Jinduttasuri Charitram Uttararddha

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jinduttasuri Charitram Uttararddha," based on the provided pages.

Book Title: Jinduttasuri Charitram Uttararddha Author(s): Jinduttsuri Gyanbhandar (compiled by Ooshri Jayasagar Ganina under the guidance of Ooshri Jinkripachandrasurishwar) Publisher: Jinduttsuri Gyanbhandar Publication Year: V.S. 1984 / 1928 C.E. Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/020407/1

Overview:

The "Jinduttasuri Charitram Uttararddha" (the latter half of the biography of Shri Jindattasuri) is a significant Jain text that details the life and teachings of the influential Jain monk, Shri Jindattasuri, and his lineage of spiritual successors. The text aims to provide a historical and religious narrative for the edification of Jain followers, especially in response to misinterpretations and criticisms of Jainism prevalent during its time. It is rich in historical accounts, philosophical explanations, and the biographies of numerous Jain Acharyas, particularly those belonging to the Kharatara Gachchha.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Introduction and Purpose: The preface highlights the increasing dissemination of knowledge and the tendency for people to write histories, sometimes with bias or misunderstanding of other religions. It notes the emergence of various interpretations about the origins and tenets of Jainism, attributing some to misinformed scholars. The text intends to present an accurate historical account of Jainism and its prominent figures, specifically the "Yugapradhana" (world leaders or epoch-making figures) like Shri Jindattasuri, to counter such inaccuracies.

2. The Importance of Historical Biography: The text emphasizes the need for understanding Jain history and the lives of its great saints and scholars. It acknowledges that many historical Jain texts are in classical languages, making them inaccessible to the general populace. This work aims to bridge that gap by presenting history and religious practices in a more accessible language.

3. Shri Jindattasuri and the Kharatara Gachchha:

   • Ascension to Yugapradhana: The book details how Shri Jindattasuri, originally named Somchandra, received his Acharya title and became known as Shri Jindattasuri. His spiritual prowess and abilities are highlighted.
   • Miraculous Feats and Teachings: The text recounts various miracles attributed to Shri Jindattasuri, including his interactions with supernatural beings like Yoginis and Bheravas, his conquest over misguided beliefs, his role in reviving Jain practices, and his ability to influence kings and commoners.
   • Dispute Resolution and Propogation of Dharma: Shri Jindattasuri is portrayed as a powerful figure who resolved theological disputes, countered heretical views (like the Luṇkā sect), and vigorously promoted Jain dharma through his wisdom and miracles.
   • The Seven Boons: The text mentions seven boons granted by the Yoginis to Shri Jindattasuri, which consequently benefited his followers and the Kharatara Gachchha. These boons ensured prosperity, protection from calamities, and spiritual strength for the adherents.
   • The Seven Vows of the Yoginis: In return, the Yoginis were given seven vows to uphold, related to the practices and conduct of the Kharatara Acharyas and their followers.
   • Conversions and Social Impact: Shri Jindattasuri is credited with converting numerous individuals and communities, including royalty and various social groups, thereby expanding the Jain community and influencing their socio-cultural practices. The establishment of the "Rajgachchha" is also attributed to him due to his influence over kings.

4. Lineage of Acharyas (Pattavali): A significant portion of the text is dedicated to chronicling the succession of Jain Acharyas, particularly within the Kharatara Gachchha and its various branches. This includes detailed biographies, accomplishments, and periods of reign for numerous influential figures such as:

   • Shri Jinavallabhasuri
   • Shri Jinadattasuri
   • Shri Jineshwarasuri
   • Shri Jinchandrasuri
   • Shri Jinapatisuri
   • Shri Jinapradbodhasuri
   • Shri Jinkushalsuri
   • Shri Jinapadmasuri
   • Shri Jinavallabhasuri (another mention)
   • Shri Jinadattasuri (another mention)
   • Shri Jinchandrasuri (multiple mentions)
   • Shri Jinapatisuri
   • Shri Jineshwarasuri
   • Shri Jinaprabodhasuri
   • Shri Jinkushalsuri
   • Shri Jinapadmasuri
   • Shri Jinavallabhasuri
   • Shri Jinacandrasuri
   • Shri Jinodaya suri
   • Shri Jinrajasuri
   • Shri Jinabhadrassuri
   • Shri Jinkirtiratnasuri
   • Shri Jinchandrasuri
   • Shri Jinasaṁudrasuri
   • Shri Jinhansuri
   • Shri Jinamanikyasure
   • Shri Jinchandrasuri
   • Shri Jinsinghasuri
   • Shri Jinrajasuri
   • Shri Jinratnasuri
   • Shri Jinchandrasuri
   • Shri Jinsukh asuri
   • Shri Jinvadhasuri
   • Shri Jinlabhasuri
   • Shri Jinchandrasuri
   • Shri Jinharsuri
   • Shri Jinsaubhagyasuri
   • Shri Jinhansuri
   • Shri Jinchandrasuri
   • Shri Jinkirtisuri
   • Shri Jinacharitrasuri
   • Shri Jinkripachandrasuri (the compiler's inspiration)

5. Debates on Jain Practices and Beliefs: The text delves into theological discussions, addressing controversies and differing interpretations prevalent in Jainism, particularly regarding:

   • The Nature of God: It clarifies the Jain concept of God (Arhats or Siddhas) as beings who have achieved liberation and possess infinite knowledge and bliss, rather than a creator deity.
   • Origins of Jainism: It refutes claims that Jainism originated from Buddhism or other schools, firmly establishing its antiquity and distinct lineage.
   • Practices of Women in Worship: It discusses the permissibility and proper conduct for women in temple worship, addressing concerns about menstrual purity and ritualistic observances.
   • Gachchha and Mat Differences: The text explains the historical development of various Jain sub-sects (gachchhas) and philosophical schools (matas), highlighting their origins and some of the doctrinal differences. The text also implicitly supports the Kharatara Gachchha's orthodox practices.

6. Structure of the Text: The book is organized into several sections or "Sargas" (chapters), covering various aspects of Jain history, philosophy, and the lives of the Acharyas. The "Vishayanukramanika" (table of contents) reveals the detailed topics covered, from mangalacharana (auspicious beginnings) to the final conclusion of the text, including specific historical events, lineages, philosophical concepts (like cosmology, time cycles), biographies of Tirthankaras and Chakravartis, the emergence of different sects, and detailed accounts of the lives and teachings of numerous illustrious Acharyas.

7. Emphasis on Purity and Discipline: The text consistently underscores the importance of adherence to Jain principles of purity (shaucha), discipline (samyama), and correct conduct (achara) for both monks and lay followers. It advocates for strict adherence to scriptural injunctions and the teachings of the Acharyas.

8. The Role of Patrons: The publication is noted to have been made possible through the financial assistance of patrons like Shet Kalyanbhai Gelabhai, highlighting the community's support for preserving and disseminating Jain knowledge.

Overall Significance:

"Jinduttasuri Charitram Uttararddha" serves as a crucial historical document for understanding the evolution of Jainism, particularly the Kharatara Gachchha. It provides valuable insights into the lives of its spiritual leaders, their contributions to Jain philosophy and practice, and the socio-historical context in which Jainism flourished. The book is a testament to the rich tradition of Jain scholarship and hagiography, aiming to guide and enlighten followers through the lives and teachings of its revered Acharyas.