Nabhak Raj Charitram Prat

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

Title: Nabhak Raj Charitram (The Life Story of King Nabhak) Author: Merutungasuri Publisher: Shravak Hiralal Hansraj Key Themes: The story primarily focuses on the consequences of actions (karma), the importance of righteous conduct, the virtue of faith and devotion, and the spiritual significance of pilgrimage, particularly to Shatrunjaya.

Summary of the Narrative:

The text begins with an invocation to Lord Parshvanath and then Lord Mahavir, stating its purpose: to narrate the story of King Nabhak, which will serve as a remedy for the poison of greed in the wise, much like a snake charmer's mantra cures snake venom. The story emphasizes that those who delight in listening to King Nabhak's tale become content and attain all prosperity.

King Nabhak and his Kingdom:

King Nabhak ruled over the glorious city of Kshitipratishthit, located in Bharatkshetra on Jambudvipa. The city was described as superior to even the celestial city of Svargapur due to its abundance of wealthy merchants (Shripatis), learned Brahmins (Brahmas), valiant warriors (Vishnus), and generous donors (Shridas). The story highlights King Nabhak's piety and his lack of attachment to worldly pleasures despite his immense popularity and good looks.

The Exposition on Shatrunjaya:

The narrative then shifts to an explanation of the sanctity and glory of the Shatrunjaya pilgrimage site. It details the history of the first Tirthankar, Lord Rishabhdev, and his teachings. Shatrunjaya is described as an eternal and sacred site, whose land possesses purifying powers. The text elaborates on its various names (Shatrunjaya, Vimalachal, Siddhaksetra, Pundarika) and the immense spiritual merit gained by visiting and revering it. The spiritual benefits described are profound, including the eradication of sins, attainment of divine realms, and ultimately, liberation.

King Nabhak's Intent to Pilgrimage and Obstacles:

Inspired by the teachings and the importance of Shatrunjaya, King Nabhak resolves to undertake the pilgrimage. However, he encounters numerous obstacles, including a headache on the appointed day, followed by his elder son's illness, and then his chief queen's grave sickness. Despite these misfortunes, he attempts to reschedule the pilgrimage multiple times, but further complications arise due to fears of invasion. These repeated setbacks cause King Nabhak deep distress, leading him to question his own spiritual worth.

Divine Intervention and the Guru's Guidance:

At this crucial juncture, Acharya Yugandharasuri, a spiritual guide, arrives. King Nabhak, filled with devotion, seeks his counsel to understand the cause of these impediments. The Acharya, through his profound spiritual knowledge, reveals that Nabhak's current difficulties are a result of his past karma.

The Story of King Nabhak's Past Lives (Karma Exposition):

The text then delves into the past lives of King Nabhak and related individuals, explaining the origin of his present afflictions:

• The Brothers Samudra and Simha: In a previous life in Tamalipiya city, Samudra (who later became King Nabhak) and his brother Simha found a hidden treasure. Samudra, a righteous soul, wished to offer it for the merit of the treasure's original owner, Naggoshthik, at Shatrunjaya. Simha, however, was tempted by greed and influenced by his wife.
• Simha's Downfall: Simha's avarice led him to steal his share of the treasure, flee, and engage in various sinful acts, including killing a Muni, which resulted in a cycle of suffering through numerous hellish births and animal lives (dog, snake, bird, etc.). The story emphasizes how even a small amount of misappropriated divine wealth leads to immense suffering.
• Samudra's Righteousness and Kingship: Samudra, after his brother's demise and the subsequent events, was honored and appointed king of another city, becoming King Nabhak. He diligently performed his duties, made numerous pilgrimages to Shatrunjaya, and lived a virtuous life, promoting Jain principles.
• The Tale of Chandraditya and the Donkey: The text further illustrates the consequences of karma through the story of King Chandraditya, who suffered from leprosy due to past misdeeds involving misusing divine wealth (sandal paste). His spiritual journey involved a donkey that had previously been a righteous merchant (Koushik) who offered food to a Muni and later King Nabhak, and previously a king who had committed sins. The donkey’s suffering was linked to its past lives and karmic debts, especially involving the destruction of temples and the resulting afflictions.
• The Devotee and the Divine Aid: King Nabhak's sincere devotion and the guidance of Acharya Yugandharasuri played a crucial role in his spiritual progress. A celestial being (Vyanter) revealed that he was bound to assist Nabhak due to past merit. Nabhak’s unwavering adherence to his vows and his spiritual practices, including fasting and meditating on the Tirthankar, led to divine intervention and assistance.

Spiritual Practices and Liberation:

The narrative emphasizes King Nabhak's unwavering devotion, his rigorous adherence to spiritual vows (Abhgrahas), his meticulous observance of religious duties, and his deep respect for his spiritual mentors. His journey to Shatrunjaya and his acts of piety and charity not only purified him from past transgressions but also brought prosperity and righteousness to his kingdom. The text culminates with King Nabhak achieving spiritual liberation, as do other virtuous souls mentioned in the story, after living a life dedicated to Jain principles.

Moral Lessons:

• The Power of Karma: The story strongly underscores the principle that all actions have consequences, and one must face the results of one's karma, whether good or bad.
• The Purity of Divine Wealth: The text warns against the misuse of divine wealth (Devdravya), highlighting the severe repercussions of such actions.
• The Merit of Pilgrimage and Devotion: Visiting sacred sites like Shatrunjaya and devotion to Tirthankaras are depicted as powerful means of accumulating merit and overcoming obstacles.
• The Importance of Righteous Conduct: Living a life of virtue, non-violence (Ahimsa), and adherence to vows is crucial for spiritual progress.
• The Role of Spiritual Guides: The guidance of enlightened gurus is essential for understanding karma and navigating the path to liberation.

The "Nabhak Raj Charitram" serves as a powerful Jain religious text that inspires readers to lead a virtuous life, understand the intricacies of karma, and strive for spiritual liberation through devotion and righteous actions.