Sant Tukaram

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sant Tukaram" by Sastu Sahityavardhak Karyalay, based on the provided content.

The book is a biographical account of Sant Tukaram, a revered saint and poet from Maharashtra, India. It details his life, teachings, and spiritual journey, emphasizing his significant contribution to the Bhakti tradition and the Varkari Sampradaya.

Key aspects covered in the book:

• Introduction and Context: The book begins by drawing a parallel between Sant Tukaram's importance in Maharashtra and Narsinh Mehta's in Gujarat, highlighting the spiritual joy derived from singing Tukaram's Abhangs (devotional poems). It mentions that this Gujarati translation is based on a Hindi translation of the original Marathi work, making it accessible to a wider audience.
• Early Life and Family: Tukaram was born in the 17th century in Dehu, a village on the banks of the Indrayani river. His father, Boloba, was a merchant, and his mother, Kankai, was devoted to Lord Vitthal. He had two brothers, Savji and Kanhoba. His early childhood was filled with joy and participation in games.
• Marriage and Family Hardships: Tukaram was married at a young age. His first wife, Rakhumai, died young, and he was then married to Jijai. He experienced significant personal and financial losses, including the deaths of his parents and the departure of his brother. His business faced ruin, leading to debt and public humiliation. These hardships contributed to his growing detachment from worldly life.
• Spiritual Awakening and Vairagya (Detachment): The accumulated suffering and loss triggered a deep sense of detachment (vairagya) in Tukaram. He found solace and purpose in the spiritual path. He renounced his worldly possessions and dedicated himself to the worship of Lord Vitthal.
• The Varkari Sampradaya: The book explains the principles of the Varkari Sampradaya, a devotional sect prevalent in Maharashtra. It emphasizes the worship of Lord Vitthal, study of scriptures like the Bhagavad Gita and Bhagavata Purana, unwavering devotion (Abheda Bhakti), continuous chanting of the Lord's name, and respect for saints and cows. Tukaram's life and teachings were deeply rooted in this tradition.
• Study of Scriptures and Guru's Grace: Despite lacking formal schooling, Tukaram was a profound scholar of religious texts, particularly the Bhagavad Gita and Bhagavata Purana. These scriptures formed the foundation of his spiritual understanding and influenced his poetic works. He received spiritual guidance, reportedly in a dream, from a Guru, Babaji Chaitanya, and also from Namdev, which spurred his poetic inspiration.
• Purification of the Mind (Manashuddhi): Tukaram actively worked on purifying his mind, overcoming desires, ego, and attachment to wealth and women. He believed that true spiritual progress required control over the mind and senses. He advocated for detachment from worldly pleasures and the pursuit of the eternal.
• Devotion to Vitthal: Tukaram's devotion to Lord Vitthal (a form of Krishna) was intense and personal. He saw Vitthal not just as an idol but as a living, accessible deity. His devotional poems (Abhangs) often depict his longing for direct communion with Vitthal, his playful interactions, and his deep emotional connection.
• Saguṇa Sākṣātkār (Realization of the Formless as Form): The book describes Tukaram's fervent desire for the direct vision of God. It recounts an incident where a Brahmin, Rameshwar Bhatt, challenged his teachings and forced him to immerse his Abhangs in the river. However, Lord Vitthal miraculously retrieved the manuscripts and revealed himself to Tukaram, confirming his devotion and validating his spiritual path. This event further solidified his faith and status.
• Teachings and "Meghavṛṣṭi" (Rainfall of Teachings): Tukaram's teachings, referred to as "Meghavr̥ṣṭi," were like rainfall, equally benefiting all. He did not claim to be a guru in the conventional sense but spoke under divine inspiration. His teachings emphasized simple living, devotion, ethical conduct, and the importance of the Lord's name. He advised people to take what resonates with them from his diverse teachings, akin to a farmer selecting the best seeds.
• Virtuous Living and Social Commentary: Tukaram's Abhangs offer profound insights into righteous living, societal critique, and practical wisdom. He emphasized virtues like honesty, compassion, contentment, and selfless service. He also addressed societal issues and hypocrisy, advocating for genuine spiritual practice over outward show.
• Satsang (Good Company): He valued the company of fellow devotees and saints, recognizing its importance in spiritual growth and the deepening of devotion. He actively participated in Kirtans (devotional singing and discourse).
• Disciples and Legacy: Tukaram inspired a large following, including many disciples who continued his spiritual mission. The book mentions prominent disciples like Mahadaji Pant Kulkarni, Gangaram Mawal, Santaji Teli, Mahadaji Karde, Malaji Gade, Kanhoba, Mahadaji Pant Chikhlikar, Kedao Pant Lohkare, Rameshwar Bhatt, Shivba Kasar, Navji Mali, Avaji Pant Lohagaonkar, Kanha Patil, Kashwar Bandh, Bahinabai, Ambaji, and Niloba. Bahinabai's Abhangs are highlighted for providing valuable insights into Tukaram's life and teachings.
• Jijai, His Wife: The book also touches upon the life of Jijai, Tukaram's second wife, acknowledging her role and sacrifices in supporting his spiritual journey, despite the challenges and her own difficulties in adapting to his renunciation.
• Ascension to Vaikuntha (Heaven): The book concludes with the miraculous event of Tukaram's bodily ascension to Vaikuntha (heaven) at the end of his life, a testament to his elevated spiritual state. This event is celebrated annually in Dehu.

In essence, "Sant Tukaram" is a detailed exploration of the life and spiritual legacy of a saint who transformed personal suffering into universal wisdom, advocating for devotion, ethical conduct, and the transformative power of the Lord's name. The book aims to inspire readers with his life story and teachings, highlighting his enduring influence on spiritual and cultural life in India.