Narmani Mandit Bhalsthal Yuga Pradhan Jinchandrasuri Charitam - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on the life and deeds of Acharya Jinachandrasuri, the "Manidhari" (jewel-bearer) successor:

The text is the Narmani Mandit Bhalsthal Yuga Pradhan Jinchandrasuri Charitam, written by Bhanvarlal Nahta and published as part of the Z_Manidhari_Jinchandrasuri_Ashtam_Shatabdi_Smruti_Granth_012019.pdf. It is presented by Jain Education International for private and personal use only.

The introductory section by the editor explains that the work is based on Sanskrit verses composed by Upadhyay Labdhimuni, who was inspired by previous biographical works on the prominent Acharyas of the Kharatara Gaccha. These four revered figures, known as "Dadaji," are Yugapradhan Jinvallabh Suri, Manidhari Jinachandrasuri, Prabhāvi Jinakushal Suri, and Akbar-Pratibodhaka Jinachandrasuri. The editor mentions that their research into the life of Acharya Samayasundar led them to extensive material on the fourth Dadaji (Akbar-Pratibodhaka Jinachandrasuri). They had previously published a detailed biography titled 'Yugapradhan Shri Jinachandrasuri' in 1905 (Samvat 1962). Following this, they published biographies of Dadaji Jinvallabh Suri, Jinakushal Suri, and Manidhari Jinachandrasuri.

Upadhyay Labdhimuni, upon receiving these biographies, composed four Sanskrit poetic biographies based on them. The biography of Akbar-Pratibodhaka Jinachandrasuri, in six cantos and 1212 verses, was composed in Bhujnagar on Vaishakh Sud 7, 1905 (Samvat 1962). The biography of Jinakushal Suri, in 633 verses, was completed in Ahmedabad on Margashirsha Sud 15, 1909 (Samvat 1966). The biography of Manidhari Jinachandrasuri was completed in Mumbai on Akshay Trutiya, 1911 (Samvat 1968). The biography of Jinvallabh Suri, in 468 verses, was completed in Jaipur on Vaishakh Sud 5, 1948 (Samvat 2005). The editor states that the biography of Akbar-Pratibodhaka Jinachandrasuri has already been published, and due to the eighth centenary commemoration of Manidhari Jinachandrasuri, his biography is being presented here as essential.

The text then begins with the Sanskrit verses, introducing the life of Manidhari Jinachandrasuri:

Lineage and Reverence: The text begins by revering Lord Mahavir and introduces the biography of the virtuous and renowned Jinachandrasuri. It highlights that within the Jain community, four esteemed figures are known as "Dadaji": Jinadatta Suri, Jinachandra Suri (the Manidhari), Jinvallabh Suri, and Jinakushal Suri, all belonging to the Kharatara Gaccha. Jinachandrasuri followed Jinadatta Suri in the lineage.
Intellectual Prowess and Influence: These Acharyas are described as highly intellectual, knowledgeable, and influential scholars who propagated the Jain dharma with pure knowledge and conduct. Jinachandrasuri, despite his short lifespan of twenty-six years, accomplished remarkable and glorious work. Jinadatta Suri recognized his extraordinary talent and potential, identifying him as a highly influential figure. The qualities of Jinadatta Suri are seen reflected in Jinachandrasuri's life.
Early Life and Discipleship: Jinachandrasuri was born in Vikrampur (present-day Vijayapur) in the year Samvat 797 (630 CE - Note: The provided text has chronological inconsistencies, stating Samvat 797 for birth and then mentioning events in Samvat 16xx later, suggesting a potential error in the original transcription or dating conventions. However, the narrative clearly establishes him as a successor to Jinadatta Suri.) to Devdhar and Delhanade, a devout couple. As a child, he visited the monastery with his mother and was recognized by Suri Jinadatta for his auspicious signs and sharp intellect, deemed suitable for his succession. He eventually took his initiation (diksha) from Jinadatta Suri and, in a short time, his intellect flourished. His merit was praised by everyone.
Installation and Teachings: In Samvat 817 (660 CE), Jinadatta Suri installed Jinachandrasuri in his position. He became known as Jinachandrasuri. His father organized a grand ceremony for his enthronement. Jinachandrasuri received the title "Manidhari" (jewel-bearer) and enjoyed the immense grace of Jinadatta Suri. He was taught various scriptures, mantras, and tantras, becoming a master of these disciplines. He was known for his forbearance, humility, virtues, and constant devotion to his guru.
Guru's Guidance and Warning: Jinadatta Suri was pleased with Jinachandrasuri's sincere service and bestowed upon him instructions for the growth of the Gaccha. One significant instruction was a warning: "Never go to Yoginipuram, for there your death will occur at the hands of wicked beings." This was due to a great uprising of wicked forces in Yoginipuram at that time.
Succession and Travels: After Jinadatta Suri attained salvation in Ajmer in Samvat 849 (692 CE), the entire responsibility of the Gaccha fell upon Jinachandrasuri. He traveled extensively, consecrating idols and spreading Jain dharma. He installed golden flags and vessels at the Shantinath temple in Tribhuvanagiri. He then traveled to Mathura and Gurubhimapalli, where he initiated several monks, including Purnadev, Veerabhadra, and Jinabhadra. He also enlightened the merchant Kshemadhar. He then proceeded to Marukot, where he installed golden flags and vessels in the Chandrabhaga Swami temple. He continued his travels to Uchchapur, where he initiated many monks, including Rishabhdatta and Vinayshil. He also established Jain temples in Sagarpara and established the Jain temples in Baberakpur.
Debates and Victories: In Rudrapalli, Jinachandrasuri encountered a prideful astrologer who challenged him to a debate. When asked to demonstrate his prowess on a single astrological sign, the astrologer was unable to respond. Jinachandrasuri then established a stone pillar with an inscription, stating it would remain there for a thousand years. The astrologer was defeated. He also engaged in a philosophical debate with Padmachandra Suri of the Chaityavasi sect. When questioned about the nature of "dark matter" (tamo dravya), Jinachandrasuri, with his deep knowledge of logic and scriptures, proved his point conclusively, leading to Padmachandra Suri's defeat. The audience acclaimed Jinachandrasuri's victory.
Encounter with Mlecchas (Foreign Invaders): During a journey, Jinachandrasuri and his disciples encountered a group of Mlecchas (foreign soldiers) fighting amongst themselves over meat. The soldiers were aggressive and intimidating. Following his guru's earlier advice of not going to Yoginipuram, Jinachandrasuri, despite the king's invitation and the perilous situation, maintained his composure. He advised the merchants to hide their possessions and themselves. Using a mantra and his staff, he created an illusion of a protective wall around them, making them invisible to the Mlecchas. The Mlecchas, unable to find the caravan, moved on.
King Madanpal and Yoginipuram: In Yoginipuram, King Madanpal, curious about the large procession of people leaving the city, learned it was to greet the revered Jinachandrasuri. The king, filled with curiosity, invited Jinachandrasuri to his city. Despite his guru's earlier warning, Jinachandrasuri, out of consideration for the king's request, proceeded towards Yoginipuram. The city was beautifully decorated to welcome him. The king received him with great honor. Jinachandrasuri delivered a sermon to the king, who then requested him to stay in his city. Jinachandrasuri, remembering his guru's words, remained silent. The king, interpreting this as potential displeasure, inquired if there was any reason for their hesitation. He assured them of safety and respect.
The "Manidhari" Incident: The text describes an incident where Jinachandrasuri, after his death, had a jewel (mani) placed on his forehead. This jewel later found its way to a Yogi. The Yogi, by placing the jewel in a pot of milk, miraculously became wealthy. The origin of this jewel is traced back to Jinachandrasuri and is linked to his lineage. The text also mentions a custom where, before the cremation, a pot of milk was to be placed near the body. It is said that the jewel would emerge into the milk. However, due to grief, this ritual was forgotten by the disciples. The jewel then ended up with a Yogi.
Impact and Legacy: The text emphasizes that Jinachandrasuri, the wearer of the jewel on his forehead, and his disciples were instrumental in spreading the Jain dharma and illuminating the teachings of their religion. They were highly influential in the Kharatara Gaccha. The text also mentions that the "Mahatiyan" sect, which was significant in the past, has now diminished. The biography concludes with the mention of the composer, Labdhimuni, completing the work in Samvat 1968 (1911 CE) on Vaishakh Shukla Tritiya.

In essence, the text meticulously details the life, teachings, intellectual prowess, and spiritual influence of Acharya Jinachandrasuri, highlighting his role as a successor to Jinadatta Suri, his mastery of scriptures, his successful debates, his compassionate interactions with people, and his adherence to his guru's guidance, even in challenging circumstances. The "Manidhari" epithet and the associated legend of the jewel add a mystical dimension to his biography.