Santbalji Maharaj

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on the life and teachings of Santbalji Maharaj:

Santbalji Maharaj: A Life of Compassion, Social Reform, and Spiritual Guidance

This document, taken from the book "Santbalji Maharaj" by Ramanlal C. Shah, offers a detailed account of the life, work, and spiritual impact of Santbalji Maharaj, a revered Jain saint. The text highlights his dedication to social upliftment, his unwavering adherence to Jain principles, and his profound influence on various segments of society.

Key Aspects of Santbalji Maharaj's Life and Work:

• Social Reform and Compassion:

  • Combating Untouchability: Maharajshri actively worked to eradicate untouchability, a pervasive issue in pre-independence India. He drew inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi's campaign and even coined the term "Rishi" for the so-called "untouchables" (Harijans). He established a "Rishi Balmandir" in Sanand and regularly accepted alms from Harijan households, a bold and challenging act in that era. He would often shed tears witnessing their plight and sometimes undertook fasts in response to their suffering.
  • Promoting Virtue and Abstinence: Maharajshri emphasized the importance of good conduct and self-discipline. He successfully dissuaded people from harmful practices like hunting and liquor consumption. In one instance, he intervened when tribal villagers threatened a Parsi gentleman who had come for hunting, persuading them to abandon their violent intentions and embrace a virtuous path. He also advocated for the cessation of bird hunting in areas like Nal Sarovar, influencing local communities and even affecting the habits of hunters.
  • Campaign Against Alcoholism: In the Surat district and surrounding tribal areas, Maharajshri conducted a strong campaign against alcohol consumption. He addressed tribal communities, explaining the virtues of sobriety and abstinence. His efforts were so impactful that many tribal individuals took lifelong vows to abstain from alcohol.

• Spiritual Teachings and Practices:

  • Upholding Jain Principles: Maharajshri was a staunch follower of Jain tenets, particularly concerning alms-gathering (Gochari). He once undertook a three-day fast as atonement when the collected alms had to be disposed of due to circumstances, emphasizing the sacredness of the alms received.
  • Demonstrating Patience and Forgiveness: A notable incident recounts Maharajshri's reaction to a young man who questioned his involvement in political speeches. Though initially provoked, he later reflected on his anger, sought forgiveness internally, and offered it to the youth, demonstrating immense patience and a forgiving spirit.
  • Fasting as a Tool for Change: Maharajshri utilized fasting not only for personal penance but also as a means to inspire social change. When Vinoba Bhave announced a fast for cow protection, Maharajshri, without meeting Vinoba, declared a twenty-one-day fast in solidarity and to encourage a similar commitment from others, showcasing his deep respect for spiritual activism.
  • Inspiring Devotion and Service: His lectures and prayers attracted a wide audience, including children and adults, who viewed him as a divine figure. His charisma and spiritual prowess inspired many to dedicate their lives to service.

• Key Disciples and Collaborators:

  • Manibhai Patel: A devoted follower, Manibhai Patel, served as Maharajshri's close associate for many years. He meticulously documented Maharajshri's daily activities, lectures, and thoughts in a series of volumes titled "Sadhuta ni Pagdandi" (The Footpath of Sainthood).
  • Meeraben: Another significant disciple, Meeraben, considered Maharajshri as her mother and shared a deep, affectionate bond with him. She documented her experiences in a booklet titled "Santbal Meri Ma" (Santbal, My Mother).
  • Numerous Other Devotees: The text mentions a vast number of individuals who received spiritual guidance and took vows of service from Maharajshri, contributing to various social and charitable institutions established in his name.

• Establishment of Institutions and Writings:

  • Maharajshri inspired the establishment of over twenty institutions, including experimental unions, women's industrial homes, dispensaries, hostels, and farmer cooperatives, many of which continue to operate today.
  • He was a prolific writer, producing commentaries on important Jain scriptures like the Uttaradhyayan Sutra, Dashavaikalik Sutra, and Acharanga Sutra. He also authored books like "Apurva Avsar," "Dharmapran Lonkashah," and "Jain Drishti Ne Gita Darshan," among many others. He also ran a magazine called "Vishwavatsalya."

• Later Life and Legacy:

  • After decades of constant travel, Maharajshri sought a settled life and established "Mahavirnagar International Centre" in Chiplun.
  • His later years were marked by a growing respect from the conservative sections of society, who invited him to their religious gatherings and lectures.
  • Maharajshri's life was a testament to the principles of Ahimsa (non-violence), Satya (truth), Asteya (non-stealing), Brahmacharya (celibacy), and Aparigraha (non-possession). He lived a life of immense spiritual discipline, selfless service, and profound compassion, leaving an indelible mark on Jainism and society at large.

In essence, Santbalji Maharaj was a multifaceted spiritual leader who seamlessly blended profound spiritual understanding with active social engagement, striving to uplift individuals and society through his teachings, actions, and unwavering commitment to Jain values.