Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charit Part 07

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charit Part 07" (Ninth Parva), translated into Hindi by Sadhvi Dr. Surekha Shreeji:

This volume, the seventh part of the Hindi translation of Acharya Hemachandra's renowned Sanskrit work, Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charit, focuses on the Ninth Parva, which details the life and teachings of Lord Parshvanath. The publisher, Prakrit Bharti Academy, Jaipur, in collaboration with Shri Jain Shwetambar Nakoda Parshvanath Tirth, Mewanagar, presents this translation to the readers.

The Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charit chronicles the lives of the sixty-three supreme beings who appear in each era of the Jain time cycle. These include 24 Tirthankaras, 12 Chakravartis (universal emperors), 6 Vasudevas, 9 Pratichakravartis, and 9 Baladevas. Acharya Hemachandra, a prominent Jain scholar of the 12th century, authored this extensive work in Sanskrit, dividing it into ten parts covering the lives of these exalted figures from Lord Rishabhdev to Lord Mahavir.

Key Contents of this Volume (Ninth Parva):

This part specifically details:

• Previous Lives of Lord Parshvanath: The text elaborates on the numerous lives Lord Parshvanath lived before his birth as the 23rd Tirthankara, highlighting his unwavering commitment to righteousness and his virtuous deeds.
• Lord Parshvanath's Birth and Youth: It describes his birth in Varanasi to King Ashvasena and Queen Vama Devi, and his upbringing. It also touches upon his early life and the prophetic dreams of his mother.
• The "Kamath" Episodes: A significant portion focuses on the trials and tribulations Lord Parshvanath faced from his former adversary, Kamath, who relentlessly caused him suffering in various forms. Lord Parshvanath consistently responded to these hardships with forgiveness and compassion, embodying the principles of 'Kshama' (forgiveness).
• The "Chaturyama Dharma": The text explains the establishment of the Chaturyama Dharma (Four Great Vows) by Lord Parshvanath, emphasizing the profound spiritual path he laid out.
• His Disciples and Followers: It details the lives of his eight Ganadharas (chief disciples) and prominent Shravakas (lay followers), highlighting their dedication and spiritual journeys.
• Encounter with Dharnendra and Padmavati: The narrative includes the significant episode where Lord Parshvanath, while meditating, was protected from a fiery ordeal by the Naga King Dharnendra and his consort Padmavati, who were devotees.
• Attainment of Kevala Jnana (Omniscience) and Nirvana: The volume culminates with the description of Lord Parshvanath's attainment of omniscience and his ultimate liberation (Nirvana) at Sammet Shikhar.

Significance and Purpose:

The introduction highlights Acharya Hemachandra's mastery in composing this epic, which adheres to the principles of Mahakavya (epic poetry). The text was created at the behest of King Kumarpal, who was influenced by Acharya Hemachandra's teachings and desired a comprehensive account of these great souls for spiritual upliftment. The translation by Sadhvi Dr. Surekha Shreeji is lauded for its simplicity, accuracy, and effectiveness, making this profound text accessible to a wider audience.

The summary underscores the Jain emphasis on virtues like forgiveness, compassion, and adherence to righteous conduct, as exemplified by Lord Parshvanath's life. The book aims to inspire contemplation and a deeper understanding of these core human and spiritual values.

Structure of the Translation Project:

The introductory notes also provide a glimpse into the ambitious project of translating the entire Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charit into Hindi by Prakrit Bharti Academy, with previous volumes having already been published. The dedication and efforts of various individuals, including the late Shri Ganesh Lalwani and scholars like Pt. Mangilalji Mishra, are acknowledged in bringing this translation to fruition.