Bhikshu Mahakavyam Part 02 - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on the content and context within the Bhikshu Mahakavyam Part 02:

Book Title: Bhikshu Mahakavyam Part 02 Author(s): Nathmalmuni, Nagrajmuni, Dulahrajmuni Publisher: Jain Vishva Bharati, Ladnun Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/006173/1

This second part of the 'Shree Bhikshu Mahakavyam' covers Cantos 11 to 18. The original composition is by Shasanstambh Muni Natthmal, the translation is by Muni Nagaraj (Sardarshehar), and the editing is by Muni Dulahraj.

The book is dedicated to Gurudev Shree Tulsi, who was presented with the first part and expressed his happiness before his passing. This second part faced delays, partly due to his untimely demise. The work is described as a labor of love and continuous effort, with acknowledgments to Muni Champalalji and Muni Nagaraj for their suggestions and support. Acharyashree Mahapragya's encouraging words are also credited, highlighting his role as a scholar and source of inspiration for the Terapanth Dharma Sangha. Muni Dulahraj expresses gratitude for Muni Rajendrakumarji's assistance in resolving his grammatical queries.

The text includes a brief biographical sketch of the protagonist, Acharya Bhikshu, detailing his birth, parentage, early life, marriage, and the turning point of his wife's passing, which led to his spiritual journey. It describes his initiation under Acharya Raghunathji, his deep study of the scriptures, his realization of discrepancies between the scriptures and the conduct of monks, and his eventual separation from the existing sect in 1717 AD (V.S. 1817). The text explains the origin of the name 'Terapanth', emphasizing Acharya Bhikshu's interpretation of it as adherence to the thirteen principles (five Mahavratas, five Samitis, and three Guptis). It highlights the opposition and hardships he faced, including social ostracization and financial difficulties, yet remained steadfast in his principles. His prolific literary output, comprising over 36,000 verses in Rajasthani, is mentioned, along with the establishment of the foundational rules of the Terapanth. The succession by Muni Bharimalji is also noted. The summary concludes with Acharya Bhikshu's final Chaturmas in Siriyari, his peaceful demise through 'Santhara', and his last words, which suggested foresight or divine knowledge.

The text also presents a list of important principles attributed to Acharya Bhikshu, covering aspects like the centrality of 'Agya' (command) in his organization, the importance of 'Achar' (conduct), the principle of associating with the righteous, the concept of 'one goal, one thought, one conduct, one Acharya', the understanding of 'Ahimsa' as restraint of the tendency to kill, treating all beings equally, the non-compromise of the welfare of the many for the few, the essence of Ahimsa in purity of heart, the inseparability of pure means and pure ends, the invaluability of Dev, Guru, and Dharma, the distinction between Dharma and Adharma, and the idea that the path of a householder and a monk towards Moksha is the same.

The summary then details the content of the Cantos (Sargas):

Canto 11 (Ekadasah Sargah): Describes Acharya Bhikshu's first Chaturmas in Kelwa (Mewar) after separating from Acharya Raghunathji. It details the challenging location of 'Andheri Ori', the appearance of the Yaksha deity, and the naming of 'Terapanth' in Jodhpur. The canto uses 'Upajati' and 'Vasantatilaka' meters.
Canto 12 (Dvadashah Sargah): Focuses on Acharya Bhikshu's unwavering adherence to his chosen path despite intense opposition and persecution from Acharya Raghunathji and his followers. It highlights the welcome of the 'truth revolution' and the attempts to hinder Acharya Bhikshu's progress, including social ostracization. The meter used is 'Bhujangaprayat'.
Canto 13 (Trayodashah Sargah): Depicts the condition of Jainism at the time, the various obstacles faced in propagating the Dharma, Acharya Bhikshu's determination to endure suffering for the sake of truth, and his engagement in severe austerities. It also describes the subsequent public awakening and the growing influence of Terapanth due to his persuasive eloquence. The meter used is 'Drutavilambita'.
Canto 14 (Chaturdashah Sargah): Details Acharya Bhikshu's extensive travels and preaching. It highlights the success of his efforts in spreading the true tenets of Jain philosophy, fostering detachment, and the consequent growth and establishment of the Terapanth Sangha. The meter used is 'Shikharini'.
Canto 15 (Panchadashah Sargah): This extensive canto focuses on illustrative stories and parables (Drishtantas) used by Acharya Bhikshu to convey profound philosophical and ethical truths. It covers 197 verses and primarily uses the 'Shardulavikridita' meter. The summary emphasizes that these दृष्टांत (examples) make the teachings easily understandable, showcase Acharya Bhikshu's sharp intellect, and also reflect the contemporary civilization and culture. It mentions the book 'Bhikkhu Drishtanta' as a compilation of over 312 such anecdotes. Several examples are briefly described, illustrating Acharya Bhikshu's wisdom, his understanding of human nature, his gentle persuasion, and his ability to counter opposing arguments.
Canto 16 (Shodashah Sargah): Critiques the prevalent laxity and deviations from the true principles of monastic conduct in the contemporary monastic orders. It cites scriptural references to highlight the importance of adhering to the prescribed disciplines, the correct understanding of vows and conduct, and the condemnation of practices like excessive accumulation of possessions, improper diet, and neglecting the meticulous cleansing of utensils. It emphasizes the role of the Acharya in establishing and maintaining discipline. The meter used is 'Anushtup'.
Canto 17 (Saptadashah Sargah): Chronicles Acharya Bhikshu's final Chaturmas in Siriyari. It describes his succumbing to dysentery, his weakening body, and his profound spiritual discourse to his disciples. It highlights the qualities of his chief disciples and his advice to them regarding unity, adherence to the Acharya's guidance, avoiding temptations, and upholding righteous conduct. The canto culminates with Acharya Bhikshu accepting Santhara (fast unto death) with profound equanimity and peace. The meter used is 'Upajati'.
Canto 18 (Ashtadashah Sargah): Details the final moments and passing of Acharya Bhikshu in Siriyari. It describes the immense public outpouring of grief and reverence, the final discourses given by Acharya Bhikshu, his prophetic pronouncements, and his peaceful samadhi-maran. The text mentions his four final statements and the arrival of monks and nuns. It concludes with the description of his mortal remains being consigned to the elements. The meter used is 'Dhodhak'.

The text concludes with a Prashasti (colophon) that praises Acharya Bhikshu's profound spiritual realization, his impeccable conduct, his vast knowledge, and his successful propagation of the Dharma. It acknowledges the efforts of Muni Natthmalji in composing this 'Maha Kavyam' and dedicates it to Shree Tulsi Ganeendra. It also mentions the support received from the community in Jodhpur for the writing of this work.

In essence, the 'Bhikshu Mahakavyam Part 02' is a poetic biography chronicling the significant events, struggles, teachings, and the ultimate spiritual triumph of Acharya Bhikshu, the founder of the Terapanth tradition. It serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to Jain principles, his intellectual prowess, and his profound impact on the spiritual landscape.