Akbar Pratibodhak Yugapradhan Jinchandrasuri

Here is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Akbar Pratibodhak Yugapradhan Jinchandrasuri" by Bhanvarlal Nahta, translated into English:

This text is a biographical account of Yugapradhan Shriman Jinachandrasuri, a highly influential Jain Acharya who lived during a significant period of Indian history, marked by the rule of the Mughal emperors Akbar and Jahangir.

The biography begins by highlighting the immense damage inflicted upon Indian religion, culture, literature, and art during the period of foreign (Yavan) rule that followed the passing of Acharya Jinamanikyasuri's predecessor. It emphasizes the crucial role of great souls in uplifting the morale and character of the populace during such times.

Shriman Jinachandrasuri is presented as a "Yugapradhan" (Epochal Leader), following in the lineage of great Acharyas who strengthened the Jain community by imparting religious teachings and fostering a righteous society. His influence extended beyond the monastic order, inspiring influential laymen, ministers, and military leaders who contributed to the service of the nation and society. The text notes the significant influence of Jain Acharyas and householders in state governance, which helped mitigate losses for the Jain community and garnered support from rulers for the protection of Jain Tirthas and Dharma.

Early Life and Initiation: Shriman Jinachandrasuri was born Sultankumar in the year 1565 CE in Khetasar, Marwar, to wealthy Oswal parents. Even in his childhood, he displayed a strong inclination towards religion, a testament to his past life merits. At the age of 8, in 1604 CE, he was deeply impressed by the teachings of Acharya Jinamanikyasuri and, driven by his renunciation, obtained his parents' permission to take initiation. He was named Sumatidheer by his guru. Possessing exceptional intelligence and talent, he mastered the Jain scriptures, including the eleven Angas, and became proficient in debates and public speaking, traveling extensively with his guru.

Ascension to Acharyaship and Reforms: The text notes a period of slight laxity in the conduct of some Jain monks. Acharya Jinamanikyasuri intended to address this, but his passing before he could implement reforms led to his 24 disciples arriving in Jaisalmer. There, at the age of 17, Sumatidheer was enthusiastically installed as the Acharya of the Khartargachha by Acharya Gunaprabhasuri. He was then given the name Shriman Jinachandrasuri, according to the tradition. On the same night, his guru appeared in a vision, guiding him towards scriptural directives for the monastic order.

Shriman Jinachandrasuri embarked on a significant reform movement, known as "Kriyoddhar" (Revival of Conduct). He encouraged monks who were unable to adhere to the strict monastic discipline to relinquish their vows and become householders. As a result of his efforts, out of 300 monks, 16 chose to remain with him, while the others became householders, known as "Mattheran," and engaged in activities like teaching and art. This reform, which began in 1614 CE, was a success.

Scholarly Pursuits and Debates: During his stay in Patan, Gujarat, a significant center of the Khartargachha, Shriman Jinachandrasuri composed a scholarly commentary on the Paushadh Vidhi Prakaran. He also engaged in a prominent debate with Dharmasagar Upadhyay, a contentious scholar from the Tapagachha. Dharmasagar had authored works that incited discord within the Jain community and falsely claimed that the renowned scholar Abhaydeva Suri was not from the Khartargachha. Shriman Jinachandrasuri challenged Dharmasagar to a debate, and when he refused to appear, Shriman Jinachandrasuri, with the backing of other Acharyas, proved that Abhaydeva Suri was indeed from the Khartargachha, leading to Dharmasagar's excommunication from the Jain Sangha.

Influence on Emperor Akbar and Religious Policies: The text details Shriman Jinachandrasuri's extensive travels and his profound influence on Emperor Akbar. His reputation for renunciation, scholarship, and yogic powers reached Akbar's court. Akbar, impressed by his character, invited him to Lahore. During his stay with the Emperor, Shriman Jinachandrasuri engaged in religious discourse. Akbar, deeply moved by his teachings, began to emulate his compassionate approach.

Key interactions and their outcomes include:

• Animal Protection: Akbar issued royal decrees across his empire, banning the killing of animals for extended periods (six months in total throughout the year). He also prohibited cow slaughter and exempted the Shatrunjaya pilgrimage from taxes.
• Personal Devotion: Akbar held Shriman Jinachandrasuri in high esteem, calling him "Bade Guru" (Great Teacher). He offered gold coins, elephants, and horses, but Shriman Jinachandrasuri’s detachment led Akbar to accept only a symbolic rupee.
• Abolition of Animal Sacrifice: On the occasion of Paryushana, Shriman Jinachandrasuri persuaded Rao Suratan of Sirohi to prohibit animal sacrifice.
• Support for Tirthas: When informed about the destruction of Jain temples by Naurang Khan, Shriman Jinachandrasuri advised Emperor Akbar on protecting them. Akbar then issued firm orders to his governor, Azam Khan, to prevent any harm to the Shatrunjaya pilgrimage, thereby safeguarding it from Mlechha (foreign) incursions.
• "Yugapradhan" Title: Inspired by the life of Jinadattasuri and the sanctity of Shriman Jinachandrasuri's asceticism, Akbar bestowed upon him the title of "Yugapradhan" and ordered a grand celebration according to Jain traditions. This event also marked the installation of his disciple, Mahimraj, as Acharya Jinasinghasuri, and others to various scholarly positions.
• Charity and Philanthropy: Shriman Jinachandrasuri's disciple, minister Karmachandra, donated a significant sum of over one crore in his honor. Akbar also presented Shriman Jinachandrasuri with gifts worth tens of thousands, which the Acharya used for religious purposes.

Influence on Jahangir and Later Life: The text also mentions Shriman Jinachandrasuri's interactions with Jahangir. During Jahangir's reign, when an order was issued to arrest all monks due to the misconduct of one, Shriman Jinachandrasuri intervened and successfully persuaded the Emperor to revoke the order, thus saving the monastic community.

Passing and Legacy: Shriman Jinachandrasuri peacefully passed away after observing a fast. His mortal remains were cremated on the banks of the Banaganga, and a miracle occurred where his face cloth did not burn. A stupa and Charan Paduka (footprints) were erected at the site of his cremation.

He is renowned as the Fourth Dada Guru within the Jain community. His Charan Padukas and idols are venerated at various Jain Tirthas. His death anniversary is celebrated as "Dada Dooj" in Gujarat, with fairs held at Dadawadi temples.

Disciples and Community: Shriman Jinachandrasuri had a vast following, initiating 44 monks and having 65 direct disciples. His disciples and followers traveled throughout India, significantly contributing to the propagation of Jainism. He performed 26 Chaturmas in Rajasthan, 20 in Gujarat, 5 in Punjab, and 5 in the Delhi-Agra region. The Khartargachha itself was a large community, with estimates suggesting over five thousand monks and nuns.

The text also highlights the immense contribution of his devoted lay followers, who funded temple constructions, led pilgrimage processions, authored scriptures, and supported the propagation of Jain Dharma. Notable disciples and patrons mentioned include Minister Karmachandra, Sanghapati Somji, Rupji, Lalchand Bohra, Tharusa, Kankariya Kama, and Asakaran of Mewar, among many others.

In essence, the biography portrays Shriman Jinachandrasuri as a pivotal figure who not only reformed the Jain monastic order but also wielded significant influence on the Mughal emperors, particularly Akbar, leading to the implementation of compassionate policies that benefited all sentient beings. His life exemplifies profound scholarship, asceticism, and an unwavering commitment to the welfare of the Jain community and society at large.