Bruhadgacchiya Lekh Samucchay

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bruhadgacchiya Lekh Samucchay" (Collection of Inscriptions of the Bruhadgachha), compiled by Dr. Shivprasad and published by Omkarsuri Gyanmandir.

I. Introduction and Purpose:

• Significance of History and Evidence: The book emphasizes the crucial role of historical evidence in preserving the authenticity of history, preventing it from devolving into mere legends. Inscriptions on stones and idols are identified as vital links in this chain of evidence.
• Importance of Jain Inscriptions: Jain inscriptions, particularly those found on installed Jinapratimas (images of Tirthankaras), are highlighted as significant sources of information. They provide authentic data regarding the time of their creators, their lineage (jati and gotra), the chronology of Acharyas and monastic figures, and the guru-parampara. They also help in determining the specific gachha (sect/lineage) to which the inscriptions belong.
• Content of Inscriptions: Some inscriptions mention names of kings, villages, and cities of the time. Detailed inscriptions, or prashastis, often describe the dynasties of the kings and the lineage of the creators, along with their activities.
• Context of the Work: This compilation is presented as the third major collection of inscriptions related to a specific Jain gachha. It follows two significant previous works:
  1. Anchalagachchiya Pratishthalekho (Inscriptions of Anchalagachcha) compiled by Shri Parshva and published in 1971.
  2. Khartaragachchiya Pratishtha Lekh Sangrah (Collection of Inscriptions of Khartaragachcha) compiled by Mahopadhyay Vinaysagarji and published in 2006.
• Inspiration and Publication: The current work, Bruhadgachchiya Lekh Samucchay, is published with the inspiration of Acharya Shri Muneechandrasuriji Maharaj and published by Omkarsuri Aradhana Bhavan, Surat.

II. The Bruhadgachcha and its Significance:

• The Bruhadgachcha is presented as a significant lineage within Jainism, which has produced many scholars and has been instrumental in conducting numerous consecrations (pratishthas). The book aims to provide a clear picture of this lineage.
• The publication is dedicated to the idea that understanding history fosters respect for great personalities.

III. Structure and Content of the Compilation:

• Comprehensive Collection: The book is a collection of inscriptions, primarily from the medieval period, related to the Bruhadgachcha.
• Data Provided: Each inscription entry typically includes:
  • The name of the Tirthankara or deity (e.g., Rishabhdev, Parshvanath, Mahavir, Neminath).
  • The date of the inscription (Samvat year, month, day, and day of the week).
  • Information about the donor(s) (names, lineage, family members, purpose of donation - often for spiritual merit or the well-being of ancestors).
  • The name of the Acharya or preceptor who consecrated the idol.
  • The place where the inscription is found (often indicated by source references like A.A.Ku.).
  • The Gachcha (Bruhadgachcha is consistently mentioned).
• Chronological Scope: The inscriptions span a considerable period, from the 12th century (Vikram Samvat) onwards, with many entries in the 13th and 14th centuries, and some extending further.
• Key Information: The inscriptions reveal details about:
  • Patronage: Devotees from various communities, notably the Praguat and Oswal communities, who commissioned the construction of temples and idols.
  • Spiritual Lineage: The continuous succession of Acharyas within the Bruhadgachcha, highlighting their roles in consecrations and their philosophical teachings.
  • Geographical Distribution: Mentions of various locations where these inscriptions are found, such as Abu (Mount Arbudam), Kumbharya, Girnar, Palitana, and numerous places in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
  • Social and Economic Aspects: Hints about the social status of donors, their professions (e.g., merchants - shreshthi, vyavahari), and their devotion.
• Six Appendices: The compilation includes six appendices providing valuable supplementary information:
  1. Current Location of Inscriptions: Details of where the inscriptions are presently located.
  2. Acharyas and Monks: A list of the Acharyas and monks mentioned in the inscriptions.
  3. Jatis: A list of castes mentioned.
  4. Gotras: A list of gotras mentioned.
  5. Samvat List: A chronological list of the Samvat years.
  6. Source Material: An alphabetical listing and abbreviation of the source materials used in the compilation.

IV. Examples of Inscriptions (Illustrative):

The text then proceeds to list numerous inscriptions with their details, covering a wide range of years and donors. For instance:

• Inscription 1 (Samvat 1143): Mentions the consecration of a Rishabhdev-Panchtirthi by Acharya Vijayasingh of the Bruhadgachcha.
• Inscription 3 (Samvat 1187): Describes the installation of a Rishabhdev image at the Arbuda Chaityatirtha by the Bruhadgachchiya Shri Vardhaman Suri and Shri Bhadresvar Suri.
• Inscription 10 (Samvat 1207): Records the creation of a Mahavir Chowbisi (set of 24 Tirthankara images) in metal, consecrated by the Bruhadgachchiya Shri Shantiprabh Suri.
• Inscription 33 (Samvat 1219 onwards): A significant inscription related to the history of the Chaumukhji temple in Kumbharya, mentioning various Acharyas and the rulers of Gurjara.
• Inscription 120 (Samvat 1443): A detailed inscription from Nadlai, mentioning the consecration of a Neminath temple and the patronage of rulers like Gyasuddin and Nasir Shah, and the influence of Acharyas like Shri Manatungsuri and Shri Vinayachandrasuri.

V. Publisher's Note (Prakashakiya):

• The publisher expresses joy in releasing this significant historical work, emphasizing the importance of history for understanding culture.
• It mentions previous publications by Omkarsuri Gyanmandir, including works on the history of Jain literature and Jain Shvetambar Gachhas.
• The note highlights the scholarly contributions of Dr. Shivprasad.

VI. Author's Preface (Aamukh):

• Dr. Shivprasad reiterates the importance of historical evidence, especially inscriptions, for authenticating history.
• He acknowledges the efforts of various scholars from the early 20th century onwards who have collected and published Jain inscriptions.
• He places this collection within the context of other major gachha-specific inscription collections.
• He expresses gratitude to Acharya Muneechandrasuriji for the inspiration and to the printing and publishing teams.

VII. Acknowledgements and Support:

• The book is supported by generous donations and sponsorships from various Jain sanghas, trusts, and individuals, as listed in the initial pages and the appendices.

VIII. Conclusion:

• "Bruhadgacchiya Lekh Samucchay" is a vital academic resource for scholars, historians, and anyone interested in the history of Jainism, specifically the Bruhadgachcha lineage. It provides primary source material for understanding the socio-religious and cultural landscape of medieval India, particularly the patronage of Jainism. The meticulous compilation and inclusion of appendices make it a valuable reference work.