Hirvijaysuri Stuti - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Hirvijaysuri Stuti" in English, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Hirvijaysuri Stuti (Hymn to Hirvijaysuri) Author(s): Atmanand Jain Traict Society (Publisher and likely compiler/editor) Publisher: Atmanand Jain Traict Society Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/032019/1

This devotional text, a "Kavya Traya" (Trilogy of Verses), is a tribute to the revered Jain monk and scholar, Acharya Hirvijaysuri. The work, published by the Atmanand Jain Traict Society in Ambala City, was released on Bhadrapad Shukla Ekadashi of Veer Samvat 2453 (1927 CE). The verses laud his spiritual prowess, his commitment to Jain principles, and his significant impact on society, particularly his influence on the Mughal Emperor Akbar.

The text is divided into verses, each praising different aspects of Hirvijaysuri's life and teachings. The core themes and events highlighted are:

Pages 2-3: The Essence of Hirvijaysuri's Mission

Devotion and Selflessness: The stuti begins by urging the reader to contemplate the "magnificent form" of Hirvijaysuri, who endured hardships for the welfare of India. He is described as a renunciate who lived with a "nationalistic fervor," traveling with his disciples and seeking not personal comfort but the well-being of the world. His life was dedicated to fulfilling his vow of self-sacrifice for his motherland.
Champion of Ahimsa (Non-violence): Hirvijaysuri is depicted as a Satyagrahi (truth-seeker and resistor) who wielded the "sword of Ahimsa" to cut down the deep-rooted "vines of violence." His fame and victories are celebrated, recognizing him as a "Jagadguru" (world teacher) and "Sūriśvara" (a title of high honor for Jain monks).
Influence on Emperor Akbar: The stuti details the profound impact Hirvijaysuri had on Emperor Akbar and his minister Abul Fazl. Akbar, impressed by Hirvijaysuri's dedication to dharma, his adherence to truth, and his spirit of self-sacrifice, developed deep respect and devotion for him. Akbar embraced the "five vows" (likely referring to the five Mahavratas of Jainism) and regularly received spiritual guidance from the Acharya.
Promotion of Ahimsa and Animal Welfare: Hirvijaysuri's teachings influenced Akbar to propagate the religion of Ahimsa throughout his empire. This led to royal decrees ("Ailans") on auspicious days, such as Navroz (Persian New Year) and Sundays, prohibiting animal slaughter. The populace joyfully accepted and followed these edicts, leading to the cessation of widespread cruelty to animals.
Transformation and Golden Age: The reduction of animal cruelty is portrayed as the end of "animalistic tendencies" and the ushering in of an era where essential goods became affordable and accessible to all. This brought happiness to all living beings and was seen as the suppression of sin, akin to the destruction of the Kali Yuga (Age of Vice) and the arrival of the Satya Yuga (Age of Truth).
Aspiration for Continued Goodness: The verses express a lament that such a "radiant" and "victorious" figure, who could eradicate "beastly power," is not present today to combat the ingrained "sin" that pervades modern society.
Praise and Humility: The stuti concludes this section with joyous acclamations for the monk, calling him the "beloved son of Mother India," a treasure trove of virtues, a true renunciate, and victorious throughout the world. The author humbly admits their inability to fully capture his greatness, stating that whatever they have written is out of devotion.

Pages 4-8: A Biographical and Impactful Account

Early Life and Education: Hirvijaysuri was born in Palanpur, a village that he made renowned. He was orphaned at a young age and moved to Patan. There, under the guidance of Acharya Vijaydan Surishvar, he received initiation. Later, in Devagiri, he studied under Dharmasagarji and became a master of jurisprudence, achieving widespread fame for his intellectual brilliance and deep understanding of complex philosophical principles.
Encounter with Akbar and Renunciation: Upon hearing of his great virtues and fame, King Akbar summoned him, offering rich gifts. However, Hirvijaysuri, upholding the dignity of a monk, refused all material possessions. Akbar, captivated by his wisdom and detachment, accepted him as his spiritual guide.
Akbar's Decrees for Ahimsa: Akbar, treating Hirvijaysuri as his guru, issued a royal decree across his kingdom. This decree stipulated that on Navroz and Sundays, no violence should occur, and severe punishment would be meted out to offenders.
Granting of Titles and Abolition of Jaziya: Akbar bestowed upon Hirvijaysuri the title of "Japadguru" (preceptor of mantra or spiritual practices) and, to please his guru, abolished the "Jaziya" (a tax historically levied on non-Muslims). Jainism was recognized as a superior religion, and the emperor turned away from violence.
Qualities of Hirvijaysuri: He is described as possessing great knowledge and radiant beauty. He never incited rebellion, finding peace and tranquility within himself. Like the sun illuminating the sky, he was a source of virtue and knowledge. He was as victorious as a lion among deer, or an eagle among birds. He was benevolent, humble, free from ego, and always respected. Even his adversaries were subdued in his presence.
Moral Influence on Society: Hirvijaysuri's teachings transformed those who encountered him. He was a reformer who alleviated suffering. Even hardened butchers were touched by his compassion, and their hearts were filled with the nectar of kindness.
Life of Service and Renunciation: His birth in Palanpur is considered auspicious, making it a sacred place like "Amarnath." His actions were selfless, and he was a paragon of virtue. He dedicated his life to alleviating the suffering of others, even though his own childhood was marked by the loss of his parents. This sorrow, however, only strengthened his resolve to pursue a path of righteousness and service.
Spiritual Progress and Recognition: His detachment from worldly bonds led him to Patan, where he received initiation from Vijaydan Surishvar, further enhancing his spiritual journey. Despite his humility, he earned immense respect. He attained prestigious titles and became a renowned exponent of Jain dharma, clarifying its intricate principles for the world.
Reinforced Influence on Akbar: Akbar's reverence for Hirvijaysuri grew as he learned of his vast scholarship. Akbar sent his emissaries to invite the Acharya, and upon meeting him, bowed at his feet, finding fulfillment in his presence.
Refusal of Royal Offerings and Core Message: Akbar offered wealth, elephants, horses, and jewels, but Hirvijaysuri refused them all, stating that monks should have no desire for women, kingdoms, or riches, even in dreams.
Akbar's Plea and Hirvijaysuri's Guidance: Akbar, feeling sinful, asked for guidance to alleviate his inner turmoil. Hirvijaysuri calmly explained the principles of dharma, bringing immense joy to the emperor. Akbar resolved that violence was the greatest sin and offered his service, asking for a command.
Freedom for Prisoners and Birds: Hirvijaysuri, expressing concern for the suffering of innocent beings, asked Akbar to release all prisoners and to break open the cages of captive birds.
Paryushan Proclamation: He also commanded Akbar to ensure that no violence occurred during the eight days of Paryushan (a Jain holy period), keeping the earth unstained by the blood of innocent creatures. Akbar humbly accepted these commands, thereby granting life and freedom to countless beings.
Enduring Legacy: The stuti praises Hirvijaysuri as a Muni whose teachings led even a Yavana (a term sometimes used for non-Indians or Muslims) to cease inflicting suffering on living beings. His fame is declared to be eternal, lasting as long as the sun and moon grace the sky and the earth remains stable.
Master of Debate and Compassion: He was a formidable opponent in debates, an ocean of knowledge, and a source of pure wisdom, spreading dharma throughout the world. He was the god of wealth for the compassionate and a cloud of generosity for the indebted. He felt the pain of others and rejoiced in their happiness.
Transformative Power and Inner Purity: Even the most hardened butchers were softened by his presence. He never uttered a harsh word, even in dreams. He remained untouched by lust, anger, hatred, or delusion, living independently of all worldly influences.

Page 9 & 10: Publisher's Information

Shri Atmanand Jain Shikshavali: This section promotes a comprehensive educational series for children about Jainism, compiled with great effort and expense. The language is simple and accessible, the printing is clean, the subjects are engaging, and the books are illustrated. The pricing for the first, second, and third volumes is listed, with the fourth volume in press.
Atmanand Jain Tract Society Rules: This section outlines the rules for membership in the Atmanand Jain Tract Society.
- Anyone can become a member.
- The annual membership fee is a minimum of ₹2, with higher contributions encouraged. The fee is collected in advance. Life members contribute ₹50 annually and are exempt from further annual dues.
- The society's year begins on January 1st. Membership fees are calculated from January 1st to December 31st, regardless of when a member joins.
- Individuals who sponsor the publication and free distribution of a tract will have their name printed on it.
- All members will receive published tracts free of charge.

In essence, "Hirvijaysuri Stuti" is a devotional ode that celebrates the life, teachings, and transformative influence of Acharya Hirvijaysuri, highlighting his role as a champion of Ahimsa and his significant impact on Emperor Akbar, which led to welfare measures for animals and society. The text also serves as a testament to the philanthropic and educational endeavors of the Atmanand Jain Traict Society.