Tirthankar Mahavira Part 1 - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of "Tirthankar Mahavira Part 1" by Jainacharya Shri Vijayendrasuri, published by Kashinath Sarak, Mumbai, in 1960. The book delves into the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Jain Tirthankar, from a deeply scholarly and historical perspective, referencing numerous Jain and other ancient Indian texts.

Key Themes and Content:

The book is structured into various sections, each exploring a different facet of Jain cosmology, history, and the life of Lord Mahavir and other Tirthankaras.

1. Cosmology and Time:

Geography: The text begins by explaining the Jain cosmological view of the universe, describing the arrangement of continents (dvipa) and oceans (samudra), starting with Jambu Island. It details the dimensions and characteristics of these realms according to Jain scriptures.
Time Cycles (Kalachakra): A significant portion is dedicated to the Jain concept of time, divided into two half-cycles: Avsarpini (descending, time of decline) and Utsarpini (ascending, time of progress). Each half-cycle is further divided into six stages (aras), detailing the gradual decline or ascent in lifespan, physical stature, strength, happiness, and moral qualities of beings. The book elaborates on each of these six stages:
- Susham-Susham (extremely pleasant)
- Susham (pleasant)
- Susham-Dusham (pleasant-unpleasant)
- Dusham-Susham (unpleasant-pleasant)
- Dusham (unpleasant)
- Dusham-Dusham (extremely unpleasant) It also discusses the intricate Jain system of time calculation, involving various units like Samay, Avali, Muhurta, and the colossal Palyopam and Sagaropam.

2. The First Tirthankar: Rishabhdev:

The book establishes the antiquity of Jainism by referencing Rishabhdev, the first Tirthankar of this era, as mentioned in Vedic and Puranic scriptures like the Shrimad Bhagavatam and the Rigveda. It highlights how these texts acknowledge Rishabhdev, even as they later sometimes became critical of Jainism.
It discusses the establishment of the Varna system and the origin of Brahmins, attributing it to the first Chakravarti Bharat, son of Rishabhdev, as per Jain traditions.

3. The 23rd Tirthankar: Parshvanath:

The text provides details about Lord Parshvanath, the Tirthankar immediately preceding Mahavir. It discusses his birth in Varanasi, his parents (King Ashvasena and Queen Vamadevi), and the prophecy of his birth through his mother's dreams.
A significant event recounted is Parshvanath's encounter with the ascetic Kamatha who was performing penance amidst five fires. Parshvanath's compassion leads him to save a serpent, Dharanendra, from being burnt, who later assists him.
It details his renunciation, asceticism, and the attainment of Keval Gyan (omniscience). The book also lists his four main disciples (Ganadharas).

4. Lord Mahavir's Life and Context:

Mahavir's Birthplace and Early Life: The book extensively discusses the geographical location of Mahavir's birth, exploring various historical and archaeological findings and scholarly opinions on Vaishali and Kundalpur. It meticulously analyzes the Jain scriptures' descriptions of Kundalpur, its division into Kshatriya-kund and Brahmana-kund, and its location within the ancient Vedeha region, which was part of Aryadesha. It refutes claims that Mahavir's birthplace was Liuchhad.
Mythological Accounts and Miracles: The text delves into the mythological aspects surrounding Mahavir's birth, including the divine intervention of Harinegamesi (identified with Vedic 'Nigamesha' or 'Nagamesha') in transferring the embryo from Devānanda's womb to Trishala's womb. It discusses the fourteen auspicious dreams seen by both Devānanda and Trishala and their interpretations.
The Name "Vardhaman" and "Mahavir": The book explains the origin of Mahavir's birth name Vardhaman, meaning "increasing" due to the prosperity that befell his family upon his conception. It also recounts the story of how he earned the name Mahavir (Great Hero) after displaying extraordinary strength and courage in a game, impressing even the gods.
Education and Marriage: It details Mahavir's education and his eventual marriage to Yashoda, emphasizing that marriage was a part of his worldly life, chosen to fulfill his parents' wishes.
The Great Renunciation (Mahabhinishkraman): The book vividly describes Mahavir's renunciation of worldly life at the age of 30, after the passing of his parents. It details the elaborate procession and the divine participation in his consecration, followed by his austere asceticism.
Ascetic Life and Ordeals (Upsarga): A substantial part of the narrative focuses on Mahavir's twelve and a half years of severe asceticism and the numerous ordeals (upsarga) he endured. These include physical hardships, harassment from beings (gods, humans, animals), and mental torments, all of which he faced with equanimity and non-violence. The book mentions specific instances like the encounters with the Yaksha Shulapani, the serpent Chandakoushika, and the challenges posed by the mischievous god Sangamaka.
Gaining Keval Gyan: The text describes the process and location of Mahavir's attainment of Keval Gyan (omniscience) under a Shal tree in the village of Jrimbhikagram, near the river Rjupaluka, after thirteen months of intense meditation and fasting.
The Ganadharas: The book introduces Mahavir's eleven chief disciples, the Ganadharas, listing their names, parentage, lineage, birthplaces, initial doubts, and their subsequent conversion and initiation into the monastic order. It provides detailed philosophical discussions with prominent figures like Indrabhuti, Agnibhuti, and Vayubhuti, resolving their doubts about the nature of the soul, karma, and the existence of God.
Philosophical Debates and Teachings: The book elaborates on the various philosophical schools prevalent during Mahavir's time, such as Kriyavada, Akriyavada, Ajnanavada, and Vinayavada, as mentioned in Jain scriptures. It highlights Mahavir's debates with proponents of these views, resolving their misconceptions and establishing the validity of the Jain path.
Social and Religious Environment: The text contextualizes Mahavir's life within the socio-religious landscape of ancient India, referencing Vedic and Buddhist texts to provide a comparative perspective on the understanding of geography, social structures, and religious practices. It discusses the worship of various deities like Indra, Skanda, Rudra, Shiva, Vishnu, Nagas, and Yakshas.

Key Contributions and Approach:

Scholarly Rigor: The author, Acharya Vijayendrasuri, demonstrates extensive knowledge of Jain Agamas and other ancient Indian religious and philosophical literature. The book is heavily footnoted with references to specific scriptures, commentators, and authors.
Historical and Archaeological Emphasis: The book attempts to reconcile scriptural accounts with historical and archaeological evidence, particularly concerning the locations of Mahavir's life events.
Refutation of Misconceptions: The author addresses and refutes various misconceptions about Jainism, its history, and the life of Mahavir, particularly those originating from misinterpretations or biased accounts.
Comprehensive Bibliography: The book includes an extensive list of "Sahayak Granth" (Reference Books), encompassing Jain canonical works, commentaries, and works from Vedic, Buddhist, and other Indian traditions, as well as modern scholarly research. This demonstrates the depth of the author's research.
Focus on Clarity: Despite the complexity of the subject matter, the author strives to present the information in a clear and understandable manner for the reader.

Overall:

"Tirthankar Mahavira Part 1" is a seminal work for anyone seeking a detailed and authoritative understanding of Lord Mahavir and the foundational principles of Jainism. It is a testament to the author's dedication to preserving and illuminating Jain heritage through rigorous scholarship. The book serves as a vital resource for understanding the historical, philosophical, and cosmological dimensions of Jainism.