Sampratinrup Charitram

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sampratinrup Charitram" (The Life of King Samprati) based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Sampratinrup Charitram (The Life of King Samprati) Author/Editor: Muni Chaturvijay (This edition is a reprint of a publication from 1920 CE, edited by Chaturvijay Muni). Publisher: Parshva International Shaikshanik aur Shodhnishth Pratishthan, Ahmedabad. Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/002360/1

Overall Summary:

The book "Sampratinrup Charitram" is a Sanskrit poetic account (461 verses) of the life of King Samprati, a significant figure in Jain tradition, renowned for his piety and patronage of Jainism. While the original author is unknown, this edition is meticulously edited and reprinted by Muni Chaturvijay. The work is presented as part of the "Parshva International Granthamala."

The text delves into Samprati's lineage, his reign, and his deep devotion to Jainism, particularly to the Ācārya Āryasuhastisūri. It highlights his charitable deeds and his efforts to spread Jain principles. A notable aspect of the book is its inclusion of the story of Chandragupta Maurya and his influential minister Chanakya, which is intertwined with Samprati's narrative and also found in earlier Jain literature.

Key Aspects and Narratives:

1. Genealogy and Spiritual Lineage:

   • The text traces the lineage of Jain spiritual leaders from Lord Mahavir to Ācārya Mahāgiri and Āryasuhasti.
   • It emphasizes the importance of the teacher-disciple succession in Jain tradition.

2. The Tale of the Poor Beggar and Āryasuhasti:

   • The narrative begins with a depiction of the poverty of a beggar, who witnesses the opulent charity of Āryasuhasti to other mendicants.
   • This beggar, driven by his extreme poverty and desire for sustenance, approaches Āryasuhasti and his disciple.
   • Upon being asked if he would take a vow, he accepts initiation and experiences the immediate consequence of overeating, leading to his demise.
   • This event marks the beginning of Samprati's past life as this beggar. The text states that through the merit of this act (though the specific merit is described as related to "Samayika" in verse 33) and the karmic consequences, he was later reborn into a royal family.

3. The Birth and Early Life of Chanakya (Vishnugupta):

   • The narrative shifts to describe the birth of Chanakya (also known as Vishnugupta), the son of a Brahmin named Chaṇī in the village of Chaṇakagrahama.
   • His unusual birth, with prominent teeth ("prāruḍha dāḍha"), is noted.
   • Chanakya's father consults Ācārya Śrutasāgara, who foretells that the child will become a great king.
   • There's a poignant episode where Chaṇī, fearing his son might attain a kingdom and suffer a bad fate, attempts to break his prominent teeth. However, his efforts are futile, and the prophecy remains.

4. Chanakya's Discontent and Ambition:

   • Chanakya witnesses the disrespect and humiliation his wife faces due to their poverty when visiting her wealthy relatives.
   • This experience fuels his resolve to acquire wealth and power, realizing that prosperity (artha) is the true source of respect and status in society.
   • He resolves to seek his fortune in Pāṭaliputra, where King Nanda resides.

5. Chanakya's Encounter with King Nanda:

   • Chanakya infiltrates King Nanda's court, disrespectfully occupies the royal throne, and earns Nanda's wrath.
   • In a fit of anger and a vow, he declares he will destroy Nanda's dynasty and make someone else king. He ties his Shikha (tuft of hair) as a reminder of his vow.
   • The text mentions a prophecy that Chanakya would be instrumental in establishing a kingdom for someone whose rule would be "bimba-antarita" (partially veiled or indirectly achieved).

6. The Genesis of Chandragupta:

   • Chanakya, seeking a suitable candidate for kingship, encounters a young boy, Chandragupta, playing kingly games in a herd of cows.
   • He recognizes Chandragupta's inherent qualities and destiny.
   • Chanakya tests Chandragupta by asking him to fetch a "moon drink" for his pregnant sister, which he miraculously procures.
   • Recognizing Chandragupta's potential, Chanakya takes him under his wing, grooms him, raises an army, and eventually helps him defeat Nanda and establish the Mauryan Empire.

7. King Samprati's Birth and Early Life:

   • The narrative returns to Samprati's lineage, tracing him as the son of Kuṇāla and grandson of Emperor Aśoka.
   • Kuṇāla, blinded by his stepmother, is later restored and becomes a prince.
   • Emperor Aśoka, fearing the influence of his stepmothers on Kuṇāla, sends him to Avanti (Ujjain) with his maternal relatives.
   • While in Avanti, Kuṇāla is blinded again by his stepmother's machinations, leading to a period of hardship and living in a village.
   • During this time, Kuṇāla's wife gives birth to Samprati.

8. Samprati's Destiny and Coronation:

   • Samprati, though born in difficult circumstances, exhibits remarkable qualities.
   • His grandfather, Aśoka, recognizes his talent and potential.
   • A remarkable incident occurs when Samprati, disguised as a singer, captivates the court with his beautiful voice.
   • When asked for a boon, he reveals his lineage as the grandson of Aśoka and the son of the blinded Kuṇāla, asking for his rightful inheritance.
   • King Aśoka, moved by his grandson's plight and the injustice he faced, bestows the kingdom upon him. Samprati is then coronated and begins his reign.

9. Samprati's Devotion to Jainism:

   • Samprati becomes a devout follower of Ācārya Āryasuhasti.
   • The text details his profound respect and devotion to the Ācārya and the Jain path.
   • He engages in acts of great religious merit, including the establishment of numerous Jain temples ("Jinamandiras") across his vast empire, which encompassed regions like Surashtra, Andhra, and Dravida.
   • He ensures safe passage for monks and pilgrims through mountains and forests by constructing roads.
   • The text emphasizes his practice of "caruṇādāna" (compassionate giving) and his adherence to the "śrāvaka" (lay follower) principles.
   • The work highlights how Samprati's adherence to Jain principles and his patronage led to the widespread prosperity and religious fervor within his kingdom.

10. The Incident with Mahāgiri and Suhasti:

    • A significant event involves Ācārya Mahāgiri and Āryasuhasti. Mahāgiri, displeased with Āryasuhasti's acceptance of royal offerings, decides to separate from him.
    • However, Āryasuhasti, despite the separation, continues to uphold the Dharma and its principles, even in the face of potential societal disapproval.
    • Samprati, observing the situation, intercedes and facilitates reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of unity and correct understanding of Jain practices. He reiterates the teachings of Lord Mahavir regarding the subtle nature of karma and the need for discernment.
    • The text also touches upon the importance of adhering to prescribed rules for monks regarding food and acceptance of offerings, highlighting the meticulous nature of monastic discipline.

11. The Spread of Jainism:

    • Samprati's influence extends beyond his immediate kingdom. He actively promotes Jainism to neighboring rulers, encouraging them to adopt its principles.
    • The text describes how his efforts lead to the conversion and devotion of many kings and their subjects to Jainism, evidenced by the construction of temples, observance of festivals, and adherence to monastic teachings.
    • The narrative illustrates Samprati's unwavering commitment to the Dharma, even when faced with challenges or the need to adapt practices to different cultural contexts.

12. Conclusion:

    • The book concludes by stating that King Samprati, by diligently upholding the pure jewel of Samyak-tva (right faith), will enjoy celestial pleasures and eventually attain liberation (moksha).
    • It also serves as an exhortation to the readers (Bhavya) to cherish and protect this pure Samyak-tva, just as they would their own child, to achieve ultimate peace.

In essence, "Sampratinrup Charitram" is a eulogy of King Samprati, portraying him as an ideal Jain ruler whose life exemplified righteousness, compassion, and unwavering devotion to the Jain faith, contributing significantly to its propagation and establishment. The inclusion of the Chanakya-Chandragupta narrative adds a broader historical and political context to the Jain narrative.