Sarvagnya Jeva Suridev - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Sarvagnya Jeva Suridev" by Bhadraguptasuri, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Sarvagnya Jeva Suridev (One like the Omniscient, the Divine Sun) Author: Acharya Shri Vijay Bhadraguptasuri Publisher: Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust, Mehsana

Overall Focus: The book is a biography of Acharya Shri Hemchandrasuri, a revered Jain scholar and monk of the 12th century Vikram Samvat (12th century CE). The author, Acharya Shri Vijay Bhadraguptasuri, aims to present a simplified and accessible account of Hemchandrasuri's life, particularly for younger readers, highlighting his immense contributions to Jainism and Indian culture.

Key Themes and Content:

Introduction: The book is described as a small biography of the "Kālikālasarvajña" (Omniscient of the Age) Acharya Shri Hemchandrasuri, a great exponent of knowledge from the glorious period of Indian history. The author expresses his devotion and faith as the inspiration for writing this biography, drawing from important historical Jain texts like Jayasimh Suri's Kumārapāla Bhūpāl Charitra, Shri Rajshekhar Suri's Chaturvishati Prabandh, and Shri Merutungacharya's Prabandh Chintamani. The author acknowledges the challenge of capturing such a vast life but hopes the readers will find it inspiring.
Emphasis on Jain Contribution to History: The author laments that much of Indian history, particularly as taught to children, is written by foreign authors or anti-Jain indigenous writers, thus omitting numerous cultural and spiritual aspects contributed by the Jain community. This biography aims to shed light on the significant role of Jains in shaping the nation's culture.
Hemchandrasuri's Personality: Hemchandrasuri is portrayed as an extraordinary individual with a radiant life, possessing spiritual brilliance and profound humanity. His gentle teachings and pure personality had a calming effect on the ambitious and fiery nature of King Siddharaja and later King Kumārapāla. He was instrumental in inspiring King Kumārapāla to embrace non-violence, a monumental achievement in historical records.
Key Events and Teachings Covered (as indicated by chapter titles):
- Birth and Early Life: The narrative begins with the auspicious dream of Pāhinī Devi, mother of Hemchandrasuri (then known as Changdev), foretelling the birth of a great soul. The dream involves receiving a divine jewel, symbolizing the future spiritual eminence of her son. Her devotion and acceptance of her son's future role as a Jain scholar are highlighted. Changdev's upbringing, education, and early signs of brilliance are depicted.
- Initiation and Acharyahood: The text details his journey to becoming a Muni (monk) and later an Acharya (spiritual leader) under his guru, Devachandrasuri.
- Miracles and Divine Intervention: Several chapters describe miraculous events, including the appeasement of the Shāsanadevi (guardian deity), showcasing the spiritual power attributed to Hemchandrasuri.
- The Siddha-Hema Vyākaraṇa: A significant portion is dedicated to Hemchandrasuri's monumental Sanskrit grammar, Siddha-Hema Vyākaraṇa. It explains how King Siddharaja challenged Hemchandrasuri to create a grammar surpassing Raja Bhoja's Sarasvati Kantabharana. Hemchandrasuri's genius in composing this comprehensive work in just one year, with 125,000 verses, is emphasized. The name "Siddha-Hema" signifies the collaboration between King Siddharaja and Hemchandrasuri. The book highlights the effort to widely disseminate this grammar.
- Interactions with Kings Siddharaja and Kumārapāla: The biography extensively covers Hemchandrasuri's interactions with these powerful rulers.
  - Siddharaja: Their first encounter is described as significant, leading to Siddharaja's admiration for Hemchandrasuri. The book touches upon Siddharaja's desire to expand his empire and adorn his capital, Patan.
  - Kumārapāla: Hemchandrasuri's influence on Kumārapāla's spiritual transformation is a central theme. This includes calming Kumārapāla, inspiring him with Vitaraaga Stavans (hymns of detachment), and guiding him toward spiritual peace in his later years. A major achievement was Kumārapāla's embrace of Ahimsa (non-violence) under Hemchandrasuri's guidance.
- The Concept of "Sattva" (Inner Strength/Essence): Hemchandrasuri explains to Kumārapāla that "Sattva" is the greatest virtue, enabling one to face adversity with courage, uphold promises, and achieve the impossible. This is portrayed as indirect guidance for Kumārapāla's future reign.
- The Kingship of Kumārapāla: The text elaborates on Kumārapāla's eventual rise to power, his virtuous reign, and his dedication to Jain principles, including the establishment of temples and the propagation of Ahimsa.
- Divine Manifestations: The book recounts instances where deities, such as the Shāsanadevi and Goddess Ambika, manifest to guide or bless Hemchandrasuri and his followers.
- Widespread Influence: The summary indicates Hemchandrasuri's activities extended to propagating non-violence in Kashi, curing King Siddharaja's leprosy, and undertaking significant construction projects.
- The "Nagpur Miracle": This section likely details an event where Hemchandrasuri's spiritual power (or that of his disciple Somachandra) transforms something mundane (like coal) back into valuable items (like gold coins) for a wealthy merchant facing ruin, illustrating divine grace or the power of virtue.
- The "Miracle of Knowledge" and Goddess Sarasvati: The narrative suggests Hemchandrasuri (or Somachandra) received divine knowledge from Goddess Sarasvati, enabling him to create profound literary works and texts.
- Dispute Resolution and True Wealth: The text suggests Hemchandrasuri's wisdom resolves conflicts and defines true wealth beyond material possessions.
- The Power of Faith: The biography emphasizes how unwavering faith, as shown by characters, can lead to miracles and overcome obstacles.
- The "True Golden Achievement": This likely refers to the spiritual or intellectual wealth gained through devotion and knowledge, contrasting it with mere material gold.
- Specific Incidents: Chapters like "Five Incidents," "Story of a Past Life," and "The Demise of Suridev" point to specific narratives illustrating principles or historical events.
- Ascension (Swargavasa): The book concludes with Hemchandrasuri's passing, likely a spiritually significant event described with reverence.
Publisher's Note: The Vishvakalyan Prakashan Trust expresses joy in publishing the biography of Hemchandrasuri, who composed an immense number of Sanskrit and Prakrit verses. They hope the book, intended for children but appealing to all, reaches every village library and every Jain household, inspiring countless readers.

Key Figures:

Acharya Shri Hemchandrasuri (also referred to as Somachandra Muni): The central figure, a great scholar, spiritual leader, and proponent of Jainism.
King Siddharaja: A powerful ruler of Gujarat who admired Hemchandrasuri.
King Kumārapāla: A later ruler who was deeply influenced by Hemchandrasuri, eventually becoming a devout Jain and promoting non-violence.
Devachandrasuri: Hemchandrasuri's guru.
Udayana: The Chief Minister, a devout Jain who supported Hemchandrasuri and Kumārapāla.
Pāhinī Devi: Hemchandrasuri's mother.
Chachag Sheth: Hemchandrasuri's father.

Significance: The book aims to highlight Hemchandrasuri's immense contribution to Jain philosophy, Sanskrit literature (especially Siddha-Hema Vyākaraṇa), and the promotion of ethical principles like non-violence in society, influencing rulers and common people alike.