Brahmachariji

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Brahmachariji" by Manu Doshi, based on the provided text:

Brahmachariji is a biography detailing the life and spiritual journey of Brahmachariji, a revered figure in Jainism, penned by Manu Doshi. The author acknowledges his primary reliance on Dr. Shantibhai Patel's work, with additions and structural changes to present a cohesive narrative. The book aims to provide readers with a substantial understanding of Brahmachariji's impactful life.

The text is structured into seven chapters, tracing Brahmachariji's evolution:

Chapter 1: Early Life The book begins by highlighting the rarity of saints and the challenges in recognizing them, even when they embody immense peace and purity. It introduces Brahmachariji as someone who spread the teachings of Lord Shrimad Rajchandra and his successor, Laghurajswami, while remaining deeply devoted to Laghurajswami.

Brahmachariji, born Gordhan (Govardhan) in 1889 on Lord Krishna's birthday, hailed from a religious family. His father, Kalidas Dwarkadas, was a devout pilgrim who eventually embraced a life of renunciation and devotion. Gordhan was a solace to his mother, Jitabai, who saw him as a divine child. An astrologer's prediction of greatness, based on birthmarks, seemed to be confirmed by his peaceful, obedient, and straightforward nature.

Despite his early aptitude for studies, Gordhan had to leave school to help his elder brother with their farming occupation. After marrying at 13 and his father's death, he felt a strong sense of responsibility. Witnessing the hardships of elderly farmers moved him deeply. He desired to continue his education to better manage family responsibilities. With his brother's consent, he re-enrolled in school and, through hard work and inspiration from his teacher Motibhai Amin, excelled, even completing two grades in one year.

His boarding school life fostered his character development. He was inspired by Motibhai's dedication to teaching and his own adherence to a strict schedule, similar to Benjamin Franklin. He meticulously listed good and bad habits, striving to cultivate the former and discard the latter. Gordhan saved money by fasting, using it for school expenses and helping poorer students. He embraced the principle of "Yogah Karmasu Kaushalam" (efficiency in action). He also came into contact with Karunashankar, another influential teacher, and was inspired by the writings of poet-thinker Kant, which fostered his literary inclinations.

After matriculation, he joined Baroda Arts College, valuing time and knowledge acquisition. He envisioned a social service mission and Indian independence alongside friends like Bhikhäbhai Patel. To achieve this, they decided to study English at Wilson College, Bombay, enduring significant hardships. In 1914, Gordhanbhai earned a B.A. in English, even publishing articles in the Times of India. A minor injury on his thumb during his departure from Bombay went unnoticed due to his stoic nature.

Chapter 2: Initial Impact Upon graduation, Gordhanbhai was expected to secure a government job, but his desire for Indian independence led him to reject this path. Inspired by Motibhai Amin, he volunteered for the Charotar Education Society, joining the school at Vaso in 1915. He implemented Montessori-based education, pioneering a successful method adopted by others. He later became the Headmaster of D.N. High School in Anand, achieving a remarkable 100% matriculation result. His teaching methods emphasized empathy and reflection, often deferring punishments to allow students to repent. He also instilled good habits through practical examples.

The advent of Mahatma Gandhi's non-cooperation movement and the affiliation of Gujarat Vidyapeeth to national education influenced the Charotar Education Society. Gordhanbhai felt a dissonance with the title "Acharya" if he didn't embody its true meaning. This realization prompted him to seek spiritual guidance.

During the Diwali vacation of 1921, he learned about Prabhushri Laghurajswami and felt drawn to the Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram at Agäs. Upon meeting Prabhushri, he experienced inner peace. Inspired by Shrimad's teachings on devotion over knowledge, Gordhanbhai decided to dedicate himself to Prabhushri's service. Prabhushri imparted the mantra "Sahajatmaswaroop Paramguru," signifying the indwelling supreme Guru. Brahmachariji elaborated on this mantra as representing the pure, fearless, truthful, and non-possessive state of the soul, embodying all five restraints and true Brahmacharya. Prabhushri recognized the significance of this initiation, stating he had conferred this mantra to no one else. Gordhanbhai's diary entry revealed his appreciation for receiving this spiritual initiation on "Kali Chaudash" (a day for accomplishments).

He continued to serve Prabhushri, earning the name "Gordhan Bhagat." He often visited the Ashram, sacrificing personal comfort for spiritual pursuits. The text notes Prabhushri's observation of Gordhanbhai's dedication and the impact it had on other seekers.

Chapter 3: At the Threshold Gordhanbhai felt a pull between his duty to his son and his desire for renunciation and service to Prabhushri. He wrote a profound letter to his elder brother, Narsinhbhai, explaining his spiritual inclinations and his reasons for wanting to leave worldly life. He expressed his admiration for Prabhushri's detached nature and his own desire to follow the path of liberation under his guidance.

The letter details his deep contemplation and identifies four primary concerns binding him to worldly life:

1. Bodily considerations: Financial security in case of illness.
2. Consideration about Babu (his son): Responsibility for his upbringing and education.
3. Consideration about the family: Duty towards his birth family.
4. Consideration about the Society: Commitment to the Charotar Education Society.

He reflected on his past worries about the future, acknowledging that his studies and subsequent opportunities seemed pre-arranged by fate, a testament to wholesome past karma and contact. He expressed a desire not to burden others and to live righteously, free from regret. He emphasized his lack of attachment to ancestral property, having considered his education as being supported by the family chest.

He also recounted his emotional experiences, including his distress over the early death of his son Vitthal and his recurring impulses for renunciation, which were tempered by a lack of clear direction. He recognized that his worldly experiences were also shaping his karma. He expressed his commitment to his father's example of embracing "Marjad" (restraint) before death and his desire to fulfill his father's unfinished spiritual work.

Gordhanbhai sought his brother's understanding and blessings, expressing his willingness to serve Prabhushri wholeheartedly, whether it involved trivial tasks or significant responsibilities. He conveyed his readiness to leave the Society, provided arrangements were made for his son. He reiterated his firm resolve, reminiscent of his past decisions to displease his brother for the sake of his chosen path. He sought his brother's agreement to care for his son so he could be free from other worries and fully dedicate himself to spiritual pursuits. He expressed confidence in his ability to achieve his goal with divine grace and the support of his brother.

Chapter 4: Initiation The letter to his brother preceded a letter to Prabhushri in the summer of 1924, expressing deep affection and a desire to serve at the Ashram for a year, preparing himself for true worthiness. He felt like a swimmer waiting for a push, seeking Prabhushri's directive to leave worldly concerns. He believed in unquestioning obedience to a Guru's command.

Upon receiving Prabhushri's assurance of ample work, Gordhanbhai secured his brother's permission, resigned from the Charotar Education Society, and joined the Ashram in June 1925. Inspired by Shrimad's emphasis on celibacy's importance for self-control and spiritual progress, Prabhushri administered the vow of celibacy to Gordhanbhai, bestowing upon him the title "Brahmachari." This title became his recognized name.

Brahmachariji dedicated himself to Prabhushri's service with extreme diligence, waking at 3 AM, reading, and engaging in devotional activities and writing until late into the night, with minimal sleep. His strong physique, mental clarity, and control over his senses fueled his tireless efforts. His motto was "Nishdin Nainamen Nind Na Ave, Nar Tabahi Narayan Pave" (One can encounter God only by foregoing sleep). His deep study and devotion under Prabhushri's guidance led to profound contemplation of scriptures, which he internalized without outward display. He embraced total surrender, seemingly knowing nothing, and even his command over English was relinquished, aligning with Shrimad's philosophy of forsaking the world to remain at the saint's feet.

The text recounts a poignant moment where Prabhushri expressed the need for care, like a child for an old father, further deepening Brahmachariji's devotion. Prabhushri later gifted him "Samadhishatak," a work by Shrimad, which Brahmachariji studied intensely for six years. Impressed by his dedication, Prabhushri conferred a unique "Gurugam" (Guru's grace) upon him in 1932, describing Brahmachariji as malleable like gold, capable of being molded into any shape. Prabhushri recognized Brahmachariji's "right perception" as his defining attribute.

Upon Prabhushri's deteriorating health in 1936, he entrusted the Ashram to Brahmachariji, instructing him to seriously consider those seeking spiritual guidance and to administer vows and mantras. This moment fulfilled the predictions of Prabhushri, who had spoken of leaving behind a true celibate. Prabhushri emphasized that "Anäe Dhammo, Änäe Tavo" (Carrying out commands constitutes religion and austerity), urging surrender to the Graceful Lord. Before his passing in May 1936, Prabhushri, absorbed in the soul, imparted his final divine instructions to Brahmachariji, entrusting the religion to him.

Chapter 5: Unique Experience Following Prabhushri's demise, Brahmachariji faced the daunting responsibility of guiding spiritual seekers while grieving his loss. His writing of Prabhushri's biography and pilgrimages to significant places intensified his memories and grief, ultimately leading to a profound spiritual experience. He described this "Dharmarätri" (Spiritual night) poetically, highlighting his attainment of spiritual concentration and increased vigor for celibacy. He contrasted his awakened self with worldly rituals and emphasized the invaluable guidance of a true Guru. He believed that such dedicated contemplation could overcome adversities and lead to self-realization.

This experience led him to write "Vivekbävani," translate "Jnänsär" and "Jnänmanjari," but these efforts did not bring complete satisfaction. He felt the true essence lay in devotion to the Guru, akin to Vyasji's feelings. To overcome this, he began composing "Prajnavbodh" in 1938, following Shrimad's conceptual framework for teaching. "Prajnavbodh" covers the four main classifications of Jain literature: Dravyänuyog (substance and theory), Charitänuyog (conduct and restraints), Ganitänuyog (quantitative aspects), and Kathänuyog (historical and narrative). The book took three years to compose and one year for revision, ready by 1942. Despite the urging of seekers to publish it, Brahmachariji initially prioritized Prabhushri's biography. However, due to continued pressure and contributions, he consented to its publication in 1953, shortly before his passing. His intense dedication to "Prajnavbodh" was marked by his silent, absorbed effort, leading to inner enlightenment.

Chapter 6: Characterization Brahmachariji's life was a testament to joy and spirituality. His serene presence conveyed the bliss of religion and worship. He possessed the simplicity of a child and the serenity of the ocean. Though knowledgeable, he remained unassuming, attributing all his achievements to the "ascetic force of Graceful Lord." He spoke with frankness and humility, embodying Akhä Bhagat's ideal of an enlightened being who speaks with simplicity and no ego.

His presence fostered virtues and veracity in others. His deep intimacy created trust, and his inner strength guided people away from wrongdoing. He treated everyone with kindness, viewing wrongdoings as childlike. His seriousness, tempered with compassion, had a profound impact. Thousands of seekers found refuge in Graceful Lord through him, and he remembered details about hundreds of close associates, yet remained unattached. His true celibacy was evident in his unique eyesight, described as neither male nor female, a symbol of perfect detachment.

His joyful smile was a reflection of Prabhushri's influence. The text narrates an instance where Prabhushri's encouraging words and hearty laughter during a farewell to Brahmachariji brought tears of joy to Brahmachariji's eyes. Prabhushri's gift of Shrimad Rajchandra's book was a significant favor, reinforcing the message of internal pleasure and total surrender. Brahmachariji's expressive capacity was remarkable; his talks, delivered with gentle suggestion rather than command, were captivating and enlightening, offering solace and clarity. He possessed a unique ability to convey profound truths and insights, sometimes through subtle humor or evocative questions, resolving the problems of many seekers. He spoke without causing offense.

His silence was as impactful as his words, evaporating defilements and providing a sense of rest and peace. His detachment was so profound that his presence induced silence, making everything seem dreamlike. He maintained a strict control over his physical body, even in challenging terrains, demonstrating immense physical and mental resilience. Despite avoiding conventional comforts like regular bathing, his body remained pure and luminous. He engaged in constant study, devotion, and meditation, encouraging others to do the same. He led annual tours and established Shrimad Rajchandra Ashrams, transforming them into centers of worship. He also enthusiastically led pilgrimages, sharing the significance of the holy sites and continuing his literary work.

Chapter 7: Evaluation Evaluating Brahmachariji's life is challenging, but his profound spiritual experience and utter devotion are undeniable. He demonstrated that true devotion leads to liberation, and spiritualism is not just theoretical knowledge but a vigilant pursuit of a delighted life. His practical, accurate approach transcended conventional measures. After renouncing worldly life, he remained free from attachments to personality, property, or senses.

For him, devotion to Graceful Lord was the ultimate endeavor for self-realization. He adhered to Shrimad's teachings of remaining within the soul, irrespective of external rituals. He was unaffected by adverse times, as evidenced by his commentary on "Samadhishatak." He presented the essence of scriptures in a practical manner, demonstrating "live spiritualism" through works like "Prajnavbodh" and his commentaries. His expertise stemmed from his truthful, unobstructed, and pure perception, rooted in self-truthfulness. His writing, whether letters or commentaries, reflected his spiritual approach. He emphasized that writing on Shrimad's patterns required self-experience.

His spiritual perception fueled his relentless endeavors to overcome character-related delusions, with complete disregard for his physical well-being. He spent nights in perilous wilderness, engaging in rigorous spiritual practices. His capacity for enduring pain and hardship was remarkable, often concealed from others until much later. This vigor stemmed from his unique devotion to his Guru, believing that true knowledge resides within and is attained through purity and devotion. He advocated living and dying at the Guru's shelter, embracing Shrimad's teachings wholeheartedly. His life demonstrated a complete surrender to Graceful Lord, where his faculties functioned innately, as if guided by an unfathomable energy.

The presence of Graceful Lord was palpable in his proximity, with his constant reminder to act according to the Lord's commands. He believed in the direct communication between a Guru and the divine. He explained that those who truly knew Shrimad's heart could manifest his teachings, but understanding Shrimad's essence was not easy.

The text lists his significant literary contributions, including biographies, commentaries, and translated works, highlighting his valuable spiritual heritage. He also created devotional texts and compiled his discourses, enriching the spiritual knowledge of seekers. His letters, particularly his correspondence with his elder brother and Prabhushri, are considered highly valuable.

In his final days, Brahmachariji meticulously proofread Prabhushri's teachings, emphasizing the need for continuous effort. He expressed a desire for forgiveness and to refrain from fault-finding, recognizing that individuals must address their own shortcomings. He accepted death with equanimity. His final letter underscored the afflictions of worldly life and the need for detachment and objectivity, likening the enlightened beings' journey to reducing the vast world to the size of a cow's hoof. He advocated strengthening the soul through detachment and equanimity, always keeping death in mind as the ultimate equalizer.

Brahmachariji attained ultimate quietude in the Kausagga posture, leaving behind a legacy of total dedication to Graceful Lord. The concluding verses poetically summarize his attributes: purity of consciousness, tolerance, forgiveness, equanimity, thoughtful action, eradication of defilements, reverence for women as mothers, men as fathers, improved lifestyle beneficial to self and others, shortened worldly wandering, weeding out wrong teachings, and dedication to the Lord for crossing over.