Tribhuvan Tilak Mahakavya

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided text, which appears to be an introductory discourse or preface to the "Tribhuvan Tilak Mahakavya":

The text discusses the profound spiritual heritage bequeathed to the Indian people by the great spiritual masters like Lord Mahavir, Lord Buddha, and Vedic Rishis, who offered the paths of Knowledge Yoga (Gyan Yoga) and Devotion Yoga (Bhakti Yoga). While Knowledge Yoga, rooted in dedicated action, can be initially challenging for many, Devotion Yoga, being more accessible, attracts a larger following. Ultimately, the text argues, Devotion Yoga leads to the path of Knowledge Yoga. Knowledge Yoga is seen as the path to accomplishment, while Devotion Yoga is the path of seeking.

This seeking in Devotion Yoga leads practitioners to analyze and articulate the tools of their spiritual practice. This is why we have inherited a rich legacy of religious narratives, devotional stories, and Puranic tales. The creation of these narratives is a symbolic representation of Devotion Yoga. The purity of one's spiritual practice is directly proportional to the purity of consciousness involved in their creation, and any deficiency reflects a lack in spiritual attainment. The text asserts that such creations are primarily the work of devotees (Bhakti Yogis), whereas Knowledge Yogis, unless by chance or miracle, rarely engage in such creative endeavors. This is because Knowledge Yogis are engrossed in the achievements of their own practice. However, when Knowledge Yogis do speak, their words, born from pure perception, are inherently creative. The difference lies in the adornment of words and meaning: Bhakti Yogis embellish their speech, while Knowledge Yogis do not need to. Bhakti Yogis have a more expressive and verbose inner world, while Knowledge Yogis possess a serene and silent heart. This distinction characterizes the Knowledge Yogi and the Bhakti Yogi.

The "Tribhuvan Tilak" by Shri Hirabhai, which chronicles the life of Lord Mahavir, is presented as a product of Devotion Yoga. The text emphasizes that the inspiration that arises naturally within an individual's life persists through all circumstances and adversities. The author knows Hirabhai to have a deeply ingrained Devotion Yoga within his heart. Hirabhai began this biographical poem in his youth. However, due to life's unpredictable turns and experiences, the creation of "Tribhuvan Tilak" was interrupted. Nevertheless, sentiments that are deeply rooted in a person's life, though they may appear withered due to hardships, retain their vitality and can bloom again when the occasion arises. This is precisely the case with Hirabhai. The creation of "Tribhuvan Tilak," which had paused due to life's vicissitudes, has now fully blossomed and is presented to us. His Devotion Yoga, along with his life experiences, has borne fruit.

The text then draws a parallel with numerous historical figures, from ancient and pre-historic times to the medieval and present eras, who, despite being engaged in various worldly pursuits like kingship, trade, and ministry, also dedicated themselves to inner spiritual practices and the promotion of Jainism. Examples include kings like Shrenik, Chetaka, Udaiyan, Shatnik; wealthy laymen like Anand, Dhanya, Shalibhadra; Maharaja Samprati who dedicated his life and wealth to spreading Jainism; King Kumarpal who practiced a devotion-centric Knowledge Yoga; ministers like Gayavala, Vastupala, Pethadshah; and merchants like Rishabhdas Kavi, all of whom contributed significantly to spiritual and literary pursuits, often alongside their primary professions.

The present era is also highlighted with figures like Shri Motichand Girdhar Kapadia, Solicitor by profession, who has gifted numerous books and translations; Shri Mohanlal Dalichand Desai, a lawyer, who authored histories of Jain literature and Jain Gurjar poets; Shri Agarchand Nahta, whose literary activities are extensive even in old age; Babu Shri Purnachandji Nahata, who prepared many volumes of ancient inscriptions; and Seth Shri Kasturbhai Lalbhai, who, despite extensive business activities, excelled in religious, social, educational, and temple restoration work, and successfully managed the Anandji Kalyanji firm.

The author concludes by stating that Hirabhai, a businessman who has navigated life's challenges, has presented the poetic composition "Tribhuvan Tilak" based on the life of Lord Mahavir. This is a unique achievement of his spiritual endeavor. The individuals mentioned from history and their ilk, whose lives are dedicated to pure intention, are all seen as ascending and practicing a unique Devotion Yoga, which has gifted us treasures of knowledge across various subjects.

While acknowledging that the poetic quality of "Tribhuvan Tilak" might be subject to critical review, the author finds a naturalness in the poetry that is deeply appealing. The weaving of words and meanings is engaging and delightful, and the composition doesn't feel forced. Importantly, the author emphasizes that a devotee, content with their inner Devotion Yoga, does not seek external opinions or praise for their work, which is the true accomplishment of this spiritual path. The divisions and events from Lord Mahavir's life covered in "Tribhuvan Tilak" are deemed to be well-selected and appropriate.

In essence, the text celebrates Hirabhai for bringing to fruition the "Tribhuvan Tilak," an enduring creation of his father's devotion, after traversing life's experiences. This is described, in the yogic terminology of Acharya Haribhadrasuri, as the fruit of his unwavering devotional practice. The author expresses a fervent wish that Hirabhai continues to live his Devotion Yoga throughout his life, remaining dedicated to the practice and worship of the divine, the guru, the dharma, and his inner self, thereby making his life more radiant and blessed.