Ahimsa Ke Prachar Prasar Me Acharya Hastimalji Ka Yogdan - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text about Acharya Hastimalji's contribution to the propagation of Ahimsa (non-violence):

This text, authored by Hasmukh Shantilal Shah and published by Z_Jinvani_Acharya_Hastimalji_Vyaktitva_evam_Krutitva_Visheshank, highlights the significant role Acharya Hastimalji played in promoting and practicing the principle of Ahimsa within Jainism and beyond.

The core of Acharya Hastimalji's approach to propagating Ahimsa was through personal conduct. Having taken his Jain monastic vows at the tender age of ten, he embodied the principles he advocated. The text emphasizes that engaging in auspicious activities naturally leads to the cessation of violence, and that Swadhyay (self-study) and Samayik (meditation/equanimity) are the direct means of practicing Ahimsa. Acharya Hastimalji strongly promoted these practices, encouraging the formation of organizations and groups dedicated to regular Swadhyay and Samayik, thereby actively spreading the message of abstaining from violence.

Beyond these core spiritual practices, Acharya Hastimalji inspired the creation of philanthropic and social service organizations focused on beneficial activities. This led to numerous individuals dedicating themselves to noble causes as office bearers and members, further diverting them from violent actions. Specifically, he was instrumental in establishing three organizations dedicated to animal welfare:

Jivdaya, Dharampura
Jivdaya Amar Bakra That, Bhopalgarh
Pashu Krurta Nivaran Samiti, Jaipur

He also provided guidance and support to the Himsaviroudhak Sangh (Anti-Violence Association) in Ahmedabad, and inspired other animal welfare enthusiasts to contribute.

A testament to his influence, 85 individuals embraced the Mahavrat of Ahimsa by taking Jain diksha under his inspiration, including 31 monks and 54 nuns.

Acharya Hastimalji was also a prolific writer, authoring over 30 books. The text notes that reading these books naturally helps readers abstain from violence.

The text provides several powerful anecdotes illustrating his deep commitment to Ahimsa:

In Satara, Maharashtra, he courageously confronted a crowd about to kill a cobra, rescued the snake, placed it in his bag, recited the Navkar mantra to it, and then released it into the jungle. This act is presented as an example of his immense self-confidence, universal compassion, and deep adherence to Ahimsa.
His inspiration led to the establishment of the Marwad Famine Relief Fund in Rajasthan, which, with a fund of 27 crore, saved the lives of 5 lakh animals.
In a discourse in 1965 in Sailana, he explained the differences in the practice of Ahimsa between monks and householders as described by Lord Mahavir, noting Anand's vow to avoid intentional violence.
In Pipad, he emphasized that controlling mental violence is facilitated by restraint and knowledge, urging people to cultivate these qualities.
In 1988, he stopped animal sacrifice in a village near Niwai, between Sawai Madhopur and Jaipur, through his teachings.
His profound practice of Ahimsa deeply moved the community of Nimaj. During his Santhara (voluntary religious fasting until death), the leader of the butchers, Mr. Haridev bhai, made and kept a pledge that no animal slaughter would occur in Nimaj during his Santhara, and Muslim families also abstained from meat.
As a mark of respect for his life's work, the Rajasthan government ordered the closure of all slaughterhouses across the state during his Mahaprayan (passing away).

The text also mentions prominent lay followers inspired by Acharya Hastimalji in their animal welfare endeavors, such as Shri C. L. Lalwani and Shri Parasmal Ji Kucheria from Jaipur.

The author concludes by expressing a desire for readers to gain the inspiration and strength to follow Acharya Hastimalji's example of continuous effort in the propagation and practice of Ahimsa, thereby offering him true tribute. This endeavor, the author hopes, will lead to contributing to the eternal happiness of all beings and the reduction of one's own karmas.