Jain Acharya Charitavali

The Jain Acharya Charitavali is a comprehensive collection of the biographies of significant Jain ascetics (Acharyas) from the time of Bhagwan Mahavir to the present day. It is authored by Hastimal Maharaj and Gajsingh Rathod, and published by Jain Itihas Samiti Jaipur.

Key aspects of the book:

• Poetic Rendition: The book presents the lives and deeds of the Acharyas in a poetic form, making the historical and philosophical content accessible and engaging for a wider audience. The author, Acharya Shri Hastimalji Maharaj, aimed to simplify the often dry subject of history by weaving it into melodies, allowing even music lovers to appreciate and memorize it.
• Chronological Account: The Charitavali traces the lineage of Jain Acharyas, starting from Bhagwan Mahavir's first disciple, Aryavardhamana Swami, and progressing through various prominent figures who guided the Jain tradition.
• Historical and Spiritual Significance: The book highlights the spiritual and historical importance of each Acharya, detailing their contributions to the preservation and propagation of Jain principles. It covers the establishment and development of various lineages (gachhas) and branches within Jainism.
• Detailed Appendices: To aid scholars and history enthusiasts, the book includes appendices that provide information on the Lokagachha tradition, details about various Acharyas like Shri Jivrajji Maharaj, Shri Dharmasinghji Maharaj, Shri Lavji Rishi, Shri Harji Rishi, Shri Dharmadasji Maharaj, and their associated branches.
• Comprehensive Index: An index is provided for easy reference to Acharyas, monks, kings, lay followers, villages, cities, provinces, Gachhas, branches, texts, and more, facilitating quick access to specific information.
• Correction Slip: A corrigendum is included to address any errors that might have occurred during the writing or printing process.
• Sources: The compilation drew upon various historical texts such as the Tapa Gachha Pattavali, handwritten Sthanakvasi Pattavali, Prabhu Vir Pattavali, and Pattavali Samuchchaya, as well as ancient manuscripts and the author's own insights.
• Editorial Contributions: The book benefited from the valuable contributions of Shri Gajsinghji Rathod for editing and Shrimati Shantabhanavat, M.A., for compiling the index.

Content Overview (as gathered from the provided pages):

The book details the lives of several important Acharyas, including:

• Aryavardhamana Swami (Sudharma Swami): The first disciple of Bhagwan Mahavir, who propagated the Jain teachings for twenty years.
• Jambū Swami: The last Kevali (omniscient being) in the Mahavir tradition. His life is described, including his renunciation and adherence to Jain principles.
• Prabhava Acharya: The third Acharya in the lineage, who converted thieves and other influential individuals to Jainism.
• Vidyavala: Mentioned as a prominent disciple.
• Shyāma Acharya: The successor to Arya Shyam, who influenced the administration of the Gachha.
• Shri Nandanacharya: Mentioned as a figure who spread Jainism.
• Shri Sangamitra: Mentioned in relation to the spread of Jainism.
• Shri Kshamachandra: Mentioned as an Acharya.
• Shri Nagarjuna: Mentioned as a strong successor who protected Jainism during difficult times.
• Shri Devadhigani: Known for his efforts in compiling and preserving Jain scriptures during times of famine and scriptural decline. He is credited with initiating scriptural compilations.
• Acharya Siddhasena: A prominent Acharya known for his knowledge and influence, who converted many kings.
• Arya Rakshit: A significant Acharya who was inspired by his mother and became a master of the Fourteen Purvas.
• Arya Vajraswami: The spiritual teacher of Arya Rakshit.
• Arya Kshemavatsa: Mentioned in the context of the Lokagachha tradition.
• Loakashah: A pivotal figure who initiated a religious reform movement in the 16th century, emphasizing the core principles of Jainism and critiquing external rituals and superstitions. He is considered the founder of the Lokagachha.
• Various other Acharyas and their lineages: The book extensively details the origins and characteristics of various Gachhas and their Acharyas, including the Punamia, Kharatara, Anchala, Agamiyya, and Tapa Gachhas, tracing the evolution of Jain practices and the proliferation of sects over centuries.
• Schisms and Reforms: The text addresses the historical splits within the Jain community, particularly the emergence of the Digambara and Shvetambara traditions, and later, the formation of various sub-sects and reforms initiated by figures like Loakashah and subsequent Acharyas like Shri Jivrajji, Shri Dharmasinghji, Shri Lavji Rishi, and Shri Dharmadasji Maharaj.
• Contemporary Jainism: The latter part of the book discusses efforts towards unity and reform in the Jain community in the 20th century, highlighting conferences and the ongoing pursuit of maintaining the purity of Jain teachings and practices.

In essence, "Jain Acharya Charitavali" serves as a valuable historical and spiritual resource, providing a detailed and engaging account of the illustrious lineage of Jain Acharyas and the dynamic evolution of Jainism.