Adhyatmayogi Santa Shreshtha Jyeshthamalji - Book Summary

This document is an excerpt from a Jain publication titled "Adhyatmayogi Santa Shreshtha Jyeshthamalji," authored by Devendramuni Shastri. It appears to be part of a larger collection, "Z_Pushkarmuni_Abhinandan_Granth_012012.pdf," available through Jainqq.org. The text focuses on the life and teachings of two prominent Jain monks: Adhyatmayogi Jyeshthamalji Maharaj and Mahasthavir Shri Tarachandji Maharaj, with a brief mention of Divya Tapodhan Shri Jasrajji Maharaj.

Adhyatmayogi Jyeshthamalji Maharaj:

Early Life and Spiritual Inclination: Born in Samadadi village, Barmer district, in Vikram Samvat 1914 (1857 CE), Jyeshthamalji Maharaj showed spiritual inclination from a very young age, influenced by his devout parents. He refused marriage, feeling no worldly attachment, and was inspired by the preachings of Acharya Poonamchandji Maharaj.
Renunciation and Austerity: At the age of seventeen, in Vikram Samvat 1931 (1874 CE), he received initiation. Under Acharya Poonamchandji's guidance, he dedicated himself to rigorous study of Jain scriptures (Agam literature) and deep meditation. His daily routine was divided between intense self-study ("Swadhyaya"), which he considered essential for spiritual purity, and chanting ("Jap Sadhana") during the nights.
Spiritual Powers and Reputation: His consistent self-study and chanting led to "Vachansiddhi" (perfection of speech), earning him the title of "Pancham Ar Ke Kevi" (an enlightened being of the current degenerate era).
Encounters and Teachings:
- Debate with Vijayrajendra Suriji: When challenged to a debate by Vijayrajendra Suriji, Jyeshthamalji Maharaj declined, stating that debates lead to attachment and aversion without genuine benefit. Later, when Vijayrajendra Suriji, due to his pride, fell gravely ill after disrespecting Jyeshthamalji Maharaj, he sent his disciple to apologize, after which he recovered. This incident highlighted Jyeshthamalji Maharaj's miraculous powers.
- Encounter with a Lawyer: A lawyer showed disrespect by hitting his shoe on a stone when the Maharaj passed by. Jyeshthamalji Maharaj calmly approached him, and in a subsequent event, the lawyer was publicly punished by having shoes placed on his head in court due to a misunderstanding. This led to the lawyer becoming a devoted follower.
- Influence on Dhanna Muni: He prophesied that Dhanna Muni, who was proud of his austerities, would leave his sect and become enslaved by desires. This prophecy came true.
- Influence on Ghevar Muni: Similarly, he predicted that Ghevar Muni, proud of his knowledge and sect, would abandon his sect and become a Mandirmargi monk, which also came to pass.
- Blessing Nanalmal Bhandari: He advised Nanalmal Bhandari to undertake a lifelong vow of abstention ("Santhara") when the latter expressed a desire for it. Nanalmal Bhandari followed his advice and passed away peacefully after three days.
- Bestowing Strict Vows: He gave a young newlywed the vow of lifelong celibacy, which was immediately followed by the young man's death from a heart attack, revealing the Maharaj's foresight.
- Foreseeing Disaster: During his Chaturmas (monsoon retreat) in Salawas, he miraculously predicted a building collapse and instructed everyone to evacuate minutes before it happened, saving many lives.
- Healing Powers: His devotees experienced miraculous healing from diseases, including eye ailments, merely by applying the dust from his feet. Even spirits (bhuts) were said to fear his spiritual aura.
Leadership and Renunciation of Title: Despite requests from congregations to assume the title of Acharya, he always refused, preferring to serve the Sangh as a simple monk. He had no desire for fame or titles.
Demise: He predicted his death three days in advance and passed away at the prophesied time in Samadadi, with thousands of devotees present.
Legacy: Jyeshthamalji Maharaj is remembered as a miracle-worker, a saint of great spiritual power, known for his simplicity, detachment, and inner spiritual practice. His name continues to bring solace and joy to devotees.

Mahasthavir Shri Tarachandji Maharaj:

Introduction to Life Philosophy: The text begins with a philosophical discussion on life, drawing parallels between Western and Eastern perspectives, and emphasizing the importance of self-reverence, self-knowledge, and self-control. It quotes various thinkers like Mahatma Gandhi, Swami Vivekananda, Socrates, and Tolstoy.
The Importance of Character: The author emphasizes that character is the governing element of life and is superior to genius, citing Friedrich Sanders and Berthel. Character makes a person immortal, unlike the perishable individual.
Birth and Early Life in Mewar: Mahasthavir Shri Tarachandji Maharaj was born in the heroic land of Mewar. His early life was marked by playfulness, but he eventually moved to Udaipur for better education and spiritual guidance.
Inspiration and Initiation: He was deeply influenced by the sermons of Acharya Poonamchandji Maharaj and Mahasati Gulabkunwarji. His mother, Gyankunwar Bahen, also vowed to take initiation if he did.
Obstacles to Initiation: His maternal uncle, Seth Hansrajji Bhandari, tried to prevent his initiation through various means, including legal intervention, but his efforts were thwarted by Hajarimal's strong will and the judge's decision.
Spiritual Training: After receiving initiation in Samadadi in Vikram Samvat 1950 (1893 CE), Hajarimal became Muni Tarachand. He studied diligently under Acharya Poonamchandji Maharaj and later under Jyeshthamalji Maharaj.
Service and Dedication: He showed immense devotion and service to his elders, including tending to his injured guru-brother, Hindumalji Maharaj, and serving other monks from different sects. His life was dedicated to service.
Literary and Preaching Skills: He was a skilled calligrapher and wrote numerous devotional works. His preaching style was captivating, using various literary devices and emotions to convey spiritual messages.
Efforts for Unity: He was a strong advocate for unity within the Sthanakvasi tradition, organizing conferences and striving to bridge differences between various sub-sects.
Emphasis on Education: He recognized the importance of deep study of Sanskrit and Prakrit languages for understanding Jain scriptures and ensured his disciples, including Pushkar Muniji Maharaj, received advanced education.
Jap Sadhana and Vachansiddhi: Following the example of Jyeshthamalji Maharaj, he was deeply devoted to Jap Sadhana, reportedly completing over 1.25 crore recitations of the Namaskar Mantra, which also led to his Vachansiddhi.
Detachment and Simplicity: He maintained a simple and detached lifestyle, treating all equally, regardless of wealth or status. He politely refused any donations or services from wealthy individuals.
Meeting with Dignitaries: Even prominent figures like Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru were struck by his detachment and spiritual focus during a meeting.
Foretelling and Death: He predicted his own demise six months in advance and passed away after undertaking the vow of "Santhara" after suffering a mild stroke. He died in full spiritual composure, imparting his final teachings to his disciples.
Legacy: Mahasthavir Shri Tarachandji Maharaj is remembered for his radiant life, characterized by purity of conduct, breadth of thought, unwavering resolve, and profound dedication to service. He played a significant role in organizing the Jain monastic community and fostering unity.

Divya Tapodhan Shri Jasrajji Maharaj:

Brief Mention of Austerity: This section briefly introduces Shri Jasrajji Maharaj as a great ascetic. It defines tapas (austerity) in Jainism and highlights its importance in achieving spiritual powers and liberation.
Early Life and Renunciation: Born in 1820 CE in Ajmer district, he renounced worldly life at the age of 49 and received Jain initiation.
Extreme Austerities: He undertook severe austerities for sixteen and a half years, consuming minimal and dry food. The text lists the number of days he observed specific fasts.
Demise: He passed away in Jodhpur in 1885 CE after observing Santhara for 71 days.
Spiritual Attainments: He was known for his Vachansiddhi and had the power to heal ailments through the dust of his feet.

In essence, the text serves as a biographical tribute to these revered Jain monks, highlighting their spiritual journeys, miraculous powers, profound teachings, and significant contributions to Jainism, particularly emphasizing the virtues of austerity, self-discipline, service, and spiritual realization.