Jinvani Special Issue On Acharya Hastimalji Vyaktitva Evam Krutitva Visheshank 1992

This document is a special issue of the Jain journal "Jinavani" from 1992, dedicated to the life and works of Acharya Shri Hastimalji M.S. The issue was published by Samyag Gyan Pracharak Mandal and edited by Dr. Narendra Bhanavat and Dr. Shanta Bhanavat.

The journal is presented as a tribute on the first death anniversary of Acharya Hastimalji, who passed away at the age of 81 after observing a thirteen-day period of Santhara (a Jain practice of voluntary fasting until death). He was the 81st Acharya in the lineage of Shraman Bhagwan Mahavir and the seventh Acharya of the Ratnavansh tradition, following Acharya Shri Ratanchanji M.S.

The publication is divided into three main sections:

Part 1: "Vyaktitva-Vandan" (Salutation to the Personality) This section comprises 29 articles focusing on the personality of Acharya Hastimalji, covering various aspects such as his life journey, his role as a benefactor, his multifaceted character as an artist, craftsman, and religious figure, his ideal daily routine as a diligent practitioner, his impact on personal lives, his spiritual heights, his perseverance, his wisdom, his role as a life-creator, and tributes in the form of "Guru Hasti Chalisa" and "Gajendra Saptak." It also includes poems and articles highlighting his guiding influence and enduring legacy.

Part 2: "Krutitva-Mulyankan" (Evaluation of Works) This section delves into Acharya Hastimalji's extensive contributions across various fields:

• Poetic Sadhana: Analyzed by Dr. Narendra Bhanavat.
• Contribution to Agam-Tika Tradition: Discussed by Dr. Dharmachand Jain.
• Contribution to Agam Literature: Highlighted by Dr. Udayachand Jain.
• Historical Perspective: Examined by Dr. Bhagchand Jain 'Bhaskar'.
• History-Philosophy and Cultural Preservation: Explored by Dr. Premsuman Jain.
• Writings and Discourses: Covered by Dr. Mahendrasagar Prachandiya.
• Discourse Literature: Analyzed by Prof. Mahendra Rayjada.
• Philosophical Beliefs: Discussed by Dr. Sushma Singhvi.
• Social Role: Examined by Dr. Sanjeev Bhanavat.
• Prayers for Spiritual Development: Compiled by Dr. Dhanraj Chaudhary.
• The section also includes discussions on the nature of sadhana in his literature, his specific contributions in sadhana, literature, and history, the nature of sadhana and Acharya Shri's sadhana, his offerings in the field of sadhana, his teachings on Samayika, and his role as a guide for the youth.

Part 3: "Prerak Pad evam Pravachan" (Inspirational Verses and Discourses) This significant part contains 38 inspirational verses (pads) and 12 discourses of Acharya Hastimalji, noted for their poignant, self-awakening, inspirational, and guiding nature.

Key Themes and Contributions Highlighted:

• Spiritual Depth and Discipline: Acharya Hastimalji is described as a scholar, meditator, diligent practitioner of vows, historian of cultural consciousness, sensitive writer, and a man of great intellect. His life was characterized by immense discipline, renunciation, and spiritual pursuit.
• Emphasis on True Spirituality: He stressed that religious activities should be about inner transformation and not mere rituals or fashion.
• Promoter of "Samyag Gyan" (Right Knowledge): He founded the Samyag Gyan Pracharak Mandal 50 years prior to the publication to promote literature that uplifted life and regularly published the monthly journal "Jinavani."
• Advocate of "Upadhyaya" (Life-Building) Education: He believed that mere vocational education was insufficient and emphasized the importance of character building through Satsang and Swadhyay.
• Redefined Swadhyay: He interpreted Swadhyay in three ways: self-study, study by oneself, and study of scriptures with proper discipline.
• Mission of Swadhyay: He traveled extensively across India, encouraging hundreds to become "Swadhyayi Sainiks" (disciplined students of self-study) dedicated to the principles of non-violence, self-control, and austerity. He inspired thousands to engage in daily 15-minute Swadhyay and meditation.
• Integration of Samayika: He championed Samayika (equanimity practice) as a means to spiritual growth, defining it as the practice of equanimity and adherence to proper conduct or realizing one's true self. He encouraged daily one-hour Samayika sessions.
• Compassionate Nature: He was deeply compassionate, advocating for positive non-violence and actively helping the needy. He emphasized the value of spiritual wealth over material wealth.
• Literary Prowess: He authored commentaries on significant Agam texts like 'Nandi Sutra', 'Prashna Vyakarana', 'Brihatkalpa Sutra', 'Antagad Dashang', 'Uttaradhyayana', and 'Dashavaikalika'. He also wrote historical works, including the seminal 'Jain Dharm Ka Maulik Itihas' (Fundamental History of Jainism) in four volumes, as well as discourse collections.
• Impact on Society: His teachings led to various welfare activities like animal protection, medical relief, educational institutions, libraries, and book banks. He also inspired a moral renaissance and played a significant role in promoting temperance.
• Legacy: The publication itself, a comprehensive collection of tributes and analytical articles, serves as a testament to his profound influence on Jain thought, practice, and literature. It was compiled in collaboration with various Jain organizations and scholars.

In essence, the special issue provides a detailed and multifaceted portrait of Acharya Hastimalji, highlighting his profound spiritual achievements, his extensive literary and historical contributions, his unwavering commitment to Jain principles, and his enduring impact on the Jain community and beyond.