Ratisarakumar Charitra

The Jain text, "Ratisarakumar Charitra" by Kashinath Jain, is a novel-style biography of Prince Ratisara. The book is written in a simple, engaging narrative that incorporates elements of romance, renunciation, and moral instruction, making it appealing to readers of all ages.

The story begins by introducing the righteous and prosperous King Subhuma of Mahishmati, who has a virtuous and beautiful son named Ratisara. From childhood, Ratisara is deeply devoted to Dharma and displays extraordinary qualities.

A pivotal moment in the narrative is Ratisara's encounter with a man selling a priceless shlok (verse). Intrigued by the exorbitant price and the man's description of its beneficial properties, Ratisara purchases the shlok. This shlok imparts a profound lesson on the nature of happiness and suffering: "Do not become intoxicated with joy upon acquiring wealth, for wealth diminishes past merits, and do not grieve in adversity, for it purges past sins."

Later, Ratisara's father, King Subhuma, reprimands him for spending a fortune on the shlok. Ratisara, however, defends his decision, emphasizing the invaluable nature of knowledge and spiritual wisdom over material wealth. This leads to a rift, and Ratisara leaves his kingdom.

On his journey, Ratisara encounters the story of Subandhu, a wealthy merchant who lost everything due to misfortune. Subandhu's tale, recounted to Ratisara, illustrates the transient nature of wealth and the importance of equanimity in the face of loss. This encounter reinforces the teachings of the shlok Ratisara had purchased.

Ratisara then arrives in Shravasti and takes rest in a temple. There, he meets Princess Saubhagyamanjari and her two companions, Priyamvada and Sutara. The princesses are captivated by Ratisara's charm and beauty, and they engage in a flirtatious exchange, inviting him to stay.

The narrative then shifts to Ratisara's past life as Prince Vishwasen, highlighting his compassion, wisdom, and adherence to Jain principles. This includes his act of saving a thief and his conflict with King Vikramsen of Tamralipti, whom he had earlier shown mercy. The story emphasizes that Ratisara's current life is a consequence of his past actions and the karmic bonds formed with his friends.

Through his past life experiences, particularly his interactions with a sage and his friends, Ratisara learns about the nature of karma and its influence on one's destiny. The sage explains the eight types of karma in Jainism, their intricacies, and their impact on an individual's life, emphasizing the importance of righteous conduct and spiritual practice.

Eventually, Ratisara attains Kevala Jnana (omniscience) and becomes a revered spiritual guide. The story concludes by reiterating the lessons of impermanence, the consequences of karma, and the ultimate path to liberation through righteous living, detachment, and spiritual knowledge. The text also promotes the importance of generosity, compassion, and adherence to Jain ethics, urging readers to reflect on these principles in their own lives.