Mohan Sanjivani - Book Summary

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

Book Title: Mohan Sanjivani (मोहन-संजीवनी) Author: Rupchand Bhansali (रूपचंद भणायाम/भणसाली) of Pali, Rajasthan Editor: Buddhisagar Gani (बुद्धिसागर गणि), disciple of the late Anuyogacharya Shrimat Kesharmuniji Ganivar Publisher: Shri Jinadattasuri Gyanbhandar, located in the Mahavir Jinälay, Mumbai - Paydhuni. Publication Year: Vikram Samvat 2017 (1960 CE), Vir Samvat 2487. Value: For reading and contemplation (वांचन-मनन).

Overall Purpose: "Mohan Sanjivani" is a biographical account of the prominent Jain Acharya, Shri Mohanlalji Maharaj. It aims to present a concise life history of this influential figure in Hindi for the general public, as previous detailed biographies were in Gujarati and Sanskrit and not widely accessible. The book was inspired by Shri Gulabmuniji Maharaj.

Key Figures:

Shrî Mohanlalji Maharaj: The central figure of the book. He is described as a highly influential, ascetic, and "Kriyoddharak" (one who revived religious practices) Jain Acharya of the 20th century, belonging to the Kharatara Gachha. He is lauded for his spiritual prowess, his vast influence in spreading Jainism, and his commitment to strict Jain practices.
Rupchand Bhansali: The author, who wrote this biography out of devotion to his Guru.
Buddhisagar Gani: The editor and a disciple of a prominent Acharya.
Shrî Gulabmuniji Maharaj: The inspiration behind the book's Hindi publication.
Shrî Jinshiriji Maharaj: The great-disciple of Mohanlalji Maharaj and inspiration for Gulabmuniji.
Shrî Rupchandji: The Guru of Mohanlalji Maharaj, who initiated him into monastic life.
Pandit Badalmalji & Sundaridevi: Mohanlalji Maharaj's parents.
Shrî Jinheversuri & Shrî Buddhisagar Suri: Important figures in the Kharatara Gachha lineage.
Shrî Abhaydevsuri: A renowned scholar and commentator on Jain scriptures.
Shrî Jinvallabhsuri: A disciple of Abhaydevsuri and a significant Acharya.
Shrî Jindattasuri: A highly influential Acharya known as "Bade Dadaji," credited with initiating a large number of new followers and establishing new lineages.
Shrî Jinchandrasuri: A significant successor in the lineage, whose name is periodically given to Acharyas.
Shrî Jinkushalsuri: Another influential Acharya, credited with converting many non-Jains.
Shrî Jinchandrasuri (61st in succession): Known for his interactions with Emperor Akbar, influencing him to issue decrees against violence.
Shrî Jinharshsuri: The Guru of Rupchandji.
Shrî Jinmahendrasuri: The Acharya who initiated Mohanlalji into monastic life (Yati Deeksha).
Shrî Jasmuniji, Shrî Harshmuni, Shrî Kantimuni, Shrî Padmamuni, Shrî Rddhimuni, Shrî Ratnamuni: Disciples of Mohanlalji Maharaj.

Summary of Mohanlalji Maharaj's Life:

Birth and Early Life: Born in Chandpur, near Mathura (a significant place for Jainism, associated with Lord Suparshvanath), in Samvat 1887 (1830 CE). His parents, Pandit Badalmalji and Sundaridevi, were devout and longed for a child. Sundaridevi had a dream of the moon entering her mouth, signifying the birth of a great soul. He was named "Mohan" due to his enchanting beauty. He was intelligent and a quick learner in his studies.
Initiation (Yati Deeksha): Mohanlalji's Guru was Yati Shri Rupchandji, a learned monk of the Kharatara Gachha residing in Nagaur. Rupchandji had a divine dream of receiving a golden vessel filled with milk, which he interpreted as a sign to accept a worthy disciple. Simultaneously, Mohanlalji's father had a dream indicating his son would be given away to a great soul. Driven by these signs and his inherent inclination, Mohanlalji was formally initiated as a Yati (a monastic in an intermediate stage) by Shri Jinmahendrasuri in Maksi Tirth in 1902 CE (Samvat 1902).
Spiritual Development and Renunciation: Mohanlalji's spiritual journey deepened. He developed a profound sense of detachment. A significant incident occurred in Calcutta during his Chaturmas, where a learned layman criticized him for lacking the strict adherence to the five mahavratas. This criticism, rather than causing offense, led Mohanlalji to a profound realization of his shortcomings. He vowed to renounce all possessions and embrace full monasticism (Muni Diksha). He meticulously used his wealth for philanthropic purposes before his full renunciation.
Kriyoddhar (Revival of Practices): Mohanlalji Maharaj is highly revered as a "Kriyoddharak." He dedicated himself to reviving and upholding the strict observances and practices of the Jain faith, particularly within his Gachha, the Kharatara Gachha. This involved promoting adherence to the principles of monastic conduct, asceticism, and scriptural study.
Gachha Affiliation and Later Life: While originating from the Kharatara Gachha, Mohanlalji Maharaj displayed remarkable spiritual maturity and a broader perspective. He often interacted with and performed rituals for followers of the Tapagachha, demonstrating a commitment to Jain unity and the propagation of dharma over sectarian differences. This adaptability sometimes led to discussions and even a mild divergence from strict Kharatara Gachha practices due to his interactions in areas predominantly influenced by the Tapagachha. However, his final instruction and the letter to his disciples clearly reassert his firm adherence to the Kharatara Gachha principles. He emphasized the importance of following the traditions of his lineage while also showing respect for other schools of thought and their practices.
Impact and Influence:
- He traveled extensively throughout India, spreading Jain teachings and inspiring devotion.
- He was instrumental in converting many non-Jains to Jainism and in strengthening the faith of existing followers.
- He inspired the establishment of numerous Jain temples, educational institutions (like schools and hostels), and dharamshalas (rest houses for pilgrims).
- His teachings emphasized morality, celibacy, non-violence, and detachment.
- He played a significant role in resolving societal conflicts and promoting harmony within the Jain community.
- His disciples became influential figures in their own right, carrying forward his legacy.
Key Events and Travels:
- Interactions with Emperor Akbar, influencing him to issue edicts of non-violence.
- Significant Chaturmas in various cities like Mumbai, Surat, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Ajmer, Pali, and Calcutta, where he conducted religious discourses and inspired large congregations.
- Pilgrimages to sacred Jain sites like Shatrunjaya, Girnar, and others.
- The consecration (Anjanshälaka) of the main deities at the historic Shatrunjaya temple.
- His profound teachings and practices led to significant shifts in the spiritual commitment of many followers, including vows of lifelong celibacy and abstention from certain food items.
Demise: Shri Mohanlalji Maharaj passed away in Surat in Samvat 1963 (1906 CE) on the 12th day of the waning moon of Vaishakh (Gujarati Chaitra Vad 12). His passing was mourned by the Jain community as a great loss.

Key Themes:

Devotion and Guru-Shishya Parampara: The book highlights the importance of Guru devotion, as seen in Rupchand Bhansali's writing and Mohanlalji's own devotion to his Gurus.
Renunciation and Detachment (Vairagya): Mohanlalji's life is a testament to the power of renunciation and detachment from worldly possessions and pleasures.
Spiritual Prowess and Asceticism: His life is characterized by strict adherence to Jain ascetic practices and a deep spiritual understanding.
Jain Dharma Prabhavna (Spread of Jainism): The book details his extensive efforts in spreading Jainism, converting people, and strengthening the faith.
Social and Religious Reform: Mohanlalji Maharaj was not only a spiritual leader but also actively involved in social welfare and reform, leading to the establishment of various institutions and the upliftment of the community.
Gachha Identity and Universal Dharma: The text navigates the nuances of Gachha affiliation, showing how Mohanlalji Maharaj balanced adherence to his own lineage with a broader vision for the unity and progress of Jainism as a whole.
Timeliness and Discernment (Samayagyata): His ability to understand and act appropriately in different social and religious contexts is highlighted as a key aspect of his leadership.

In essence, "Mohan Sanjivani" serves as an inspirational biography, chronicling the exemplary life of Shri Mohanlalji Maharaj, a beacon of Jain spirituality, asceticism, and social service, whose influence profoundly impacted the Jain community.