Samru Pal Pal Survrat Nam - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Samru Pal Pal Survrat Nam" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Samru Pal Pal Survrat Nam (Remembering the Name of the Virtuous Moment by Moment) Author: Shilchandrasuri (also referred to as Vijayshilchandrasuri and Shilachandravijay) Publisher: Shri Bhadrakaroday Shikshan Trust, Godhra Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/001173/1

Overall Summary:

"Samru Pal Pal Survrat Nam" is a Gujarati narrative that recounts the life story of the 20th Jain Tirthankar, Lord Munisuvrat Swami. The book is presented as a free interpretation and elaboration of the original work by Acharya Shri Shrichandrasuri Maharaj from the 12th century, which was composed in Prakrit verses (Gathas). The author, Shilchandrasuri, clarifies that this is not a direct translation but a "free conceptual translation" (mukt bhavanuvad), adding about ten percent to clarify and enhance the narrative while remaining faithful to the original intent. The work aims to present the life of Lord Munisuvrat Swami in a way that is both historically rich and engaging for the modern reader, incorporating elements of literary storytelling while upholding the philosophical and scientific underpinnings of Jainism.

Key Figures and Narratives:

The book is structured into several chapters, each detailing specific events and characters in the cosmic and human life of Lord Munisuvrat Swami and his preceding and succeeding lives. The primary narratives covered in the provided pages include:

Introduction and Author's Note (Pages 5-6): The author, Shilchandrasuri, introduces the book as an adaptation of Acharya Shrichandrasuri's work. He highlights that the original text contained around eleven thousand verses and explains his approach to presenting the narrative, omitting some parts for flow but remaining faithful to the original. He emphasizes the literary quality of some sections, comparing them to historical novels, and also acknowledges the author's expertise in geographical and cosmological texts. The author mentions the inspiration for the Gujarati version came from devotees in Karelibaug, Vadodara, during a Chaturmas lecture series.
Shiveketu (Pages 10-19): This section narrates the story of Shiveketu, the son of Purohit Vishwabhuti and Vishwadatta. Despite being born into a religious family, Shiveketu experiences neglect and disdain from both his parents for reasons unknown to him. He finds solace and acceptance among his peers at the monastic school. A significant event is when Shiveketu intervenes to save a Jain monk from an attack by his Brahmin classmates, who were indoctrinated with anti-Jain sentiments. Shiveketu's innate compassion and adherence to righteousness are evident here. Later, Shiveketu encounters the same monk who explains the karmic reasons for his parents' behavior, tracing it back to a past life where Shiveketu wronged his brother out of jealousy. This leads to Shiveketu seeking and eventually being granted initiation (diksha) by the monk.
Kuberadatta (Pages 45-62): This chapter details the story of Kuberadatta, who is presented as a soul on its path to becoming a Tirthankar.
- Previous Life (Shiveketu): Kuberadatta is identified as the rebirth of Shiveketu, who, after his diksha and virtuous life, attained a heavenly abode.
- Birth in Vishvapur: In the city of Vishvapur, King Vishwakant and Queen Vishwakanta, childless and devoted, worship Kuber Yaksha and are blessed with a son named Kuberadatta.
- Early Life and Jain Dharma: Kuberadatta displays an innate inclination towards Jainism, visiting temples and seeking knowledge from monks. He eventually becomes a devoted lay follower (shravak).
- Military Campaign: The narrative then shifts to a military conflict where Kuberadatta, as Yuvaraj, leads an army against the rebellious King Parbal Singh and the King of Khasdesh. Displaying strategic brilliance and compassion, Kuberadatta achieves victory without excessive bloodshed. He demonstrates remarkable leadership and diplomacy by winning over his enemies through kindness and understanding.
Vajkundala (Pages 70-98): This section narrates the life of Vajkundala, another significant soul in the Tirthankar lineage.
- Previous Life (Kuberadatta): Vajkundala is identified as the rebirth of Kuberadatta, who attained a heavenly existence after his virtuous life.
- Birth in Gandhamadanpur: Born in Gandhamadanpur, he is the son of King Vajnabhi and Queen Shubhavati.
- Extraordinary Birth Signs: Queen Shubhavati dreams of Indra presenting her with a Vajra-Kundala (a jewel earring), symbolizing the extraordinary nature of her child.
- Royal Life and Jainism: Raised in a pious environment, Vajkundala shows a natural inclination towards Jainism.
- Conflict and Resolution: The story touches upon his military prowess and diplomatic skills, echoing themes of leadership and righteousness.
Shrivarma (Pages 136-198): This chapter recounts the life of Shrivarma, a soul destined for greatness.
- Previous Life (Vajkundala): Shrivarma is the rebirth of Vajkundala, who attained a heavenly life.
- Birth in Chandrapur: Born as the son of King Narpungav and Queen Punyashri in Chandrapur, Shrivarma displays exceptional intelligence and virtuous qualities from a young age.
- Education and Character: He excels in his studies, demonstrating sharp intellect and a deep understanding of philosophy. His humility and respect for elders are highlighted.
- Marriage and Family: He marries Princess Vasantsri and later, due to circumstances involving his father's initial reluctance and then the unfolding of destiny, he marries eight other princesses. He also has a son named Prataapadev.
- Renunciation: Eventually, influenced by his father's spiritual path and his own growing detachment from worldly pleasures, Shrivarma takes diksha and embarks on a spiritual journey, ultimately attaining liberation.
Shri Munisuvrat Swami (Pages 266-318): This is the central narrative focusing on the life of the 20th Tirthankar, Lord Munisuvrat Swami.
- Previous Lives and Ascendancy: The narrative traces his soul's journey through various lives, including Shiveketu, Kuberadatta, Vajkundala, and Shrivarma, highlighting the development of virtues and karmic preparation for Tirthankarhood.
- Royal Birth and Early Life: Born as Prince Sumitra (son of King Sumitra and Queen Padmavati) in Kushagrapur, his birth is marked by auspicious dreams and celestial events. His exceptional qualities and knowledge are evident from infancy.
- Diksha and Spiritual Practices: At the age of seven and a half thousand years, Prince Sumitra takes diksha, renouncing worldly life. He undertakes severe penances and austerities, including prolonged fasts and selfless service (vaiyavachhya).
- Keval Gyan and Spiritual Ministry: He attains Keval Gyan (omniscience) and begins his ministry, preaching the Jain dharma to all beings. His teachings emphasize non-violence (ahimsa), truthfulness, non-stealing, celibacy, and non-possession.
- Influence and Impact: Lord Munisuvrat Swami's teachings bring about an era of peace and prosperity, transforming individuals and society. His influence extends to all realms of existence, including celestial beings.
- Nirvana (Moksha): After a long and virtuous life, Lord Munisuvrat Swami attains Nirvana, becoming a Siddha, an liberated soul. His life serves as an ultimate example of spiritual evolution and enlightenment.

Themes and Significance:

Karmic Journey: The text strongly emphasizes the Jain concept of karma, showing how actions in past lives influence present circumstances, particularly in the context of spiritual evolution.
Virtue and Righteousness: The lives of the characters, especially the Tirthankar, exemplify the practice of virtues like compassion, non-violence, truthfulness, and devotion.
Spiritual Transformation: The narrative illustrates the soul's journey through various rebirths, culminating in spiritual liberation (moksha).
Literary and Spiritual Value: The book aims to blend literary artistry with spiritual teachings, making the complex philosophy of Jainism accessible and engaging.

Publication Details:

First Edition: V.S. 2055 (1999 CE), during the birth centenary year of Acharya Shri Vijaynandan Surishwarji Maharaj.
Price: Rs. 100.

This summary encapsulates the essence of the provided text, highlighting the life of Lord Munisuvrat Swami and the interconnectedness of his past lives, as presented by Shilchandrasuri.