Guruvar Vijay Vallabh Ek Parichay - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Guruvar Vijay Vallabh ek Parichay" (A Profile of Guruvarya Vijay Vallabh) by Rashmikant H Joshi, based on the provided pages:

This book is a biographical tribute to Acharya Shri Prakash Vallabh Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb, also known as Punjab Kesari Acharya Shrimad Vijay Vallabh Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb. The book was published by Guru Samudra Anekant Adarsh Trust, Ahmedabad, and Jain Vidya Shodh Sansthan, Sarvatobhadra Tirtham. It was released on 22-09-2003, coinciding with the Golden Jubilee of his passing away.

The book highlights the multifaceted personality and contributions of Acharya Shri Vijay Vallabh Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb, portraying him as a great educationist, social reformer, and a beacon of unity. The summary covers various aspects of his life and teachings, organized into several key chapters:

Overall Theme:

The book aims to present the inspiring and multifaceted genius of Acharya Shri Vijay Vallabh Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb, so that the younger generation can be introduced to his ideals and draw inspiration from his exemplary life to lead meaningful lives through the pursuit of Dharma, Artha, Kama, and Moksha.

Key Aspects and Contributions:

Multifaceted Personality (Bahumukhi Pratibha): The book details how creating a grand Jain temple requires careful planning, skilled artisans, and various materials. Similarly, building a noble spiritual life requires developing virtues like detachment, self-reliance, firm resolve, forbearance, austerity, simplicity, self-control, unwavering faith, fearlessness, equanimity, devotion, compassion, love, and dedication. The text draws parallels between constructing a physical edifice and building a spiritual self. It emphasizes that a saint or a self-realized soul is like a second birth in a human form, who not only navigates the ocean of existence but also helps others cross it.
Purity of Sainthood (Sadhu-ta ki Suvas): His life was characterized by detachment, renunciation, humility, and adherence to strict monastic vows, even in challenging circumstances. The book highlights his unwavering resolve, knowledge acquisition, and dedication to spiritual practices.
Great Devotee of Ahimsa (Ahimsa ke Param Upasak): Ahimsa (non-violence) was central to his life, deeply ingrained in his speech, actions, and thoughts. He not only practiced Ahimsa meticulously but also worked to prevent violence in society. The book elaborates on the three types of violence: physical (Kayik), verbal (Vachik), and mental (Mansik), stressing the difficulty of adhering to Ahimsa in all three forms. His life exemplified this principle, as he never caused harm, directly or indirectly, and actively worked to protect other beings.
Popular Heart-Emperor (Lokpriya Hriday Samrat): His immense popularity stemmed from his deep spiritual insights, his ability to connect with people from all walks of life, and his inspiring public discourses. His charisma and spiritual magnetism attracted followers from diverse religious and social backgrounds.
Religious Propagation - Life Mantra (Dharma Prabhavana - Jivan Mantra): He actively propagated Jain principles, making them accessible and relevant to the modern world. His teachings were his life's mission.
Universal Brotherhood - Great Humanitarian (Sarva Dharma Samabhavi Manavta ke Maha Manavi): He was a proponent of interfaith harmony and universal brotherhood. He treated people of all faiths with respect and demonstrated profound humanitarianism. His teachings transcended religious boundaries, emphasizing the common thread of love and compassion that unites humanity.
Supernatural Spiritual Power (Aloukik Adhyatmik Vibhuti): The book suggests he possessed extraordinary spiritual powers, evidenced by miraculous events and his profound spiritual presence. His deep meditative practices and spiritual discipline likely contributed to these abilities.
Reformist Social Worker (Sudharavadi Samaj Sevak): He was a significant social reformer who championed causes like women's education, eradication of social evils like dowry and child marriage, and promoted social unity. His progressive views and actions aimed at societal upliftment.
Great Propagator of Education (Mahan Shikshan Pracharak): He recognized the transformative power of education and actively promoted learning. He established educational institutions and encouraged the pursuit of knowledge among all sections of society, believing that education was key to societal progress and individual upliftment. He stressed the importance of both religious and practical education.
Savior of Non-Jain Devotees (Jainetar Bhakton ke Taranhar): His teachings and spiritual influence extended beyond the Jain community, attracting and guiding followers from other faiths towards righteous living and spiritual growth.
Unique Worshipper of Unity (Eakta ke Ananya Upasak): He advocated for unity and harmony, not just within the Jain community but across all communities. He strived to bridge divides and foster a spirit of togetherness.
Pioneer of National Consciousness (Rashtriya Chetana ke Praneeta): He contributed to fostering national consciousness and patriotic sentiment, aligning spiritual ideals with the welfare of the nation.

Specific Incidents and Teachings:

Unmatched Power of Resolve (Ek Ajod Sankalpshakti): The book highlights instances of his unwavering determination, such as undertaking difficult journeys and enduring hardships for the sake of his mission.
Worship of Knowledge (Gyan Upasana): His commitment to knowledge acquisition is detailed, including his rigorous study of scriptures, grammar, and various philosophical schools.
Profound Knowledge (Talasparshi Gyan): He possessed deep and comprehensive knowledge of Jain philosophy, as well as other major religions and schools of thought. His intellectual prowess allowed him to engage in insightful debates and clarify complex theological issues.
Steadfast Inner Resolve (Ek Drudh Manobal): His mental fortitude and resilience in the face of adversity are emphasized, particularly during the partition of India, where he displayed remarkable courage and commitment to his followers.
Worshipper of Silence (Moun ke Upasak): His practice of silence (Maun) is presented as a significant spiritual discipline, fostering introspection and inner peace.
Equanimity (Samataabhav): He exemplified equanimity, remaining unaffected by praise or criticism, success or failure, gain or loss, embodying the principles of equanimity in the face of life's dualities.
Spiritual Austerity (Anushthitik Tapobal): The text touches upon the immense spiritual power and influence derived from his rigorous ascetic practices, which manifested in his ability to inspire, guide, and bring about positive transformations.
Steady Wisdom (Sthitprajnata): Even in old age and during times of illness, he maintained his composure and wisdom, demonstrating a profound understanding of karma and spiritual principles.
Creator (Srujak): He was also a prolific writer and composer, creating devotional hymns, poems, and verses that conveyed spiritual truths and inspired devotion.

Overall Message:

The book portrays Acharya Shri Vijay Vallabh Surishwarji Maharaj Saheb as a guiding light whose life was a testament to spiritual discipline, social reform, educational advancement, and unwavering devotion to Jain principles. His legacy continues to inspire countless individuals to lead lives of purpose, virtue, and spiritual fulfillment. The book aims to ensure his teachings and life's work are remembered and emulated by future generations.