Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charitrasya Gadyatmaka Saroddhar Part 01 - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charitrasya Gadyatmaka Saroddhar Part 01," authored by Acharya Vijay Shubhankarsuri and edited by Muni Dharmakirti Vijay.

Book Title: Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charitrasya Gadyatmaka Saroddhar Part 01 (A Prose Abridgement of the Tattvas of the Sixty-three Great Men)

Author: Acharya Vijay Shubhankarsuri Editor: Muni Dharmakirti Vijay Publisher: Kalikal Sarvagya Shri Hemchandracharya Navam Janmashatabdi Smruti Sanskar Shikshannidhi, Ahmedabad

Overview:

This book is a prose abridgement of the monumental Sanskrit work "Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charitra" (The Lives of the Sixty-three Great Men) composed by the renowned Jain Acharya Shri Hemchandracharya. The original work, written in Sanskrit poetry, details the lives and teachings of the sixty-three illustrious individuals who play a crucial role in the Jain cosmology. These individuals include:

24 Tirthankaras (the spiritual guides who revitalize the Jain path)
12 Chakravartis (universal monarchs)
9 Vasudevas (powerful heroes)
9 Prati-Vasudevas (antagonists of Vasudevas)
9 Baladevas (strong brothers of Vasudevas)

The prose abridgement aims to make this rich historical and spiritual narrative accessible to a wider audience, particularly those who may find the original poetic form challenging. This first part focuses on the lives of the first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhanatha, and the first Chakravarti, Emperor Bharata.

Key Themes and Content:

The Grand Narrative: The "Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charitra" is a foundational text in Jainism, outlining the cyclical history of the universe and the exemplary lives of those who have attained liberation or contributed significantly to the spiritual progress of humanity. The abridgement faithfully translates this grand narrative into accessible prose.
Lord Rishabhanatha's Life (Part 1, Chapter 1 & 2): The initial chapters delve into the life of the first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhanatha (also known as Lord Adinatha). This includes:
- Early Life and Character: The text describes the noble lineage and virtuous nature of the protagonist, Dhan, who is later identified as the soul destined to become Lord Rishabhanatha.
- Journey and Encounters: Dhan's journey to the city of Vasantpur is detailed, including his encounter with Acharya Dharmaghosh and his disciples. The text highlights the strict principles of Jain ascetics (monks) regarding food and water, emphasizing their adherence to purity and non-violence.
- The Seasons and Challenges: The narrative vividly portrays the hardships faced during the journey, including the scorching heat of summer and the difficult conditions of the monsoon season. These descriptions emphasize the resilience and perseverance required for worldly endeavors.
- Spiritual Awakening: Dhan's contemplation of the teachings of Acharya Dharmaghosh, particularly concerning the nature of dharma (righteousness) and the importance of charity, leads to his spiritual awakening and the planting of the seeds of liberation.
- Life in Uttar Kuru: The text then shifts to Dhan's subsequent life as a 'Yugalika' (a person from an era of perfection) in Uttar Kuru, describing the idyllic conditions, the availability of wish-fulfilling trees, and the simple, pure existence of the people there.
- Progression through Rebirths: The narrative traces Dhan's soul through various rebirths, highlighting the role of karma and the pursuit of virtue. This includes his birth as Mahabal, who renounces worldly life to become a monk, and his subsequent life as Lalitanga in the heavens.
- The Story of Nirnamika: A significant portion details the life of Nirnamika, a humble and suffering woman whose encounters with virtue and the teachings of Acharya Yugandhar lead her to spiritual understanding and rebirth as a celestial being.
- The Union of Souls: The text connects the souls of Lalitanga and Nirnamika across lifetimes, culminating in their rebirth as Vajranabha and Shrimati, respectively, and their eventual progression towards spiritual realization.
- The story of Jeevananda and his Friends: This section narrates the virtuous life and eventual spiritual attainment of Jeevananda and his four friends, emphasizing their selfless service and adherence to Jain principles.
- Emperor Vajranabha: The life of Vajranabha, a powerful emperor who attains spiritual liberation, is recounted, demonstrating the path of righteousness and renunciation.
Emperor Bharata's Life (Part 1, Chapter 3 & 4): The latter part of this volume focuses on the life of Emperor Bharata, the son of Lord Rishabhanatha and the first Chakravarti.
- Birth and Childhood: The divine circumstances surrounding Bharata's birth, including the auspicious dreams of his mother Marudevi, are described. The divine intervention of gods in his upbringing and naming is highlighted.
- Establishment of Social Order: The text details Bharata's role in establishing societal norms, arts, sciences, and administrative structures, including the introduction of various crafts, professions, and the concept of governance.
- The Conquest of the Six Continents: The narrative recounts Bharata's military campaigns and his eventual conquest of the six continents of Jambudvipa, leading to his coronation as the first Chakravarti.
- The Conflict with Bahubali: A significant part of Bharata's story revolves around his conflict with his brother, Bahubali. The text portrays their initial disagreement over territory and the subsequent immense battle.
- Bahubali's Renunciation and Liberation: The narrative emphasizes Bahubali's profound spiritual realization during the conflict, leading to his renunciation of worldly power and his attainment of Kevala Jnana (omniscience) through intense meditation.
- Bharata's Spiritual Path: Witnessing his brother's spiritual prowess, Bharata also experiences a shift in his perspective, leading him to renounce his kingdom and eventually attain spiritual liberation.
- The Significance of Arts and Governance: The text underscores the importance of Bharata's contributions in establishing a just and prosperous society, highlighting the role of governance and the arts in human civilization.
Lord Rishabhanatha's Teachings and Renunciation (Part 1, Chapter 5 & 6):
- Lord Rishabhanatha's Teachings: The text reiterates the profound teachings of Lord Rishabhanatha on the nature of dharma, emphasizing its four divisions: Dana (charity), Shila (virtue), Tapas (austerity), and Bhava (contemplation).
- The Path to Liberation: The teachings meticulously describe the principles of right knowledge, right faith, and right conduct, outlining the path to spiritual liberation.
- Renunciation and Asceticism: The narrative culminates with Lord Rishabhanatha's renunciation of his kingdom and his embrace of asceticism, marking the beginning of his spiritual journey and the establishment of the monastic order.
- The Legacy of Bharata and Bahubali: The lives of Bharata and Bahubali serve as exemplary tales of worldly achievement, spiritual pursuit, and the ultimate triumph of detachment and knowledge.

Purpose and Significance:

The "Trishashti Shalaka Purush Charitrasya Gadyatmaka Saroddhar" serves as an invaluable resource for understanding the core tenets and historical narrative of Jainism. By presenting the complex lives of the sixty-three great souls in a clear and concise prose format, it makes this profound spiritual heritage accessible to:

Students of Jainism: Providing a foundational understanding of the key figures and events in Jain history.
General Readers: Offering an inspiring and ethically rich account of exemplary lives.
Spiritual Seekers: Presenting the path to liberation through the examples of those who have successfully navigated it.

The abridgement is a testament to the enduring relevance of Acharya Hemchandracharya's work and the commitment of scholars like Acharya Vijay Shubhankarsuri and Muni Dharmakirti Vijay to preserve and disseminate Jain knowledge.