Kushalchandrasuripatta Prashasti - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Kushalchandrasuripatta Prashasti," based on the provided pages:

Title: Kushalchandrasuripatta Prashasti (श्रीकुशलचन्द्रसूरिपट्टप्रशस्तिः)

Authors:

Main author of the Prashasti: Pandit Pramukh Shri Manichandrasuriji Maharaj (पं०प्र० श्रीमणिचन्द्रजी महाराज), a scholar and religious preceptor who passed away at a young age.
Author of "Jain Bindu": Vaidic Dharmacharya Shri Kashtajihva Swamiji Maharaj (वैदिकधर्माचार्य श्रीकाष्ठजिह्वा स्वामीजी महाराज).
Commentator on "Jain Bindu": Jainacharya Shri Balachandrasuriji Maharaj (जैनाचार्य श्रीबालचन्द्रसरिजी महाराज).

Publisher: Pandit Gopalchandra Jain (पं० गोपालचन्द्रजी जैन) from Kashi.

Publication Year: Samvat 2008 (Vikram era).

Overview: The book is a compilation containing two main works:

Kushalchandrasuripatta Prashasti: This is the primary text, celebrating and detailing the life, work, and spiritual legacy of the esteemed Jainacharya (Spiritual Leader) Shri Kushalchandrasurishwarji Maharaj.
Jain Bindu Vritti: This is a commentary (Vritti) written by Shri Balachandrasuriji Maharaj on the original work "Jain Bindu" by Shri Kashtajihva Swamiji Maharaj. The publication of both works together aims to clarify the views of the Vedic scholar Kashtajihva Swamiji on Jain philosophy.

Key Themes and Content:

Historical Context and Revival of Jainism: The introductory "Kinchit Vaktavya" (A Small Statement) highlights the purpose of the book: to inform readers about the historical circumstances of Jainism in the 18th-19th centuries in regions like Anga, Vanga, Kalinga, Magadha, Bihar, Kashi, and Koshala. It emphasizes the diligent efforts of revered Jain Acharyas in re-igniting the "Jain light" in these areas, which were once great centers of Jain culture but had declined.
Role of Shri Kushalchandrasurishwarji Maharaj: The Prashasti focuses on Acharya Shri Kushalchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, portraying him as a beacon of Jainism during a time when Jain culture was nearly lost in places like Kashi and Koshala. His efforts are credited with the revival of historical Jinendra (Tirthankara) sites and the re-infusion of religious life into Jain communities that had become disconnected from their faith.
Spiritual Lineage and Services: The text traces the spiritual lineage, highlighting the significant and indelible services rendered by his successors to the Jain faith and community. It also acknowledges the invaluable support received from prominent Jain householders in these endeavors.
Purpose of the Book: The aim is to ensure that future generations of Jain communities do not forget the holy work of their past Acharyas and continue to follow their culture.
The "Jain Bindu" and Kashtajihva Swamiji: The publication also includes "Jain Bindu," written by Shri Kashtajihva Swamiji Maharaj, a great Vedic scholar and guru to the King of Kashi. The commentary by Shri Balachandrasuriji Maharaj aims to shed light on Kashtajihva Swamiji's perspective on Jain philosophy.
Kushalchandrasurishwarji's Virtues and Actions:
- He is described as a great scholar, proficient in logic, grammar, and literature, and a religious preceptor.
- He restored numerous ancient Jain temples and holy sites, including those in the regions of Shreyansanath, Prabhunath, and Parshvanath.
- He was instrumental in reviving lost Tirthankara sites in Koshala region and other eastern territories.
- The text details his arrival in Kashi, a prominent Vedic religious center on the banks of the Ganges, where he found the Jain sites neglected.
- He took a strong vow to protect and revive Jainism, even facing difficult circumstances.
- He was renowned for his profound scholarship, engaging in debates, and his teachings that inspired many to renounce worldly life and embrace monasticism.
- He demonstrated remarkable spiritual power and intellect, impressing scholars and kings alike.
- He engaged with Vedic scholars and philosophers, leading to a deep understanding and respect for Jain principles.
- He initiated the construction and renovation of Jain temples, including a significant one for Lord Parshvanath at Ramghat, Kashi.
- The text recounts an incident involving a protective mechanism in a temple wall that he set up.
- He is credited with the revival of the "paduka" (footprints) site of Lord Parshvanath in Bhelupur.
- The text narrates an incident where he miraculously stopped a powerful weapon aimed at a group of people, saving them from death.
- He received immense respect and devotion from patrons and lay followers, including royalty.
Key Events and Teachings:
- Debate in Kashi: The text describes a significant debate in Kashi where Shri Kushalchandrasurishwarji Maharaj demonstrated his intellectual prowess, defeating opponents and leading to the triumph of Jain philosophy (anekantavada).
- Encounter with Kashtajihva Swamiji: It details the meeting and intellectual exchange between Shri Kushalchandrasurishwarji and Kashtajihva Swamiji, highlighting the latter's eventual inclination towards Jainism and the writing of "Jain Bindu."
- Revival of Chintamani Parshvanath Temple: A detailed account of the restoration and establishment of the idol of Chintamani Parshvanath, involving a divine vision and the purchase of the idol.
- Miracles and Divine Intervention: Several instances of miraculous interventions, such as stopping weapons, protecting people, and divine guidance, are narrated, showcasing the spiritual power of the Acharya.
- The "Jain Bindu" Commentary: The latter part of the book details the "Jain Bindu" text and its commentary by Shri Balachandrasuriji Maharaj. This section explains Jain concepts like "Arhan," "Kalyanak" (auspicious events), the four types of meditation (Rupasth, Padsth, Pindsth, Rupatit), the four pillars of Dharma (Dan, Sheel, Tap, Bhavna), and the significance of the syllable "Om" and the Gayatri mantra in Jainism. It also discusses the philosophical differences and similarities between Jainism and other Indian philosophical systems, as interpreted by Kashtajihva Swamiji.
- Spiritual Disciples and Successors: The text mentions the spiritual lineage, including Acharya Shri Hirachandrasuriji, Acharya Shri Nemichandrasuriji, and others, detailing their contributions and the traditions they upheld.
- Importance of Compassion: A significant emphasis is placed on compassion (Karuna) as the most important of the five "gems" (four means of liberation and compassion), stating that without it, the other means do not yield full results.
- The Role of the Guru: The text underscores the indispensable role of the Guru in guiding disciples through spiritual knowledge, overcoming obstacles, and achieving liberation.
Notable Patrons and Disciples: The book lists numerous prominent lay followers, patrons, and disciples who supported the Acharyas in their religious activities, including royalty, wealthy merchants, and scholars.

In essence, the "Kushalchandrasuripatta Prashasti" is a hagiography celebrating the life and achievements of Acharya Shri Kushalchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, highlighting his role in reviving Jainism in crucial regions. Coupled with the "Jain Bindu Vritti," it also serves as a platform for inter-philosophical dialogue and the elucidation of core Jain tenets.