Deshbhushanji Aacharya Abhinandan Granth

Based on the provided pages, here's a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Deshbhushanji Acharya Abhinandan Granth":

Book Title: Deshbhushanji Acharya Abhinandan Granth (also referred to as "Aastha Aur Chintana" - Faith and Contemplation) Author: R C Gupta (Chief Editor), Sumat Prasad Jain (Organising Editor) Publisher: Deshbhushanji Maharaj Trust / Acharyaratna Shri Deshbhushan Ji Maharaj Abhinandan Granth Samiti Publication Year: 1987

Overall Purpose: This is a felicitation volume (Abhinandan Granth) compiled to honor and celebrate the 51 years of Digambara Sadhana (ascetic practice) of Acharya Ratna Shri Desh Bhushan Ji Maharaj. It is a comprehensive collection of tributes, essays, reflections, and biographical details showcasing his life, teachings, and extensive contributions to Jainism and Indian culture.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Tribute to Acharya Shri Desh Bhushan Ji Maharaj:

   • Spiritual Leader and Exemplar: He is consistently described as a guiding light, a symbol of knowledge, practice, renunciation, and immense spiritual power. His life is presented as a testament to Jain principles.
   • "Desh Ka Bhushan" (Ornament of the Nation): This title is frequently used, highlighting his role as a significant figure contributing to the nation's moral and spiritual fabric.
   • Vast and Diverse Contributions: The text emphasizes his multifaceted contributions across various domains:
     • Spiritual and Ascetic Practice: His 51 years of dedicated Digambara Sadhana are the primary reason for this felicitation. He is lauded for his rigorous adherence to vows, tapasya (penance), and asceticism.
     • Literary Contributions: He is a prolific writer and editor, translating and publishing numerous ancient Jain texts, thereby making them accessible to a wider audience. His work in preserving and promoting Jain literature is highly praised.
     • Social Reform: Acharya Shri actively worked against social evils, superstitions, and injustices, inspiring millions to lead ethical lives.
     • National Unity: He is recognized for his efforts in bridging regional and linguistic divides within India by promoting inter-state literary exchange and advocating for national unity and tolerance.
     • Interfaith Harmony: His teachings and interactions extended beyond the Jain community, demonstrating respect and understanding towards all religions.
     • Educational and Philanthropic Work: He inspired the establishment of schools, colleges, libraries, hospitals, and religious institutions, demonstrating a deep commitment to societal welfare.
   • Inspiring Personality: His life journey, from childhood to his revered status as an Acharya, is detailed, highlighting his early detachment from worldly pleasures, his pursuit of knowledge, his fearless nature, and his unwavering dedication to his spiritual path. His interactions with various people, including political leaders and common folk, reveal his compassionate and influential persona.
   • Miraculous Incidents and Siddhis: Several accounts describe miraculous events and the extraordinary powers attributed to him, stemming from his profound spiritual practice. These are presented as testament to his elevated spiritual status.

2. Structure and Content of the Granth:

   • Encyclopedic Nature: The volume is described as an "encyclopedia of Jainology," covering a vast array of subjects related to Jainism, including philosophy, principles, history, art, culture, literature, and biography.
   • Two Main Parts:
     • Astha (Faith): This section includes subsections like "Astha ka Arghya" (Offering of Faith), "Kaaljayi Vyaktitva" (Timeless Personality), "Rasvantika" (Sweet Melodies/Poetry), "Amrit Kan" (Nectar Drops), and "Srijan Sankalp" (Creative Resolve). This part contains tributes, biographical accounts, poems, and excerpts from his teachings.
     • Chintan (Contemplation): This section delves into scholarly essays on various aspects of Jainism, divided into subsections such as "Jain Darshan Mimansa" (Critique of Jain Philosophy), "Jain Tatva Chintan: Adhunik Sandarbh" (Jain Philosophical Contemplation in Modern Context), "Jain Prachya Vidyaen" (Jain Ancient Sciences), "Jain Sahityanushilan" (Study of Jain Literature), "Jain Dharma Evam Achar" (Jain Dharma and Conduct), "Jain Itihas, Kala aur Sanskriti" (Jain History, Art, and Culture), and "Gommtesh Digdarshan" (Glimpse of Gommtesh). This part features research papers by scholars from India and abroad.
   • Extensive Scope: The book spans approximately 1800 pages, indicating the depth and breadth of the content.
   • Contributions from Various Personalities: It includes messages and tributes from prominent figures, including the President and Prime Minister of India, ministers, governors, members of parliament, scholars, artists, writers, and spiritual leaders from various Jain traditions, highlighting the widespread respect and admiration for Acharya Shri.

3. Key Aspects of Jain Philosophy Highlighted:

   • Ahimsa (Non-violence): This is presented as the supreme principle of Jainism, emphasized in all contexts.
   • Anekantavada (Many-sidedness): The philosophy of multiple perspectives and the relativity of truth is discussed as a means to foster tolerance and resolve conflicts.
   • Aparigraha (Non-possession): The relevance of this principle in modern times is noted, especially in addressing issues of excessive consumerism and greed.
   • Samvaad (Harmony) and Samata (Equanimity): The importance of these principles in personal and societal life is underscored.
   • The Nature of the Soul (Atma): Discussions touch upon the eternal, pure, and potentially divine nature of the soul.
   • Karma Theory: The principles of karma, bondage, and liberation are fundamental to the discussions.

4. Personal Anecdotes and Qualities:

   • Childhood: The volume recounts anecdotes from his childhood, illustrating his innate fearlessness, compassion, and early inclination towards spiritualism.
   • Guru Parampara: His deep reverence for his gurus and the lineage of Jain Acharyas is consistently highlighted, showing his respect for tradition.
   • Resilience: He is portrayed as an "upsarga-vijeta" (conqueror of adversities), having faced and overcome numerous challenges throughout his life with steadfastness and spiritual fortitude.
   • Simplicity and Humility: Despite his profound knowledge and achievements, he is consistently depicted as humble, simple, and approachable.
   • Multilingualism and Scholarship: His mastery over multiple languages and his deep understanding of scriptures are frequently mentioned.
   • Harmonious Approach: His ability to bring together different sects and communities, fostering unity and understanding, is a recurring theme.
   • Dedication to Lord Mahavira's Teachings: His life is seen as a constant endeavor to propagate the teachings of Lord Mahavira and Jain philosophy.

Significance: The "Deshbhushanji Aacharya Abhinandan Granth" is not merely a tribute but a comprehensive repository of Jain knowledge and a testament to the enduring legacy of Acharya Shri Desh Bhushan Ji Maharaj. It serves as an invaluable resource for understanding Jain philosophy, history, and the life of a highly revered spiritual master who dedicated his life to the upliftment of humanity and the propagation of universal values. It is considered a significant contribution to Jain literature and a source of inspiration for generations to come.