Jagadguru Evam Gurugunratnakar Kavyam - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain texts provided, "Jagadguru evam Gurugunratnakar Kavyam" by Bechardas Doshi, based on the scanned pages:

Overall Scope and Content:

The provided scans are for a Jain religious text presented in two parts: "Jagadguru Kavyam" and "Gurugunratnakar Kavyam." The primary purpose of these texts is to eulogize and narrate the lives and deeds of prominent Jain Acharyas (spiritual leaders), particularly focusing on their exemplary spiritual qualities, contributions to Jainism, and impact on society.

"Jagadguru Kavyam" (Pages 1-49):

Author: Acharya Shri Padmasagar Gani.
Subject: This section is dedicated to the life and teachings of Jagadguru Shri Hir Surishwarji Maharaj (also referred to as Hirvijay Suri). The introductory pages (pages 4-6) highlight his significant role in Jain history.
Key Achievements of Jagadguru Hir Surishwarji Maharaj (as mentioned in the text):
- He is renowned for influencing even non-Jain rulers, such as Emperor Akbar, leading to periods of peace and prosperity, like the proclamation of a six-month ban on animal slaughter across Hindustan.
- The text details his birth into a wealthy merchant family (Pages 16-17), his early life, intellectual prowess, and his decision to renounce worldly possessions for a spiritual path.
- It describes his spiritual journey, including receiving initiation (diksha) and achieving high levels of spiritual attainment.
- The narrative emphasizes his profound knowledge of various philosophical and religious schools of thought, indicating his intellectual breadth and ability to engage in discourse with scholars from different traditions (Pages 19-20).
- A significant portion of the "Jagadguru Kavyam" seems to focus on his interactions with and influence over Emperor Akbar and the Mughal administration. This includes accounts of his presence in the Mughal court, discussions on Jain principles, and the impact of his teachings on royal decrees and social reforms (Pages 21-43).
- The text portrays him as a figure of immense spiritual power, wisdom, and authority, respected by kings, scholars, and common people alike.
- His travels across various regions and his efforts to spread the Jain Dharma are highlighted.
- The narrative is presented in a poetic, narrative style, characteristic of Jain historical poetry (kavya).
Publisher: Shri Jinshasan Aradhana Trust, Mumbai.
Revision: The text was revised by Pandit Hargovind Das and Bechardas.
Publication Context: The text was originally published as the fourteenth booklet in the Shri Yashovijay Jain Granthamala. The republication aims to preserve the text and inspire reverence for Jagadguru Hir Surishwarji Maharaj.

"Gurugunratnakar Kavyam" (Pages 50-138):

Author: Pandit Somcharitra Gani (disciple of Somdev Suri, who was a disciple of Somasundar Suri).
Subject: This section focuses on the lives and virtues of several prominent Jain Acharyas, particularly highlighting Acharya Shri Lakshmi Sagar Surishwarji Maharaj (successor of Acharya Shri Ratnashekhar Surishwarji Maharaj) and his lineage. It also provides biographical details of various Gurus and Acharyas in the lineage leading up to Lakshmi Sagar Suri.
Key Features and Content:
- Genealogy and Lineage: The text meticulously traces the spiritual lineage, starting from Lord Gautam Swami (the first Ganadhar of Lord Mahavir) and continuing through various prominent Acharyas like Shri Dharmsagar, Shri Somdas, Shri Somdev, Shri Charitra Hans, and ultimately to Shri Somcharitra Gani himself. This genealogical aspect is crucial in Jain tradition to establish the authenticity and authority of teachings and practices.
- Praise of Acharyas: The primary focus is on glorifying the virtues and achievements of these Acharyas. This includes their intellectual brilliance, spiritual austerity, devotional practices, administrative skills within the monastic order (Gachchhadhipati), and their contributions to the spread and preservation of Jain scriptures and philosophy.
- Specific Acharyas Mentioned and Praised:
  - Shri Lakshmi Sagar Surishwarji Maharaj: Extensively praised for his spiritual leadership, generosity, influence, and role in various religious activities, including the establishment of Jain temples, installation of idols (pratishtha), and the continuation of traditions.
  - Shri Somdev Suri, Shri Charitra Hans Gani: His gurus who guided his path.
  - Shri Ratnashekhar Surishwarji Maharaj: Lakshmi Sagar Suri's guru, also lauded for his spiritual qualities.
  - Shri Somasundar Surishwarji Maharaj: An important figure in the lineage.
  - Shri Jayanand Suri, Shri Jin Kirti Suri, Shri Vishalraj Suri: Other significant Acharyas from the lineage.
  - Shri Munisundar Surishwarji Maharaj: Another prominent Guru in the lineage.
  - Shri Somdev Suri, Shri Lakshmi Sagar Suri, Shri Ratna Shekhar Suri, Shri Udayanandi Suri: These Acharyas are central to the "Gurugunratnakar Kavyam" and their lives are narrated in detail.
- Social and Economic Impact: The text also touches upon the socio-economic activities associated with these Acharyas and their followers, such as charitable donations, the construction of religious structures, and their influence on the community, including merchants and rulers.
- Compilation and Revision: The "Gurugunratnakar Kavyam" was compiled by Pandit Somcharitra Gani and revised by Muni Shri Indravijayji, following the tradition of scholarly revision of classical texts.
Publisher: Shri Jinshasan Aradhana Trust, Mumbai.
Publication Context: This section was published as the twenty-fourth booklet in the Shri Yashovijayji Granthamala. The republication aims to promote understanding of the virtues of these Acharyas and facilitate the attainment of right faith (samyakdarshan).

Key Themes and Values:

Renunciation and Asceticism: A central theme is the life of renunciation, austerity, and spiritual discipline undertaken by Jain Acharyas.
Intellectual Prowess and Scholarly Debate: The texts highlight the deep knowledge and philosophical acumen of these leaders, their ability to engage in debates, and their contributions to Jain literature and philosophy.
Devotion and Faith: The unwavering devotion of the Acharyas to the Jain Tirthankaras and their commitment to the Jain path are consistently emphasized.
Impact on Rulers and Society: The ability of these spiritual leaders to influence powerful rulers and bring about positive societal changes, such as promoting non-violence and ethical governance, is a recurring motif.
Spiritual Guidance and Liberation: The ultimate goal of their teachings and lives is to guide individuals towards spiritual liberation (moksha).
Lineage and Tradition: The importance of maintaining and upholding the spiritual lineage and the teachings passed down through generations is implicitly and explicitly conveyed.

Publisher's Role:

The Shri Jinshasan Aradhana Trust plays a significant role in publishing and re-publishing these valuable Jain texts, ensuring their preservation and accessibility for the Jain community and scholars. The trust acknowledges the support of various individuals and organizations in these endeavors.

In essence, these poetic narratives serve as hagiographies, celebrating the lives and exemplary qualities of great Jain spiritual masters, thereby inspiring devotion, adherence to Jain principles, and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment.