TRISHASHTI SHALAKA PURUSHA CARITRA VOL 1-6

Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra – is a major Indian saga and one of the cornerstones in the Jain system of belief, one of the oldest ascetic religions of India. The title translates to “Lives of Sixty-Three Great Men” or “The Lives of the Jain Elders”. It was written by the scholar Acharya Hemchandra Sur from the Shvetambara sect of Jainism in the 12th century. He was widely respected by all Jains but also in the entire Sanskrit world of the time. Acharya Hemchandra Sur rose to fame because he wrote extensively in both Prakrit, Sanskrit, Apabhramsha and Old Gujarati. These volumes are the English translations of the Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra hagiographies of the 63 Great Men of the Jain tradition. Translation was done by Dr. Helen Johnson and published for the first time in 1931 in India. The books describe the Jain saints, their asceticism and eventual liberation from the cycle of death and rebirth.

Download the Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra here:
Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra 1

Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra 2

Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra 3

Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra 4

Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra 5

Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra 6

About Trishasti Shalaka

This text holds immense cultural and religious significance for Jains. The “Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra” was composed by the Acharya Hemachandra, a prominent Jain scholar, poet, and philosopher who lived in the 12th century CE. Hemachandra was a prolific writer and played a crucial role in reviving and preserving Jain literature and teachings during a time when Jainism faced decline and persecution.

The text draws from earlier Jain scriptures and oral traditions. It recounts the lives and exploits of the Shalaka Purushas. These spiritual heroes are considered role models and sources of inspiration for Jain practitioners. They embody the highest ideals of virtue, knowledge, and self-discipline.

Relevance of the book Today:

Spiritual Guidance: The “Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra” provides ethical and spiritual guidance for Jains, presenting the stories of the Shalaka Purushas as examples of righteous living and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment. It serves as a source of inspiration and moral teachings for Jain individuals seeking to follow the path of non-violence, compassion, and self-control.

1. Religious Education: The text plays a significant role in Jain religious education, serving as a key resource for understanding the lives, virtues, and teachings of the Shalaka Purushas. It is studied by scholars, monks, and lay followers alike to deepen their knowledge of Jainism and its principles.
2. Rituals and Festivals: The narratives from the “Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra” often form the basis for rituals and celebrations within the Jain community. During religious festivals and special occasions, sections of the text may be recited, providing a cultural and spiritual framework for communal worship and devotion.
3. Historical and Literary Importance: The “Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra” is regarded as a vital historical and literary work within Jainism. It not only provides insights into the lives of revered Jain figures but also offers a glimpse into the socio-cultural milieu of ancient India. The text’s poetic language, intricate narratives, and moral lessons make it a valuable contribution to Indian literature.
4. Preservation of Jain Heritage: The “Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra” is part of the broader effort to preserve Jain heritage, literature, and spiritual traditions. By studying and propagating this text, Jains aim to ensure the continuity of their rich cultural and religious legacy, passing down teachings from one generation to the next.

Immense cultural, religious, and historical importance for Jains

In conclusion, the “Trishasti Shalaka Purusa Caritra” holds immense cultural, religious, and historical importance for Jains. It serves as a source of spiritual guidance, moral teachings, and inspiration, continuing to shape Jain identity and religious practice in the present day. The text’s preservation and study contribute to the understanding and appreciation of Jain heritage and its enduring relevance.