Rushimandal Vrutti Uttararddh

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Rushimandal Vrutti Uttararddh" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Rushimandal Vrutti Uttararddh Author(s): Shubhvardhansuri, Harishankar Kalidas Shastri Publisher: Jain Vidyashala Catalog link: https://jainqq.org/explore/032099/1

Overall Purpose and Content:

The "Rushimandal Vrutti Uttararddh" (meaning the latter half of the commentary on Rushimandal) is a Jain text that serves as a continuation of the "Purvardh" (former half). It is a commentary authored by Acharya Shubhvardhansuri and translated by Shastri Harishankar Kalidas Shastri. The text is published by Shri Jain Vidyashala, Ahmedabad, and aims to present spiritual narratives and teachings for personal and private use within the Jain community.

Key Themes and Content:

The Uttararddh section focuses on presenting Kathanuyog (narrative tradition) through a collection of stories and biographies of enlightened souls (Jinas, Rishis, Munis, etc.). The preface emphasizes the importance of literature for the survival and prosperity of a society and highlights the richness of Jain literature across various fields like grammar, logic, poetry, mathematics, history, astrology, and medicine. It also touches upon the historical challenges faced by Jain literature, such as burning, theft, and decay, while celebrating its resilience.

The text is structured to provide a series of enlightening tales, with the following prominent sections:

• Focus on Exemplary Lives (Charitras): The Uttararddh contains approximately 70 stories and biographies of significant figures in Jainism. These narratives are designed to be engaging and inspire readers to pursue the spiritual path.
• Inclusion of Key Figures: The book begins with the story of Keshig Ganadhar, a prominent disciple of Lord Mahavir. The narratives then proceed through a lineage of influential Jain figures, including:
  • Keshig Ganadhar's discourse with King Pradeshi, illustrating philosophical debates and the power of Jain teachings.
  • The story of Pundarik and Kundarik, highlighting spiritual discipline.
  • The past lives of Lord Mahavir's parents, Devananda and Rishabhdatt, emphasizing the karmic journey.
  • Biographies of various monks and spiritual leaders like Karkandu Muni, Jayavarma (Dvimukha), Namiraji, Nagati, Prasannachandra, Atimukta Muni, Kshullak, Leh, Supratishtha, Suvrata, Varadatta, Arjun Mali, Dridhaprahari, Kuranggadu, Kodinna, Dinn, and Sevalla, Shivrajrshi, Dasharnabhadra, Mehtarya, Ilachiputra, Chilotiputra, Mrigputra, Indranaga, Dharmaruchi, Tetli, Jitashatru, Abhayakumara, Udayan, Sudarshana, Gangeya, Jinpālita, Kapil, Harikesh, Ishkara, Santosha, Anathi, Samudrapala, Jayaghosha, Vishva, Annikaputra, Rohini, Kaushikarya, Devilasuta, Kurmputra, Chandrudra, Dhanyakumara, Shitalacharya, Subahukumar, Redika, Kundak, Tishya, Kurudatta, Meghakumara, Hall and Vihal, Sarvanubhuti, Sunaksha, Simha, Dhanakumara and Shalibhadra, Jambuswami, Shrutakevali Shaulibhadra, and Bhadrabahu. The inclusion of these varied lives demonstrates the vastness of the Jain tradition and the diverse paths to spiritual realization.
• Emphasis on Virtuous Conduct and Wisdom: The stories illustrate the practical application of Jain principles like non-violence, truthfulness, non-possession, celibacy, contentment, and equanimity. They showcase how individuals overcame worldly desires, karmic obstacles, and external afflictions through their spiritual practices and wisdom.
• Philosophical Teachings: The text addresses fundamental Jain doctrines like the nature of the soul (Jiva), non-soul (Ajiva), karma, the afterlife, and the paths to liberation. The debates and dialogues within the stories often serve to explain these concepts.
• Inspirational Narratives: The stories are presented as having the power to cleanse the mind, strengthen faith, and guide individuals towards spiritual progress, especially the youth who might be exposed to detrimental reading material.
• Call for Correct Reading and Feedback: The publishers encourage readers to identify and report any errors in the text to help improve future editions.

Publication Details:

• First Edition: Published in Vikram Samvat 1982 (1925 AD).
• Price: Rs. 2-8-0.
• Publisher: Shri Jain Vidyashala, established by Shah Subhaji Ravachand Jayachand.
• Location: Dosivada ni Pol, Ahmedabad.
• Printer: Shri Veer Samaja Shri Veer-Shasan Printing Press, Hajapatel ni Pal, Ahmedabad.

Significance:

The "Rushimandal Vrutti Uttararddh" is presented as a valuable resource for spiritual growth and understanding within the Jain community. It aims to provide readers with inspiring accounts of past spiritual masters, reinforcing their faith and guiding them on the path to self-realization. The text underscores the importance of virtuous conduct and the enduring relevance of Jain teachings in contemporary times, especially in counteracting negative influences.