Tribhuvan Prakash Mahavir Dev - Book Summary

Based on the provided Gujarati text, here's a comprehensive summary in English of the book "Tribhuvan Prakash Mahavir Dev" by Pt. Chandrashekharvijay, published by Kamal Prakashan Trust:

Book Title: Tribhuvan Prakash Mahavir Dev (Light of the Three Worlds: Lord Mahavir) Author: Pt. Chandrashekharvijay Publisher: Kamal Prakashan Trust

Overall Theme: This book is a comprehensive narrative and contemplation of the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir, the 24th Tirthankar of the current era (Avasarpini kal). The author, Pt. Chandrashekharvijay, aims to present Mahavir's life in a way that reveals profound spiritual and philosophical principles, making them relevant to modern readers. The book is written in Gujarati and delves into the spiritual essence of Mahavir's journey and his impact on individuals and the world.

Structure and Content:

The book is divided into five main sections (Khand):

Khand 1: Sansksepa mein samagra jeevancharitra (Concise Whole Biography) This section provides a summarized account of Lord Mahavir's entire life, highlighting his key attributes and transformations:

Viragmurti (Embodiment of Detachment): Focuses on his early life, the beginnings of his detachment from worldly pleasures.
Auchitya ne aradhak (Worshipper of Appropriateness/Propriety): Discusses his adherence to right conduct and proper behavior.
Udaseenta magan bhayi (Lost in Equanimity): Details his state of equanimity and detachment.
Mahel jeel bane chhe (The Palace Becomes a Prison): Depicts his realization of the futility of worldly possessions and the confinement of palace life.
Moh nu kalo kapat (The Black Deceit of Attachment): Explores the illusion and pitfalls of attachment.
Mahabhinishkraman na panthe (On the Path of Great Renunciation): Describes his departure from worldly life.
Vikas nu maha abhiyan (The Great Campaign of Development): Refers to his spiritual growth and the dissemination of his teachings.
Purusharthmurti (Embodiment of Effort/Prowess): Highlights his determination and efforts in spiritual practice.
Karunamurti (Embodiment of Compassion): Emphasizes his profound compassion for all living beings.
Pararthmurti (Embodiment of Altruism): Focuses on his selfless service to others.
Sachhidanand murti (Embodiment of Pure Bliss): Describes his ultimate state of spiritual bliss and knowledge.

Khand 2: Sadhana-kaal (Period of Austerity/Spiritual Practice) This section focuses on the period of Lord Mahavir's intense spiritual austerities and the notable figures he encountered during this phase:

Abhay; Shramanya Vardhaman: His self-reliance and spiritual strength as Shramana Vardhaman.
Shashichandrah: Veer na bhaktona y Indrani upsarg - bhakta Chhimpa ka Utsahat Sahay Vinanti: This appears to be a complex chapter title, possibly referring to the "Chaul" (shedding of clothes) ordeal, Indrani's intervention, and a devotee named Chhimpa's request for help.
Chandanbala: The story of Chandanbala, a significant female disciple.
Suradham Sangmak: This chapter likely deals with a spiritual or celestial encounter, possibly involving Indra or another deity, and a soul named Sangamaka.

Khand 3: Kevalya-kaal (Period of Omniscience/Enlightenment) This section covers the time after Lord Mahavir attained Kevalya Jnana (omniscience), his sermons, the establishment of the Jain order, and interactions with various individuals:

Kevalyaprapti ane nishphal deshina (Attainment of Omniscience and Futile Sermons): Discusses his enlightenment and initial sermons, noting some initial challenges or perceived "futility."
Chaturvidh sangh ni sthapana ane ganadhar pad pratishtha (Establishment of the Fourfold Community and Installation of Ganadhara Titles): Details the formation of the four pillars of the Jain order (monks, nuns, male lay followers, and female lay followers) and the appointment of his chief disciples (Ganadharas).
Raja Bimbisara: The interaction and influence on King Bimbisara.
Shreshthi-putra Anathi: The story of Anathi, the merchant's son.
Dedko y Dev thayu (Even a Frog Became a God): Illustrates the transformative power of Mahavir's teachings, showing how even a lowly creature can attain a higher state.
Mahavir bhakta Shrenik: Further emphasis on the devotion of King Shrenik.
Shrenik - Shraddha nu jhalhalatu ratna (Shrenik - A Sparkling Gem of Faith): Highlights Shrenik's unwavering faith.
Prabhubhakta Maha shatak: The devotion of a great devotee named Mahashatak.
Savdhan Sadhalakputra (Alert Son of Sadhalaka): The story of Sadhalak's son, emphasizing alertness and wisdom.
Rajrishi Prasannachandra: The spiritual journey of King Prasannachandra.
Anasaktayogi Shalibhadra: The story of Shalibhadra, an detached yogi.
Sala-banevini jodali (Brother-in-law and Sister-in-law Pair): Possibly about relationships and their spiritual implications.
Rajkumar Megh: The tale of Prince Megh.
Dhanna anagar: The story of Dhanna, the anchorite.
Ek Kathiyare (A Woodcutter): The spiritual awakening of a simple woodcutter.
Mahatma Mandishena: The life of Mahatma Mandishena.
Kumar Atimuktak: The story of Prince Atimuktak.
Krodhandh Goshalk (Enraged Goshala): The conflict and interactions with Goshala Mankhaliputta, an antagonist.
Shalk nu bhavi (Shalka's Future): The destiny or future of Shalka.
Sadhvi Mrigavati: The life of the nun Mrigavati.
Prabhubhakta Susa (Devotee Sulsa): The story of Sulsa's devotion.

Khand 4: Nirvana (Liberation/Final Release) This section focuses on the events leading to Lord Mahavir's final liberation:

Kadagrahi Jamali (Stubborn Jamali): The story of Jamali, who remained attached to rigid views.
Raja Chand Prapota: The encounter with King Chand Pradyot.
Halik Khedut (Halika the Farmer): The spiritual journey of a farmer.
Raja Dasharnabhadra: The interaction with King Dasharnabhadra.
Rohineya Char: The story of Rohineya and his actions.
Mantrishwar Abhaykumar: The role of Minister Abhaykumar.
Itihas ne sabse khoonkhaar jang (History's Most Bloody War): Likely a significant event related to the political climate or conflicts during Mahavir's time.
Narakesari Magadhraj (Lion-like King of Magadh): Possibly referring to an event involving King Narakesari or a similar powerful figure.
Vinaymurti Gautamswami (Three incidents): Further anecdotes illustrating the humility and wisdom of Ganadhar Gautam Swami.

Khand 5: Nirvana Prapti (Achieving Nirvana) This section concludes with the final moments and the attainment of liberation:

Amavasya ni ek kali raat (A Dark Night of Amavasya): This title suggests a significant event occurring on a moonless night, likely related to his final liberation.

Author's Approach and Notable Aspects:

Contemplative and Imaginative: The author states that the book offers a glimpse into the lives of Mahavir and his contemporaries, using scriptural accuracy combined with imaginative narration to bring the stories to life.
Emphasis on Principles: Each character and event is used to illustrate core Jain principles and philosophies.
Clarification of Errors: The author includes a note of apology for any "grave scriptural error" in an earlier section regarding a celestial encounter, proposing a revised interpretation.
Inspiration from Classics: The author credits inspiration from earlier works that used imaginative stories to teach religious principles, citing examples like Pundarikadi Adhyayana.
Goal of Spiritual Awakening: The primary aim of the book is to inspire readers towards spiritual awakening and the realization of the principles taught by Arihants.
Appreciation for Contributors: The author expresses gratitude to Vasantlal Kantilal Ishwarlal for inspirations drawn from his book "Devadhi Dev."

Key Themes and Takeaways:

The Tri-murti of Mahavir: The book emphasizes Mahavir's embodiment of compassion, austerity (katorata), and gratitude.
The Power of Renunciation and Austerity: It highlights how intense spiritual practice can overcome immense challenges and lead to spiritual purification.
Karma and its Consequences: The narrative underscores the principle of karma, showing how actions in past lives influence present circumstances and how one's choices determine future destinies.
The Importance of Right Faith and Conduct: The stories of various characters illustrate the path to spiritual liberation through right faith, knowledge, and conduct.
The Transformative Power of Mahavir's Teachings: The book showcases how Mahavir's teachings can transform individuals from all walks of life, including kings, merchants, farmers, and even animals or celestial beings.
The Nature of True Happiness: It contrasts fleeting worldly pleasures with the enduring bliss of spiritual attainment, emphasizing detachment and equanimity as keys to true happiness.
The Significance of the Fourfold Jain Community (Chaturvidh Sangha): The establishment of the Sangha is presented as a crucial step in propagating Jain principles.

In essence, "Tribhuvan Prakash Mahavir Dev" is a devotional and philosophical work that seeks to illuminate the life of Lord Mahavir through engaging storytelling and insightful commentary, encouraging readers to reflect on their own spiritual paths.