Shripal Charitra

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shripal Charitra" by Jaybhikkhu, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Shripal Charitra Author: Jaybhikkhu Publisher: Shrutgyan Prasarak Sabha Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/002062/1

This book, "Shripal Charitra," is presented as the second series in the "Jain Darshan-Parichay Shreni" (Jain Philosophy Introduction Series). The aim is to provide a genuine understanding of Jain philosophy in a simple and fluid style, introducing its various aspects and the great personalities who shaped their lives through this eternal philosophy. The publisher expresses a goal to publish fifty such books. The publication is supported by Mr. U.N. Mehta of Torrent Laboratories and institutions like Shwetambar Murti Pujak Jain Boarding.

The introduction highlights the current need for a true understanding of religious principles, as religion is sometimes confined to rigid rituals and traditions, or used for selfish purposes. The series aims to showcase the lives of exemplary individuals and the values of humanity, hoping it will be well-received, especially after the positive reception of the first series.

Core Message and Purpose:

The author emphasizes the importance of reading and reflecting on the lives of great men (uttam purush) to find role models for self-improvement. He specifically recommends three characters for every Jain household: Pathadkumar Charitra, Dhanyakumar Charitra, and Shripal Charitra. These stories are seen as guiding principles for living a life that avoids accumulating new negative karma, even in times of adversity. Shripal Charitra is presented as one such essential text that should be present in every Jain home, encouraging personal reading, reading to others, and gifting it to guests.

The Story of Shripal Charitra:

The narrative begins in Ujjaini, a city in the Malav country, ruled by King Prajapal. He has two beautiful daughters, Sur Sundari and Mayana Sundari. They are highly educated and skilled in arts and sciences.

King Prajapal's Test:

The king decides to test his daughters' intellect and announces a reward for the pandits. He poses a riddle to his daughters: "What is the sign of life? Who is Kamadeva's wife? What is the best flower? What is dear after marriage? The answer must be given in a single word."

• Sur Sundari's Answer: She cleverly answers, using the single word "sasare jay" (going to her in-laws). "Sa" for "Shwas" (breath, the sign of life), "re" for "Rati" (Kamadeva's wife), "ja" for "Jaai" (Jasmine, a flower), and "y" for the inclination of a daughter to go to her in-laws after marriage.
• The King's Pride: Delighted, the king praises Sur Sundari. He then asks a more profound question: "What is obtained through merit (punya)?" Sur Sundari replies that merit brings wealth, youth, beauty, and beloved companions.
• Mayana Sundari's Wisdom: The king then asks a second riddle to Mayana Sundari: "Tell me a three-letter word. If the first letter is removed, the remaining two bring life to the world. If the middle letter is removed, it destroys the world. If the last letter is removed, it becomes dear to all." Mayana Sundari answers "Kaajal" (kohl). Removing 'Ka' leaves 'ajal' (water), essential for life. Removing 'Ja' leaves 'kal' (destruction). Removing 'L' leaves 'Kaj' (work), which is dear.
• Mayana Sundari's Humility: The king then asks about merit again. Sur Sundari repeats her answer. Mayana, however, states that true merit leads to wealth earned through justice, youth through dharma, a body adorned with chastity, and guidance from virtuous gurus.

The King's Anger and Mayana Sundari's Fate:

The king, filled with pride, boasts about his power. Sur Sundari's answer pleases him. However, Mayana Sundari's humble and wise reply, gently admonishing his pride, angers him. In his rage, he declares that Sur Sundari will be married to a suitable prince with great fanfare, while Mayana Sundari will be married off to someone "blind and crippled" and cast out of his sight.

The Marriage to Umbar Rana and Shripal's Birth:

Despite the town's disapproval, the king marries Mayana Sundari to Umbar Rana, the king of the seven hundred lepers. This is presented as a consequence of Mayana Sundari's truthful words that angered her father.

The story then shifts to Shripal's birth. His father, King Simharath of Champanagari, dies. His uncle, Ajitsen, usurps the throne and orders Shripal's death. Shripal's mother, Queen Kamalprabha, flees with the young prince to save him. She encounters the lepers and entrusts Shripal to their care, knowing he will likely contract leprosy but at least survive.

Mayana Sundari's Devotion and the Power of Navpad:

Shripal grows up as a leper, and Mayana Sundari remains devoted to him. She seeks advice from a sage, who tells her about the power of the Navpad (nine sacred syllables/entities) and the Siddhachakra worship. The sage explains the significance of each of the nine pads: Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu, Darshan, Gyan, Charitra, and Tap. He instructs her on how to perform the ritual worship and fasting associated with Navpad.

Mayana Sundari and Shripal diligently perform the Navpad worship. This leads to their miraculous transformation: Shripal's leprosy is cured, and he regains his divine radiance. The seven hundred lepers accompanying them are also cured.

Return and Reconciliation:

Shripal and Mayana Sundari return to Ujjaini. The king, who had previously banished Mayana Sundari, is astonished to see his daughter and his son-in-law, who is now a divine prince. Mayana explains that her husband is the same leprosy-afflicted person, and their salvation is due to their devotion to the Navpad. The king, overjoyed, reunites with his daughter and son-in-law.

Shripal's Journeys and Adventures:

• Quest for Self-Identity: Shripal feels that his fame is derived from his father-in-law. He desires to establish his own identity through his own achievements. With his mother's and wife's blessings, he embarks on a journey.
• Acquiring Knowledge: He encounters sages in a forest who impart magical knowledge to him, including the ability to cross oceans and a shield that acts as a sword.
• Merchant Dhavalray and the Ships: Shripal arrives in Bharuch and meets the merchant Dhavalray. Dhavalray's ships are stalled. Shripal, using his Navpad devotion, propels the ships forward. Dhavalray, impressed, hires Shripal.
• Adventures at Sea and in Barbar Desh: Shripal travels with Dhavalray, facing various challenges. In Barbar Desh, Dhavalray's arrogance leads to conflict with the local king, resulting in his defeat and capture. Shripal, with his prowess and adherence to dharma, defeats the Barbar king, rescues Dhavalray, and gains wealth and a new wife.
• The Jewel Island and the Challenge: Shripal encounters a king who offers his daughter's hand to anyone who can open a sealed temple. Shripal, invoking the Navpad, successfully opens the temple and marries the princess.
• Dhavalray's Treachery: Dhavalray, consumed by envy, plots Shripal's demise. He attempts to push Shripal overboard, but Shripal survives due to his spiritual power and lands on a different shore.
• The Princess of Kundalpur: Shripal encounters Princess Guṇasundari, who is renowned for her singing. He wins her in a musical competition, demonstrating his own skill and humility.
• Return to Ujjaini and Reconciliation with Uncle: Shripal returns to his mother and wife, Mayana Sundari, in Ujjaini. He learns about his uncle, Ajitsen, who had usurped his kingdom. Shripal defeats his uncle in battle and generously forgives him, leading to his uncle's renunciation and Shripal's rightful claim to the throne.
• Shripal's Reign: Shripal becomes a just and benevolent ruler, upholding dharma and the principles of Navpad. His reign is marked by prosperity and peace.

The Significance of Navpad:

The text repeatedly emphasizes the power of the Navpad (Siddhachakra) worship. It is portrayed as a means to overcome all obstacles, cure diseases, gain spiritual and material prosperity, and ultimately achieve liberation. The detailed explanation of the nine pads and their associated practices highlights their central role in Jain spiritual life.

Illustrations:

The book includes a "Chitra Vibhag" (Illustration Section) with numerous pictures depicting scenes from Shripal's life, further enhancing the narrative and its visual appeal. These illustrations likely depict key events such as Shripal's miraculous healing, his voyages, battles, and interactions with various characters.

In essence, "Shripal Charitra" is an inspiring Jain tale that underscores the importance of virtue, devotion, and the powerful spiritual practices of the Navpad in overcoming adversity and achieving a righteous life. It serves as a moral and spiritual guide for devotees.