivered by Lord Mallinatha after attaining Keval Gyana.
  • It expounds on the Jain doctrine, including the essence of the Ratnatraya (Right Faith, Right Knowledge, Right Conduct), the principles of the Fourfold Agamas, the vows of ascetics and householders, and the importance of the Six Essential Duties (Avashyakas).
  • The text delves into the characteristics of a righteous householder, including the twelve vows and the various stages of spiritual progress (Pratimas).
  • The rigorous discipline of ascetics is also described, including their twenty-eight primary virtues (Mulas) and their commitment to austerities and meditation.
  • The chapter emphasizes the role of Righteous Conduct (Dharma) as the path to worldly happiness, spiritual power, and ultimate liberation.
  • Finally, it culminates with Lord Mallinatha's Nirvana (Moksha), the attainment of eternal bliss and liberation from the cycle of birth and death, after a long life of spiritual endeavor. The text details the celestial arrangements for his Nirvana and the subsequent reverence shown by the gods.

Overall Purpose and Message:

"Mallinatha Purana" serves as a devotional and didactic text that recounts the life story of a Tirthankara to inspire readers towards spiritual enlightenment. It highlights the importance of:

• Ratnatraya: The path to liberation through Right Faith, Right Knowledge, and Right Conduct.
• Vairagya: Renunciation of worldly attachments.
• Tapasya: Asceticism and austerity as means to spiritual purification.
• Ahimsa (Non-violence): The foundational principle of Jainism.
• The teachings of the Tirthankaras: The ultimate guide for human existence.

The Purana, through its detailed narrative, aims to instill devotion, promote virtuous living, and guide individuals towards the ultimate goal of Moksha.