Jagadguru Heersurishwarji - Book Summary

This comprehensive summary is based on the provided Jain text, detailing the life and influence of Jagadguru Heersurishwarji.

Book Title: Jagadguru Heersurishwarji Author: Muni Punyavijay (disciple of Acharya Shri Vijaybhadrankarsurishwarji) Publisher: Labdhi Bhuvan Jain Sahitya Sadan

Overall Summary:

The book "Jagadguru Heersurishwarji" chronicles the life, teachings, and remarkable influence of Acharya Shri Heersurishwarji, a prominent Jain spiritual leader of the 16th century. It highlights his spiritual prowess, scholarly achievements, efforts in spreading Jainism, and his significant interactions with the Mughal Emperor Akbar. The text emphasizes his unwavering commitment to Jain principles, his ability to inspire devotion and practice among his followers, and his role in the prosperity and propagation of the Jain faith.

Key Aspects of Heersurishwarji's Life and Teachings:

Early Life and Renunciation: Born in Palanpur, Gujarat, in 1583 AD to a wealthy and religious family, Heersurishwarji, originally named Heerji, displayed exceptional intelligence and spiritual inclination from a young age. After the demise of his parents, and with a strong sense of detachment from worldly affairs, he embraced the path of asceticism at the age of 13, receiving initiation from Acharya Shri Vijaydansurishwarji.
Scholarly Acumen and Ascendancy: Heerji, after his initiation, excelled in his studies and spiritual practices. He was bestowed with the titles of Ganipandit in 1607 AD and Upadhyay in 1608 AD. Recognizing his exceptional knowledge and devotion, Acharya Shri Vijaydansurishwarji, in 1610 AD, conferred upon him the highest spiritual authority, the Acharya or Suri pad, making him known as Acharya Shri Vijay Heersurishwarji. This marked him as a significant leader of the Jain community.
Impactful Preachings and Spiritual Influence: Heersurishwarji was renowned for his profound and captivating sermons, which inspired countless individuals towards spiritual upliftment and adherence to Jain principles. His teachings emphasized virtues like non-violence (Ahimsa), truthfulness, non-possessiveness, and self-control.
Interactions with Emperor Akbar: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to Heersurishwarji's interactions with the Mughal Emperor Akbar. It details how Akbar, initially intrigued by the extraordinary penances of a Jain laywoman named Champabai, learned about Heersurishwarji and developed a strong desire to meet him.
- Akbar's Invitation: Through intermediaries like Champabai and his minister Aetmad Khan, Akbar extended a formal invitation to Heersurishwarji to visit his court in Delhi.
- The Audience: Heersurishwarji, accompanied by his disciples, met Akbar. The account highlights Akbar's immense respect for Heersurishwarji, even rising from his throne to greet him.
- Demonstration of Principles: The text narrates an incident where Heersurishwarji paused before entering a carpeted room, explaining his principle of careful movement to avoid harming even the smallest creatures, which deeply impressed Akbar.
- Conferral of "Jagadguru" Title: Impressed by his wisdom and conduct, Akbar bestowed upon Heersurishwarji the prestigious title of "Jagadguru" (World Teacher).
- Abstinence from Violence: Heersurishwarji consistently advocated for non-violence, urging Akbar to prohibit the killing of animals, especially during religious festivals. He successfully influenced Akbar to issue farmans (royal decrees) for the cessation of animal slaughter during festivals like Id, and later extended this to other periods and occasions, significantly impacting the empire's policies.
- Discussions on Philosophy and Dharma: Their conversations covered various aspects of Jain philosophy, ethics, and the path to spiritual liberation. Heersurishwarji also advised Akbar on matters of governance and social welfare, emphasizing compassion and righteousness.
Propagation of Jainism and Community Welfare: Heersurishwarji was instrumental in revitalizing and expanding the Jain community. He initiated many individuals into monkhood, established centers of learning, and oversaw the renovation of temples and pilgrimage sites. The book lists numerous towns and cities where he conducted religious activities, including establishing knowledge repositories, organizing major Jain festivals, and performing consecrations.
Challenges and Persecutions: The book also touches upon the challenges and persecutions faced by Heersurishwarji, including false accusations, imprisonment attempts, and conflicts with other religious factions. However, his unwavering spirit and the support of his followers helped him overcome these obstacles.
Influence on Disciples: Heersurishwarji was a great mentor, grooming numerous talented disciples who became influential scholars and spiritual leaders in their own right. Prominent among them were Vijay Sen Suri, Bhanuchandra Gani, Shanti Chandraji Upadhyay, and Siddhi Chandraji, who continued his legacy by spreading Jainism and influencing rulers. The text provides details about their scholarly works, conversions, and interactions with Akbar and his successors.
Tapestry of Virtues: The narrative highlights Heersurishwarji's extraordinary qualities, such as his immense patience, equanimity, adherence to his guru's commands, deep meditation practices, and rigorous penances. Examples include his silent endurance of pain and his immediate departure for his guru's summons without completing his fast.
Heavenly Departure: The book details Heersurishwarji's final days, his deep concern for the community and his disciples, and his final instructions before attaining liberation (moksha). His passing was marked by widespread mourning and grand funeral rites, symbolizing the profound impact he had on society. A miraculous event of mango trees bearing fruit out of season during his cremation further solidified his revered status.
Legacy: The book concludes by reiterating Heersurishwarji's enduring legacy as a true "Jagadguru" who dedicated his life to the welfare of all living beings and the propagation of the Jain dharma. His influence extended beyond the Jain community, impacting the policies and spiritual outlook of the Mughal Empire.

In essence, "Jagadguru Heersurishwarji" serves as a testament to the life and teachings of a pivotal Jain acharya, showcasing his profound spiritual depth, intellectual brilliance, and remarkable ability to influence even the most powerful rulers of his time, ultimately leaving an indelible mark on the history of Jainism.