Shraman Bhagvana Mahavira Part 3

This Jain text, "Shraman Bhagavana Mahavira Part 3," authored by Muni Ratnaprabhvijaya and D.P. Thaker, published by Parimal Publications, is a significant work within Jain philosophy and history. This particular volume, Volume III, focuses on the concept of "Ganadhara-vada," which delves into discussions between Lord Mahavira and his eleven principal disciples, the Ganadharas.

The text meticulously outlines the lineage, names, and other details of Mahavira's eleven Ganadharas, presenting them in a table format. The core of the text is the "Ganadharavada" itself, which summarizes the philosophical and doctrinal discussions that took place between Mahavira and each of his Ganadharas. These discussions address fundamental Jain tenets, including:

• Jiva (Soul): The existence, nature, and properties of the soul are explained, refuting opposing views from other philosophical schools. The text highlights the soul's distinctness from the body, its incorporeal nature, and its capacity for consciousness.
• Karma: The existence and significance of karma are established, explaining it as deeds from past lives that influence present experiences. Karma is described as having a corporeal nature, forming a subtle body that accompanies the soul.
• Relationship between Soul and Body: The text clarifies that consciousness is an intrinsic quality of the soul, not the body. It argues against the identity of soul and body, using analogies to illustrate their distinctness.
• Existence of Elements (Bhutas): The text validates the existence of elements, explaining how they contribute to the formation of the universe and the bodies of living beings. It also discusses the animate nature of the first four elements (earth, water, fire, air) and the incorporeal nature of ether.
• Identity of Existence: The text refutes the idea that life in two existences is identical, explaining that rebirth is dependent on individual karmas, leading to diverse experiences.
• Bandha and Moksha (Bondage and Liberation): The concepts of bondage to karma and ultimate liberation are explained. Liberation is described as the complete shedding of karmic matter from the soul, leading to a pure, eternal, and blissful state.
• Existence of Devas and Naraka (Gods and Hellish Beings): The text provides arguments for the existence of divine and hellish beings, often citing their presence during significant events in a Tirthankara's life and inferring their existence from the balance of happiness and unhappiness in the world.
• Punya and Papa (Merit and Demerit): The text discusses various theories on the existence of punya and papa, ultimately establishing them as distinct entities that act as causes for pleasure and pain, respectively. It clarifies that punya and papa are not mere actions (kriya) but the consequences (karya) of actions.

The introduction also touches upon the author Jinabhadra Gani Kṣamāśramaṇa, his life, works, and date, highlighting his significant contribution to interpreting and clarifying Jain scriptures in a logical and appealing manner. He is recognized for his scholarship and his role in solidifying the influence of Jain Agamas.

In essence, "Shraman Bhagavana Mahavira Part 3: Ganadhara-vada" provides a comprehensive summary of pivotal Jain philosophical discussions, focusing on the core doctrines of soul, karma, the relationship between the material and spiritual realms, and the ultimate goal of liberation, all framed within the context of Lord Mahavira's teachings to his enlightened disciples.