Prabhavak Charitam

This is a summary of the Prabhāvaka Charita (A.k.a. Prabhāvaka Charitam), a significant Jain text authored by Hemachandra (although the title page mentions it is by Chandaprabhasuri, the preface and content strongly indicate Hemachandra as the likely author, as it lists many prominent Jain monks, including Hemachandra himself, and discusses works attributed to him. The text was edited by Pandit Hirananda M. Sharma Shastri and published by Tukaram Javaji in Bombay in 1909).

The book is a collection of biographies of influential Jain monks and scholars, known as "Prabhārakas" (those who enhanced or enlightened the Jain tradition). The text aims to highlight their virtuous deeds, intellectual prowess, and the significant contributions they made to the propagation and preservation of Jainism.

Key aspects of the Prabhāvaka Charita:

• Structure: The book is divided into chapters, each dedicated to a specific Prabhāvaka. The provided text details the biographies of several of these figures, starting with Vajrasvāmi and then moving through Aryarakshita, Aryanaṃdila, Kālaka Sūri, Pādalipta Sūri, and others.
• Content: Each biography typically covers:
  • The monk's lineage, birth, and early life.
  • Their spiritual awakening and renunciation.
  • Their intellectual achievements, such as mastering scriptures, engaging in debates, and composing commentaries.
  • Miraculous events or extraordinary abilities (Siddhis) associated with them.
  • Their efforts in spreading Jainism, converting people, and overcoming challenges posed by opposing views or hostile rulers.
  • Their passing and the lasting impact of their work.
• Purpose: The text serves as an inspirational guide for the Jain community, showcasing the exemplary lives of past spiritual leaders. It emphasizes the importance of knowledge (śruta), virtuous conduct (chāritra), austerity (tapas), and devotion (bhakti) in achieving spiritual liberation.
• Editorial Notes: The editor, Pandit Hirananda M. Sharma Shastri, mentions that the edition is based on four manuscripts, none of which were perfect. He expresses gratitude for the assistance received and indicates the possibility of a revised edition or addenda to correct further mistakes. He notes that the Pāṭan manuscript was the best and was primarily followed.
• List of Prabhārakas Covered (from the table of contents):
  1. Shri Vajra (Vajrasvāmi)
  2. Shri Aryarakshita
  3. Shri Aryanaṃdila
  4. Kālaka Sūri
  5. Shri Pādalipta
  6. Shri Vijayasimha Sūri
  7. Jīva Sūri
  8. Vriddhavādi
  9. Haribhadra Sūri
  10. Mallavādi
  11. Bappabhaṭṭi
  12. Maṃtuṅga Sūri
  13. Māṇadeva Sūri
  14. Siddharshi Sūri
  15. Shri Vīra
  16. Śānti Sūri
  17. Mahendra Sūri
  18. Sūrāchārya
  19. Abhayadeva
  20. Vīra
  21. Deva Sūri
  22. Hemachandra Sūri
• Critical Analysis: The preface highlights the editor's awareness of the manuscript limitations and his commitment to presenting an accurate text, emphasizing the importance of critical analysis in textual studies.
• Language: The text is primarily in Sanskrit, with some Prakrit verses interspersed. The editing and scholarly apparatus are in English.

In essence, the Prabhāvaka Charita is a hagiographical work that meticulously chronicles the lives and teachings of pivotal figures in Jainism, demonstrating their spiritual fortitude, intellectual brilliance, and unwavering commitment to their faith, providing rich historical and religious insights into Jain traditions.