Haribhadrasuri Acharya

This document, "Acharya Haribhadrasuri" from the JAINA Education Committee, details the life and contributions of the influential Jain scholar and Acharya, Haribhadrasuri.

Early Life and Intellectual Prowess:

Haribhadrasuri was a highly intelligent and knowledgeable Brahmin in the 6th century CE, renowned for his mastery of all religions and his exceptional debating skills. He was known for his ability to quickly grasp and dismantle opposing arguments. During his travels, he engaged with and defeated numerous learned scholars, earning him the reputation of an "unbeatable opponent" in debates. This led him to believe he had no equal and could discuss any subject comprehensively.

Encounter with Jainism:

One day, while passing through a village, Haribhadra was attacked by an out-of-control elephant. Fearing for his life, he sought refuge in a nearby Jain temple. Despite his initial aversion as a Shaivite Brahmin, his gaze fell upon a statue of Bhagwan Mahavir, made of white marble. Mistaking the serene image of the Tirthankara for a representation of robust health resulting from a luxurious lifestyle, he uttered, "Seeing your body, it seems you have eaten a lot of sweets."

After the elephant left, Haribhadra emerged from the temple and encountered a Jain Sadhvi, Mahattara Yakini, reciting a verse. The verse discussed the order of birth of Chakravartis and Vasudevas in the current descending era (Avsarpini Kaal) within the Jain concept of vast time cycles. Haribhadra, despite having a superficial understanding of Jain philosophy, couldn't comprehend the Sadhvi's explanation.

Seeking Knowledge and Becoming a Disciple:

Realizing the limitations of his knowledge, Haribhadra decided to become a disciple of the Sadhvi to gain deeper understanding. He approached her with humility and requested to be accepted as a student. The Sadhvi explained that she could not teach male disciples and advised him to approach her guru, Acharya Jinabhattasuri.

Haribhadra met Acharya Jinabhattasuri, who expounded the verse from various perspectives. Impressed by the Acharya's insightful understanding of Jain philosophy, Haribhadra desired to learn more. He requested to be accepted as a disciple, to which the Acharya agreed on the condition that he obtain his family's permission.

Overcoming Obstacles and Renouncing the World:

Knowing his family would likely object, Haribhadra faced strong opposition, particularly from his father, who questioned why he would abandon his distinguished Brahmin scholarship and unparalleled debating prowess. Haribhadra calmly explained that his knowledge was incomplete without a deep understanding of Jain dharma and that he must become a Jain monk. Eventually, his family relented, and he renounced all worldly ties to become a disciple of Acharya Jinabhattasuri.

Rise to Acharya and Contributions:

Haribhadrasuri diligently studied Jain scriptures and other texts. His dedication and intelligence led him to become a great scholar of Jainism. He found truth in the teachings of the Jain Agamas and mastered all literature related to Jain dharma. Recognizing his profound knowledge, Acharya Jinabhattasuri conferred upon him the title of Acharya. As Acharya Haribhadrasuri, he skillfully guided the Jain tradition, attracting many to Jainism and inspiring numerous individuals to renounce the world and become monks. Jainism experienced a new dimension under his leadership.

Tragedy and Transformation:

Among his many disciples were his nephews, Hans and Paramhans. Seeking to defeat Buddhist scholars in debate, they requested permission from Acharya Haribhadrasuri to infiltrate a Buddhist monastery. Initially hesitant, the Acharya eventually granted permission. They were discovered by the Buddhist monks and, during their escape, tragically lost their lives in a struggle.

Upon hearing of his nephews' deaths, Acharya Haribhadrasuri resolved to punish the Buddhist monks for their cruelty. He challenged them to a debate with the rule that the loser would be put to death. Haribhadrasuri won the debate. However, both Acharya Jinabhattasuri and Sadhvi Mahattara, saddened by the news of his nephews' demise, advised him to abandon the idea of killing the defeated. Haribhadrasuri realized that his attachment to Hans and Paramhans had led him to consider such a violent act. He sought atonement from Acharya Jinabhattasuri, who instructed him to write books that would foster true faith in the religion among people.

This marked a significant turning point in Haribhadrasuri's life. He went on to write approximately 1444 books covering Jain philosophy, though only about 170 are currently available.

Key Works and Legacy:

Acharya Haribhadrasuri is widely recognized for his commentaries on important Jain texts such as the Dashavaikalika Sutra, Tattvartha Sutra, Pancha Sutra, and Avashyaka Sutra. He also authored works like Lalitvistara, Dharma Sangrahani, Upadesha Pada, Shodashaka, Panchashaka, Battis-Battishi, Vimsati-Vishika, Panchavastu, Ashtaka, Dharmabindu, and Anekantha Jayapataka. He was the first Jain scholar to write on Yoga, authoring authoritative works such as Yogabindu, Yoga Vimsika, Yogashataka, and Yogadrushti Samucchaya.

His life was characterized by a profound desire to learn and understand. Despite being a prominent Brahmin scholar, he was humble enough to learn from a Jain Sadhvi. The text emphasizes that pride must be overcome to attain true knowledge and that a deep understanding of the Agamas is essential for practitioners to embody Jain principles in their lives. Haribhadrasuri's writings, which are profound yet logically presented, are instrumental in comprehending Jain dharma accurately and meaningfully. His contributions to Jain literature are invaluable and will be remembered forever.