Neminahacariya Part 2

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Neminahacariya Part 2," based on the available pages:

Title: Nemināhacariya [Volume II] Author: Haribhadrasuri Editors: Prof. H. C. Bhayani, Prof. M. C. Modi Publisher: Lalbhai Dalpatbhai Bharatiya Sanskriti Vidyamandir, Ahmedabad Publication Year: August 1971

Overview:

This volume, the second of a projected three-volume series, contains the remaining portion of Haribhadrasuri's significant Apabhramsa work, the Nemināhacariya. It is primarily dedicated to the ninth "bhava" (existence or life-stage) of Neminātha, which is extensively interwoven with the Harivamśa narrative.

Key Contents and Themes:

• Harivamśa Narrative (Verses 1930-3310): This volume delves into the epic lineage and stories of the Harivamśa, a crucial part of Jain Puranic literature. The narrative covers:

  • The Life of Vasudeva: The volume provides the biography of Vasudeva, the father of Krishna and Baladeva.
  • The Lives of Krishna and Balabhadra (Baladeva): The exploits and lives of Krishna and Balabhadra are detailed.
  • The Life of Jarāsandha: The text also recounts the story of Jarāsandha, who forms the ninth trio of Vasudeva, Baladeva, and Prati-Vāsudeva in Jain tradition.
  • The Construction of Dvāravatī: The story includes the building of the magnificent city of Dvāravatī.
  • Key Events: Several significant events from Krishna's life are covered, including the abduction of Rukmiṇī (Rukmiṇīharaṇa), the story of Pradyumna (Pradyumna-carita), the slaying of Jarāsandha (Jarāsandha-vadha), and Krishna's status as Ardha-chakrī (a ruler with half-universal dominion).
  • The End of Dvāravatī: The narrative likely touches upon the destruction of Dvāravatī (Dvāravatī-dahana) and the eventual demise of Krishna and Balabhadra.
  • Nemi's Story within the Harivamśa: While the main focus shifts to the Harivamśa, it's presented in the context of Neminātha's overarching narrative. The text mentions Nemi's birth (Nemi-janma), his attainment of youth and renunciation (Nemi-pravrajyā), and his ultimate liberation (Nemi-nirvāṇa).

• Author's Prasasti (Verses 3311-3338): The concluding section of the work is the "prasasti" (colophon), which provides valuable information about the author, Haribhadrasuri. This includes:

  • Time of Composition: The prasasti likely indicates when the Nemināhacariya was composed.
  • Place of Composition: It specifies the location where the work was written.
  • Circumstances of Composition: The text reveals that it was composed at the request of Prthvipāla, a minister to the Chaulukya kings Jayasimha and Kumārapāla.
  • Historical Importance: Due to the detailed information about Prthvipāla's ancestry and his connections with the ruling kings of Gujarat, the prasasti holds significant historical value.

Editorial Approach:

The editors, Prof. H. C. Bhayani and Prof. M. C. Modi, have undertaken the extensive task of editing this voluminous Apabhramsa text. They are acknowledged for their diligent efforts to make the text as flawless as possible. A separate third volume is planned to provide a general introduction covering topics like the author's life and works, the language, meter, poetic form of the poem, and a glossary of important words.

Significance:

The publication of this complete text is expected to greatly facilitate studies and research in Apabhramsa language and literature. It offers scholars access to a crucial part of Jain Puranic tradition and historical records.

In essence, Volume II of Nemināhacariya acts as a bridge, presenting the epic Harivamśa narrative that contextualizes the life and renunciation of Neminātha, while also providing valuable historical and literary insights through its author's colophon.