Sankshipta Jain Mahabharat

Here's a comprehensive summary of the "Sankshipta Jain Mahabharat" by Professor Prakash Chandra Jain, based on the provided text:

Book Title: Sankshipta Jain Mahabharat (Concise Jain Mahabharata) Author: Professor Prakash Chandra Jain Publisher: Keladevi Sumtiprasad Trust, Delhi ISBN: 81-85781-87-7 First Edition: 2014

Core Concept and Sources: The "Sankshipta Jain Mahabharat" is a concise yet highly valuable work that presents the Jain perspective on the epic Mahabharata narrative. Its compilation is based on three significant Jain Puranas:

• Pandav Purana: Authored by Shrimad Bhaddarak Shubhchandra Swami.
• Harivansh Purana: Authored by Acharya Shri Jinsen Swami.
• Uttar Purana: Authored by Acharya Shri Gunbhadra Swami.

The author, Professor Prakash Chandra Jain, has organized this complex narrative into 21 chapters, truly embodying the idiom " गागर में सागर" (a drop encompassing the ocean).

Content Overview: The book provides detailed accounts of the lives of several significant figures, integrating them within the broader Jain worldview:

• Tirthankaras: The lives of Tirthankaras Shantinath, Kunthunath, Arhanath, Munisuvratnath, and Neminath are presented.
• Mahabharata Characters: The narratives of the Kauravas, Pandavas, Lord Krishna (Narayan), and Baldev (Balbhadra) are meticulously depicted.
• Key Figures: The lives of prominent characters such as Vasudeva, Pradyumna, Guru Drona, and Gangeya (Bhishma Pitamah) are illuminated with significant details.
• Genealogies and Origins: The book traces the origins of the Kuru, Hari, and Yadu dynasties, explaining their lineage starting from the first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhdev, up to the time of Lord Mahavir Swami.
• Key Events and Themes: The text elaborates on:
  • The greed-driven actions of the Kauravas that led them to oppress the Pandavas.
  • The Pandavas' virtuous endurance of the Kauravas' atrocities and their hardships during exile.
  • The ultimate battle and the Pandavas' victory.
  • Specific Jain interpretations of events, such as the detailed descriptions of the Kuru and Hari lineages.
  • The book also includes descriptions of eight forms of "Panch Stri-Purush Krida" (romantic interactions) as found in Jain scriptures.
  • It highlights the importance of righteousness, dharma, and renunciation in the lives of these characters.

Author's Approach and Dedication: Professor Prakash Chandra Jain emphasizes that his work is a compilation and re-narration of the material found in the aforementioned Puranas. He expresses deep gratitude to the original authors and translators. The book is dedicated to the holy feet of revered Jain monks such as Acharya Shri Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj, Acharya Shri Viragsagar Ji Maharaj, and others. The author welcomes feedback and suggestions for improvement in future editions.

Key Takeaways and Significance: The "Sankshipta Jain Mahabharat" offers a unique Jain perspective on a universally known epic, highlighting the principles of ahimsa (non-violence), renunciation, karma, and the path to liberation as central themes. It demonstrates how Jain scriptures interpret historical and mythological narratives, emphasizing spiritual growth and ethical conduct. The book serves as a valuable resource for understanding the philosophical and moral underpinnings of Jainism within the context of the Mahabharata. It is considered a readable and collectible work for those interested in Jain literature and philosophy.