Veer Vibhuti

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Veer Vibhuti" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Veer Vibhuti (The Grandeur of Vira) Author: Muni Sri Nyayavijayaji Translator: B. Bhattacharya Publisher: Oriental Institute

Overall Purpose: "Veer Vibhuti" is presented as an English translation of a Sanskrit work by Muni Sri Nyayavijayaji. The book aims to provide a concise, verse-by-verse summary of the life and teachings of Lord Mahavira, the 24th Tirthankara of Jainism, as preserved in the Svetambara tradition. It emphasizes Mahavira's ideals and their relevance to contemporary society.

Key Themes and Content:

Part 1: The Biography of Lord Mahavira

• Historical Context: The foreword by B. Bhattacharya highlights that Lord Mahavira was born during a period of significant social and religious upheaval in India. This era was marked by a rigid caste system, large-scale animal sacrifices, and the dominance of Brahmanism. Mahavira, like Buddha, challenged these established norms.
• Mahavira's Life and Lineage:
  • Born around 599 BCE, his original name was Vardhamana. He was also known as Vira (the great hero) due to his prowess, and was called Sanmati and Jnataputra.
  • He was born into a royal Kshatriya family, son of King Siddhartha and Queen Trishala. His mother was the sister of King Chetaka of Vaishali and related to King Bimbisara of Magadha.
  • He lived as a householder for nearly thirty years, married to Yashoda, with whom he had a daughter, Priyadarshana.
  • His parents and clan followed the teachings of Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara.
• Renunciation and Asceticism:
  • After his parents' death, at the age of 28, Vardhamana renounced worldly life to pursue spiritual enlightenment.
  • He observed severe austerities for twelve years, wandering from place to place, often facing hardship and ill-treatment.
  • His initiation took place at the age of thirty.
• Attainment of Kevala Jnana (Omniscience):
  • In the thirteenth year of his asceticism, on the tenth day of the bright half of Vaishakha, seated under a Sal tree, he attained Kevala Jnana (perfect, unimpeded knowledge) on the bank of the Rijupalika river. This enlightenment revealed the cause of sorrow and the path to liberation.
• Teaching and Organization:
  • For the last thirty years of his life, Mahavira dedicated himself to teaching his religious system and organizing his order of ascetics.
  • His teachings attracted people from all castes and classes, leading to the formation of Sadhus, Sadhvis, Sravakas, and Sravikas.
  • His doctrines challenged Brahmanical supremacy, and many Brahman scholars became his converts.
  • He is credited with converting regions like Magadha, Bihar, and Prayaga.
• Final Nirvana:
  • Mahavira spent his last rainy season in Pava (Pāvāpuri). He attained Nirvana (liberation from the cycle of birth and death) in 527 BCE at the age of 72.
• Core Teachings: Mahavira's teachings are summarized as the "three jewels": Samyak Jnana (Right Knowledge), Samyak Darshana (Right Faith), and Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct). His central message is that birth and caste are secondary, while Karma is paramount, and its destruction leads to emancipation.
• Emphasis on Righteous Conduct: The text highlights Mahavira's exemplary conduct, including his obedience to parents (delaying his renunciation to fulfill his vow of not renouncing while his parents were alive), his fearlessness from childhood, and his deep compassion. It stresses the importance of celibacy before marriage and the veneration of parents.
• Social Equality: The book emphasizes Mahavira's stance against caste discrimination, stating that spiritual progress is open to all, regardless of caste or gender. "Superior is he whose acts and virtues are superior."

Part 2: The Preaching of Lord Mahavira

• The Core Message of Ahimsa (Non-violence): This section delves into Mahavira's teachings, starting with the profound message of Ahimsa.
  • He taught that no one has the right to take another's life, as all life is precious.
  • Violence, especially in the name of religion or for selfish gain, is condemned as it creates suffering and destroys peace.
  • He advocated for vegetarianism and discouraged meat-eating, linking it to cruelty and ignorance.
  • He differentiated between the "great vow" of non-violence for ascetics and the "small vow" for householders, which involves not intentionally killing innocent creatures.
  • The text clarifies that violence stems from passions like anger, greed, pride, and delusion, and emphasizes that internal vices are also forms of violence.
• The Power of Non-violence: Ahimsa is presented as a supreme force capable of subduing even hostile hearts.
• Ethical Principles: Mahavira's teachings also cover:
  • Self-Reliance: He encouraged individuals to be self-reliant and realize their inner infinite power, emphasizing that one is the architect of their own destiny.
  • Control of Passions: The text details the negative effects of anger, pride, greed, and delusion, urging people to control these vices.
  • Truth and Reality: Mahavira taught that understanding truth leads to the eradication of sins and liberation from death.
• The Syadvada Philosophy: Mahavira introduced the concept of Syadvada (Anekantavada), the doctrine of many-sidedness, which promotes understanding different viewpoints, fostering mutual respect, and resolving conflicts. This philosophy is presented as applicable in all spheres of life – social, political, religious, and philosophical.
• The Nature of the Soul and Liberation:
  • The soul, in its true nature, is divine, possessing infinite knowledge, power, and bliss.
  • The soul's transmigration and suffering are due to Karma.
  • Liberation (Moksha) is achieved by shedding these karmic veils through pure conduct, penance, and self-control.
  • The emancipated soul is God, free from the cycle of birth and death, residing in a state of pure consciousness, bliss, and immutability.
• Universal Applicability: Mahavira's teachings are for all beings, emphasizing that spiritual progress is not limited by birth or social status.

Key Takeaways:

• "Veer Vibhuti" serves as an accessible introduction to the life and foundational principles of Jainism, focusing on Lord Mahavira's profound teachings.
• The book highlights Mahavira's life as a testament to the power of renunciation, austerity, compassion, and ethical conduct.
• Central to the message are Ahimsa, self-control, truthfulness, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation through Right Knowledge, Right Faith, and Right Conduct.
• The text underscores the importance of self-reliance and the idea that one's destiny is shaped by one's own actions (Karma).
• It promotes a universalistic view of spirituality, breaking down social barriers and emphasizing the inherent divinity within every soul.
• The book aims to inspire readers to adopt Mahavira's ideals in their daily lives for personal and collective well-being.