Digambar Jain Sadhu Parichaya

This Jain text, titled "Digambar Jain Sadhu Parichaya" (Introduction to Digambar Jain Ascetics) by Dharmachand Jain, published by Dharmshrut Granthmala, serves as a comprehensive directory and biographical collection of Digambar Jain monks, nuns, scholars, and their spiritual lineage.

The book begins with a Fair Use Declaration by the TFIC (The Free Indological Collection) team, stating the source of the book and its provision for educational and research purposes, believing it to be in the public domain.

The initial pages (3-5) include dedications and acknowledgments to Acharya Shri Dharmasagarji Maharaj and patrons, followed by the foundational Jain prayers (Manglacharan) for the five supreme beings (Panch Paramesthi) – Arhant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, and Sadhu.

The core of the book is a vast compilation of biographical sketches of numerous Jain ascetics, starting from the first Tirthankara, Lord Rishabhadeva, and tracing the lineage of Acharyas through different periods and traditions. The text provides details about:

• Prominent Acharyas and Munis: Biographies of revered figures like Acharya Bhadrabahu, Acharya Dharmsena, Acharya Kundakunda, Acharya Umāsvāmi, Acharya Samantabhadra, Acharya Akalanka, and many others who played pivotal roles in preserving and propagating Jain philosophy and scriptures.
• Ascetic Lineages: The book meticulously details the disciples and successors of prominent Acharyas, illustrating the unbroken lineage of spiritual knowledge transmission within the Digambar tradition. This includes the disciples of Acharya Shantisagarji Maharaj, Acharya Virsagarji Maharaj, Acharya Shivsagarji Maharaj, Acharya Dharmasagarji Maharaj, Acharya Mahavirkeerti Maharaj, Acharya Vimalasagarji Maharaj, Acharya Suntasagarji Maharaj, Acharya Vimalasagarji Maharaj, Acharya Nemisagarji Maharaj, and Acharya Deshabhushanji Maharaj, among others.
• Detailed Biographies: For each ascetic featured, the book provides information such as:
  • Birth name, parents, and birthplace.
  • Early life, education, and renunciation.
  • Spiritual guidance received and vows taken (e.g., Kshullaka, Ailaka, Muni, Aryika).
  • Key life events, spiritual practices, severe penances (tapas), and overcoming challenges (upasargas).
  • Notable contributions, such as literary works, establishment of religious institutions, or pivotal sermons.
  • Details of their spiritual attainment and eventual samadhi (peaceful departure).
• Illustrations: The book includes photographs of many of these ascetics, adding a visual dimension to the biographical information.
• Historical Context: The text occasionally touches upon the historical periods and the prevailing social or religious conditions, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of the ascetic tradition.
• Philosophical Underpinnings: The biographies often reflect the core Jain principles of ahimsa (non-violence), aparigraha (non-possession), self-discipline, meditation, and the pursuit of moksha (liberation).
• Author's and Publisher's Mission: The introductory and concluding remarks emphasize the author's and publisher's dedication to preserving and disseminating the knowledge of these revered spiritual figures for the benefit of future generations and the broader understanding of Jainism.

The book is structured with an extensive index (Anukramanika) listing the ascetics and their respective page numbers, making it a valuable reference tool. The sheer volume of individuals documented suggests a dedicated effort to honor and record the lives of countless spiritual practitioners who have dedicated their lives to Jain principles.

In essence, "Digambar Jain Sadhu Parichaya" is a significant archival work that aims to provide an accessible and detailed introduction to the lives, teachings, and spiritual paths of Digambar Jain ascetics, serving as an inspiration and guide for followers and scholars alike.