Buddhimuniji

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text about Ganivarya Buddhimuniji:

Ganivarya Buddhimuniji: A Life Dedicated to the Tri-Ratna

This text, authored by Agarchand Nahta, is a tribute to the life and achievements of Ganivarya Buddhimuniji, a prominent Jain monk. The core tenet of Jainism, as highlighted in the introduction, is that Samaygdarshan (right faith), Samayggyan (right knowledge), and Samaygcharitra (right conduct), collectively known as the Tri-Ratna (three jewels), constitute the path to Moksha (liberation). The text emphasizes that it is only humans who can achieve Moksha, and the purpose of human life is to diligently practice these three jewels, thereby limiting the cycle of rebirth.

Ganivarya Buddhimuniji's life is presented as an exemplary embodiment of this Tri-Ratna, demonstrating a profound integration of knowledge and conduct. Born in the village of Bilare, near the Gangaani Tirth in the Jodhpur region, into a Jat family, he was fortunate enough to be initiated into Jain monasticism. Although orphaned at a young age and entrusted to a temple priest by his mother, his life took a significant turn when he met Pandit Shri Kesarmuniji. This encounter ignited in him the aspiration to become a Jain monk.

His diksha (initiation) name was Navala, but he was later named Buddhimuniji, a name that proved to be remarkably fitting, reflecting his intellectual prowess and spiritual dedication. Even at a young age, he quickly developed into a learned scholar, assisting his guru in disseminating knowledge.

The text recounts significant events in his life:

• Pilgrimages and Gurus: He undertook a pilgrimage to Sametshikharji with Acharya Jinyashasuri and his guru Kesarmuniji. He later accompanied his guru to Pawapuri, the Nirvana-bhumi of Lord Mahavir, where his guru attained Nirvana after 53 fasts. He continued his journey with his guru to Surat and then to Bombay for Chaturmas, during which his guru, Pujya Kesarmuniji, passed away. For about twenty years, he remained devoted to his guru's service, deepening his knowledge and strengthening his vows and asceticism.
• Service and Asceticism: A notable act of selfless service described is his dedication to his guru's brother, Purnamuniji, who suffered from a severe infected wound. Buddhimuniji personally cleaned and dressed the wound for six months, enduring the stench and infestation, thereby providing immense relief to Purnamuniji.
• Acquisition of Knowledge and Spiritual Practice: He diligently studied the Agamas, undertaking a complete Yogodvahan (study of texts). He also participated in the Anjanshalaka (consecration ceremony) of the Sambhavnath Jain temple in Bhuj, Kutch, as per the instructions of Upadhyayji, despite being unwell. He later attended the Sangh Adhiveshan at Siddhagiri in Palitana, where he was honored with the title of Ganipada by Acharya Shri Jinratnasuri.
• Widespread Travels and Consecrations: He traveled extensively across Marwar, Gujarat, Kutch, Saurashtra, and eastern regions, consecrating numerous temples, idols, and Padukas. He played a crucial role in the consecration of the statue of Dadaji Jinadattasuri in Bhuj and later in Chuda, Marwar, where he also participated in a Chaturmas.
• Devotion to Gurus and Scholarly Work: He demonstrated profound devotion to his gurus, serving Gulabmuniji, a disciple of Jinruddhisuri, until his last moments. He also visited Upadhyay Labdhivratimuni in Kutch and assisted in the consecration of new temples and Dadawadis. He also participated in the consecration of the flagstaff and guru idols of the Shantinath Jain temple in Anjar.
• Unwavering Resolve and Predicament: Despite experiencing significant health deterioration and weakness, he remained committed to his tasks, including writing, even when advised to rest by physicians. He famously stated that he would not stop writing, as it was his passion and ceasing it would lead to illness. When urged to take Western medicine, he refused injections and mixtures but agreed to dry medication. When conventional treatments failed, skilled physicians were brought from Bombay, but his suffering, attributed to past karmic retribution (Ashata Vedaniya), persisted.
• Prophecy and Dedication to Kalpa Sutra: Facing his own mortality, he expressed a desire to see the Kalpa Sutra completed. He prophesied that his death would not occur until the work was finished. This prophecy proved true, as the Kalpa Sutra was printed just a few days before his demise, which he received with reverence.
• Final Moments and Legacy: In his final days, despite increasing weakness, he maintained peace and participated in rituals like Pratikraman and the chanting of the Navkar Mantra. He sought forgiveness from all. His passing occurred on the day of Parshvanath's Moksha Kalyanak.
• Scholarly Contributions: Buddhimuniji was highly praised for his dedication to the pursuit of knowledge. He meticulously edited and revised numerous Jain texts, including the Kharatargachch Guravali (in Hindi) and the Gujarati translation of the Kalpa Sutra, ensuring accuracy in both word and meaning. His significant scholarly works include Prasnottaramanjari, Pindvishuddhi, Navatattva Samvedan, Chaturmas Vyaykaran Paddhati, Pratikraman Hetugarbh, Kalpasutra Sanskrit Tika, Atmabodh, Pushpamala Laghuvritti, and Gujarati translations of various important texts. His work on the Kalpa Sutra is considered a great service to the Kharatargachch tradition.
• Interest in Devchandji's Works: He had a particular interest in the study and propagation of the works of Shrimad Devchandji. He compiled and published an anthology of Devchandji's lesser-known compositions, stating that his life was largely inspired by Devchandji's ideals.

The text concludes by lamenting the loss of such a great Muni, whose absence is deeply felt by both his own sect (swagachch) and others (paragachch). It expresses hope that his disciples, like Shriman Jayanandmani, will emulate his exemplary life and serve the Jain tradition.