Khartar Gachha Ka Aadikalin Itihas - Book Summary

The book "Khartar Gachha Ka Adikalin Itihas" (A History of the Early Period of the Khartar Sect) by Mahopadhyay Chandrprabh Sagar, published by Akhil Bharatiya Shree Jain Shwetamber Khartar Gachha Mahasangh, Delhi, in 1990, is a comprehensive historical account of the Khartar Gachha, a significant sect within Jainism. The book, compiled by Bhanwarlal Nahata, delves into the origins, development, and key figures of the Khartar Gachha, particularly focusing on its early period from the 11th to the 13th century CE.

Here's a summary of the book's content, based on the provided pages:

Overall Theme:

The book aims to present a detailed and historically accurate account of the Khartar Gachha, highlighting its crucial role in reforming Jainism during a period of decline and establishing a path of rigorous adherence to scriptures and ethical conduct. It emphasizes the sect's revolutionary nature in combating laxity and re-establishing the authentic Jain way of life.

Structure of the Book:

The book is divided into three main parts:

Part One: Khartar Gachha - An Overview
- This section provides a broad introduction to Jainism, its traditions, and the historical context that led to the emergence of various Jain sub-sects (Gachhas).
- It details the evolution of Jain traditions, the establishment of different Gachhas, and the organizational structure within the Jain sangha.
- Crucially, it introduces the Khartar Gachha as a revolutionary movement aimed at eradicating laxity (shithilachar) and reinstating scriptural disciplines.
- Key characteristics of the Khartar Gachha are discussed, including its emphasis on scriptural knowledge, debates (shastrarth), use of yogic powers, influence over rulers, expansion of the Jain sangha, establishment of lineages (gotras), prolific literary contributions, and communal tolerance.
Part Two: The Early Period of Khartar Gachha
- This section delves into the specific historical timeline and the formative years of the Khartar Gachha.
- It discusses the prevalent "Chaityavasi" tradition, which is described as a period of laxity and deviation from strict Jain monastic rules, often involving residence in temples (chaityas) and a more relaxed lifestyle.
- The emergence of the Khartar Gachha is presented as a direct response to this Chaityavasi tradition.
- The pivotal role of debates (shastrarth) in challenging the Chaityavasi practices and establishing the Khartar Gachha's ideology is highlighted.
- The origin of the name "Khartar" itself is explained, stemming from the title bestowed upon its founder, Acharya Jineshwar Suri, for his sharp, clear, and powerful discourse.
Part Three: Historical Figures of the Early Period of Khartar Gachha
- This extensive section provides biographical and historical details of the prominent individuals who were instrumental in the formation and early growth of the Khartar Gachha.
- It covers a lineage of influential figures, detailing their contributions, literary works, and spiritual achievements.
- Key figures discussed include:
  - Acharya Vardhaman Suri: Considered an "Amrit-Purush" (nectar-like being) and a significant influence on Acharya Jineshwar Suri. He was instrumental in reforming the ascetic lifestyle and received the title "Surimantra Adhishthata."
  - Acharya Jineshwar Suri: The founder and "Yugpradhan" (epoch-maker) of the Khartar Gachha. He is credited with initiating the revolution against laxity and establishing the "Suvihit Marg" (well-regulated path). His intellectual prowess and victory in debates led to the adoption of the title "Khartar."
  - Mahattara Kalyanamati: A significant female ascetic and sister of Jineshwar Suri and Buddhisagar Suri, who held a prominent position within the sect.
  - Acharya Buddhisagar Suri: Brother of Jineshwar Suri and a renowned grammarian and scholar, whose work contributed significantly to the sect's intellectual foundation.
  - Mahakavi Dhanpal: A celebrated poet and scholar from a Brahmin background who embraced Jainism and contributed significantly to Prakrit and Sanskrit literature.
  - Acharya Jinchandra Suri (the first): A prominent disciple of Jineshwar Suri, known for his literary works like "Samveg Rangshala."
  - Acharya Dhaneshwar Suri (also known as Jinbhadra Suri): A notable disciple of Jineshwar Suri, known for his literary work "Surasundari Charitra."
  - Acharya Abhaydev Suri: A highly influential scholar and commentator, renowned for his extensive commentaries on Jain Agamas (Nava Angi Tika), considered a pillar of Jain scriptural understanding.
  - Acharya Devbhadra Suri: Another significant figure known for his literary contributions like "Mahavir Charitra" and "Katha Ratnakosh."
  - Acharya Jinvallabh Suri: A key figure in the sect's reformist movement, known for his efforts to revive strict practices and his prolific literary output.
  - Acharya Harisingh Suri: Mentioned as a teacher of Acharya Jinvallabh Suri.
  - Gani Ramdev: A scholar who composed commentaries on Jinavallabh Suri's works.
  - Padmanand: A devout layman, known for his patronage of Jain temples and literary contributions like "Vairagya Shatak."
  - Acharya Ashokachandra Suri: A disciple of Jineshwar Suri and influential in the propagation of the sect.
  - Acharya Jinda tt Suri: A highly venerated figure known as "Dada Gurudev" and "Yugpradhan." He is credited with immense contributions to the expansion of Jainism, establishment of numerous lineages (gotras), and patronage of literature.
  - Acharya Jineshwar Suri (second): Mentioned as a ruler of the Rudrapalliya branch.
  - Acharya Jinpati Suri: Known for his debates and victories in philosophical arguments, particularly against Digambara scholars.
  - Upadhyay Jinpal: A prolific scholar and author, most notably of the "Khartar Gachha Vrihad Gurvavali," a crucial historical text for the sect.
  - Nemicandra Bhandagarik: A respected layman and scholar, known for his work "Shashti Satak," which has numerous commentaries.
  - Acharya Jinshekhar Suri: The founder of the Rudrapalliya branch of the Khartar Gachha.
  - Acharya Jinachandra Suri (the second) (Manidhari): Revered as "Manidhari" for a gem believed to be on his forehead, he was a significant figure despite his short life.
  - Acharya Jinpati Suri: A renowned debater and influential leader.
  - Upadhyay Jinpal: A highly respected scholar, author of the sect's history.
  - Nemichandra Bhandagarik: A lay scholar and patron.
  - Acharya Jineshwar Suri (second): A significant leader and reformer in the 13th century.
  - Acharya Jinshekhar Suri: Founder of a branch.
  - Acharya Jinachandra Suri (Manidhari): Known for a jewel on his forehead and his influence.
  - Acharya Jinpati Suri: Famous for his debating skills.
  - Upadhyay Jinpal: Author of important historical texts.
  - Nemichandra Bhandagarik: Lay scholar and patron.
  - Acharya Jineshwar Suri (second): A prominent leader.
  - Dhanpal Mahakavi: A great poet.
  - Dhaneshwar Suri: Disciple of Jineshwar Suri.
  - Abhaydev Suri: A pivotal commentator on Agamas.
  - Devbhadra Suri: Author of important works.
  - Jinvallabh Suri: A key reformer and prolific writer.
  - Harisingh Suri: Scholar.
  - Ramdev Gani: Scholar.
  - Padmanand: Devout layman and poet.
  - Ashokchandra Suri: Influential Acharya.
  - Jindatt Suri: A highly revered figure, "Yugpradhan."
  - Jinsekhar Suri: Founder of a branch.
  - Jinachandra Suri (Manidhari): Known for a jewel.
  - Jinapati Suri: Famous debater.
  - Jinpal Upadhyay: Author of historical texts.
  - Nemichandra Bhandagarik: Lay scholar.
  - Jineshwar Suri (second): Important leader.
  - Abhaychandra Shreshthi: A devout layman and patron.

Key Contributions and Characteristics highlighted:

Eradication of Laxity (Shithilachar): The Khartar Gachha's primary mission was to combat the moral and scriptural laxity that had crept into Jain monasticism, particularly the Chaityavasi tradition.
Re-establishment of Scriptural Norms: The sect emphasized a strict adherence to the teachings and practices prescribed in the Jain Agamas and scriptures.
Intellectual Prowess and Debates: The Khartar Gachha produced highly learned scholars who engaged in debates (shastrarth) to defend Jain principles and refute opposing views.
Literary Flourishing: The sect is noted for its immense contribution to Jain literature across various fields, including philosophy, grammar, poetry, history, and commentaries.
Influence on Rulers: Khartar Gachha acharyas actively engaged with kings and rulers, influencing them towards righteous governance and promoting Jain principles.
Expansion of Jainism: The sect played a significant role in converting large numbers of people from other faiths to Jainism, leading to a substantial expansion of the Jain community and the establishment of new lineages (gotras).
Emphasis on Righteous Conduct (Suvihit Marg): The core philosophy of the Khartar Gachha revolves around the "Suvihit Marg," the path of strict adherence to conduct and discipline.

Significance:

The book positions the Khartar Gachha not just as a sub-sect but as a reformist movement that revitalized Jainism at a critical juncture, ensuring its continuity and integrity. It celebrates the intellectual and spiritual achievements of its early leaders, who are portrayed as champions of Jain dharma, preserving its purity and expanding its reach. The meticulous research and detailed accounts of the historical figures and events make this book a valuable resource for understanding the history of Jainism and the specific trajectory of the Khartar Gachha.