Mohan Charitam

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Mohan Charitam" by Damodar Sharma, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Mohan Charitam Author: Damodar Sharma (son of Govindacharya) Publisher: Devkaran Muljibhai (published by Jain Granthottejak Mandali) Language: Primarily Sanskrit, with Gujarati explanations (Balavbodh). Publication Year: Samvat 1952 (1895 CE)

Overall Summary:

"Mohan Charitam" is a biographical account of a prominent Jain monk, Muni Shri Mohanlalji. The text, authored by Pandit Damodar Sharma, aims to highlight the virtues, spiritual journey, and exemplary life of Muni Shri Mohanlalji, inspiring readers towards righteous conduct and spiritual upliftment. The book is structured into chapters (sargas), detailing his life from birth, his educational pursuits, his spiritual development, his travels, and his impact on the Jain community.

Key Aspects and Content:

1. Praise for the Author and Publisher: The initial pages introduce the book and express gratitude to those who supported its publication, including Seth Thakurchand Manekchand for his patronage and the Jain Granthottejak Mandali.

2. Introduction of Muni Shri Mohanlalji: The text specifies the birth of Muni Shri Mohanlalji in Samvat 1887 (1830 CE) on Vaishakh Vad 6.

3. Praise for Jainism and Monks: The introductory sections (Vijnapana) in Sanskrit and Gujarati emphasize the decline of ancient religions in India due to the passage of time and the rarity of virtuous monks who guide the congregation. It highlights the importance of such virtuous individuals, comparing them to lamps in darkness. Muni Shri Mohanlalji is presented as a beacon of spiritual knowledge, refuting falsehoods and guiding people to the right path.

4. The Author's Motivation: Damodar Sharma explains that he was inspired to write the biography of Muni Shri Mohanlalji by disciples and admirers who recognized his extraordinary qualities. He aims to make the teachings accessible to all, hence the inclusion of a "Balavbodh" (simple explanation).

5. Genealogy and Early Life (Sarg 1 - Birth):

   • The first sarg begins with invocations to Lord Mahavir Swami and Lord Parshvanath.
   • It describes the virtuous lineage of Muni Shri Mohanlalji, tracing his birth to the Yadava dynasty in Mathura, then to Chandraprabha city.
   • The narrative details the auspicious signs surrounding his birth, the influence of his parents (Badarmall and Sundari), and the significant events during his childhood that foreshadowed his spiritual greatness.
   • The text explains the significance of the name "Mohan" as reflecting the transcendence of earthly desires.
   • The first sarg also touches upon the astrological details of his birth.

6. Geographical and Social Context: The text provides descriptions of various regions like Souvir (modern-day Gujarat/Rajasthan), Mathura, Chandrapur, Nagaur, Jodhpur, Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Surat, highlighting their culture, prosperity, and the spiritual activities prevalent there. It also discusses the seven vices (vyasanas) prohibited in Jainism.

7. Spiritual Training and Renunciation (Sarg 2 - Nagaurgaman):

   • The narrative follows Mohanji's journey and his stay in various places, including Nagaur, where he received his initial education.
   • It details his association with esteemed monks like Rupchandji and his deep study of Jain scriptures and philosophy.
   • The text illustrates the importance of association with virtuous souls and the gradual detachment from worldly desires.
   • The auspicious timing for his monastic initiation (diksha) is discussed, considering astrological and scriptural guidelines.

8. Monastic Initiation and Early Spiritual Career (Sarg 3 - Diksha):

   • This sarg focuses on Muni Shri Mohanlalji's formal renunciation and acceptance of the monastic vows.
   • The text emphasizes the profound impact of his guru, Rupchandji, and the spiritual guidance he received.
   • The importance of adherence to the difficult vows of a monk is highlighted, especially the fourth vow (celibacy).

9. Journeys and Impact (Sarg 4 - Kriyoddhar):

   • The sarg describes Muni Shri Mohanlalji's extensive travels, his adherence to scriptural practices (kriyoddhar), and his deep contemplation on the transient nature of worldly life.
   • His interactions with various individuals, including rulers and common people, are depicted, showcasing his ability to inspire righteousness and detachment.
   • His travels through regions like Gujarat, Malwa, and Kashi are recounted.

10. Further Travels and Discipleship (Sarg 5 - Chaturmas Varnan):

    • This sarg continues the account of his journeys, including his visits to places like Ajmer and Pali.
    • It highlights the devotion of his followers and the significant impact of his teachings.
    • The text details his stay in various places for "Chaturmas" (the four-month period of monsoon retreat), emphasizing his dedication to spiritual practices and his followers' devotion.

11. Continued Spiritual Endeavors and Tirth Yatras (Sarg 6 - Chaturmas Varnan):

    • The sarg continues describing his travels, focusing on his experiences in different towns and cities like Jodhpur, Ajmer, and Shiroli.
    • It illustrates his wisdom in dealing with people and his profound understanding of spiritual principles.
    • The text emphasizes the importance of righteous conduct, detachment from worldly possessions, and the significance of proper guidance from a Guru.
    • It also describes the initiation of new disciples, like Jetha, who became Sumati Muni.

12. Further Travels and the Formation of Disciples (Sarg 7 - Chaturmas Varnan):

    • The narrative continues detailing his journeys to various holy places like Shikharji, Mount Abu, and Palitana.
    • It highlights his meticulous adherence to the rules of conduct and his profound impact on the devotees he encountered.
    • The text emphasizes the importance of spiritual wisdom and the guidance of a true guru. It describes the initiation of new disciples and the joy of his followers.

13. Sustained Ministry and Impact (Sarg 8 - Chaturmas Varnan):

    • This sarg covers his extensive travels, including significant periods in Surat and Mumbai.
    • It details the immense devotion of the people of Surat and Mumbai towards him, evidenced by grand celebrations and festivals during his Chaturmas.
    • The text mentions the initiation of several disciples during this period, named Dev Muni, Sumati Muni, Hem Muni, Harsh Muni, and others, highlighting their spiritual progress under Muni Shri Mohanlalji's tutelage.
    • The economic contributions of wealthy patrons towards religious activities are also noted.
    • The sarg concludes by mentioning the twenty Chaturmas periods spent by Muni Shri Mohanlalji, emphasizing his continuous dedication to spreading the Jain dharma.

Key Themes:

• Importance of a Guru: The text repeatedly emphasizes the crucial role of a spiritual preceptor (Guru) in guiding individuals towards liberation.
• Detachment from Worldly Desires: Mohanji's life exemplifies detachment from material possessions, sensual pleasures, and ego.
• Adherence to Jain Principles: The biography showcases the rigorous observance of vows, penances, and ethical conduct prescribed in Jainism.
• Spiritual Purity and Knowledge: Muni Shri Mohanlalji is depicted as a repository of spiritual knowledge and purity, capable of dispelling ignorance and guiding others.
• Impact on the Community: The text illustrates how his presence and teachings inspired devotion, repentance, and spiritual growth among the Jain community.
• The Power of Good Association: The narrative underscores the transformative power of associating with virtuous souls.

In essence, "Mohan Charitam" serves as a hagiography, celebrating the life and spiritual achievements of Muni Shri Mohanlalji, offering a narrative rich in Jain philosophy, ethics, and the ideals of renunciation and spiritual attainment.