He Prabho Terapanth

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "He Prabho! Terapanth" by Sohanraj Kothari, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: He Prabho! Terapanth Author: Sohanraj Kothari Publisher: Adarsh Sahitya Sangh Year of Publication: 1986

This book is a historical overview of the Terapanth sect of Jainism, tracing its origins, development, and key figures. It highlights the sect's unique principles, its founders, and the evolution of its practices and organizational structure. The author, Sohanraj Kothari, who is described as a former judge and a keen student of Terapanth history, presents this work on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Acharya Shri Tulsi's leadership.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Origins and Founding:

   • Terapanth's Emergence: The book explains that Terapanth emerged as a reformist movement within Jainism in Samvat 1817 (1760 CE) as a response to the perceived decline in ethical standards and practices.
   • Founder: Acharya Shri Bhikshu: The narrative begins with the birth of Swami Bhikshu (originally named Bhikhan), born in Samvat 1783 (1726 CE) in Kantaliya village. His birth was preceded by a prophetic dream his mother, Dipambai, had of a lion entering her body. His father, Shah Balluji, interpreted this as a sign of a courageous and influential son.
   • Bhikshu's Early Life and Discontent: Bhikshu was born into the Oswal community and displayed extraordinary intelligence and eloquence from childhood. He explored various Jain sects (Dhundhiya, Potiyabandh) in his search for truth but found dissatisfaction due to perceived laxity and hypocrisy.
   • Married Life and Renunciation: Bhikshu married Sugani Bai, a virtuous woman. However, his inner calling for renunciation was strong. After a few years of marriage, both husband and wife took vows of celibacy. Tragically, his wife passed away due to illness, which further intensified Bhikshu's resolve for spiritual pursuit.
   • Diiksha and the Seeds of Reform: In Samvat 1808 (1751 CE), at the age of 25, Bhikshu received initiation from Acharya Rughnathji. Despite his guru's affection and the community's respect, Bhikshu remained deeply concerned about the deviations from the true Jain path he observed in the existing monastic order.

2. The Birth of Terapanth and the "Bodhisthal":

   • Rajnagar Incident (Samvat 1814-15): A pivotal moment occurred in Rajnagar where Acharya Jayamal's disciples challenged the established practices, leading to a schism. Acharya Rughnathji sent Bhikshu to Rajnagar to address the disciples' doubts. During his Chaturmas there, Bhikshu profoundly studied the Jain Agamas and concluded that both right conduct (charitra) and right faith (samaktva) were lacking.
   • The "Bodhisthal": Rajnagar is considered the "Bodhisthal" (place of enlightenment) for Terapanth, where Bhikshu gained profound insights into the true path of Jainism.
   • The Name "Terapanth": The name "Terapanth" (meaning "Thirteen Paths" or "Your Path") is attributed to a serendipitous event in Jodhpur where 13 followers were present. A poet spontaneously composed a verse, leading to the adoption of this name, which Bhikshu embraced, interpreting it as signifying adherence to the path of the Vitaraga (the liberated ones). He further refined it by associating it with the 13 fundamental principles of Jainism (five great vows, five samitis, three guptis).

3. The Thirteen Ascetics and the Initial Opposition:

   • Abhinishkraman: In Samvat 1817 (1760 CE), on the auspicious day of Ramanavami, Bhikshu, along with five other ascetics (Thirpalji, Fatehchandji, Virbhanji, Tokarji, Harnathji), formally separated from Acharya Rughnathji's tradition. Later, 13 ascetics, including those from Acharya Jaymalji and Acharya Shyamdasji's lineages, joined Bhikshu, marking the formal beginning of Terapanth.
   • Facing Persecution: The early Terapanth movement faced severe opposition, including social boycott, denial of food and shelter, and even physical threats. Bhikshu and his followers endured these hardships with remarkable equanimity and determination. The text describes their struggles and unwavering commitment to their principles.

4. The Succession of Acharyas and the Consolidation of Terapanth:

   • Acharya Bhikshu's Legacy: Bhikshu's period as Acharya was marked by rigorous adherence to the Agamas, the composition of extensive literature (around 38,000 verses), and the establishment of a strict code of conduct. He also laid down rules for the succession of Acharyas, emphasizing purity of lineage and spiritual attainment.
   • Acharya Bharmalji (2nd Acharya): Bharmalji, who was with Bhikshu from a young age, became the second Acharya. He served for 28 years and is credited with consolidating the sect's foundation and ensuring its continuity.
   • Acharya Rishirai (3rd Acharya): Rishirai (formerly Raychandji) was known for his simple nature, deep devotion to his guru, and his significant contribution to the spread of Terapanth, particularly in the Gujarat and Saurashtra regions.
   • Acharya Jayacharya (4th Acharya): Jayacharya, also known as Jeethmalji, is portrayed as a pivotal figure who gave Terapanth its distinct organizational structure and intellectual depth. He refined the Agamic studies, established the "Gaatha Pranali" (a system for recording literary output), and developed the "Gan Vishuddhikaran Hajari" (a disciplinary framework). He also initiated significant festivals like the Pattotsav, Bhikshu Charamotsav, and Maryada Mahotsav. His scholarly and administrative prowess laid the groundwork for the sect's future growth.
   • Acharya Maghva Gani (5th Acharya): Maghva Gani's tenure was marked by his association with Acharya Tulsi and his role in ensuring a smooth transition.
   • Acharya Manak Gani (6th Acharya): Manak Gani's acharyaship was short-lived but he was known for his gentle nature and his efforts in art and literature.
   • Acharya Dalganni (7th Acharya): Dalganni was recognized for his firm discipline and his ability to maintain order, especially during challenging times. He also played a significant role in expanding Terapanth's reach to new regions like Haryana.
   • Acharya Kalugani (8th Acharya): Kalugani is depicted as a scholar, a strict disciplinarian, and a propagator of Terapanth's philosophy. He faced significant opposition and controversy, particularly in Bikaner, but navigated these challenges with great resilience and strategic thinking. He played a crucial role in developing the sect's literature and its intellectual framework.
   • Acharya Tulsi (9th Acharya): The book concludes its historical account with Acharya Tulsi, highlighting his long and impactful leadership, his initiation of the "Anuvrat Movement," and his vision for the sect's development, including the establishment of educational institutions and the emphasis on spiritual practices like Preksha Dhyan.

5. Key Principles and "Maryada Patra":

   • Adherence to Agamas: A central theme is Terapanth's unwavering commitment to the original teachings of Lord Mahavira as found in the Jain Agamas.
   • Strict Discipline (Maryada): The sect is characterized by its emphasis on strict monastic discipline, adherence to vows, and a clear organizational structure governed by the "Maryada Patra" (Code of Conduct), first established by Acharya Bhikshu and refined over time. This "Maryada Patra" is considered the foundational document of Terapanth.
   • Renunciation and Non-Attachment: The text repeatedly emphasizes the importance of detachment from worldly possessions, relationships, and even personal desires, reflecting the core Jain principles of renunciation and austerity.
   • Emphasis on Right Faith, Knowledge, and Conduct: The book underscores Terapanth's focus on Samyak Darshan (Right Faith), Samyak Gyan (Right Knowledge), and Samyak Charitra (Right Conduct) as the path to liberation.

6. Notable Disciples and Lay Devotees:

   • The book mentions prominent monks and nuns who played significant roles in the sect's development and preservation.
   • It also acknowledges the crucial support and devotion of lay followers (Shravaks and Shravikas) who contributed to the sect's growth and sustainability.

Structure and Style:

• The book is structured chronologically, detailing the history through the succession of the Acharyas.
• Each Acharya's section provides details about their birth, lineage, education, diiksha, significant contributions, and spiritual achievements.
• The language is described as simple, clear, and flowing, making complex historical and philosophical ideas accessible. The author's background as a judge lends a sense of logic and reasoned analysis to the historical accounts.
• Appendices include a list of key historical sites, prominent nuns, and the Chaturmas of the Acharyas, along with the text of the foundational "Maryada Patra."

In essence, "He Prabho! Terapanth" serves as a comprehensive chronicle of the Terapanth Jain tradition, celebrating its founding principles, the spiritual prowess of its leaders, and its enduring legacy of discipline, renunciation, and the pursuit of ultimate liberation. It highlights how Terapanth, through its lineage of Acharyas, has maintained a distinct identity and spiritual rigor within the broader Jain fold.