Ratnaprabhasuri - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text about Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri, based on the provided PDF excerpts:

The text highlights Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri as a highly influential and learned figure in Jainism, credited with establishing the Osswal lineage in Aosiyanagar. His spiritual prowess and miraculous deeds significantly contributed to the spread and influence of Jainism.

Key aspects of Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri's life and achievements:

Establishment of the Osswal Lineage: Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri founded the Osswal lineage in Aosiyanagar. His influence led to approximately 180,000 new Jains being converted. Those who migrated from Ossian are still known as Osswal Jains.
Connection to the Parshvanath Tradition: He belonged to the spiritual tradition that originated with Lord Parshvanath's Ganadhar Keshigachala. This tradition became known as the "Parshvapatya" (follower of Parshva) and is also recognized as the "Upakesha Gachha" (sect). Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri flourished in the first century after Lord Mahavir's nirvana (Vir Nirvana Samvat 1).
Early Life and Renunciation: His earlier name was Maniratna or Ratnachud. He was the king of the Vidyadharas (celestial beings/supernatural beings). Upon hearing the teachings of Acharya Swayamprabhasuri in Bhinmal, he renounced his worldly life, handed over his kingdom to his son, and took diksha (initiation) along with 500 Vidyadharas. He attained the Acharya position in Vir Nirvana Samvat 5 and became known as Ratnaprabhasuri.
Miraculous Deeds and Temple Consecrations: A remarkable event occurred in Aasiya when a Jinmandir (temple) built by a wealthy merchant was nearing completion. It was discovered that the merchant's cow consistently offered milk on Lunhi hill. Following Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri's guidance, a statue of Lord Mahavir Swami was found in that land. The consecration of this statue was planned for the auspicious day of Maha Sud Pancham in Vir Nirvana Samvat 70. Coincidentally, the consecration of the Lord Mahavir Swami Jinālay in Karata was also scheduled for the same day.
Dual Consecration and its Impact: The text, citing "Kapmalika-Vritti" and "Ratnaprabhacharya Puja," states that Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri, manifesting in two forms simultaneously, performed the consecrations of the Lord Mahavir Swami Jinālay in Aosiya and Karata in the same muhurta (auspicious time). This miraculous event had a profound impact on Jainism, leading thousands of people to embrace the faith.
Establishment of Osswal Lineage in Vir Nirvana Samvat 70: It was also during Vir Nirvana Samvat 70 that Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri established the Osswal lineage in Ossianagar. Ancient Jinālayas of Lord Mahavir Swami still exist in Aosiya and Karata.
Visit to Upakeshanagar: Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri visited Upakeshanagar, a settlement established by Sur Sundar, son of King Shreepanj, and Uhad, son of Chandramantri, near Bhinmal. Due to the absence of Jain households, he faced hardships and undertook fasts. Despite this, he decided to observe Chaturmas (a four-month rainy season retreat) with 35 monks, sending his other disciples to Karata.
Conversion in Upakeshanagar: A minister's son in Upakeshanagar was bitten by a snake. He was brought to Acharya Shri, and his life was saved by the touch of the Acharya's feet. This event led the minister and the king to become Jains. As they were from Aosiya, they also became known as Osswal Jains.
Role in Karanta Gachha: Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri also performed the installation of Acharya Shri Kanakprabhasuri as the founder of the Karanta Gachha. Kanakprabhasuri was Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri's junior spiritual brother.
Demise: Acharya Ratnaprabhasuri passed away in Vir Nirvana Samvat 84.

The text also briefly mentions other influential Acharyas from his era, Acharya Balissahasuri (who held the positions of Ganacharya and Vachanacharya) and Acharya Gunsundarsuri (the eleventh Yugpradhan Acharya, who carried the spiritual leadership of the Vir Shasan). Both were considered powerful and influential Acharyas of their time.