Navangi Vruttikar Abhaydevsuri

This document is the introductory and biographical section of a book titled "Navangi Vruttikar Abhaydevsuri" (The Commentator of Navangi, Abhaydevsuri), written by Professor Bechardas Jivraj Doshi and published by Vadilal M. Parekh. It was inaugurated on Vaishakh Sud 5, V.S. 2019 (May 7, 1954). The book is published under the auspices of the Shree Sudharmaswami Gyanbhandar in Umara, Surat.

The text focuses on the life, work, and historical context of Acharya Abhaydevsuri, a significant figure in Jainism. Here's a comprehensive summary:

The Importance of "Bhiddhabhanjan" (Trouble-Removers)

The author begins by referencing the Bhagavad Gita (Chapter 4, Verses 7-8) about divine intervention during times of Dharma decline. This sets the stage for discussing individuals who have emerged in Jainism during critical periods to guide and uphold the faith. These individuals are referred to as "Bhiddhabhanjan" or "trouble-removers."

Key Figures in Jain History

The text highlights several prominent Jain Acharyas who played crucial roles in preserving and revitalizing Jain teachings:

• Acharya Siddhasena Divakara: Emerged when blind faith was prevalent, acting as a "sun" to dispel the darkness of superstition.
• Acharya Haribhadra: Appeared when there was laxity in practice and increased corruption, re-establishing righteousness.
• Acharya Devardhigani Kshamashramana: Played a vital role in preserving the Jain Agamas (scriptures) when they were at risk of being lost due to famine, by gathering the Jain Sangha at Valabhi and codifying them into written form.
• Acharya Abhaydevsuri: The central figure of this text, Abhaydevsuri is credited with saving the Agamas from fragmentation when they were again in disarray. He collected different recensions, harmonized them, and crucially, wrote commentaries (vruttis) on these scriptures, ensuring their survival and interpretability for posterity. He is highly regarded as a "Yugapradhan" (leader of an era) and a profound preacher.

The Crisis of the Agamas and Abhaydevsuri's Contribution

The author laments that the disarray and unintelligibility of the Jain Agamas in Abhaydevsuri's time were even more severe in the current times. He notes a decline in the study of Agamas, with an emphasis shifting towards storytelling, devotional songs (ras), and entertainment. He argues that in this science-dominated era, Jainism needs to be presented through updated and pure literature to spread peace.

Abhaydevsuri, recognizing this dire situation, was inspired by his deep devotion to the Agamas and his commitment to right knowledge, perception, and conduct. He not only wrote commentaries but also defended his work against unjustified accusations and prepared to counter opposing traditions.

Biographical Details and Historical Context

The text discusses the limited biographical information available about Abhaydevsuri, primarily from the "Prabhavakcharitra" (written in V.S. 1334) and later "Puraatan Prabandh Sangrah." It highlights inconsistencies in historical accounts regarding his illness and its timing relative to his work and the establishment of a new temple.

• Illness and Accusations: Abhaydevsuri suffered from a physical ailment (variously described as blood disorder, leprosy, or digestive issues). At that time, some people in the Sangha accused him of experiencing this as a consequence of misinterpreting scriptures ("utsutradeśanā") in his commentaries. This caused him immense distress, even leading him to consider fasting unto death.
• Establishment of a New Tirth: He had a significant experience involving a dream where a Naga (serpent deity) licked his tongue, and he was guided to establish a new Tirth (holy site) at Thambhan (near Sachedi river) by excavating a statue of Lord Parshvanath. This event led to the cure of his illness and the establishment of the Thambhan Parshvanath Tirth.
• Commentaries (Vruttis): Abhaydevsuri wrote commentaries on several major Agamas, including Sthananga, Samavayanga, Jnatadharmakatha, Panchashaka, and Bhagavati Sutra. The author lists the works and their estimated verse counts, demonstrating the immense scholarly output of Abhaydevsuri. He completed these works between V.S. 1120 and 1128, often working from Patan and Dholka.
• Scholarly Collaboration: The text emphasizes the crucial role of Acharya Dronacharya, a prominent Chaityavasi (monks residing in temples) Acharya, in validating and refining Abhaydevsuri's commentaries. Despite potential differences in their traditions, Dronacharya provided immense support, demonstrating a deep commitment to the Agamas and scholarly integrity. Their relationship is portrayed as one of mutual respect and collaboration for the sake of Dharma.
• The Chaityavasi Tradition: The text delves into the historical context of the Chaityavasi tradition, which emerged around the 5th century V.S. They were initially involved in managing temple properties but became lax in their practices, becoming engrossed in worldly affairs and even resorting to practices like magic, astrology, and business. Acharya Haribhadra had previously criticized this trend.
• The Role of Gujarat and Kapadvanj: The book highlights Gujarat's significance in fostering such great scholars. It also emphasizes the religious devotion of the people of Kapadvanj, the city where the book's foundation is laid. The text mentions the ancient glories of Kapadvanj and its historical connection to Jainism and scholars like Acharya Gunachandra.

Abhaydevsuri's Virtues and Legacy

The author praises Abhaydevsuri for his:

• Exceptional Scholarship: His ability to reconcile differing recensions and harmonize the Agamas was a monumental task.
• Patience and Perseverance: He faced numerous challenges, including the lack of suitable resources and hostile criticism, yet he persevered.
• Devotion to Scripture: His unwavering commitment to the Agamas and his desire to make them accessible to all.
• Humility: He never displayed pride in his immense learning, always considering himself a humble disciple. He sought feedback and forgiveness from scholars.
• Clarity and Precision: His commentaries are praised for their clarity, ease of understanding, and accurate explanation of the scriptures. He meticulously compared different recensions and provided critical analyses.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The author concludes by urging the Jain community, especially the patrons of the Kapadvanj institution (Vadilal M. Parekh and his wife), to continue Abhaydevsuri's legacy by supporting the study and dissemination of Agamas. He expresses hope that the newly established "Abhaydevsuri Gyan Mandir" will spread knowledge and contribute to the welfare of Gujarat.

In essence, the document serves as a tribute to Acharya Abhaydevsuri, presenting him as a pivotal figure who safeguarded the Jain Agamas through his prodigious commentary work, enduring personal hardship, and demonstrating profound scholarly integrity and devotion to the Jain faith. It also provides a historical overview of the challenges faced by Jainism in his era and the importance of preserving scriptural knowledge.