Mahan Acharya Hemchandrasuri - Book Summary

This document, titled "Mahan Acharya Shri Hemchandrasuri," authored by Punyavijay and published by Punyavijayji, is a comprehensive essay about the life and achievements of the renowned Jain scholar and saint, Acharya Hemchandrasuri.

Here's a summary of the key points from the provided text:

Early Life and Prophecy:

Acharya Hemchandrasuri was born in Dhandhuka on the full moon of Kartik, Vikram Samvat 1145.
His parents were Chachig and Pahinui, and his given name was Changdev.
His guru, Acharya Devachandrasuri, had prophesied to his parents before his birth that their son would be a great and influential figure who would uplift the Jain faith.
Even as a child, Changdev displayed auspicious signs and a sharp intellect.

Renunciation and Ordination:

Upon observing the auspicious signs in Changdev, Acharya Devachandrasuri, along with prominent members of the Jain community, approached his parents.
Despite the initial hesitation of his mother, Pahinui, who was alone at the time and conflicted about giving her beloved son away, she ultimately agreed, believing it to be a blessing for her son to become a savior of the Jain faith and the world.
Changdev accepted initiation (diksha) in Vikram Samvat 1150, taking the name Somchandra. He embraced a life of rigorous study and asceticism.

Education and Ascendancy to Acharyaship:

Somchandra possessed an extraordinary talent and intellectual prowess, mastering various fields of knowledge in a short period.
Despite his youth, he was known for his disciplined nature and focused mind.
Recognizing his profound scholarship, renunciation, tapasya (austerities), and natural charisma, Acharya Devachandrasuri and the Jain sangha appointed him as an Acharya at the age of seventeen in Vikram Samvat 1162. It was at this point that his name was changed from Somchandra to Hemchandra.

Association with King Siddharaj:

Acharya Hemchandra traveled throughout the land, spreading the fragrance of his renunciation and scholarship. He eventually arrived in Patan, the capital of Gujarat.
His reputation for austerity and scholarship reached King Siddharaj Jaysinhdev, who invited him to his court.
Acharya Hemchandra accepted the invitation and met with the King, deeply impressing him with his wisdom and teachings.
Siddharaj became a devoted admirer and friend of Acharya Hemchandra, frequently inviting him to court.
Acharya Hemchandra played a significant role in the court, notably participating in a debate with the Digambara logician Kumudchandra in Vikram Samvat 1181.

Composition of the Siddha-Hem Grammar:

After defeating King Yashovarma of Malwa in Vikram Samvat 1192, King Siddharaj came into possession of his library.
Upon discovering a copy of the "Bhoj Vyakarana," Siddharaj felt inspired to create an independent grammar for his kingdom.
The scholars in the royal court unanimously suggested Acharya Hemchandra for this monumental task.
With the King's support and resources, Acharya Hemchandra created the comprehensive Siddha-Hem Vyakarana, a work that brought lasting fame to both the Acharya and the King, and introduced his unparalleled scholarship to the world.

Political Acumen:

Acharya Hemchandra navigated the complexities of the royal court with great political skill and intellectual fortitude.
Despite having adversaries, his sharp intellect and political acumen allowed him to face them unyieldingly, without ever compromising his integrity or dignity.
He set an exemplary standard for religious leadership within a political environment, demonstrating that it was possible to remain steadfast amidst opposing forces and conspiracies.

Relationship with King Kumarpal:

Acharya Hemchandra also developed a profound relationship with King Kumarpal, a successor to Siddharaj.
This relationship stemmed from Acharya Hemchandra's act of saving Kumarpal when he was fleeing in fear of King Siddharaj.
Their bond was primarily religious and remained so throughout their lives.

Impact of Teachings:

Acharya Hemchandra's teachings had a transformative effect on King Kumarpal, leading him to become a devout follower of Jainism.
He not only encouraged Jain religious activities but also initiated projects for the general welfare of the populace.
Key reforms included the prohibition of the "seven vices" (gambling, meat consumption, alcohol, prostitution, hunting, theft, and adultery) through moral instruction and royal decree. Efforts were made to spread this message to other kingdoms as well.
He abolished the ancient practice of confiscating the property of childless widows, which had an annual revenue of around seventy-two lakhs.
Most significantly, his teachings led King Kumarpal to halt the unnecessary slaughter of animals for meat consumption and religious sacrifices.
The essay credits Acharya Hemchandra's teachings and King Kumarpal's devotion for the reduced prevalence of vices, the absence of the practice of seizing property from childless widows, and the near cessation of animal sacrifice for rituals in Gujarat and other regions even today.

Literary Works:

The text lists an extensive collection of works authored by Acharya Hemchandra, covering grammar, lexicons, poetry, prosody, and philosophical treatises. Notable works include:
- Siddha-Hem Vyakarana (with various commentaries)
- Dvyashraya Mahakavya
- Abhidhan Chintamani
- Kavyanushasan
- Chhandanushasan
- Yogashastra
- Trishashti Shalaka Purusha Charita
- Vedankush (Digvadan Chapeta)
- And many more.
The sheer breadth and depth of these works demonstrate his mastery of various literary and scholarly fields, his meticulous research, and his profound intellect.

Legacy and Title:

Acharya Hemchandra's works are highly regarded for their comprehensiveness and depth, earning him respect even from non-Jain scholars.
His esteemed position within the Jain community is undeniable, with scholars like Malayagiri acknowledging him as their spiritual predecessor.
His exceptional efficiency in balancing various responsibilities – political, social, literary, and religious – is highlighted.
The essay concludes by stating that it is incredibly difficult, even across vast historical periods, to find an individual with the multifaceted virtues of Acharya Hemchandra – purity, idealism, scholarship, literary creativity, political acumen, practical wisdom, authority, and genius.
For these reasons, the title "Kalikal Sarvagnya" (Omniscient of the Kali Era) bestowed upon him is considered entirely fitting and not an exaggeration.