Agam 08 Ang 08 Antkrutdashang Sutra Sthanakvasi

Author(s): Amarmuni, Shreechand Surana, Rajkumar Jain, Purushottamsingh Sardar
Publisher: Padma Prakashan

Page 553

Earlier Births
In narrative works like Jambusami Charitra five earlier incarnations of Sudharma Swami and Jambu Swami have been described highlighting their mutual relationship.
The first incarnation mentioned (fifth from that as Jambu), Sudharma was born as Bhavadatt and Jambu as Bhavadev. They were brothers. Bhavadatt was elder and during that birth also he taught religion to-Bhavadev.
This norm of giving sermon continued during later births, when finally they were born as Sudharma and Jambu. The close relationship was terminated only when they both got liberated.
Because of these ties from earlier births Jambu Swami had unwavering faith in Sudharma Swami. To Sudharma also Jambu was the most favourite disciple who always accompanied him.
In Jain literature the story of the life of Jambu Swami is one of the most interesting and inspiring stories. His sacrifice is worth emulating. Renouncing immense wealth and eight extremely beautiful and devoted wives provides great inspiration to masses.
As the inspiring cause of the creation of Dvadashang his name has become immortal in the Jain tradition. Antakriddasha Sutra is also a fruit of his curiosity. The name and fame of Jambu Kumar has existed for ages and will remain so till ages.
4. MEGH KUMAR The name of Megh Kumar finds mention mainly in the eighth para of the first chapter, when Gautam Kumar goes to pay homage to Bhagavan Arishtanenri. In order to provide details about this activity it has been indicated "eva jaha Mehe" (just like Megh). In other words-Gautam Kumar set out to pay homage to Bhagavan Arishtanemi just like Megh Kumar had set out to pay homage to Bhagavan Mahavir. After beholding him and paying homage he listened the sermon. Detailed story of Megh Kumar is available in Jnata Sutra (1/1).
He was the son of king Shrenik of Magadh. His mother was Dharini. Dharini had a dohad (pregnancy-desire) that she ride an elephant with her husband and go around enjoying nature in cloudy weather like during the monsoon season.
Abhaya Kumar, king Shrenik's eldest son, got this desire fulfilled with the help of a friendly god.
The boy was born and based on the dohad he was named Megh (cloud) Kumar. As he grew he acquired all manly skills and knowledge and was married to eigkit princesses.
Once Bhagavan Mahavir came with his disciples to Rajagriha and stayed at Gunasheel garden. Megh Kumar went to behold and pay homage to Bhagavan Mahavir and to listen
Antakriddasha Mahima