Hir Swadhyaya Part 01 - Book Summary

Comprehensive Summary of "Hir Swadhyaya Part 01" by Mahabodhivijay

This document is the first volume of "Hir Swadhyaya," a compilation by Muni Mahabodhivijay, published by Jinshasan Aradhana Trust. It is dedicated to the life, teachings, and works of Jagadguru Shri Hirvijaysuriji Maharaj, a prominent Jain Acharya who lived in the 16th century. The book aims to bring to light various compositions related to his life and legacy, many of which were previously unpublished.

Key aspects covered in the initial pages:

Title and Author: The book is titled "Hir Swadhyaya Part 01," and the compilation and editing are credited to Muni Mahabodhivijay.
Publisher: Jinshasan Aradhana Trust, Mumbai.
Dedication and Patronage: The publication is sponsored by the Shri Pindwada J.M.P. Jain Sangh, Pindwada (Rajasthan), in memory of the Chaturmas of Acharya Shri Hemchandrasurishwarji Maharaj and the inspiration of Muni Mahabodhivijayji Maharaj. Numerous individuals and Jain sanghs (communities) from various cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Patan, Khambat, and Viramgam are acknowledged for their support and contributions to making this publication possible.
Context of Publication: The book is released in the year V.S. 2053 (1997 CE), coinciding with the 400th anniversary of Jagadguru Shri Hirvijaysuriji Maharaj's nirvana (departure from earthly life).
Content Overview: The book is a collection of various small and large literary works composed by different monks about Jagadguru Shri Hirvijaysuriji Maharaj. The primary language of these works is Gujarati, with mentions of Sanskrit, Prakrit, and Hindi literature also existing and planned for a future volume.
Compilation Effort: Muni Mahabodhivijayji Maharaj is highlighted for his diligent efforts in collecting this literature from various libraries and manuscripts, meticulously compiling and editing it for publication. He is described as having toiled like a "dust-cleaner" for this monumental task.
Purpose of the Book: The primary goal is to foster respect and admiration for Shri Hirvijaysuriji Maharaj in the hearts of the readers through the study of his life and works.
Historical Significance: The book emphasizes the enduring legacy of Shri Hirvijaysuriji Maharaj, whose influence is evident even after 400 years through the numerous Murtis (idols), Paduka (footwear) representations, and devotional literature that still exists. He is particularly noted for his impact on the Mughal Emperor Akbar, whom he influenced towards Jain principles of Ahimsa (non-violence).
Structure of the Book: The first volume contains Gujarati works, divided into eight sections, followed by appendices. The subsequent volumes are intended to cover literature in other languages.
Key Figures Mentioned:
- Jagadguru Shri Hirvijaysuri Maharaj: The central figure, celebrated for his wisdom, asceticism, and influence on Emperor Akbar.
- Acharya Shri Vijaydhanasuri Maharaj: The guru of Shri Hirvijaysuriji Maharaj.
- Ganivar Shri Akshaybodhivijayji Maharaj: Mentioned as the guru of Muni Mahabodhivijayji Maharaj.
- Emperor Akbar: The Mughal emperor who was profoundly influenced by Shri Hirvijaysuriji Maharaj's teachings.
Pindwada Chaturmas (V.S. 2052): Page 5 provides a detailed account of the successful Chaturmas (monsoon retreat) held in Pindwada, Rajasthan, in V.S. 2052. This period was marked by numerous religious observances, festivals, fasts, and recitations, including:
- 52 Jinālay Mahāpradakshiṇā (circumambulation of 52 temples)
- Shankheshwar Dada's Atham Tap (an eight-day fast)
- Mahāsnātra Mahotsav (great bathing ceremony)
- Arihant Vandnavali (worship of Arihants)
- Community Pujas and Aarti
- Mass chanting of the Navkar Mantra (1.5 million times)
- Worship of 45 Āgamas (scriptures)
- Various Tapa (ascetic practices) like Māsakshamaṇa and Siddhi Tap
- Visits to holy sites and recitation of various mantras. The Chaturmas was blessed by the presence and teachings of Gachhadhipati Acharya Shri Vijay Jayghoshsuriswar Maharaj and the inspirational guidance of Muni Shri Mahabodhivijayji Maharaj. The text highlights the immense public interest in the Acharya's discourses, which continued even after the main festival period.
Description of Pindwada: The text describes Pindwada as a land rich in Jain heritage, adorned with the 52 Jinālay, four other Jin temples, and ancient pilgrimage sites like Ajari, Bamanwada, Nandiya, Lotana, Diyana, and Nana.
List of Works: Pages 18-21 provide a table of contents detailing the various works included in the book, categorized into sections covering different types of compositions like "Hir Charitra," "Hirvijaysuriji sambandh," "Hirsurishwarji ni katha," "Hirvijay Suri Prabandh," "Nirvan Ras," "Bhas," "Phag," "Baramasi," "Lekhshrungar," "Deshna Surveli," "Chaturmas Labh Prahana," "Hirvihār Stava," "Hirpunya Khajano," and "Sloak Sangrah."
Biographical Information: Pages 22-23 provide a concise biographical sketch of Shri Hirvijaysuri Maharaj, including his birth name (Hirji), parents' names (Kunwarshah and Nathibai), initiation details, gurus, titles (Jagadguru), and significant life events like his Pandiț, Upadhyay, and Āchārya consecrations, and his nirvana.
Ascetic Practices and Disciples: Pages 23-24 detail his extensive ascetic practices, including numerous Upavasa (fasts), Āyambila, and Nivī (specific fasting rituals). It also lists his vast discipleship, including Āchāryas, Upādhyāyas, Paṇḍits, and numerous monks, nuns, and lay followers.
Impact and Legacy: The text highlights his significant contributions to the propagation of Jainism, including initiating 108 monks into the order, inspiring the construction of 500 temples, and the establishment of numerous Chaṛi (a type of religious procession). His most notable achievement was influencing Emperor Akbar to implement a period of non-violence (Amahī), release prisoners, waive pilgrimage taxes, and stop animal sacrifices.
Places of Chaturmas: Pages 24-25 list the numerous places where Shri Hirvijaysuri Maharaj observed his Chaturmas, showcasing his extensive travels throughout India.
Gurutirtha (Shrines): Pages 25-26 list various locations in Gujarat and Rajasthan where his Murtis and Padukas are established, emphasizing the reverence he commanded.
Lineage of Acharyas: Pages 26-28 provide a list of the succession of Āchāryas, starting from Sudharma Swami, highlighting the unbroken lineage of spiritual leadership that eventually led to Shri Hirvijaysuriji Maharaj.
Detailed Accounts of Miracles and Discipleship: The latter part of the document (pages 29-58) includes detailed narratives of Shri Hirvijaysuriji's interactions with Emperor Akbar, showcasing his spiritual power, wisdom, and influence. It describes specific incidents, debates, and the emperor's gradual conversion to Jain principles under his guidance. The text also includes details about his disciples, such as Muni Maldev and Muni Vimalharsh, and his efforts to resolve disputes within the monastic community, exemplified by the case of Upadhyay Dharmasagar.
Specific Compositions: The book includes various forms of devotional literature like Ras, Bhas, Phag, Baramasi, Sajjhay, Stotras, and Chopai, all dedicated to Shri Hirvijaysuriji Maharaj. These are attributed to various ancient and contemporary scholars and monks.

In essence, "Hir Swadhyaya Part 01" is a comprehensive tribute to Acharya Hirvijaysuriji Maharaj, offering a deep dive into his spiritual achievements, societal impact, and the vast literary tradition that blossomed around him. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding his life and the significant role he played in the history of Jainism.