Lekhendrashekharvijayji Abhinandan Granth

This is a comprehensive summary of the "Lekhendrashekharvijayji Abhinandan Granth," a commemorative book honoring Muni Shri Lekhendrashekharvijayji, referred to as "Konkan Keshari." The book was published by Yatindrasuri Sahitya Prakashan Mandir Aalirajpur and edited by Sadhviji Shri Pushpashreeji and Sadhvi Shri Tarunprabhashree, with Muni Shri Lokendravijayji serving as the guide.

Here's a breakdown of the key themes and content:

I. Commemoration and Homage:

• "Konkan Keshari" Title: The central purpose of the book is to honor Muni Shri Lekhendrashekharvijayji with the title "Konkan Keshari" for his significant contributions to spreading Jain dharma in the Konkan region of Maharashtra and other parts of India. This title signifies his exceptional efforts and impact.
• Tribute to Spiritual Mentors: The book extensively pays homage to the spiritual lineage and esteemed gurus who guided Muni Shri Lekhendrashekharvijayji, particularly his preceptor Muni Shri Lakshamanvijayji "Sheetal." The impact of these gurus on his life, spiritual development, and missionary work is highlighted.
• Dedication: The book is dedicated to Muni Shri Lekhendrashekharvijayji for his selfless service, dedication to knowledge, spiritual practice, and propagation of Jainism, embodying human virtues like compassion and maternal affection.

II. Life and Work of Muni Shri Lekhendrashekharvijayji:

• Early Life and Renunciation: The text details his birth, his early inclination towards spirituality, and his renunciation of worldly life at a young age, receiving initiation from his guru.
• Academic and Spiritual Pursuits: He is described as a profound scholar, possessing deep knowledge of Jain scriptures, languages, and spiritual sciences. His dedication to rigorous spiritual practices and meditation is emphasized.
• Missionary and Social Work: A significant portion focuses on his extensive travels and preaching across various states of India, particularly in the Konkan region. His efforts in social upliftment, educational initiatives, cultural propagation, and religious awareness are detailed.
• Impact and Devotion: His ability to connect with people, his eloquent and impactful discourses, his profound scholarship, and his compassionate nature are lauded. The establishment of organizations like the "Shri Parshvapadmavati Sadharmik Foundation" for the welfare of the needy is also highlighted.
• "Konkan Keshari" Title Significance: The book elaborates on the journey that led to the conferment of the "Konkan Keshari" title. It describes the fervent requests from various Jain communities (Shri Sanghs) in the Konkan region for his guidance and the grand ceremony organized to bestow this honor. The title reflects his immense popularity and impact in that region.

III. Jain Philosophy and Principles:

• The Nature of Change and Experience: The editorial section emphasizes that change is a natural law, and every experience is unique and ever-new. The human mind, driven by self-interest, often converts pleasant situations into painful ones, leading to societal instability.
• The Role of Spiritual Souls: The text speaks about the periodic advent of pure souls who guide humanity towards the right path, protecting society from destructive forces.
• The Jain Tradition: The lineage of Lord Adinath is presented as ancient and unbroken, transcending all eras and continuing its influence even in the present age. The importance of renouncing worldly pleasures and embracing the path of the five great vows (Panch Mahavrat) to become a Jain Shraman is stressed.
• The Essence of Sadhutva (Asceticism): True asceticism is defined as the purification of one's inner self, conquering internal enemies like deceit, anger, etc., and remaining immersed in the pursuit of truth, not confined to physical places like temples or monasteries.
• Nivritti vs. Pravritti: The text distinguishes between the path of renunciation (Nivritti) which leads to liberation from karma, and the path of engagement (Pravritti) which leads to karma bondage.
• Anushasan (Discipline) and Vinay (Humility): These are presented as crucial virtues for individual and societal well-being, essential for spiritual progress and maintaining harmonious relationships.
• Ahimsa and Aparigraha: The importance of non-violence (Ahimsa) in its deepest sense and non-attachment (Aparigraha) as the foundation for true Ahimsa are discussed. The text criticizes the superficial understanding of Ahimsa that focuses only on diet and external practices without addressing underlying greed and ego.
• Samata (Equanimity): The concept of equanimity is highlighted as a key principle for social harmony and inner peace, transcending dualities of pleasure and pain, friend and foe.
• Jain Darshan (Philosophy): Various philosophical concepts are explored, including the nature of the soul (Atma), the difference between spirit and matter (Jiva and Ajiva), the role of karma, the doctrine of anekanta (non-absolutism) and syadvada (conditional predication), and the path to liberation (Moksha). The scientific basis of some Jain principles, like the concept of subtle energy centers (chakras), is also touched upon.
• The Power of Mantra and Sadhana: The text underscores the significance of mantra recitation (particularly the Navkar Mantra) and various forms of ascetic practices (tapasya) like fasting and controlled breathing (pranayama) as means to spiritual purification, health, and ultimate liberation.
• The Role of Women in Jainism: The book acknowledges the significant role of women in Jain traditions, citing historical examples of virtuous women and emphasizing the need for women's education and empowerment within a framework of traditional values.

IV. Structure of the Abhinandan Granth:

The book is structured into three sections:

• Section 1: Blessings, Greetings, and Vandanavali: Contains blessings and good wishes from prominent Jain scholars, saints, and community leaders.
• Section 2: Vivid Vibhuti - True Religious Travelogue: Features a detailed account of Muni Shri Lekhendrashekharvijayji's religious journeys and his impactful activities, often accompanied by photographs.
• Section 3: Jain Darshan and Literature: Includes scholarly articles and compositions on various aspects of Jain philosophy, ethics, history, and literature, contributing to the overall richness and depth of the work.

V. Key Themes and Messages:

• Spiritual Guidance and Social Upliftment: The book showcases the dual role of spiritual leaders in providing profound philosophical insights and actively engaging in social service for the betterment of society.
• The Importance of Guru's Guidance: The text repeatedly emphasizes the transformative power of a guru's guidance and blessings in a disciple's life.
• The Power of Bhakti (Devotion): The book illustrates the profound impact of devotional practices, particularly the worship of Goddess Padmavati, through numerous anecdotes and descriptions of grand Pujas.
• Unity in Diversity: Despite the mention of different sects and practices within Jainism, the underlying message is about fostering unity and mutual respect within the broader Jain community.
• Call for Righteous Living: The underlying current throughout the book is an exhortation to live a life guided by Jain principles of non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, chastity, non-possession, and ethical conduct, leading to personal growth and societal harmony.

In essence, the "Lekhendrashekharvijayji Abhinandan Granth" is a rich tapestry of spiritual teachings, biographical accounts, philosophical discourse, and devotional narratives, all woven together to celebrate the life, work, and spiritual contributions of a revered Jain monk.