Rikhavdev

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shree Rikhavdev" by Dhirajlal Tokarshi Shah, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Shree Rikhavdev Author: Dhirajlal Tokarshi Shah Publisher: Jyoti Karyalay

Overall Purpose and Context:

The book "Shree Rikhavdev" is part of a larger series titled "Bal Granthavali" (Children's Treasury) and is specifically aimed at providing religious and moral education to children. The author, Dhirajlal Tokarshi Shah, believes that abstract philosophical concepts are best understood through stories. This particular book focuses on the life and teachings of Lord Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar in Jainism. The text emphasizes that these stories, while potentially seeming improbable to some, aim to instill positive virtues and lead to spiritual upliftment, not to incite base desires. The book has been recognized and approved by educational boards in Bombay and the Vadodara state for libraries and as a textbook.

Key Themes and Narrative Points:

• The Importance of Stories in Education: The preface highlights the author's belief that stories are a crucial medium for conveying complex philosophical and religious ideas to the general public, especially children. These stories, even if not strictly factual, leave subtle impressions and instill values.
• The Role of Rishabhdev as the First Tirthankar: The narrative presents Rishabhdev as the progenitor of civilization and culture. He is depicted as the "Adinath" (first lord) who guides humanity from a primitive, natural state towards organized society and the adoption of arts and crafts.
• The Idealized Primordial State: The story begins in an era where humanity lived in harmony with nature, enjoying abundant fruits and pure water, with no conflict or discord.
• The Emergence of Rishabhdev and his Role as a Kulakar: Rishabhdev is born to King Nabhi and Queen Marudevi. As society begins to face challenges like dwindling resources and increasing conflict, Rishabhdev emerges as a leader. He guides people by providing solutions to their basic needs:
  • Food Preparation: When simple eating of food causes indigestion, Rishabhdev teaches them to mash and soak it before eating. When this proves insufficient, he guides them to use fire (symbolized by the sparks from colliding tree branches) to cook their food.
  • Utensils: He teaches them to make pottery from clay, using elephant tusks (symbolically) to shape the vessels.
  • Shelter: Recognizing the need for protection, he instructs them on building houses.
  • Arts and Crafts: He introduces them to painting and clothing made from tree bark, addressing the growing sense of shame and need for adornment.
  • Social Order: As disputes arise, Rishabhdev establishes the concept of a king to resolve conflicts. He is installed as the first king, hence also called "Adinath."
  • Agriculture and Domestication: He introduces agriculture and teaches people to domesticate animals like cows, buffaloes, and horses for farming and sustenance. This leads to the development of trade and economic activity.
• The Beginning of Dharma: After establishing social order and introducing essential skills, Rishabhdev realizes the need for spiritual guidance. He begins by practicing charity, donating generously for a year. He then bestows his kingdom upon his sons and initiates the path of asceticism.
• The First True Alms (Paaranu) and the Concept of Righteous Alms: The narrative describes Rishabhdev's ascetic life. While on his spiritual journey, he eventually arrives at Hastinapur. His great-grandson, Shreyanshkumar, recognizes him and offers him sugarcane juice as his first true alms after a long period of fasting. This act is highlighted as a significant moment in the practice of righteous giving.
• The Teachings of Rishabhdev: Upon attaining perfect knowledge (Kevalgyan), Rishabhdev preaches the principles of Jainism: non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness, non-stealing, chastity, and detachment. He emphasizes the importance of living a virtuous life and serving others.
• The Establishment of the Sangha (Tirtha): Rishabhdev establishes a community of followers, known as the Sangha or Tirtha, making him the first Tirthankar (one who creates the path to liberation).
• Legacy: The book concludes by mentioning prominent Jain pilgrimage sites associated with Rishabhdev, such as Shatrunjay, Aasjee, Ranakpur, and Keshariyaji, and concludes with devotional salutations.

Overall Message:

"Shree Rikhavdev" presents Lord Rishabhdev as a benevolent and wise guide who laid the foundation for human civilization, morality, and spirituality. His life story illustrates the Jain principles of compassion, non-violence, charity, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation, emphasizing that true progress lies not just in material advancement but in moral and spiritual development. The narrative aims to inspire young readers with the exemplary life of the first Tirthankar.