Trishashti Shalaka Purushcharitam Mahakavya

This is a comprehensive summary of the Trishashti Shalaka Purushcharitam Mahakavya, specifically focusing on Book 10 (Dashama Parva), authored by Hemchandracharya and compiled/edited by Subodhchandra Nanalal Shah, published by Shrimati Gangabai Jain Charitable Trust, Mumbai.

The text is a detailed account of the lives of the 63 illustrious individuals in Jain tradition, known as Shalaka Purushas, who are central figures in the propagation of Jainism. This particular volume, the tenth book, is dedicated to the life story of Lord Mahavir Swami, the 24th Tirthankara.

Key Aspects of the Text:

• Purpose of Publication: The publication is presented as the first flower of the "Shruta Gnana Prakashan Mala" (Garland of Light of Scriptural Knowledge). It aims to honor the memory of ancient Jain Acharyas, especially Acharya Hemchandracharya and Acharya Shrimad Vijayramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, who were instrumental in preserving and propagating the Jain dharma, even in difficult times. The re-publication of this specific volume (Dashama Parva) was deemed necessary due to its previous unavailability.

• Editorial Process: The compilation and editing process involved meticulous research and comparison of three ancient manuscripts and one printed copy. The editor, Subodhchandra Nanalal Shah, faced challenges in obtaining and deciphering these manuscripts, some of which were in poor condition and contained variations in text. The editor expresses gratitude to various Jain institutions and individuals for their support in acquiring these valuable resources.

• Content of the Dashama Parva (Lord Mahavir's Life): The text meticulously details the life of Lord Mahavir from his conception to his enlightenment and subsequent activities. The table of contents (Vishayanukrama) reveals a structured narrative across eleven chapters (Sargas), covering:

  • Sarga 1: Purbhav Varnanam (Previous Lives): This chapter likely describes the previous births and karmic predispositions of Lord Mahavir.
  • Sarga 2: Mahavir Janma Pravrajya Varnanam (Conception, Birth, and Renunciation): This section details his divine conception, miraculous birth, childhood, and eventual renunciation of worldly life.
  • Sarga 3: Prathama Varsha Vihar Varnanam (First Year of Wandering): This chapter likely covers the initial period of his ascetic practices and wandering.
  • Sarga 4: Dwitiya Varsha Vihar Varnanam (Second Year of Wandering): Continues the narrative of his ascetic life and the challenges faced.
  • Sarga 5: Mahavir Kevala Jnana Chaturvidha Sangha Utpatti Varnanam (Lord Mahavir's Enlightenment and Establishment of the Four-Fold Community): This pivotal chapter describes his attainment of Omniscience (Kevala Jnana) and the subsequent establishment of the Jain Sangha, comprising monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen.
  • Sarga 6: Shrenika Samyakva Labha - Abhaya Kumara Nandisena Pravrajya Varnanam (Shrenika's Attainment of Right Faith, Abhaya Kumara's and Nandisena's Renunciation): This section focuses on the lives and spiritual journeys of important figures like King Shrenika, his attainment of right faith, and the renunciation of Abhaya Kumara and Nandisena.
  • Sarga 7: Chellana Yoga Ekamsa Prasadha Nirman Varnanam, Atithiphalastana Vruttanta, Durgandha Vruttanta, Dasharya Bhadra Charitra (Chellana's Yoga, Construction of Prasadha, Story of Atithiphalastana, Story of Durgandha, Life of Dasharya Bhadra): This chapter appears to cover various events and individuals related to Lord Mahavir's era and his teachings, including Chellana's devotion and construction of sacred structures, and the stories of Dasharya Bhadra.
  • Sarga 8: Shali Bhadra Dhanya Charitra (Lives of Shali Bhadra and Dhanya): This chapter is dedicated to the exemplary lives of Shali Bhadra and Dhanya, who were renowned devotees.
  • Sarga 9: Rohineya Charitra (Life of Rohineya): Details the life of Rohineya, another significant figure.
  • Sarga 10: Dasharya Bhadra Charitra (Life of Dasharya Bhadra): This chapter seems to re-iterate or further elaborate on Dasharya Bhadra. (Note: There seems to be a slight overlap or repeated mention of Dasharya Bhadra in the contents.)
  • Sarga 11: Abhaya Kumara Charitra (Life of Abhaya Kumara): Focuses on the wise and virtuous life of Abhaya Kumara, a key disciple.
  • Sarga 12: Kunnika Charitra (Life of Kunika): Details the life of Kunika (Ajatashatru), the son of King Shrenika, and his complex relationship with Jainism.
  • Sarga 13: Chandaprayota Shata Kopya Upadra, Mrigavati Kosala, Maragavati Diksha, Bhagavan Mahavir Das Shravaka Charitra, Chandra Suryu Mulavimane Avatarana, Shri Mahavir Upa Goshalak Mukta Tajolashya Avadana, Goshalaka Pachchhatapa Mrityu Agami Bhavashcha (Aggressions of Chandapradyota on Shatrunjaya, Mrigavati's Cleverness, Mrigavati's Renunciation, Lives of the Twelve Jain Disciples, Descent of Chandra and Surya from Mula Vimana, Goshalaka's Fiery Karma and its consequences, Goshalaka's Remorse, Death, and Future Lives): This extensive chapter covers the aggressions of King Chandapradyota, the story of Mrigavati, her renunciation, the lives of prominent disciples, celestial events, and a detailed account of Goshalaka's karmic journey, his conflicts with Lord Mahavir, and his eventual fate.

• Editorial Vision: The publisher and editor express their strong belief in the principles of Jainism, emphasizing the importance of adhering to pure dharma and the teachings of the Tirthankaras. They condemn the modern trend of questioning or misinterpreting the lives and teachings of the Tirthankaras, particularly Lord Mahavir, by individuals who lack proper understanding or spiritual grounding. The foreword highlights the contrast between the spiritual wisdom of the Tirthankaras and the ignorance of those who criticize them.

• Key Themes: The text emphasizes the importance of:

  • Ahimsa (Non-violence): As the highest principle of Jainism.
  • Samyaktva (Right Faith): The foundational step towards spiritual liberation.
  • Aparigraha (Non-attachment): Renouncing possessions and desires.
  • Tapas (Austerities): Practices undertaken for spiritual purification.
  • The path to Moksha (Liberation): Through righteous conduct, devotion, and detachment.
  • The significance of the Shalaka Purushas: As exemplars of spiritual excellence.

Overall:

The Trishashti Shalaka Purushcharitam Mahakavya, Dashama Parva is a monumental work of Jain literature, offering a profound and detailed narrative of Lord Mahavir's life. It serves as a spiritual guide and a testament to the enduring principles of the Jain tradition, presented with scholarly dedication and deep reverence. The re-publication ensures that this important scripture remains accessible to future generations.