Kalikal Sarvagya

This text, titled "Kalikal Sarvagya," is a biography of Acharya Shri Hemchandrasurishwarji, presented in a style accessible to children ("Bal Yogya Shaili"). It has been translated and compiled by Shri Priyadarshan (Acharya Shri Vijaybhadra Guptasuri Maharaj) and is a re-publication by Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra Koba.

The book details the life and teachings of Acharya Hemchandrasurishwarji, who is revered as "Kalikal Sarvagya" (The Omniscient of the Kali Yuga). It is presented as a narrative filled with inspiring incidents and profound wisdom.

Here's a summary of the key events and themes covered in the provided text, chapter by chapter:

Author and Publisher Information:

• The book is published by Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra, Koba, Gujarat, India.
• It is a re-publication, with the second edition dated August 31, 2009.
• The publication is dedicated to the 77th birthday of Rashtrasant Acharya Dev Shri Padmasagar Suriji Maharaj.
• Financial support was provided by Seth Shri Niranjan NarottamBhai and the Seth Shri NarottamBhai Lalbhai family.
• The content is for private and personal use only.

Introduction to Acharya Shri Vijaybhadra Guptasuri:

• The text introduces Acharya Shri Vijaybhadra Guptasuri Maharaj (Shri Priyadarshan) as the author.
• It highlights his birth in Gujarat, his initiation into Jain monasticism at the age of 18, and his extensive studies in Jain scriptures (Agams), philosophy, and various literary fields.
• His literary journey began at 20 with 'Mahapanthno Yatri' and continued until his death, producing original literature, philosophical insights, stories, poems, and guidance through letters.
• He is described as having a loving, cheerful nature, a pleasant and gentle personality, and a dedication to the welfare of many.
• He had a particular interest in shaping the lives of the youth and children.
• His tolerance and spiritual depth were recognized, and he was honored with the title of Acharya.
• He passed away on November 19, 1999, in Shymal, Ahmedabad, after facing various ailments while continuing his literary work.

Publisher's Note (Prakashkiy):

• The publisher expresses their desire to re-publish the works of the late Acharya Shri Priyadarshan due to their popularity and the trust's dissolution.
• They sought and received the blessings of Rashtrasant Acharya Shri Padmasagar Suriji Maharaj, who had a close friendship with the deceased Acharya.
• The Shri Mahavir Jain Aradhana Kendra, Koba, was granted the rights for re-publication and distribution of Acharya Priyadarshan's literature through their bookstall, Shrutsarita.
• "Kalikal Sarvagya" is presented as part of this series of re-published works.
• The publisher thanks the financial contributors and proofreaders and encourages the distribution of this inspirational literature.

Foreword (Poorvabhumika):

• The author considers writing the life of Acharya Hemchandrasurishwarji a daunting task, akin to swimming across an ocean, but was inspired by immense devotion.
• He relies on historical texts like 'Kumarpal Bhupal Charitra,' 'Chaturvingshati Prabandh,' and 'Prabandh Chintamani.'
• He criticizes historical accounts for omitting or misrepresenting events related to Jain society and culture, attributing this to the prejudiced mindset of historians, often foreign scholars whose views are perpetuated in education.
• He emphasizes the significant, yet often unrecognized, contribution of Jain personalities to the cultural and spiritual development of India.
• Acharya Hemchandrasurishwarji's personality is described as extraordinary, radiating spirituality and humanity. His gentle demeanor pacified King Siddharaj's ambition and harshness. His teachings brought solace to King Kumarpal, transforming his mind through devotion to the Jinas and enabling him to find mental peace in his later years through the study of Yoga Shastra.
• The author highlights Kumarpal's role in promoting the principle of non-violence, calling it an unparalleled achievement in history.
• The biography is specifically written with children in mind, aiming for simple language and an accessible style.

Introduction to Acharya Shri Hemchandrasuriji:

• This section provides key biographical details:
  • Birth: Vikram Samvat 1145
  • Birthplace: Dhandhuka (Gujarat)
  • Mother: Pahini Devi
  • Father: Seth Chacheg
  • Childhood Name: Changdev
  • Initiation: Vikram Samvat 1154
  • Initiation Place: Khambhat (Gujarat)
  • Guru: Acharya Shri Devachandrasuriji
  • Initiation Name: Muni Somchandra
  • Death: Vikram Samvat 1229
  • Death Place: Patan (Gujarat)
  • Chief Disciple: Acharya Shri Ramchandra Suriji

Table of Contents (Anukram):

The table of contents outlines the progression of the biography, covering:

1. Changdev (Hemchandrasuriji's childhood)
2. The Sadhana of Saraswati (Goddess of Knowledge)
3. Coal Turning into Gold Coins (A story of divine intervention/miracles)
4. The Goddess Becomes Pleased! (Likely related to Saraswati's favor)
5. Composition of the 'Siddhahem' Grammar
6. The Guru's Detachment (Nihspruhata)
7. Pilgrimage (Tirthayatra)
8. The Compassionate Guru (Kripalu Gurudev)
9. Kumarpal's Birth
10. The Guru Saved His Life! (Gurudev ne Jaan Bachayi!)
11. Kumarpal's Coronation
12. Somnath Mahadev Appears (SomnathMahadev Pragata Hue)
13. The Defeat of Devbodhi (Devbodhi ki Parajay)
14. Propagation of Non-Violence in Kashi (Kashidesh mein Ahimsa-Prachar)
15. The King's Illness is Cured (Raja ka Rog Mitaya)
16. Construction of Jin Temples (Jinmandiron ka Nirman)
17. Via Air Route to Bharuch (Akashmarg se Bharuch mein)
18. Defeating the Sorceresses (Dayano ko Maat di)
19. Accurate Prophecy (Satik Bhavishyavani)
20. The King's Abduction (Badshah ka Apharan)
21. Miracles of Religious Faith (Dharmashraddha ke Chamatkar)
22. Unprecedented Aid to Fellow Jains (Apurva Sadharmik Uddhar)
23. True Golden Accomplishment (Sacchi Suvarnasiddhi)
24. Five Incidents (Panch Prasang)
25. A Story from a Past Life (Gat Janam ki Baat)
26. The Passing of Suridev (Suridev ka Swargavas)

Detailed Chapter Summaries (as per the provided text):

• Chapter 1: Changdev: This chapter narrates the early life of Hemchandrasuriji, born as Changdev to Seth Chacheg and Pahini Devi. It recounts Pahini Devi's auspicious dream of a divine gem and Acharya Devachandrasuriji's prophecy that her son would become a great Jain scholar and propagator of the faith. It highlights the meticulous care taken by his mother during pregnancy and his early education in Jain principles. A significant event is when a young Changdev (about five years old) sits on Acharya Devachandrasuriji's seat, signifying his future role. His father, Chacheg, is persuaded by Acharya Devachandrasuriji to give Changdev for spiritual education, and he is later initiated as Muni Somchandra.

• Chapter 2: The Sadhana of Saraswati: Muni Somchandra, driven by a desire for profound knowledge, wishes to undertake the worship of Goddess Saraswati at her original seat in Kashmir. He seeks permission from his guru, Acharya Devachandrasuriji, who grants it. While traveling, they halt at a Jin Mandir, where Muni Somchandra performs his devotion. Goddess Saraswati appears to him, bestowing upon him "Siddha-Saravatva" (proficiency in all arts and sciences) and a blessing that he will become a great scholar and able to influence kings, without needing to go to Kashmir. He returns to his guru, who is pleased with his disciple's spiritual advancement.

• Chapter 3: Coal Turns into Gold Coins: This story illustrates the power of devotion and the miraculous intervention that can occur. A wealthy merchant, Dhanad Seth, suffers immense financial loss when his hidden treasures turn to coal. His family faces destitution. Muni Somchandra, while on alms rounds with his guru, observes the family's plight. The merchant's desperate situation is miraculously resolved when Muni Somchandra's pure gaze transforms the coal back into gold coins, thereby saving the family and allowing them to rebuild their fortune.

• Chapter 4: The Goddess Becomes Pleased! This chapter likely details an event where the blessings of a divine entity are sought and received. It could be related to the acquisition of knowledge or overcoming obstacles through divine favor, possibly connected to the "Sadhana of Saraswati."

• Chapter 5: Composition of the 'Siddhahem' Grammar: This is a pivotal chapter. King Siddharaj of Gujarat, impressed by Hemchandrasuriji's scholarly prowess and desire to elevate Gujarat's cultural status, commissions him to write a comprehensive Sanskrit grammar. The King seeks a grammar that would be as renowned as the 'Saraswati Kanthabharanam' of King Bhoj. Hemchandrasuriji, after studying various texts and with divine inspiration, composes the monumental 'Siddhahem Vyakarana'. This grammar is celebrated with a grand procession, establishing Hemchandrasuriji's reputation and significantly influencing Sanskrit scholarship. The chapter also touches upon the envy of other scholars and priests.

• Chapter 6: The Guru's Detachment (Nihspruhata): This chapter focuses on Acharya Hemchandrasuriji's detachment from worldly possessions and power. It depicts his refusal of a royal carriage offered by King Siddharaj during a pilgrimage, emphasizing his commitment to a life of austerity and non-violence. It also highlights his indifference to criticism and his focus on spiritual pursuits, even when facing opposition or insult.

• Chapter 7: Pilgrimage (Tirthayatra): This chapter describes Acharya Hemchandrasuriji's pilgrimage with King Kumarpal. It details their journey to Shatrunjay and Girnar, holy sites for Jains. The King is deeply moved by the spiritual atmosphere and the teachings of the Acharya. The King's devotion leads him to perform charitable acts and donate villages for the upkeep of the pilgrimage sites. The Acharya also guides the King on proper pilgrimage conduct and devotion.

• Chapter 8: The Compassionate Guru (Kripalu Gurudev): This chapter likely portrays Acharya Hemchandrasuriji's compassion and wisdom. It might include an interaction with King Siddharaj where the king seeks a solution to his lack of offspring and his worries about succession. The Acharya's divine vision reveals that Kumarpal will succeed Siddharaj and promote Jainism. This shows the Acharya's foresight and compassion in guiding the king.

• Chapter 9: Kumarpal's Birth: This chapter details the lineage and birth of King Kumarpal, who becomes a significant disciple of Acharya Hemchandrasuriji. It traces the royal lineage and emphasizes the auspicious signs at Kumarpal's birth, including a prophecy of his future greatness and patronage of Jain Dharma.

• Chapter 10: The Guru Saved His Life! (Gurudev ne Jaan Bachayi!): This chapter recounts an incident where Acharya Hemchandrasuriji protects Kumarpal from imminent danger, likely from King Siddharaj's orders or his enemies. The Acharya uses his spiritual powers or wisdom to hide Kumarpal, saving his life and demonstrating his profound care for his future royal disciple.

• Chapter 11: Kumarpal's Coronation: This chapter describes Kumarpal's ascension to the throne of Gujarat, fulfilling the Acharya's prophecy. It likely details the circumstances of his coronation and his initial steps as a ruler, possibly marking a significant period for Jainism in Gujarat.

• Chapter 12: Somnath Mahadev Appears (SomnathMahadev Pragata Hue): This chapter describes a miraculous event where Lord Somnath Mahadev appears. This likely occurs in response to the devotion or spiritual practice of Acharya Hemchandrasuriji or King Kumarpal, demonstrating the divine power that aligns with righteous actions and devotion.

• Chapter 13: The Defeat of Devbodhi (Devbodhi ki Parajay): This chapter likely narrates an intellectual or spiritual debate where a boastful ascetic named Devbodhi, who claims mastery over various powers, is defeated by Acharya Hemchandrasuriji. Devbodhi's false claims and manipulative displays are exposed, reinforcing the superiority of true spiritual knowledge and the Jain path.

• Chapter 14: Propagation of Non-Violence in Kashi (Kashidesh mein Ahimsa-Prachar): This chapter focuses on King Kumarpal's efforts, guided by Acharya Hemchandrasuriji, to spread the message of Ahimsa (non-violence) to Kashi. Through diplomacy, gifts, and moral persuasion, they manage to convince the king of Kashi to abandon animal sacrifice and embrace the principles of non-violence, showcasing the effective influence of Jain teachings on a wider scale.

• Chapter 15: The King's Illness is Cured (Raja ka Rog Mitaya): This chapter likely narrates how King Kumarpal suffers from a severe illness, possibly due to offending a divine power or through karmic retribution. Acharya Hemchandrasuriji, through his spiritual prowess, helps cure the king, emphasizing the importance of devotion and adherence to Dharma.

• Chapter 16: Construction of Jin Temples (Jinmandiron ka Nirman): This chapter highlights King Kumarpal's commitment to building numerous Jain temples under the guidance of Acharya Hemchandrasuriji. It describes the scale of these constructions, the artistic merit of the idols, and the significant contribution to the propagation and establishment of Jainism.

• Chapter 17: Via Air Route to Bharuch (Akashmarg se Bharuch mein): This chapter recounts a miraculous event where Acharya Hemchandrasuriji and his disciple Muni Yashashchandra travel to Bharuch via an aerial path to resolve a crisis involving the Jin Mandir and its construction. They overcome obstacles posed by local deities and subdue demonic forces, demonstrating their extraordinary spiritual powers and dedication to protecting the Jain faith.

• Chapter 18: Defeating the Sorceresses (Dayano ko Maat di): This chapter details how Acharya Hemchandrasuriji and his disciple Muni Yashashchandra, with the help of a brave layman named Ranmal, confront and defeat sorceresses who are troubling the devotees and the Jin Mandir. Through spiritual might and knowledge of mantras, they overcome these malevolent forces.

• Chapter 19: Accurate Prophecy (Satik Bhavishyavani): This chapter showcases Acharya Hemchandrasuriji's foresight and accuracy in his predictions. It likely recounts how he accurately predicted events, such as King Kumarpal's succession to the throne or impending dangers, providing timely guidance and averting crises.

• Chapter 20: The King's Abduction (Badshah ka Apharan): This chapter describes an incident where Acharya Hemchandrasuriji miraculously "abducts" the invading Persian king, Muhammad, from his camp using his yogic powers and brings him to Patan. This strategic move disarms the enemy, saves Gujarat from invasion, and leads to the king's conversion or at least a significant influence towards adopting Jain principles.

• Chapter 21: Miracles of Religious Faith (Dharmashraddha ke Chamatkar): This chapter likely presents several instances of miracles attributed to the strong faith and devotion of the characters, particularly King Kumarpal and Acharya Hemchandrasuriji. These miracles demonstrate the power of righteousness and spiritual devotion.

• Chapter 22: Unprecedented Aid to Fellow Jains (Apurva Sadharmik Uddhar): This chapter highlights King Kumarpal's deep concern and action towards the welfare of his fellow Jains. Inspired by Acharya Hemchandrasuriji's teachings, he alleviates the suffering of the poor and downtrodden Jain community, demonstrating true compassion and commitment to Dharma.

• Chapter 23: True Golden Accomplishment (Sacchi Suvarnasiddhi): This chapter likely contrasts worldly wealth with spiritual prosperity. It might narrate how Acharya Hemchandrasuriji guides King Kumarpal to understand that true wealth lies not in material possessions but in spiritual growth and adherence to Dharma, perhaps by rejecting the concept of literal alchemy for spiritual transformation.

• Chapter 24: Five Incidents (Panch Prasang): This chapter presents five distinct stories or episodes from the life of Acharya Hemchandrasuriji and his interactions with King Kumarpal and others. These could include instances of his wisdom, miracles, or charitable acts.

• Chapter 25: A Story from a Past Life (Gat Janam ki Baat): This chapter delves into the concept of karma and reincarnation. Acharya Hemchandrasuriji, using his omniscience, reveals the past lives of King Kumarpal and others, explaining the karmic reasons behind their current circumstances and relationships. This underscores the Jain philosophy of karma.

• Chapter 26: The Passing of Suridev (Suridev ka Swargavas): This final chapter describes the peaceful demise of Acharya Hemchandrasuriji. It likely details his final moments, his final teachings, and the profound grief experienced by his disciples, King Kumarpal, and the entire Jain community. It also marks the succession of Acharya Ramachandra Suriji.

Overall, "Kalikal Sarvagya" appears to be a comprehensive and inspiring biography aimed at educating and uplifting readers, particularly young ones, about the life, teachings, and miraculous powers of Acharya Hemchandrasurishwarji, and his profound influence on King Kumarpal and the spread of Jain Dharma.