Jnaneshvar: The life and works of the celebrated thirteenth century Indian mystic-poet (Classics of mystical literature series)

Book Details:

• Publisher: Sri Satguru Publications

• Author: S. Abhayananda

• Language: English

• Pages: 260

• Cover: Paperback

• Dimensions: 22 cm x 14 cm

• Weight: 300 gm

• Edition: 2000

• ISBN: 9788170306740

About the Book:

Jnaneshvar: The Life and Works chronicles the remarkable life of Jnaneshvar, one of the most brilliant poets, mystics, and figures in medieval Indian history. Despite living a brief life from 1271 to 1296, Jnaneshvar’s contributions to Indian literature, spirituality, and the Marathi language left an indelible mark. At the age when most men are just beginning to take on life's work, Jnaneshvar, through his profound mystical insights and literary genius, crafted timeless masterpieces that have continued to inspire and influence generations.

This book presents a detailed and evocative account of Jnaneshvar's life, piecing together historical facts with elements of drama and narrative flair. The work highlights Jnaneshvar's greatest contributions, including his Jnaneshvari (a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita), Amritanubhav (The Nectar of Mystical Experience), and Haripatha (a devotional hymn to Lord Hari). Jnaneshvar’s work transcends time and language, offering not only a spiritual guide but also a deep insight into human existence, divine unity, and the soul’s journey toward liberation.

In addition to chronicling Jnaneshvar’s life, the book explores the parallels between him and other great mystics from around the world, such as Johann Eckhart from medieval Europe and Ibn Arabi from the Islamic tradition. Despite their different cultural backgrounds, these mystics shared a similar experience of cosmic unity, making Jnaneshvar’s work a universal expression of mysticism.

Through this biography, the author S. Abhayananda emphasizes how Jnaneshvar's legacy is not only relevant to India but to the world. The book also explores the mystery surrounding Jnaneshvar's early death at the age of 25, his spiritual quest, and his philosophical contributions. This work aims to introduce Western readers to Jnaneshvar's mystical genius and to foster a greater understanding of his profound spiritual insights and literary works.

From the Book:

Jnaneshvar’s life and writings illuminate the concept of spiritual liberation, reflecting on how mysticism, when expressed through language, has the power to uplift the human soul. This book takes readers on a journey into the life of a young boy from a humble, casteless background who became a towering figure in spiritual literature, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate across generations.

Through its narrative, Jnaneshvar: The Life and Works offers a comprehensive view of Jnaneshvar's thought process, his mystical experiences, and the cultural context that shaped his works. It is an essential read for anyone interested in exploring the life of a saint whose contributions have inspired not just India but the entire spiritual world.