Manidhari Jinchandrasuri - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Manidhari Jinchandrasuri" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Manidhari Jinchandrasuri Authors: Agarchand Nahta, Bhanvarlal Nahta Publisher: Paydhuni Mahavirswami Derasar Trust Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/034958/1

This book, "Manidhari Jinchandrasuri," is a biographical account of Acharya Shri Jinchandrasuri, a prominent and influential figure in the Kharatara Gaccha (sect) of Jainism. The work is authored by the renowned scholars Agarchand Nahta and Bhanvarlal Nahta and published by the Paydhuni Mahavirswami Derasar Trust.

Core Content and Purpose:

The primary purpose of this publication is to introduce the holy life and teachings of Acharya Shri Jinchandrasuri to a wider audience, particularly those who may not be fluent in Hindi, by presenting a Gujarati translation of the original Hindi work. It aims to highlight the spiritual and historical significance of this Acharya within the Jain tradition.

Key Figures and Context:

Acharya Shri Jinchandrasuri (Manidhari Jinchandrasuri): The central figure of the book. He is described as a highly intelligent, influential, and learned Acharya who achieved significant fame. Despite a short lifespan of only 26 years, his accomplishments are considered astonishing and glorious. He was a direct disciple and successor (Pattadhar) of the great Yugpradhan Acharya Shri Jindattasuri.
Acharya Shri Jindattasuri: A revered predecessor of Jinchandrasuri, also known as a Yugpradhan (leader of an era). He recognized Jinchandrasuri's exceptional potential from childhood.
Other Important Figures: The text mentions other significant figures in the lineage, including Shri Jinkushalsuri and another Yugpradhan Shri Jinchandra Suri (indicating a generational succession or shared name). The book also references important patrons like Maharaja Madanpal of Delhi and influential lay followers (Shravaks).
Historical Period: The life of Jinchandrasuri falls within a period of Jain history where certain practices were becoming lax. The book situates his life and work as a response to these challenges, emphasizing the restoration of pure Jain practices and principles.

Key Life Events and Contributions of Jinchandrasuri:

Birth: Born in Vikrampur (near Jaisalmer) in VS 1178 to Shri Rasal Sheth and Dehan Devi.
Early Recognition: Even in childhood, his intellectual brilliance was evident, leading Jindattasuri to recognize him as a future leader.
Initiation (Diksha): Received initiation in VS 1203.
Ascension to Acharya (Acharya Pad): Ordained as an Acharya at the young age of 8 years in VS 1205 by Shri Jindattasuri. This early attainment of such a high position is highlighted as extraordinary.
Dissemination of Knowledge: He was thoroughly educated by Jindattasuri in Jinagam, mantras, tantras, astrology, and other subjects, becoming a master scholar.
Leadership of the Gaccha: After the demise of Shri Jindattasuri in VS 1211, Jinchandrasuri took over the leadership of the Gaccha at a young age, managing its affairs with great skill and responsibility.
Influence and Miracles:
- Defeat of Padmacharyacharya: He engaged in a significant debate with Padmacharyacharya, a Chaityavasi (monastery-dwelling) Acharya, in Rudrapalli, ultimately defeating him and enhancing his reputation.
- Protection of a Sangh: During a journey, he protected a Sangh (group of followers) from an attack by invaders (Mlecchas) by drawing a protective circle with his staff.
- Interaction with Maharaja Madanpal: He visited Delhi and met with Maharaja Madanpal. Despite a prior instruction from his guru not to go to Delhi due to potential dangers, he eventually accepted the invitation due to devotion and destiny. His arrival in Delhi was a grand affair, and Madanpal became a devoted follower.
- Establishment of a Deity: He guided the carving and installation of a deity named "Atibal" in the southern pillar of the Shri Parshvanath Vithichaitra temple, which became popular among the devotees.
- "Manidhari" Title: He earned the epithet "Manidhari" (one who wears a gem) possibly due to a mystical gem associated with his spiritual power or a prophecy about it.
- Establishment of a Caste (Mahariyana): He is credited with introducing the "Mahariyana" caste to Jainism, who were known for their devotion and patronage of Jainism.
- Patronage and Renovation: He was instrumental in various religious activities, including the installation of idols, renovation of temples, and offering of golden rods and banners to temples.
Demise: Acharya Shri Jinchandrasuri attained salvation (swargavasa) in VS 1223, performing Kshamaprarthana (seeking forgiveness) before his passing. His final words predicted that the city's prosperity would extend as far as his cremation site.

Editorial and Authorial Notes:

The editors express concern about the lack of interest in Jain literature, particularly among Hindi-speaking audiences. They emphasize the rich heritage of Rajasthani and Jain literature.
They highlight the immense devotion and financial support from followers for establishing temples and religious symbols, contrasting it with the lack of engagement in understanding the philosophies and works of the great Acharyas.
The publication aims to bring the lives of such exemplary Acharyas to the public, promoting a deeper understanding of Jainism.
The text also includes a preface by Pt. Dasharathji Sharma, who discusses the historical context of Jainism, its decline in India compared to Buddhism, and the challenges faced by the Jain faith due to internal laxity in practices. He points out the need for reforms, which figures like Jinchandrasuri championed.
The authors mention that the primary source for this biography is the "Gurvavali" composed by Upadhyaya Jinpal. They acknowledge the brevity of the available information but express gratitude for the efforts of Jinpal Upadhyaya.
They clarify that Maharaja Madanpal of Delhi was indeed a follower and patron, potentially leading to the "Shravak" appellation in some records.

The "Vyavastha-Shiksha-Kula" (Rules of Conduct):

A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the "Vyavastha-Shiksha-Kula," a set of guidelines or rules for monks, nuns, laymen, and laywomen. This section emphasizes:

Respect for Gurus: The importance of devotion, respect, awe, and affection towards one's Guru.
Qualities of a True Disciple: Disciples should not be critical, arrogant, or fault-finding. They should be humble and obedient.
Qualities of a True Guru: A Guru should possess knowledge, right conduct, wisdom, compassion, and be a master of scriptures. They should be fearless and victorious in debates.
Followership of the Sangh: The Sangh (community of followers) should follow the Guru's teachings and the principles of the scriptures, leading to liberation.
Obedience to Jindattasuri: Adherence to the teachings and instructions of Jindattasuri is essential for well-being and spiritual progress.
Proper Conduct: Guidelines cover various aspects of conduct, including studying scriptures, meditation, travel, fasting, sewing, eating, sleeping, donations, and keeping possessions.
Prohibitions: The text outlines actions that are not permitted, such as accepting offerings from certain individuals, engaging in disputes, or acting against the Guru's wishes.
Devotion to Jainism: Emphasis is placed on donating to temples, knowledge, and the community, and the importance of upholding Jain principles with sincerity.
Importance of Right Faith (Samyak-darshan): The text stresses the foundational role of right faith and how disputes and greed can lead to its downfall.
Patience and Resilience: It encourages enduring hardships with equanimity and following the path of virtue.
Apavaada (Exceptions) and Uttsarga (General Rules): The text discusses the nuances of Jain conduct, distinguishing between general rules and specific exceptions dictated by circumstances, emphasizing that these exceptions are also guided by scripture and the wisdom of learned scholars.

Appendices:

The book includes appendices, such as:

Appendix [1]: Information about the "Mahariyana" caste and their association with Jainism and Acharya Jinchandrasuri. This section details their origins, their adherence to specific vows, and their patronage of Jain temples and activities. It also lists their various gotras (lineages) and residential places.

In essence, "Manidhari Jinchandrasuri" serves as a testament to the life and teachings of a significant Jain Acharya, highlighting his spiritual prowess, intellectual contributions, and his role in upholding the purity and traditions of Jainism during a critical period. The book is also a call for greater engagement with and understanding of Jain literature and the lives of its great luminaries.