Samaysundar Ras Panchak - Book Summary

This document is a comprehensive summary and collection of five Rajasthani narrative poems (Ras) by the renowned Jain scholar and poet, Mahopadhyay Samaysundar. The book, titled "Samaysundar Ras Panchak," was edited by Bhanvarlal Nahta and published by the Sadul Rajasthani Research Institute in Bikaner.

Key aspects covered in the text:

Editorial Dedication and Appreciation: The book is dedicated to the editor's (Bhanvarlal Nahta) departed father, Shri Bhairu Danji Nahta, who inspired and supported literary pursuits. The editor, Bhanvarlal Nahta, is praised for his significant contribution in compiling and editing these valuable works.
Significance of Jain Monks in Folk Literature: The text highlights the crucial role played by Jain monks in preserving and promoting folk literature. They used illustrative stories (Drishtant Kathas) to effectively convey religious, ethical, and moral teachings to the masses.
Literary and Cultural Importance: The compiled Ras poems are considered significant for studying folk narrative motifs, ancient Rajasthani language, and various local dialects and meters.
The Poet Mahopadhyay Samaysundar:
- He is recognized as a high-ranking saint, scholar, and litterateur from Rajasthan, whose works enriched Indian literature.
- His literary output was extensive, including original and commentary-based works in Sanskrit (like the remarkable 'Ashtalaxī' which impressed Emperor Akbar), and numerous poetic works in Rajasthani and Gujarati.
- Notable works mentioned include 'Sitaram Chaupai' (a Jain Ramayana), and narrative poems based on stories like Nal-Damayanti, Mrigavati, Samba-Pradyumna, etc.
- His biography and a list of 562 minor works are detailed in "Samaysundar Kriti Kusumān̄jali."
- His birth is estimated around 1615 AD in Sachor, Marwar. He was initiated at a young age by Yugpradhan Shri Jinchandrasuri.
- He was active in literature from 1641 to 1700 AD.
- He received the titles of Vachānāchārya (1644 AD) and Upādhyāya (1771 AD).
- He traveled extensively across Rajasthan and Gujarat, influencing rulers and notable figures to prevent animal sacrifice and cow slaughter.
- He had 42 learned disciples.
- He passed away in Ahmedabad in 1702 AD.
The Five Ras Poems and Their Summaries: The book presents five narrative poems (Ras) by Samaysundar. Summaries of each are provided:
1. Singhalasut Chaupai (प्रियमेलक तीर्थ सम्बन्धी):
  - Theme: Importance of charity and dharma.
  - Story: Follows the adventures of Prince Singhalasinha, son of King Singhal of Sinhaldvipa, who is virtuous and heroic. The story involves his rescue of Dhanvati, the daughter of a merchant, from a wild elephant, their subsequent marriage, his exile due to court politics, a shipwreck, his encounter with Princess Ratnavati (whom he cures with a magical ring), and his eventual reunion with Dhanvati. It also features the motif of breaking a vow of silence to retrieve the story, and the cunning of a priest who tries to harm the prince. It concludes with Prince Singhalasinha ruling justly and engaging in philanthropic activities.
2. Valkalchiri Chaupai (वल्कलचीरी):
  - Theme: The impact of intentions and the path to liberation.
  - Story: Based on a Buddhist Jataka tale and found in the Mahabharata as Rishishrnga. It narrates the story of a king who renounces his kingdom to become an ascetic after seeing a white hair. The narrative delves into the ascetic's life and the birth and upbringing of his son, Valkalchiri, who is raised in the forest, unaware of the world of women. The story highlights his encounter with courtesans sent by his brother to lure him, his subsequent worldly experiences, and eventually his attainment of Kevaljnana (omniscience) through disciplined practice. It also touches upon the king's subsequent conversion to Jainism.
3. Champak Seth Chaupai (चम्पक सेठ):
  - Theme: The significance of compassionate charity and the futility of greed and ill-will.
  - Story: Features Champak, a wealthy merchant, and the greedy merchant Vriddhadatta. Vriddhadatta hoards his wealth, fearing a prophecy that his wealth will be enjoyed by another. The story follows Champak's rise to prosperity through honest dealings and compassionate actions, while Vriddhadatta's attempts to thwart his destiny ultimately lead to his downfall. It includes the motif of fate's inevitability and the power of human effort, illustrating how wealth can be amassed and lost. The tale also involves clever schemes, betrayal, and the eventual realization of the consequences of one's actions.
4. Dhanadatta Shreshthi Chaupai (धनदत्त श्रेष्ठी):
  - Theme: The paramount importance of 'Vyavahar Shuddhi' (purity in dealings) for a householder.
  - Story: Focuses on Dhanadatta, a merchant who adheres to the principle of honest business practices, even when it leads to initial financial hardship. The story contrasts his integrity with the deceitful practices of others. It illustrates how his unwavering commitment to truth and ethical conduct, despite challenges, eventually leads to prosperity and respect. The narrative emphasizes that genuine success is rooted in virtuous conduct and adherence to dharma.
5. Punyasar Chaupai (पुण्यसार चरित्र):
  - Theme: The glory of merit (Punya) and the consequences of actions.
  - Story: Centers around Punyasara, born to Purandar Seth and Punyashri, who despite their wealth, long for a child. The story depicts Punyasara's upbringing, his competitive spirit with Ratnavati (daughter of Seth Ratnasar), his struggle with gambling addiction, and his eventual redemption through the guidance of his family and the lessons learned from his experiences. It highlights how virtuous deeds and righteous living lead to happiness and spiritual progress.
Inclusion of Folktale Motifs: The editor, Bhanvarlal Nahta, points out several common folk motifs present in these Ras poems, such as using a plank to reach the shore, magical objects, the concept of fate versus effort, and the practice of making prophecies.
Language and Style: The poems are noted for their simple and elegant language, making them accessible to a broad audience.
Manuscript Sources: The poems in the collection have been compiled from ancient and pure manuscripts preserved in the Abhay Jain Granthalaya. Additionally, a copy of Valkalchiri Chaupai from the collection of Shri Puranchandra Nahar (provided by Shri Vijaysingh Nahar) and a copy of Punyasar Chaupai from the Sethia Library in Bikaner have been utilized.
Request to Readers: Readers are encouraged to savor the original works.

In essence, "Samaysundar Ras Panchak" is a valuable compilation that preserves and presents important Jain narrative literature, highlighting moral and ethical teachings through engaging stories and underscoring the cultural significance of these traditional poetic forms.