Jagadguru Hirvijaysuriji Sankshipta Jivan Charitra - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jagadguru Hirvijaysuriji Sankshipta Jivan Charitra" in English, based on the provided pages:

This book, "Jagadguru Hirvijaysuriji Sankshipta Jivan Charitra" (A Concise Biography of Jagadguru Hirvijaysuriji), published by Shri Ajahara Parshwanath Panchtirth Jain Pedhi, Una in V.S. 2070 (2013 CE), chronicles the life and accomplishments of the revered Jain Acharya Shri Hirvijaysuriji Maharaj. Compiled by Muniratnakirtivijay, the book highlights him as a paramount spiritual figure whose influence extended even to the Mughal Emperor Akbar.

The Significance of Jagadguru Hirvijaysuriji:

A Beacon of Spirituality in Turbulent Times: The book emphasizes that Hirvijaysuriji lived during a period when India was under Muslim rule, characterized by religious intolerance and a lack of justice. In such a challenging era, his ability to uphold and propagate the Jain faith, and even impress its values upon the rulers, was a monumental achievement.
Integrity and Character: The text stresses that Hirvijaysuriji's greatness wasn't merely due to specific events but stemmed from his inherent virtues like synthesis, equanimity, selflessness, generosity, impartiality, innocence, detachment, humility, and helplessness. His life was a testament to "Sattva" (essence/virtue).
Emperor Akbar's Influence: The title "Akbar Pratibodhak" (Enlightener of Akbar) is deemed highly appropriate, signifying his profound impact on the emperor. This influence wasn't just personal attraction but a true "Pratibodh" (enlightenment), leading to a transformation of heart and a realization of the sinfulness of violence.
Holistic Spiritual Practice: Even with immense spiritual achievements and recognition, Hirvijaysuriji maintained unwavering diligence in his ascetic practices, meditation, self-study, and scriptural learning. He never compromised on his spiritual path and considered any self-harm (Atmahani) unacceptable.
A Living Example: The book encourages readers to aspire to his self-awareness and attentiveness, rather than just his spiritual merit, as the true way to honor him. His Samadhi place in Una-Shahbag remains a vibrant place of spiritual solace.

Key Life Events and Achievements:

Birth and Early Life: Born as Hirji in Palanpur, Gujarat, in V.S. 1583 (1426 CE), he was the youngest of six siblings. From a young age, he displayed exceptional virtues and a spiritual inclination. His parents' untimely death at the age of 12 fostered a sense of detachment and reinforced his spiritual journey.
Initiation (Diksha): In V.S. 1596 (1439 CE) in Patan, under the guidance of Acharya Shri Daan Suri Maharaj, he took initiation and was named Muni Hirharsh.
Education and Scholarship: Demonstrating sharp intellect and a thirst for knowledge, he was sent to Devagiri (Daulatabad) for advanced studies in Nyaayashastra (logic) and Shad-darshan (six philosophies). His education was supported by a devout lay follower, Jasamai.
Ascendancy to Acharya: He received the title of Pandit in V.S. 1607 and Upadhyaya in V.S. 1608. In V.S. 1610, he was adorned with the highest title of Acharya in Shihori, and thus became Acharya Hiravijaya Suri. His Acharya-patta was celebrated by the descendants of Dhanashah Porvad, the builder of the Ranakpur temple.
Succession and Responsibility: Following the passing of his Guru, Acharya Shri Daan Suri Maharaj, in V.S. 1622, the entire Tapa Gachha (a monastic lineage) fell under his leadership.

Navigating Challenges and Spreading the Dharma:

Adversity and Persecution: The book details the numerous difficulties and persecutions Hirvijaysuriji faced due to the prevailing religious intolerance. He had to go into hiding for extended periods to escape unjust arrests and accusations, often orchestrated by rivals or misguided officials.
Interactions with Emperor Akbar:
- Initial Encounter: Akbar's attention was drawn to Hirvijaysuriji through a Jain woman named Champa, who had undertaken a rigorous six-month fast. Impressed by her devotion and her attributing it to Hirvijaysuriji, Akbar sent an invitation to him.
- The Emperor's Character: The book provides a detailed account of Akbar's complex personality, acknowledging his moments of generosity and spiritual curiosity alongside his known cruelty and indulgences, such as his massive animal hunts.
- Arrival in Fatepur Sikri: Despite the risks and the daunting nature of Akbar's personality, Hirvijaysuriji accepted the invitation. He was welcomed with royal fanfare.
- Philosophical Discussions: Hirvijaysuriji, accompanied by his disciples like Upadhyaya Shanti Chandraji and Bhanuchandraji, engaged in profound discussions with Akbar and his court scholars like Abul Fazal. His adherence to Jain principles, such as not stepping on carpets without checking for life, deeply impressed Akbar.
- Impact on Akbar: Through his teachings and exemplary conduct, Hirvijaysuriji fostered compassion in Akbar. He convinced Akbar of the sinfulness of violence, leading to the emperor issuing edicts for the protection of animals, including the prohibition of animal sacrifice during festivals and a general pause on hunting and slaughter for extended periods. Akbar expressed a profound regret for his past violent acts, particularly the conquest of Chittor.
- Royal Patronage and Recognition: Akbar bestowed upon Hirvijaysuriji the title "Jagadguru" (World Teacher) in recognition of his wisdom, non-attachment, and influence. The emperor also supported the preservation and dissemination of Jain scriptures and funded the establishment of Jain institutions.
- Disciples' Contributions: The book highlights the significant contributions of Hirvijaysuriji's disciples, such as Shanti Chandraji, who composed the "Kruparaskosh" and influenced Akbar to issue decrees for animal protection, and Bhanuchandraji, who enjoyed Akbar's deep trust and also played a role in promoting compassionate policies. Vijay Sen Suri, another prominent disciple, also had extensive interactions with Akbar, advocating for Jain principles and earning the title "Suri Sawai."
- Promoting Jainism: The disciples' efforts, under Hirvijaysuriji's guidance, led to significant advancements in the spread and acceptance of Jainism. This included the conversion of people to Jainism, the granting of diksha to numerous individuals, and the establishment of Jain temples and institutions.

Later Life and Samadhi:

Return to Gujarat: After his impactful sojourn with Akbar, Hirvijaysuriji returned to Gujarat, fulfilling the wishes of the Sangh.
Health and Departure: In his old age, he experienced illness but maintained equanimity. Despite the pleas of his devotees to accept medicine, he initially preferred to embrace his karma. However, upon seeing their profound grief, he agreed to treatment.
Passing (Samadhi): Hirvijaysuriji Maharaj attained his Samadhi in Una in V.S. 1652 (1495 CE). His cremation took place in Shahbag, near Una, which is now a significant pilgrimage site.
Miraculous Manifestations: After his passing, the garden where his cremation occurred is said to have miraculously bloomed with fruits out of season, a testament to his spiritual potency. The land was gifted to the Jain community by Emperor Akbar.

Legacy:

Enduring Influence: The book underscores that Jagadguru Hirvijaysuriji's life and teachings continue to inspire, leaving an indelible mark on Jainism and influencing the broader Indian society. His dedication to spiritual discipline, compassion, and the propagation of Jain dharma remains a timeless example.
Pilgrimage Site: The Samadhi sthals (places of final rest) in Una-Shahbag are highlighted as important pilgrimage destinations for the Tapa Gachha lineage and all followers of Jainism.

The book serves as a detailed account of a remarkable Jain Acharya whose spiritual and moral influence transcended religious boundaries, most notably impacting one of the most powerful rulers of his time.