Shrenik Charitra Bhasha

This text is the Gujarati language translation of the "Shrenik Charitra Bhasha" (The Life of Shrenik), originally authored in Sanskrit by Bhattarak Shubhchandra and translated into Gujarati by Pandit Gajadhar Nyayashastri. It was published by Moolchand Kisandas Kapadia in 1914.

The book chronicles the life of King Shrenik (also known as Seniya Bimbisar), a prominent Jain monarch, and his journey. The preface emphasizes the importance of selfless and philanthropic actions in achieving immortality through one's name and deeds. It highlights Shrenik's crucial role in the preservation and spread of Jainism during the current era (Pancham Kal).

The text provides a detailed account of:

• King Shrenik's Lineage and Times: It establishes Shrenik's contemporaneity with Lord Mahavir, placing him approximately 2440 years after Mahavir's Nirvana. It also touches upon a legend connecting Shrenik to Chandragupta.
• The Author and Translator: It introduces Bhattarak Shubhchandra as the original author and Pandit Gajadhar Nyayashastri as the translator. It also mentions the lineage of scholars and monks associated with the tradition, tracing back to Bhagvat Kundkund.
• Bhattarak Shubhchandra's Works: The text lists several other works attributed to Shubhchandra, indicating his prolific literary contributions to Jainism.
• King Shrenik's Life Events: The book is structured into fifteen chapters detailing various significant events in Shrenik's life, including:
  • His ascension to the throne.
  • His entry into Rajagriha.
  • His expulsion from Rajagriha.
  • His marriage to Kumari Nandashri.
  • His attainment of the kingdom.
  • The arrival of Prince Abhay in Rajagriha.
  • Abhaykumar's intelligence.
  • His marriage to Chellana.
  • His encounter with Muni Raj.
  • Stories related to mental, verbal, and bodily restraint.
  • The attainment of Kshayik Samyakdarshan (a state of perfect right faith).
  • Miracles performed by gods.
  • The journey of Shrenik, Chellana, and others after their passing.
  • The Five Kalyanaks (auspicious events) of the future Tirthankar Padmanabha.
• Theological and Philosophical Concepts: The text elaborates on Jain philosophy, discussing the seven tattvas (soul, non-soul, influx, bondage, stoppage, liberation, and soul's liberation) and the importance of right faith, conduct, and knowledge. It also touches upon concepts like karma, rebirth, and the path to liberation.
• Moral and Ethical Teachings: Throughout the narrative, emphasis is placed on virtues such as truthfulness, non-violence, compassion, charity, restraint, and the detrimental effects of anger, ego, greed, and delusion.

Essentially, "Shrenik Charitra Bhasha" serves as a devotional and educational text, aiming to inspire readers by the exemplary life of King Shrenik, promoting adherence to Jain principles and ethical conduct.