Buddhisagarsuriji

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on the life and contributions of Acharya Shri Buddhisagarsurishwarji Maharaj:

This text is a biographical account of Acharya Shri Buddhisagarsurishwarji Maharaj, a highly influential figure in Jainism, known for his spiritual prowess, extensive scholarship, and significant contributions to the propagation and protection of the faith.

Early Life and Awakening:

• Born as Behchardas in 1930 Vikram Samvat (VS) in Vijapur (Vidyapur), Gujarat, to Shri Shivabhai Patel and Ambaben.
• From childhood, he displayed remarkable qualities, hinting at a spiritual destiny. A notable incident involved a snake peacefully leaving his cradle, interpreted by a sage as a sign of his extraordinary nature.
• He excelled in his studies, demonstrating mastery in Gujarati, Sanskrit, and English.
• A pivotal moment in his life occurred when he intervened to save sages from rampaging bulls. The sages' teachings on ahimsa (non-violence) and the sanctity of all life deeply impacted him, awakening his latent spiritual inclinations. He was inspired by verses celebrating renunciation and self-control.

Spiritual Journey and Scholarship:

• Driven by a thirst for knowledge, Behchardas began studying religious texts, diligently learning the Namaskar Mahamantra and mastering key Jain scriptures like the Panch Pratikraman, Char Prakaran, Teen Bhashya, and Karmagranth.
• His intellectual curiosity led him to the Shri Yashovijayji Jain Sanskrit-Prakrit Pathshala in Mehsana, a renowned center of Jain learning. There, he delved deeply into the profound philosophical teachings of the Tirthankaras.
• His exceptional intellect and dedication were recognized, leading him to become an examiner for various Jain schools. However, he sought a higher path.
• His argumentative skills were formidable, as demonstrated when he eloquently defended Jainism in a public debate against a Christian priest, leaving the latter unable to respond.
• He had the opportunity to serve his guru, Acharya Shri Ravisagarji Maharaj, in Mehsana. Following his guru's passing, he received further spiritual guidance from another sage, which solidified his resolve to embrace monasticism.
• In 1957 VS, he took diksha (initiation) under the guidance of Muni Shrimad Sukhsagarji Maharaj in Palanpur, becoming known as Buddhisagarji. His name aptly reflected his vast intellect.

Contributions and Impact:

• Author and Scholar: Acharya Buddhisagarji was a prolific writer, authoring over 108 books. These works illuminated the path of Jain dharma for countless devotees and contributed significantly to Jain literature. His writings were so impactful that monks from other sects, like Shri Amrish of the Sthanakvasi tradition, became his disciples, taking the name Shri Ajitsagarji Maharaj.
• Defender of Jainism: During his tenure, he actively defended Jainism against criticism. In Surat, he challenged Christian missionaries to a public debate, but none accepted. He then countered their criticisms through his writings, notably "Jain Dharma: Khristi Dharm Na Mukabale" (Jainism vs. Christianity) and "Jain Khristi Samvad" (Jain-Christian Dialogue). He proved to be an unconquerable debater throughout his 24 years of monastic life.
• Spiritual Practice: He was a master of Ashtanga Yoga, adeptly practicing yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana, and samadhi. He was known to remain in deep meditation for extended periods, attracting divine energies and beings.
• Social Reform and Propagation:
  • He emerged as a beacon of hope in a time when superstition, ignorance, and the influence of sorcerers and evil spirits were rampant.
  • He was instrumental in establishing the Shri Ghantakarna Mahavir temple at Mahudi. This deity is revered as a protector of the faith, and the temple became a significant pilgrimage site, believed to offer relief from spiritual distress and superstition. The popularity of Ghantakarna Mahavir spread widely, with idols being installed in numerous places.
  • He played a crucial role in the establishment of educational institutions, including the Shri Yashovijayji Jain Gurukul in Palitana and the Shri Jain Shwetambar Murtipujak Jain Boarding in Ahmedabad, and the Shri Dashashri Mali Jain Boarding in Vadodara.
  • He conducted numerous religious ceremonies, including consecrations of temples, consecrations of idols, and initiation ceremonies, all contributing to the flourishing of the Jain tradition.
• Influence on Rulers: His profound knowledge and saintly demeanor attracted the attention of many kings and rulers. He delivered discourses in royal palaces, influencing rulers to adopt righteous principles. Notably, he persuaded Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad of Vadodara to abandon the practice of animal sacrifice on Vijayadashami. Several other rulers renounced hunting, meat-eating, addiction, and gambling after being influenced by him.
• Recognition: His scholarly reputation extended beyond Gujarat, reaching as far as Banaras, where scholars and logicians conferred upon him the honorary title of "Shastra Visharad" (Expert in Scriptures). In 1970 VS, he was formally enthroned as Acharya in Pethapur, Gujarat, in a grand ceremony attended by numerous Swamis from across India.

Demise:

• Acharya Buddhisagarji Maharaj attained Maha-prayan (liberation) in 1981 VS, on the third day of the waning moon in the month of Jyeshtha. He passed away peacefully in samadhi in Vijapur, surrounded by his disciples, after a life rich in spiritual practice and significant accomplishments.
• His physical body, even in death, radiated a divine glow. News of his passing spread like wildfire, drawing immense crowds. His funeral procession was a grand event, attended by millions who mourned the loss of this great soul.

Legacy:

• Acharya Buddhisagarji Maharaj lived a relatively short life of 51 years, but it was marked by extraordinary sadhanā (spiritual practice), immense knowledge, unparalleled propagation of the faith, and exemplary conduct. He is counted among the great luminaries of the past and serves as an inspiration to many.

The text also briefly introduces Acharya Shri Ajitsagar Surishwarji Maharaj, highlighting his early life as Ambalal, his initiation at a young age, his acceptance of idol worship despite opposition, and his dedication to studying Jain scriptures under Acharya Buddhisagarji Maharaj, becoming a prominent preacher.