Manidharidada Jinchandrasuri

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text about Manidharidada Shri Jinachandrasuri:

This text is a biography of Manidharidada Shri Jinachandrasuri, a prominent Jain Acharya, author Bhanvarlal Nahta, and published as part of a commemorative volume.

Early Life and Prophecy:

• Shri Jinachandrasuri was born in 1161 Vikram Samvat (V.S.) in Vikrampur, near Jaisalmer.
• His parents were Seth Rasalji and Delhan Devi. He was known for his exceptional beauty, which made him beloved by everyone.
• Even before his birth, his future mentor, Yugpradhan Acharya Shri Jindattasuri, recognized his potential. While Delhan Devi was pregnant, Acharya Jindattasuri observed auspicious signs in her unborn child. He foresaw that this child would be highly talented, possess great influence, and be a suitable successor (Pattadhikari) for the Gachcha (Jain monastic order).
• This prophecy was further detailed in a Garavali (a chronological record). Seth Ramdev, a follower, inquired about Acharya Jindattasuri's successor. Acharya Jindattasuri revealed that his successor would be born to Delhan Devi, the younger wife of Seth Rasalji of Vikrampur, having descended from heaven. Ramdev then visited Seth Rasalji and, after blessing Delhan Devi, confirmed this prophecy.

Initiation and Training:

• At the age of six, in 1203 V.S., the young Jinachandra was initiated (dikshit) by Acharya Jindattasuri in Ajmer at the Shri Parshvanath Jinalaya.
• Acharya Jindattasuri provided him with extensive training in scriptures and also taught him the art of managing the Gachcha. He also specifically advised Jinachandra never to go to Delhi.

Ascension to Acharya Pad and Gachcha Leadership:

• In 1205 V.S., after only two years of his discipleship, Acharya Jindattasuri bestowed upon Jinachandra the prestigious Acharya Pad (Acharya title) at a grand ceremony.
• Tragically, Acharya Jindattasuri passed away prematurely in 1211 V.S. at the young age of 21.
• The responsibility of leading the entire Gachcha fell upon the young Acharya Jinachandra. Despite his tender age, he managed this heavy burden with great skill and success.

Preaching and Miraculous Deeds:

• While leading the Gachcha, he traveled to various villages and cities, spreading the Jain Dharma. Many disciples, both monks and lay followers, were inspired by his sermons and took initiation.
• He was not only proficient in religious scriptures but also a scholar of astrology and possessed many miraculous powers.
• Protection from Robbers: During a journey towards Delhi, near the village of Chor Sidan, his monastic procession (sangh) was threatened by robbers. The sangh was terrified. Acharya Jinachandra, upon learning of the "mlecchas" (a term often used for those outside the fold), assured everyone of their safety, attributing it to the protection of Shri Jindattasuri. He then drew a protective circle with his staff by chanting mantras. The robbers passed by but could not see the sangh.
• Disobeying the Guru's Command: As he approached Delhi, he remembered Acharya Jindattasuri's instruction not to enter the city. However, when he remained silent about it, King Madanpal insisted he enter. Reluctantly, and feeling inner turmoil for disobeying his guru, he entered Delhi and preached to the people.

Miracles and the "Mani" (Gem):

• Upon hearing of his arrival in Delhi, King Madanpal and the citizens eagerly awaited his darshan. The King was particularly impressed by descriptions of the Acharya's wisdom and charisma.
• The text highlights that Acharya Jinachandra had a gem (mani) on his forehead, which led to his title "Manidhari" (gem-bearer).
• The Gem's Departure: It is said that before his demise, he instructed his followers to keep a pot of milk near his body during cremation so the gem would transfer into it. However, in their grief, the disciples forgot this instruction, and the gem fell into the hands of another ascetic. It is further mentioned that Shri Jinapatisuri later acquired this gem and installed it in a statue.

Demise and Legacy:

• Sensing his approaching end in 1223 V.S. (Bhadrapada Krishna Chaturdashi), he sought forgiveness from the fourfold sangh and, after undertaking a fast (anashan aradhana), passed away.
• The Unmoving Chariot: Before his death, he instructed the sangh to carry his bier (vimana) directly to the cremation ground without resting. However, the grieving disciples forgot this and rested midway. When they tried to move it again, it became immovable. Even King Madanpal's attempts with elephants failed.
• Recognizing this as a divine intervention, the King ordered the cremation to take place at that spot.
• The Prophecy of Urban Growth: He also prophesied that the city's expansion would extend as far as his cremation site.
• The text emphasizes his profound scholarly abilities, his victory in debates against scholars like Shri Panchacharyaji, and his ability to impress even the Delhi ruler. He also founded the "Mahattiyan Gachcha" (ministerial sect), which played a significant role in reviving pilgrimage sites.

In essence, the biography portrays Manidhari Shri Jinachandrasuri as a gifted, spiritually powerful, and influential Jain Acharya who achieved prominence and leadership at a very young age, performed numerous miracles, and left a lasting legacy on the Jain tradition.