Nabhak Raj Charitram Bhashantar

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Nabhak Raj Charitram Bhashantar" by Merutungasuri, based on the provided pages:

This text, "Nabhak Raj Charitram Bhashantar," is a Gujarati translation (with commentary) of a Sanskrit work originally composed by Achalgachchhadhipati Shri Merutungasuri in the year 1464 (Vikram Samvat). The translation and publication were undertaken in remembrance of Shrimati Indrabai, mother of Sh. Dosabhai Lalchand and Sh. Karamchand Lalchand, residents of Kachchh-Bhuj, at the time of their Chaturmas in Siddhakṣetra in Samvat 1975. The publication was sponsored by the Jun Gun Aaradhak Trust.

Core Message and Purpose:

The primary purpose of this scripture is to illustrate the severe consequences of misusing or destroying temple property (Devdravya). Through the story of King Nabhak, the text vividly portrays the immense suffering and adverse rebirths that result from such actions. It serves as a cautionary tale for spiritual seekers and householders alike, emphasizing the importance of upholding Jain principles, especially regarding the sanctity of temple wealth.

The Narrative of King Nabhak:

The story begins with the description of the prosperous city of Kshitipratishthit Nagar, which surpassed even the celestial city of Swargapur in its grandeur. In this city lived King Nabhak, a ruler known for his righteousness and immense popularity.

The Catalyst: The Merchant and the Treasure:

A wealthy merchant, Dhanadhya, from Vasanta Pur, journeys to Kshitipratishthit Nagar for the pilgrimage of Shatrunjay Tirth. During his stay, he encounters King Nabhak. The King inquires about Shatrunjay Tirth and its spiritual significance.

The Importance of Shatrunjay Tirth:

The narrative then delves into the glory of Shatrunjay Tirth, describing it as an eternal and sacred pilgrimage site, the abode of Shri Rishabhdev Bhagwan. It highlights the spiritual benefits of visiting Shatrunjay, stating that even the earth and mud there possess divine qualities. Devotees who visit with pure intentions are freed from the cycle of birth and death. The text emphasizes that no other pilgrimage is as significant or worthy of worship as Shatrunjay.

King Nabhak's Misfortune and the Root Cause:

Despite the inspiring tales of Shatrunjay, King Nabhak faces repeated obstacles in his attempts to undertake the pilgrimage. Four auspicious times pass without him being able to embark on the journey due to various calamities and fears (e.g., his eldest son's illness, his queen's illness, fear of invasion). This leads him to despair and seek the guidance of the great Acharya Shri Yugandhar Suri.

The Acharya's Divine Insight:

Acharya Yugandhar Suri, through his Manahparyaya Gyan, reveals that the king's impediments are the result of his past karmas. He then narrates the story of Samudra and Singh, two brothers from Tamalipti city in a previous life. Samudra, the elder, was virtuous and respected temple wealth. Singh, the younger, was greedy and influenced by his wife.

The Sin of Devdravya:

The brothers discover a hidden treasure, which the elder brother, Samudra, identifies as "Devdravya" (temple property) intended for the upkeep of a temple. Samudra insists on donating it to Shatrunjay Tirth. However, Singh, driven by greed, conspires to misuse it.

The Consequences of Singh's Actions:

Singh's actions, including conspiring against his brother, are revealed through various rebirths. He suffers immensely in numerous hellish births, followed by animal births (as a dog, snake, scorpion, etc.), and even experiences the suffering of being a chandal woman. The text meticulously details these rebirths, highlighting how the misuse of even a small amount of Devdravya leads to prolonged suffering across many lifetimes. This segment emphasizes the severe karmic repercussions of disrespecting temple property.

The Story of the Merchant of Kailash (Saindhava Merchant):

The narrative shifts to illustrate another instance of misusing temple wealth through the story of a merchant from Kailash. This merchant, after enjoying immense wealth acquired through unethical means, faces severe consequences, including his family's downfall and personal suffering, all traced back to his disrespect for temple property and associated karmic retribution.

The Tale of the Dog and the Temple Property:

The text further narrates the story of a dog that belonged to a temple. Due to its proximity to the temple and the spilled devotional offerings, it gained some merit, leading to a better rebirth. However, the story also highlights the suffering of a man who, driven by attachment and ignorance, consumed remnants of temple offerings without proper understanding, resulting in many painful births.

The Story of King Chandra Aditya:

The narrative then introduces King Chandra Aditya, who, despite his prosperous reign and good qualities, suffers from a debilitating skin disease. Through the guidance of Acharya Yugandhar Suri, it is revealed that his affliction is a result of his past karma, specifically his actions in a previous life as the town chief Bhanu, who murdered a Muni and destroyed a temple. The Acharya explains how specific actions (like destroying a temple, killing a Muni, etc.) lead to specific karmic consequences.

The King's Penance and Redemption:

King Chandra Aditya, upon understanding the root cause of his suffering, repents and undertakes severe penances and good deeds. He builds temples, performs rituals, and adheres to strict vows, eventually purifying himself from his past sins.

King Nabhak's Purification and Journey to Shatrunjay:

The narrative returns to King Nabhak, who, after hearing these profound karmic lessons, realizes the gravity of his situation. He undertakes rigorous penances and vows, including sleeping on the ground, abstaining from certain foods, and observing fasts. He also makes a significant commitment to build temples and perform the pilgrimage to Shatrunjay.

The Divine Intervention and Celestial Test:

During his journey, Nabhak faces a divine test orchestrated by a celestial being (likely Indra in disguise) to assess his devotion and purity. He is taken to a celestial palace filled with beautiful maidens who try to tempt him with pleasures. However, Nabhak remains steadfast in his devotion to Jain principles and his goal of reaching Shatrunjay.

The Revelation and Guidance from Shri Simandhar Swami:

The celestial being, impressed by Nabhak's unwavering devotion, reveals himself and grants Nabhak a boon. Nabhak requests to visit Mahavideh Kshetra and seek the audience of Shri Simandhar Swami. With divine assistance, he reaches Mahavideh and asks Shri Simandhar Swami about the obstacles he faced. Shri Simandhar Swami confirms that these were due to past karmas, specifically his role as Singh in hindering his brother Samudra's pilgrimage and his actions in the birth as Bhanu.

The Resolution and Blessed End:

With this profound understanding, Nabhak, along with the celestial being, returns to Shatrunjay. They perform elaborate rituals, pujas, and charitable acts, further solidifying their spiritual progress. Nabhak, guided by his Acharya, fulfills his vows, constructs temples, and rules his kingdom with righteousness. The text concludes by stating that both Nabhak and the celestial being (Chandra Aditya in his previous life) achieved liberation (Moksha) through their devotion and righteous actions.

Key Takeaways:

• The sanctity of Devdravya: The text strongly emphasizes the dire consequences of misusing temple property, highlighting its karmic repercussions across many lifetimes.
• Karma and Rebirth: The stories illustrate the principle of karma, where actions in past lives directly influence present circumstances and future rebirths.
• The power of Penance and Devotion: King Nabhak's journey demonstrates how sincere penance, devotion, and adherence to Dharma can overcome even severe karmic obstacles.
• The importance of Pilgrimage: Shatrunjay Tirth is presented as a highly significant pilgrimage that can purify souls and lead to liberation.
• The role of Acharyas and Spiritual Guidance: The wisdom and guidance of spiritual masters like Acharya Yugandhar Suri are crucial in understanding and overcoming karmic challenges.
• The purity of intention: The text subtly suggests that while actions are important, the intention behind them also plays a significant role in their karmic outcome.

In essence, "Nabhak Raj Charitram Bhashantar" is a didactic scripture that uses compelling narratives to impart the crucial Jain teachings on the consequences of karma, the importance of respecting Devdravya, and the path to spiritual liberation through righteous living and devotion.