Param Yogi Shrimad Rajendrasuriji

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text about Param Yogi Shrimad Rajendrasuriji:

This text is a biographical account of Param Yogi Shrimad Vijay Rajendrasuriji, highlighting his life, teachings, and significant contributions to Jainism.

Early Life and Background: The biography begins by describing his birth in Bharatpur, Rajasthan, to devout parents, Seth Rishabhdas and Keshar Devi. From childhood, he was named Ratnaraj, reflecting his precious nature. He received a strong upbringing with a blend of worldly knowledge and religious studies.

Early Demonstrations of Courage and Renunciation: Even at a young age, Ratnaraj displayed remarkable courage. During a pilgrimage to Keshariyaji with his elder brother Manekchand, they encountered a perilous situation near Amber, Jaipur. A group of Bhil people were harassing a young woman traveling with her family. Ratnaraj, despite his tender age, intervened, bravely fought off the attackers, and rescued the woman. This act of bravery impressed the girl's father, who offered his daughter's hand in marriage to Ratnaraj. However, Ratnaraj, already inclined towards detachment, politely declined, continuing his spiritual journey.

Spiritual Calling and Initiation: After the passing of his parents and a period of engaging in business with his brother in Ceylon, Ratnaraj's innate detachment intensified. He was deeply influenced by the teachings of Shri Pujya Shrimad Pramadsuriji, who visited Bharatpur. Following in the footsteps of Lord Mahavir, who accepted asceticism after the passing of his parents, Ratnaraj sought permission from his elder brother and took his Diksha (initiation) in Udaypur in Samvat 1903. He was initially guided by Yati Shri Hemvijayji Maharaj and was named Muni Ratnavijay.

Academic Pursuit and Spiritual Growth: Muni Ratnavijay dedicated himself to acquiring profound knowledge in various subjects, including grammar, poetry, rhetoric, logic, philosophy, astrology, medicine, lexicon, and scriptures. In Samvat 1909, he received his Vadi Diksha and was awarded the title of Panyas in Udaypur. He further deepened his study of Agam Shastra under Khartar Gachchhiya Shri Sagarchandji Maharaj and then under Acharya Shri Devendrasuriji. His humility, knowledge, and virtuous qualities made him a beloved disciple of Shri Devendrasuriji.

Succession and Responsibilities: Upon the demise of Shri Devendrasuriji, Ratnavijayji was entrusted with the responsibility of guiding the Gachchha and ensuring the proper training of his fellow disciple, Dheeravijayji, who was subsequently appointed as Shri Pujya Shri Dharanendrasuri. Ratnavijayji himself was honored with the prestigious title of Daftari, a significant position of authority during that era. In this role, he successfully reclaimed various royal symbols and rights that had been lost.

Addressing Religious Laxity and The Turning Point: As a Panyas, Shri Ratnavijayji observed a growing laxity and deviation from strict Jain practices among some ascetics. He was troubled by the opulent lifestyle and use of worldly comforts, such as colorful carpets, which he felt were detrimental to the pursuit of spiritual liberation. A pivotal moment occurred during the Chaturmas in Dhanevda (Marwar) in Samvat 1923. While delivering a discourse on Lord Mahavir's renunciation, he was offered perfume by his Guru, Shri Dharanendrasuri. This incident deeply affected him, highlighting the contrast between the ascetics' lifestyle and the ideals of detachment. He firmly stated that for a renunciate, perfume and donkey urine are the same, and the ornaments of a householder are a blemish for an ascetic. This truthful, albeit harsh, response led to a temporary rift with his Guru.

Ascension to Acharya and the Birth of Rajendrasuriji: Following this incident, Shri Ratnavijayji sought guidance from his Guru, Shri Pramadsuriji, who recognized his spiritual potential and his deep commitment to upholding the Jain path. In a significant ceremony, Shri Pramadsuriji declared Ratnavijayji as his successor, bestowing upon him the title of Acharya Shri Vijay Rajendrasurishwarji Maharaj. He relinquished all his personal possessions as offerings.

Profound Impact and Reform: Acharya Rajendrasuriji embarked on a mission to revitalize Jain practices and awaken dormant spiritual fervor in the community. He traveled extensively, winning hearts with his teachings on self-reliance and spiritual upliftment. He emphasized the importance of adhering to fundamental Jain principles, promoting the renovation and construction of temples, and leading a life of disciplined austerity. His discourses were characterized by their profound insight and ability to inspire true renunciation.

Miraculous Powers and Literary Contributions: The text highlights his extraordinary spiritual powers, including his ability to perform penance for extended periods, remain steadfast in meditation even in challenging conditions, and even exhibit clairvoyance. He is renowned for his monumental literary work, the "Abhidhan Rajendra Kosha," a seven-volume encyclopedic dictionary that is a treasure trove of Jain knowledge, covering diverse subjects with detailed etymological explanations. He also authored "Prakrut Vyagran," a poetic grammar that simplified the study of Prakrit for the Jain community. His commentaries on the Kalpasutra, such as "Kalpasutraarth Prabodhini," are also highly regarded.

Upholding Jain Dharma: Acharya Rajendrasuriji's commitment to preserving Jain culture and traditions was unwavering. He bravely defended Jain temples, even confronting the state government to protect sacred sites. His adherence to strict principles and his ability to inspire others to do the same earned him immense respect. His teachings consistently emphasized self-discipline, introspection, and the pursuit of spiritual goals, urging followers to live according to the principles of the Tirthankaras.

Demise and Legacy: Param Yogi Shrimad Vijay Rajendrasuriji passed away in Samvat 1963 at Rajgarh (Madhya Pradesh), and his final rites were performed at the holy site of Shri Mohan Kheda. The text concludes by emphasizing his enduring legacy as a great scholar, a spiritual leader, a reformer, and a true yogi whose teachings continue to illuminate the path of Jainism. He is remembered as a beacon of knowledge and a protector of the Jain way of life.