Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charit Part 08 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charit Part 08" by Sadhvi Dr. Surekha Shri, translated into Hindi:

Book Title: Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charit Part 08 Author: Sadhvi Dr. Surekha Shri Publisher: Prakrit Bharti Academy, Jaipur & Shri Jain Shwetambar Nakoda Parshwanath Tirth, Mewanagar Original Author: Acharya Hemchandracharya Language: Hindi Translation Volume: Part 08 (Dasha Parva - Chapter 10)

Overall Summary:

This volume, the eighth part of the Hindi translation of Acharya Hemchandracharya's monumental work "Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charit," focuses on Chapter 10 (Dasha Parva). This particular chapter delves into the lives of Lord Mahavir Swami and the preceding lives of significant figures associated with him, particularly Naysar, Marichi, and Trivishta (who later becomes Baldeva and Vasudeva). It also highlights the societal and religious landscape of Lord Mahavir's time, including the lives of his disciples and contemporaries. The book emphasizes the moral and spiritual values embedded within these narratives, aiming to inspire contemplation among readers.

Key Highlights and Content Breakdown:

Introduction and Purpose:
- The book introduces the concept of "Trishashti Shalaka Purush" – the sixty-three supreme individuals in the Jain cosmology (24 Tirthankaras, 12 Chakravartins, 6 Vasudevas, 9 Prativasudevas, and 9 Baladevas).
- It explains that Acharya Hemchandracharya originally composed this work in Sanskrit across ten chapters, detailing the lives of these sixty-three great souls from Lord Rishabhdev to Lord Mahavir.
- This volume (Part 08) specifically covers the Tenth Chapter, focusing on Lord Mahavir and his past lives.
Lord Mahavir's Teachings and Era:
- The text details Lord Mahavir's activities during his ascetism (Vihar), the hardships he endured (Upasarga), his ascetic practices (Tapasya), and his alms-taking (Parana).
- It describes the lives of his eleven chief disciples (Ganadharas), with a special mention of Ganadhar Gautam, and ten prominent lay disciples (Shravakas), including the special disciple Anand.
- It sheds light on the prevailing philosophical and religious views of the time, including a detailed account of Goshalaka, the founder of the Ajivika sect, who was a contemporary and sometimes rival of Lord Mahavir.
Prominent Figures and Narratives:
- Lord Mahavir's Past Lives: The volume begins with the description of Lord Mahavir's past lives, specifically detailing:
  - Naysar: A devout villager who demonstrates generosity and hospitality.
  - Marichi: A highly virtuous soul who, due to his pride and attachment to his lineage, inadvertently causes future downfall. This section highlights the importance of humility and the consequences of pride, even in spiritual pursuits. It also foreshadows Marichi's future role as the last Tirthankara, Lord Mahavir.
  - Naysar's Rebirth as Marichi: The text traces Naysar's rebirth as Marichi in the lineage of Lord Rishabhdev.
  - Marichi's Renunciation and Transformation: It describes Marichi's spiritual journey, his eventual departure from strict asceticism to adopt a different path, and the karmic consequences of his choices.
  - Trivishta: The narrative progresses to the lives of figures like Trivishta, who is identified as the first Vasudeva. This section likely connects to the lineage that will eventually produce Lord Mahavir.
- Lord Mahavir's Birth and Early Life:
  - The text describes the divine conception and birth of Lord Mahavir, the auspicious dreams of his mother, Devananda, and the subsequent transfer of the divine soul to the womb of Queen Trishala, wife of King Siddhartha.
  - It narrates the divine intervention of Indra and the Naigameshi deva in the soul transference to ensure the Tirthankara's birth in a royal lineage.
  - The volume details the early life of Lord Mahavir, his name 'Vardhaman,' the challenges and divine protection he received, and the significant events that shaped his destiny, including his divine strength and early encounters.
- Lord Mahavir's Renunciation and Asceticism:
  - The text covers Lord Mahavir's renunciation, the acceptance of the ascetic path, and his arduous journey of spiritual discipline.
  - It narrates instances of extreme hardships (upasargas) and the unwavering fortitude with which he faced them, showcasing his profound detachment and spiritual prowess.
- The Encounter with Goshalaka:
  - A significant portion is dedicated to Goshalaka, a contemporary ascetic who held different views, and his interactions with Lord Mahavir. This highlights the diversity of philosophical thought during that period.
- The Role of Women:
  - The story of Sadhvi Chandana is presented, offering insights into the status of women in that era and underscoring the respect and honor accorded to them within the Jain tradition.
- Key Events:
  - The text recounts significant events such as Ganadhar Gautam's ascent of Ashtapada, the reign of King Shrenik, Lord Mahavir's attainment of Nirvana, and Ganadhar Gautam's achievement of Kevalgyana (omniscience).
Philosophical and Ethical Teachings:
- The text underscores the importance of ethical conduct, spiritual discipline, and detachment from worldly possessions and attachments.
- It emphasizes the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence), compassion, and equanimity.
Translation and Acknowledgment:
- The preface expresses gratitude to Sadhvi Dr. Surekha Shri for her diligent and accurate translation of this profound work into simple, precise, and effective Hindi.
- It acknowledges the efforts of Prakrit Bharti Academy and Shri Jain Shwetambar Nakoda Parshwanath Tirth in publishing this volume.

In essence, "Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charit Part 08" is a valuable resource for understanding the foundational narratives of Jainism, particularly the life and teachings of Lord Mahavir, through the lens of his past lives and the socio-religious context of his era. It serves as a spiritual and ethical guide, drawing lessons from the exemplary lives of these supreme beings.