Samarsinh

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Samarsinh," based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Samarsinh Author: Muni Shri Gyansundarji Maharaj Publisher: Shri Jain Itihasik Gyan Bhandar, Jodhpur Publication Year: Vikram Samvat 1987 (1931 CE)

Core Subject: The book "Samarsinh" chronicles the life and achievements of Samarsinh, a prominent Jain benefactor and warrior, who lived approximately 600 years before the book's publication. The central event highlighted is Samarsinh's role in the fifteenth restoration (Uddhar) of the holy pilgrimage site of Shatrunjay Tirth.

Key Themes and Content:

1. Shatrunjay Tirth's Significance: The book begins by emphasizing the immense holiness and spiritual importance of Shatrunjay Tirth, a sacred mountain pilgrimage site revered by both Shwetambara and Digambara Jains. It details how merely touching or having darshan of this sacred place can lead to spiritual liberation and the destruction of past sins. The text recounts numerous historical figures, from ancient kings like Bharat and Pandavas to ministers and wealthy merchants, who undertook the arduous journey and contributed to its upkeep and restoration.

2. Historical Context: The book places Samarsinh's actions within a turbulent historical period, specifically noting the destruction of numerous temples and idols by "Yavanas" (often referring to Muslim invaders) who were wreaking havoc across India. This adverse environment makes Samarsinh's undertaking of the Shatrunjay restoration even more remarkable.

3. Samarsinh's Lineage and Background:

   • Samarsinh belonged to the "Shreshthi gotra" (merchant lineage) within the "Upkesh vansh" (Upkesh dynasty), which originated from Tilang Desh.
   • His father was Deshalshah, a wealthy and influential merchant from Patan, who was a follower of the Upkesh Gachchh.
   • The book traces the lineage back through generations, starting from Vesat Shreshthi, to the founding of the "Mahajan Sangh" in Upkeshpur (modern-day Ossian) by Acharya Ratnaprabh Suri.
   • The "Upkesh Gachchh" (sect/tradition) is extensively described, highlighting the roles of various influential Acharyas like Shubhdatta Ganadhar, Haridatta Suri, Arya Samudra Suri, Keshi Shramanacharya, Swayamprabh Suri, Ratnaprabh Suri, Yakshdev Suri, Kakkasuri, Devgupta Suri, and Siddhasuri. Their contributions to the spread of Jainism and the establishment of the Mahajan Sangh are detailed, showing the deep spiritual and organizational roots of Samarsinh's community.
   • Samarsinh himself is described as a courageous, intelligent, and virtuous individual with strong leadership qualities. He was known for his generosity, righteousness, and deep devotion to Jain principles.

4. The Shatrunjay Restoration:

   • The book details the specific historical period when Shatrunjay Tirth was desecrated and damaged, particularly by Muslim invaders.
   • Acharya Shri Siddhasuri, recognizing the dire need for restoration, entrusted this significant task to Deshalshah and his son Samarsinh.
   • Samarsinh, under the guidance of Acharya Siddhasuri, took on the immense responsibility of the fifteenth restoration.
   • The text describes the arduous process, including obtaining permission (Farman) from the Sultanate ruler, Alaf Khan (who governed Gujarat at the time), through Samarsinh's political acumen and diplomatic skills.
   • The fundraising efforts, the sourcing of materials (including a special "Mammani" stone from a mine controlled by Rana Mahipal Dev), the intricate sculpting of the idol by master craftsmen, and the grand procession to Shatrunjay are vividly narrated.
   • The text mentions the substantial wealth Samarsinh expended on this project, reflecting his immense devotion and sacrifice.
   • The elaborate consecration (Pratishtha) ceremony is described in detail, highlighting the participation of numerous Jain Acharyas from various Gachchhs, the community's immense joy, and the spiritual atmosphere. Samarsinh's personal vows of asceticism during this period (like sleeping on the ground, one meal a day, limited consumption of certain food items) underscore his commitment.

5. Samarsinh's Life Beyond the Restoration: The book touches upon Samarsinh's later life, his roles as a capable administrator and military leader (Subedar) in Tilang Desh under Sultan Ghiyasuddin Khilji, and his continued efforts in promoting Jainism and aiding his community. His philanthropy and just governance are noted.

6. Historical Verification: The author, Muni Gyansundarji, emphasizes the historical accuracy of Samarsinh's biography, citing several key sources:

   • "Nabhinandanoddhar Prabandh" by Acharya Kakkasuri (written shortly after the event in Vikram Samvat 1383).
   • "Samara Ras" by Acharya Amradeva Suri (written in Gujarati around Vikram Samvat 1371).
   • "Upkesh Gachchh Charitra" and other Patawalis (lists of lineage).
   • Various inscriptions found at Shatrunjay Tirth and other locations. The author also mentions the influence of a Gujarati article by Shriyut Lalchand Bhagwandas Gandhi, which inspired him to undertake this work in Hindi.

7. The Upkesh Gachchh: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to providing a detailed history and overview of the Upkesh Gachchh, tracing its origins, key Acharyas, the establishment of the Mahajan Sangh, the development of various gotras (clans), and its spread across different regions of India. This detailed account serves to contextualize Samarsinh's identity and his deep connection to this lineage and tradition.

8. The Author's Intent: Muni Gyansundarji Maharaj states his aim is to bring to light the lives of such great, historically significant individuals who are often overlooked in modern education, thereby inspiring the Jain community and promoting the study of Jain history.

Overall Significance:

"Samarsinh" is presented as a meticulously researched historical and biographical work, deeply rooted in Jain tradition and scripture. It highlights the bravery, piety, and administrative capabilities of Samarsinh, portraying him as a hero who undertook a monumental task for the preservation and revival of a sacred Jain pilgrimage site during a period of great adversity. The book also serves as a valuable record of the Upkesh Gachchh's history and the broader socio-religious landscape of medieval India. The narrative underscores the enduring faith and dedication of the Jain community to their holy sites and religious principles.