Rupsen Charitra Yane Punya Prabhav

The text "Rupsen Charitra Yane Punya Prabhav" (The Story of Rupsen, or the Influence of Merit) by Bakulchandra Lalchandra Shah, published by Laghajiswami Pustakalay, is a Jain scripture that explores the concept of punya (merit or good karma) through the life story of Prince Rupsen.

Here's a summary of the key themes and narrative points presented in the provided text:

Core Message: The Power of Punya (Merit)

The book emphasizes that good fortune, prosperity, health, and spiritual progress are all direct results of punya. It argues that giving to those in need, particularly what they truly require at that moment (like water in a desert), is a significant act of merit. This is illustrated through an analogy of an Arab lost in the desert who values water over precious jewels.

Critique of Anti-Punya Sentiments:

The text expresses strong disapproval of certain individuals who reject the importance of punya and spiritual accumulation. It criticizes the view that helping those in suffering is wrong because it prolongs their worldly existence, which is considered inherently sinful. The author specifically targets the Terapanth sect for advocating such ideas, calling it a departure from the true path of Jainism and a form of becoming "un-Aryan."

The Narrative of Rupsen:

The main narrative focuses on Prince Rupsen, son of King Manmatha of Magadha. The story unfolds through a series of events that showcase the principles of Jainism and the consequences of actions:

• A Divine Encounter: King Manmatha encounters a divine being in the river, experiencing supernatural events that lead him to a Jain guru. The guru imparts wisdom on the transient nature of worldly pleasures and the importance of Dharma (righteousness).
• Rupsen's Destiny and Challenges: Rupsen is portrayed as a virtuous prince destined for greatness. However, his journey involves significant trials:
  • The Marriage Dilemma: Rupsen's intended marriage to a princess from Dharanagari is fraught with danger. Astrologers predict Rupsen's death on the fourth round of the wedding ceremony. To avert this, his elder brother, Rupraj, marries the princess instead, causing public speculation and Rupsen's initial distress.
  • Exile and Self-Discovery: Feeling hurt by public opinion and seeking to test his fate and punya, Rupsen leaves his home and embarks on a journey.
  • Acquisition of Magical Items: In the forest, Rupsen encounters four yogis who possess magical items: a blanket that yields gold, a stick that can revive inanimate objects, a vessel that can feed thousands, and flying sandals. The yogis, quarreling over the distribution of these items, are outsmarted by Rupsen, who cleverly takes possession of them.
  • Encounter with Kankavati: Rupsen, using the magical sandals, travels to Kankapur. He meets Princess Kankavati, and they fall in love. Kankavati is presented as a highly accomplished and virtuous princess.
  • The Curse and Transformation: Kankavati, testing Rupsen, is tricked by him into inhaling a magical herb, transforming her into a monkey. Rupsen, in turn, transforms into a monkey and presents himself to her father, King Kanakabhram.
  • The Clever Yogi: The King, desperate to cure his daughter, seeks help from yogis. Rupsen, in disguise as a yogi, offers a cure in exchange for marrying Kankavati. He reunites with her, revealing his true identity.
  • Return and Rule: Rupsen returns to his kingdom with his wife. He rules with justice and righteousness, following the teachings of the Jain gurus. His previous life experiences, his adherence to virtuous principles, and his understanding of punya guide his reign.
  • Previous Birth and the Meaning of Punya: The narrative then delves into Rupsen's past life. He was a farmer named Sundar who lived virtuously, practiced charity, adhered to vows, and served Jain monks. This past merit explains his current prosperity, the acquisition of the magical items, and his ability to overcome adversities. The text highlights the importance of observing vows and the karmic consequences of actions like violence and night-eating.

Key Jain Principles Highlighted:

• Karmic Law: The story constantly emphasizes the principle of karma, showing how past actions (good and bad) lead to present circumstances.
• Non-violence (Ahimsa): The critique of the Terapanth sect and the emphasis on not harming living beings underscore the importance of Ahimsa.
• Charity (Dana): The act of giving, especially what is needed, is presented as a significant source of merit.
• Vows (Vrata): Adhering to vows, even small ones, is shown to bring great benefits in this life and the next.
• Detachment (Aparigraha): The narrative suggests that while punya brings positive outcomes, true liberation comes from performing actions without attachment to their results.
• Spiritual Knowledge: The importance of gurus and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge are central to overcoming worldly suffering and achieving ultimate liberation.

In essence, "Rupsen Charitra Yane Punya Prabhav" serves as a moral and spiritual guide, illustrating through a captivating story the profound influence of merit and righteous living in Jainism, while also advocating for the adherence to core Jain principles.