Nyayavijayjimuni

This document, sourced from "Z_Shramana_Bhagwanto_Part_1_004596.pdf" and "Shramana_Bhagwanto_Part_2_004597.pdf" and available via the JainQQ catalog, provides biographical information on prominent Jain monks, particularly focusing on Muni Shri Nyayavijayji Maharaj.

The text extols Muni Shri Nyayavijayji Maharaj as a highly respected figure, comparing his eminence to that of poets like Ashvaghosha and Kalidasa. He is described as a proponent of simplicity and equality.

Here's a breakdown of the information provided:

Muni Shri Nyayavijayji Maharaj:

• Birth: Born in 1946 (Vikram Samvat) on the third day of the waxing moon in Kartika, in Mandla.
• Family: The only beloved child of Chhaganlal and Diwali ben.
• Early Life: Narasinh (his pre-monastic name) was simple, cultured, and religious-minded from childhood. He completed his early education in Mandla.
• Education: Inspired by Acharya Shri Vijaydham Surishwarji Maharaj, he enrolled in the Shri Yashovijay Jain Pathshala in Mandla. This institution was later moved to Banaras, where he studied for two years before returning home.
• Malaise and Renunciation: After the passing of his parents, he experienced profound grief. Without informing his uncle, he went to Banaras, using Palitana as an excuse. From Banaras, he joined his Guru, who was traveling with 30 students towards Calcutta. After facing numerous difficulties, Narasinh, along with four friends, took initiation (diksha) in Calcutta.
• Name and Expertise: Since he had a strong interest in "Nyaya" (logic and philosophy) from the beginning, his Guru bestowed upon him the name Muni Shri Nyayavijayji. He diligently studied Nyaya scriptures, passing advanced examinations to earn the titles of "Nyayavi" and "Nyayavisharad."
• Literary Works: In his youth, he achieved great mastery of scriptures and authored significant philosophical texts like "Adhyatmatattvaloka" and "Nyaykusumanjali." He was also proficient in Sanskrit and Prakrit languages and composed poetry.
• Recognition: His high intellect and scholarly prowess were recognized by Brahmins from Nagpur and Ujjain, who honored him with a testimonial and praised him with the epithet "Simathayos: Mahidasa."
• Major Work: "Jain Darshan": His magnum opus, "Jain Darshan," is an unparalleled and unforgettable religious scripture. It received immense public acclaim from both Jain and non-Jain communities across India, with ten editions published and translated into Hindi and English.
• Other Works: He wrote approximately fifty other books, both large and small.
• Praise from Peers: Revered figures like Vinobaji Mahraj extensively praised his devotion to religion and scriptural contemplation.
• Patriotism: He possessed a distinct sense of patriotism. He delivered a speech on governance at the Town Hall in Mumbai under the chairmanship of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. He hoisted the national flag at Mumbai Congress House and promoted Khadi garments, opening new avenues of national sentiment for Jain ascetics.
• Universal Brotherhood: He held a strong belief in the equality of all religions. He had a positive stance on the entry of Harijans (Dalits) into temples.
• Personality: Despite being a great scholar, he was humble and unpretentious. He possessed equanimity and generosity akin to the ocean, and childlike simplicity and joy.
• Later Life: In his last 15-20 years, he lived in peaceful seclusion, dedicating his time to reading and contemplating religious scriptures. The text offers heartfelt salutations to this eminent scholar and monk.

The "Triputi" (Trinity):

The text also introduces the concept of a "Triputi" (Trinity) of Jain monks: Muni Shri Darshanvijayji, Gyanvijayji, and Nyayavijayji. Their names and contributions are widely known among Sadhus, Shravaks, and the Jain Sangha throughout India.

• Passing of the Trinity: The passing of this revered trinity was a source of great sorrow for the entire Sangha. Muni Shri Nyayavijayji Maharaj and Muni Shri Gyanvijayji Maharaj had passed away earlier.
• Muni Shri Darshanvijayji Maharaj: He attained his final liberation in Palitana on the new moon day of Maha (month) in Samvat 202... (the exact year is cut off). He faced Shatrunjay mountain, remembered Lord Adinath, and passed away. The text emphasizes that while death is inevitable, some individuals live lives so dedicated to dharma and service that their names endure for centuries, extending their lifespan infinitely. The "Triputi" Maharajs were of this high caliber, with Muni Shri Darshanvijayji being the foremost among them.
  • Pre-monastic Name: Maganlal.
  • Birthplace: Randalna Dhadva village.
  • Parents: Panachand and Kastur ben.
  • Initiation: He took initiation on the fourth day of the waxing moon in Phalguna in Samvat 1973, in the shadow of Shatrunjay, at the hands of Acharya Shri Kamalsuriji Maharaj. He became a disciple of Muni Shri Charitravijayji Maharaj (Kachhi).
  • Life Span: He lived for fifty-six years after his initiation and attained his final liberation in the shadow of Shatrunjay.

In essence, the document is a tribute to Muni Shri Nyayavijayji Maharaj, highlighting his profound scholarship, significant contributions to Jain literature, patriotic spirit, and his esteemed position within a renowned trio of Jain monks.