Vardhaman Suri Shishya Sagarchandra Muni Virachit Uttarkalin Apbhramsa Bhashabaddha Neminath Ras

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vardhaman suri Shishya Sagarchandra Muni Virachit Uttarkalin Apbhramsa Bhashabaddha Neminath Ras," authored by Ramnik Shah, based on the provided Gujarati text:

This document is an editorial introduction and transcription of a Jain Ras (a narrative poem) composed in the Uttarkalin Apbhramsa language, titled "Nemnath Ras." It was written by Sage Sagarchandra Muni, a disciple of Acharya Vardhamanasuri.

Key Details about the Ras and its Discovery:

• Author: Sage Sagarchandra Muni, a disciple of Acharya Vardhamanasuri. The author identifies himself in the last two lines of the Ras.
• Inspiration: The Ras is based on the story of Neminath, the 22nd Tirthankara.
• Manuscript Source: The text is based on a palm-leaf manuscript (numbered 1774) from the Ujambai Bhandar at La. Da. Vidyamandir. The Ras is found on pages 37 to 42 of this manuscript.
• Condition of Manuscript: The manuscript is incomplete, with the beginning portion of the Ras missing because page 37K is not present. The Ras is collected along with other compositions.
• Editorial Work: The Ras has been edited and published for the first time based on this single manuscript. The editor has provided continuous numbering for the verses (padas) and noted original errors in the commentary.
• Dating: The editor suggests that Sage Sagarchandra might be the same person mentioned by M.D. Desai in his "Brief History of Jain Literature" (pp. 254-55). Desai mentions Pandit Sagarchandra composing Sanskrit verses in "Ganaratnamahodadhi," authored by Vardhamanasuri. Since "Ganaratnamahodadhi" was composed in Vikram Samvat 1197, Sagarchandra can be placed in the latter half of the 12th century Vikram era.

Literary and Linguistic Significance:

• Literary Merit: The Ras is considered "ordinary" from a literary perspective.
• Linguistic Value: However, it holds significant value from a linguistic standpoint. The work showcases numerous features of the ancient Gurjar Bhasha (Old Gujarati) within the Uttarkalin Apbhramsa.

Summary of the Neminath Ras (Content based on the transcribed verses):

The transcribed verses depict key events in Neminath's life:

1. Neminath's Contemplation and Strength: The Ras begins with Neminath contemplating something, possibly a statement made by Ayudhapal. He is described as possessing immense strength, comparable to Vasudeva. The verses describe his anger and his formidable appearance.
2. Neminath's Marriage Preparations: The narrative then shifts to Neminath's impending marriage. He is presented with the wish of receiving a conch from the gods and Indra. There's a description of him being equipped for battle, ready to fight.
3. Neminath's Renunciation: Neminath expresses his disinterest in warfare and its destructive consequences. He questions the purpose of fighting and suggests that if people do not follow his path, they might as well rule kingdoms. He is described as being surrounded by the forces of Baladeva and Keshav.
4. Divine Recognition: Gods descend from the heavens, showering him with flowers and praising his greatness, strength, and pure knowledge. They circumambulate him and return to their abodes.
5. Internal Conflict and Decision: The verses suggest an internal conflict or a conversation. Neminath is described as falling into an ocean of contemplation, perhaps about renunciation. He is presented with the idea of marrying, being attractive and youthful.
6. Father's Plea: His father (possibly Ugrasena) implores him to marry, highlighting the beauty and desirability of the potential brides.
7. Neminath's Philosophical Stance: Neminath responds by questioning the impermanence of life, youth, wealth, and relationships. He states that pursuing worldly pleasures leads to self-destruction. He expresses a desire to marry the "Siddhi-vadhu" (bride of liberation).
8. Resistance to Marriage: Despite his father's and relatives' pleas, Neminath remains firm in his resolve, his mind averse to worldly pleasures. The verses describe the preparations for the wedding, including bathing and adornment.
9. Neminath's Departure for Renunciation: Neminath, after contemplating, decides to embrace renunciation. He observes the suffering of living beings and resolves to leave the cycle of birth and death. He is seen climbing a mountain peak and speaking to his mother.
10. Mother's Grief and Neminath's Response: His mother is distressed by his decision. Neminath reassures her, saying he will undertake Diksha (initiation) for the removal of impurities.
11. Mother's Anguish and Others' Reactions: The mother faints and, upon regaining consciousness, is consoled. The verses describe her deep sorrow, her tearing off jewelry, and her lamentations for Neminath's return. Her grief is shared by her companions and brother.
12. Neminath's Renunciation and Attainment of Kevala Jnana: Neminath undertakes his Diksha with five handfuls of hair removed. He is described as being free from attachment, ego, and delusion. He follows the five great vows and attains Kevala Jnana (omniscience) with the destruction of karma.
13. Neminath's Ministry: He then moves about the world, preaching to all beings. The verses describe the divine honors he receives, his celestial aura, and the thousands of divine beings who accompany him.
14. Devotional Practices: The text then outlines various devotional practices, including worshipping the Jinendra with flowers, sandalwood, and other offerings, which lead to liberation and happiness.
15. Final Attainment of Nirvana: Neminath ultimately attains Nirvana (liberation).
16. Author's Dedication: The Ras concludes with a dedication from the author and his guru. The author mentions his lineage as belonging to the Naila lineage and being a disciple of Acharya Vardhamanasuri.

In essence, this document provides access to a historical Jain Ras that is linguistically significant for its archaic Gujarati features within an Apbhramsa framework. It narrates the familiar story of Neminath's renunciation and spiritual journey, highlighting his philosophical detachment from worldly affairs and his eventual attainment of liberation.