Jineshwarsuri Tatha Buddhisagarsuri

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text about Acharya Jineshwarsuri and Acharya Buddhisagarsuri:

The text, found in volumes 1 and 2 of "Shramana Bhagwanto" by Nandlal B Devluk, highlights the significant contributions of Acharya Jineshwarsuri and Acharya Buddhisagarsuri to the Jain faith, particularly in making the entry and stay of "suvihit" (well-disciplined/orthodox) monks easier in the city of Patan.

Key Points:

• Brotherhood and Spiritual Lineage: Both Acharya Jineshwarsuri and Acharya Buddhisagarsuri were not only respected Jain monks (shramanashiromani) but also biological brothers. They were disciples of Acharya Shriman Vardhmansuri, who belonged to the Vadgachha lineage. Acharya Vardhmansuri himself had abandoned the Chaitvasi tradition, which held sway over 84 Jain temples in the region of Kurugpura, to embrace the "suvihit" tradition founded by Shri Udyotansuri.

• The Challenge in Patan: In the 11th century (specifically around 1080 Vikram Samvat), Patan was ruled by King Bhimdev. Due to a royal decree issued by King Vanraj Chavda (who established Gujarat in 802 Vikram Samvat) favoring Chaitvasi monks, the entry of "suvihit" mendicants into Patan was restricted. This decree meant that only Chaitvasi ascetics, approved by them, could reside in Patan.

• Acharyas' Entry and Influence:

  • The two brother-acharyas, Jineshwarsuri and Buddhisagarsuri, successfully facilitated the entry of "suvihit" mendicants into Patan.
  • They achieved this by impressing King Bhimdev, his Purohit (chief priest) Someshwar, Shivacharya Gyanadev, and the Brahmins of Patan with their knowledge, character, and spiritual prowess.
  • Their influence was so profound that they were able to gain the cooperation of these influential figures.

• The Role of Purohit Someshwar: Purohit Someshwar, who was the maternal uncle of the two acharyas, played a crucial role. Upon meeting them, he was deeply impressed by their discourse, which invoked Lord Jineshwar (a manifestation of Mahadeva) and resonated with Vedic and Upanishadic beliefs. He provided them with accommodation in his own house, overcoming the earlier restrictions.

• Gaining Royal and Brahminical Acceptance:

  • King Bhimdev was personally impressed by the acharyas' renunciation, austerity, and intellect.
  • The learned Brahmins of Patan (Yajnik, Smat, Dikshit, Agnihotri) also came to hear their teachings and were convinced.
  • When the Chaitvasi monks raised objections based on the old royal decree, King Bhimdev intervened. He stated that while he respected the previous king's order, it was also his duty to honor virtuous guests. Through patient persuasion and with the consent of the Chaitvasi monks, he ensured the smooth passage and accommodation of the "suvihit" mendicants.
  • Purohit Someshwar and Shivacharya Gyanadev further assisted in providing suitable facilities.

• Literary Contributions: The text also details the significant literary works of both acharyas:

  • Acharya Jineshwarsuri:

    • Lilawati Katha (V.S. 1082-1085): A Prakrit poem with elegant language and various poetic ornaments, composed before the Chaitvandan commentary.
    • Kathanak Kosh (V.S. 1108): A Prakrit work containing 40 didactic stories.
    • Panchalingi Prakaran (V.S. 1092): A theoretical work with 101 verses describing the characteristics of right faith (samyaktva).
    • Tristhan Prakaran: A theoretical work with 6 sections describing the virtues of a householder (shravaka). It was commented upon by Acharya Abhaydevsuri and Tikacharya Shantisuri.
    • Praman Lathamvritti: A significant philosophical work with 405 verses, explaining logic and argumentation.
    • Ashtak Pramanvritti (V.S. 1080): A commentary on Haribhadrasuri's Ashtak Prakaran.
    • Chaitvandan Tika (V.S. 1092): A commentary with 1000 verses.

  • Acharya Buddhisagarsuri:

    • Buddhisagar Granth (also known as Sapt Sahasankalpam, Shablakshalaksham, and Panchathi) (V.S. 1080): A highly esteemed grammatical treatise of that era, confirming their period as the 11th-12th century (Vir Nirvana era).

• Historical Significance: The text places these acharyas within the lineage of influential Jain scholars, including Acharya Abhaydevsuri, the commentator of Navangi. Their success in Patan is presented as a significant event in the history of Jainism, demonstrating their ability to overcome established restrictions and establish the practice of "suvihit" mendicants.