Prabhavak Acharya Jinharisagarsuri - Book Summary

This document is a biography of Acharya Jinharisagarsuri, a prominent Jain monk, written by Muni Kantisagarji. It highlights Acharya Jinharisagarsuri's significant role in the Jain tradition, his early life, his spiritual journey, and his contributions to the Jain faith.

Here's a breakdown of the key points:

The Importance of Acharyas in Jainism:

Jain Acharyas hold the second most important position after the Tirthankara Bhagwan.
After Tirthankaras attain liberation, Acharyas carry forward their teachings (Dwadasangi) and are responsible for the Jain community.
It is the duty of every spiritual seeker to know the lives of these Acharyas who spread Jainism.

The Lineage and Background:

Acharya Jinharisagarsuri belonged to the lineage of Acharya Jinbhaktisuriji Maharaj, the 67th successor to Lord Mahavir.
His spiritual predecessor was Ganadhishwar Shri Sukhsagarji Maharaj, whose community is ancient and widespread within the Kharatargachha.
Acharya Jinharisagarsuri was a lifelong celibate and a prominent preacher.

Early Life of Kumar Harisingh:

He was born in the year 1946 (V.S.) in the village of Rohina, in the Nagaur district of Jodhpur state, to Shri Hanumant Singhji and Shrimati Kesar Devi.
His parents named him "Shri Harivih" due to his radiant appearance and auspicious signs.

The Divine Confluence:

At the age of 6-7, young Harisingh visited Ganadhishwar Shri Bhagwansagarji Maharaj (his uncle in his lay life).
Maharajji, with his divine vision, recognized the potential for greatness in Harisingh and expressed his desire for the young boy to join the monastic order.
Impressed by the prophecy that Harisingh would significantly serve Jainism, his father, Shri Hanumant Singhji, bravely gave his beloved son to the spiritual path. This event is described as a "successful combination" and fulfilling the saying "perfume in gold."

Sprouting of Sainthood:

His guru, Ganadhishwar Shri Bhagwansagarji Maharaj, entrusted the care and education of young Harisingh to his disciple, the spiritually accomplished Mahatapswi Shri Chhagan Sagarji Maharaj.
Under Chhagan Sagarji Maharaj's guidance, Harisingh quickly learned the principles of monastic conduct. His innate spiritual merit led to the germination of his spiritual seeds at the tender age of eight.

Ascent to the Acharya Position:

At the age of eight and a half, Harisingh was already exhibiting youthful energy and mature wisdom.
Acharya Chhagan Sagarji Maharaj taught him Sanskrit and Prakrit, along with the deeper meaning of Jain scriptures and principles. His intelligence and sharp intellect made him an ideal candidate for leadership.
In 1957 (V.S.), after the demise of Ganadhishwar Shri Bhagwansagarji Maharaj, a grand ceremony was held for Harisingh's initiation as a monk. He was named "Shri Harisagarji."
Following the final wishes of his guru, who was nearing the end of his life, Acharya Chhagan Sagarji Maharaj formally appointed Shri Harisagarji as his successor.
In 1966 (V.S.), on a day of great spiritual austerity (52nd fasting day) for Acharya Chhagan Sagarji Maharaj, Shri Harisagarji was enthroned as Ganadhishwar in a grand ceremony attended by many Jain congregations. He was later honored with the title of Acharya Jinharisagarsuri.

Contributions and Activities:

Community Growth: Under his leadership, the community grew to include approximately 225 monks and nuns, with many being lifelong celibates, eloquent speakers, great ascetics, scholars, and poets dedicated to serving Jainism.
Prestigious Installations (Pratishthas): He presided over the consecration ceremonies of numerous temples and Guru temples across various cities, including Jodhpur, Kelva, Jaipur, Kota, and Hathras.
Udyapan Mahotsavs: He graced many significant religious festivals and ceremonies (Udyapan Mahotsavs) organized by devout followers to mark the completion of their spiritual practices.
Expeditions and Sangh Yatras: Inspired by his teachings, many individuals organized large-scale pilgrimages to holy sites. Notable expeditions were led to Jaisalmer, Bareja, Anjara, Taladhwaj, and Hastinapur, among others.
Institution Building: His influence led to the establishment of various institutions like schools, libraries, and social clubs in several cities.
Preservation of Antiquities: He actively worked towards preserving ancient Jain manuscripts, inscriptions, and historical records, particularly concerning the history of the 'Khartar Vasahi' at Shri Siddhachal Tirth. He also re-instated the 'Shri Khartar Gachh' signboard.
Organizational Efforts: He organized the Khartar Gachh Sangh Sammelan to unite the community and oversaw the renovation of ancient Jain manuscript libraries.
Literary Contributions: He authored several significant works, including Hindi translations of scriptures, biographies of prominent Jain figures, and devotional hymns. His literary works have been a source of inspiration for scholars like Pt. Lalchand Bhagwandas Gandhi.

Spiritual Travels and Demise:

Acharya Jinharisagarsuri traveled extensively across India for 37 years, spreading the core principles of Jainism like Karma, Anekantavada, and Ahimsa.
His teachings had a profound impact, leading many to renounce harmful practices like consuming fish and alcohol.
He undertook pilgrimages to numerous important Jain Tirthas.
His health deteriorated during his dedicated work of transcribing and researching ancient Jain texts in Jaisalmer.
Recognizing his approaching end, he expressed a desire to spend his final moments at a holy site. He reached Phalodi Medtaraod and, as his health declined, he ceased taking food and engaged in continuous chanting of "Aham Aham."
Despite efforts by renowned physicians, his health continued to worsen. He passed away in the year 2006 (V.S.), leaving the entire Jain community in deep sorrow.

In essence, the biography paints a vivid picture of Acharya Jinharisagarsuri as a highly influential and dedicated spiritual leader who significantly contributed to the propagation and preservation of Jainism through his teachings, actions, and organizational efforts.