Shraddheya Jinendra Varni

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text about Shraddheya Jinendra Varni:

The text "Shraddheya Jinendra Varni" by Atmanandji, published by Z_Arvachin_Jain_Jyotirdharo, is a biographical account of a highly respected Jain scholar and ascetic, Jinendra Varni. The book highlights his life, spiritual journey, and significant contributions to Jain philosophy and literature.

Early Life and Education: Born in 1977 VS (1920 AD) in Panipat to Shri Jaybhagwan, a well-known lawyer and scholar of various philosophies including Jainism, Buddhism, and Vedic traditions, Jinendra Varni inherited his father's intellectual prowess. He also received religious education through his association with Shri Rupchand Gargiya. Despite his father's legal profession, he was passionate about literature, a trait that was passed on to his son. Jinendra Varni excelled academically, earning an engineering degree in electrical and radio science. However, he was frail and often ill from childhood, suffering from recurring typhoid and contracting tuberculosis at the age of 16.

Business and Renunciation: After his father's passing, Jinendra Varni took on the responsibility of his younger siblings and established a successful industrial company in Panipat. However, he had no attachment to wealth, business, or fame. He skillfully trained his younger brothers in the business and retired, driven by a higher spiritual aspiration. His frail health continued to be a challenge, but he steadfastly refused to consume meat or medicines containing non-vegetarian ingredients, even when advised by doctors. A portion of his lung was also removed due to his illness.

Study of Scriptures, Austerity, and Vow-Taking: A pivotal moment in his life occurred in 2006 VS (1949 AD) during the Dashalakshan Parvushan festival. Despite heavy rains, his intense curiosity led him to the temple where his father was giving a discourse. The word "Brahmasmi" spoken by his father became his guiding mantra. This sparked a deep commitment to rigorously study Jain scriptures. His extensive study and reading of scriptures led him to compile concise notes, which eventually formed the foundation for the monumental work, "Jainendra Siddhantkosh" (Encyclopedia of Jain Principles). To organize this work, he re-studied the Agamas in a sequential manner (Prathmanuyog, etc.), completing this task in 2016 VS (1959 AD). In 1954-55 AD, he visited Songadh for deeper contemplation, which led to a significant increase in his knowledge, experience, and renunciation. Consequently, he took the Anuvrat (minor vows) and renounced household life in 1957 AD. His unwavering faith in Dharma and his firm resolve to realize each subject through deep introspection propelled him forward on the spiritual path. He was greatly benefited by the heartfelt experiences of the revered Shri Ganeshprasadji Varni. He also spent some time at Ishri Ashram in 1958 AD.

Literary Pursuits and Interactions: In 1968 AD, he visited Banaras to discuss the subject matter of "Jainendra Siddhantkosh" with people from Bharatiya Jnanpith. During his stay, he was hosted by Shri Jaykrishna Jain (Munni Babu). When Munni Babu offered to show him various temples in Banaras, Varni Maharaj expressed that he found no novelty in stone temples, which only showcased different adornments of wealth. He expressed a desire to see "living temples." Munni Babu then arranged a meeting with Mahamahopadhyay Pt. Gopinaathji Kaviraj. The two spiritual personalities engaged in discourse for a month. Pt. Gopinaath spoke highly of Varni Maharaj, stating that his heart was very pure, devoid of ego, and that he was a renunciate yogi who had bestowed great grace by visiting. Varni Maharaj would diligently take notes of Pt. Gopinaath's discourses, demonstrating his remarkable memory.

Health Challenges and Dedication to Truth: In 1970 AD, while in Rohtak, he suffered a severe relapse of his old respiratory illness and began contemplating Samadhi-maran (peaceful death). Doctors diagnosed his condition as a deficiency of water in the body, suggesting he could manage it by taking water once in the evening. However, the "Jainendra Siddhantkosh" was incomplete, and he felt a sense of incompleteness in his devotion to Goddess Saraswati. Devotees urged him to take water, but this conflicted with the strict code of conduct for a Varni, which disallowed taking water in the evening. Some devotees suggested he take water discreetly without informing the community. With a heavy heart, he declared that for a seeker dedicated to the worship of truth, such deception would be a great blemish, as hypocrisy and deceit were the greatest sins in his view. He faced a dilemma between his worsening respiratory condition and physical weakness on one side, and his strong willpower and endurance on the other. Ultimately, after much internal deliberation, he resolved to complete his worship of Jin Vani (Jain scriptures). He then traveled to Calcutta, from where Munni Babu brought him to Varanasi, and then to Sarnath. After 7-8 months, his condition improved, and he stayed at the Chedilal temple, which is known as the birthplace of Lord Suparshvanath, located near Anandmayi Ashram on the banks of the Ganges. Here, he taught and gave sermons to curious individuals. By this time, he had risen above sectarianism or religious dogma, readily accepting valuable insights from Vedanta, Upanishads, and the Quran without hesitation. He was searching for something in all these teachings but found no lasting satisfaction, eventually abandoning the pursuit.

Samansutta and Continued Journeys: In 1973 AD, he arrived in Varsha. He held immense faith in Shri Vinoba. Shri Vinoba had once expressed the need for a universally recognized Jain scripture, similar to the Dhammapada for Buddhists, the Gita for Hindus, and the Bible for Christians. While this task seemed nearly impossible for Varni Maharaj, by divine grace, the "Samansutta" was created on the occasion of the 2500th Nirvana centenary of Lord Mahavir, bringing together respected Acharyas from mutually opposing sects. From Varsha, Shri Varni Maharaj went to Banaras and stayed there for about a month. He then traveled to Kumbhoj to meet the revered Acharya Shri Samantbhadra Maharaj, staying there for 7-8 days. Although his health deteriorated due to the cold, meeting Maharajji brought him great peace.

Attempt at Sokhana and Fasting: From Kumbhoj, he went to Kashi and then to Banaras in 1977 AD, residing in the temple of Lord Suparshvanath's birthplace. There, the old enemy, the respiratory illness, afflicted him again. Seizing this opportune moment, he began a vow of silence and fasting (anashan) without informing anyone. This caused an uproar in the Jain community, and prominent leaders urged him to break his fast. However, he remained firm in his resolve. Eventually, influenced by the directives of Acharya Shri Samantbhadra and Shri Vinoba, he broke his 40-day fast. Remarkably, his health improved rather than deteriorated during and after the fast. From Banaras, he traveled to Calcutta and then to Ishri. After about a year, he returned to Banaras.

Pilgrimages and Chaturmas: In 1980 AD, he came to Rohtak for his Chaturmas (monsoon retreat). In 1981 AD, he stayed in Banaras for nearly three months, then traveled to Bhopal, Kumbhoj, Karanj, and Vaishali, before returning to Bhopal for his Chaturmas. Upon returning to Kashi, he felt as if he had come back to his original place. The primary reason for Kashi's attraction was its connection to the birthplace of Lord Parshvanath. While Varni Maharaj had a connection with the entire world and humanity, his bond with Kashi was unique. Kashi was a place of spiritual upbringing for him. During this period, he published a new edition of "Shantipath Darshan" (Path to Peace). After completing this work in 3-4 months, he went to the Chidwada-Bhopal region in 1982 AD, where Pt. Rajmalji became his devoted follower.

Final Literary Efforts and Decision for Samadhi-maran: In May, he returned to Banaras and began researching the critical edition of "Jainendra Siddhantkosh." Varni Maharaj, true to his nature, became disheartened when the work did not progress at the speed he desired. He was also troubled by the behavior of some members of the community. His greatest distress was his inability to resolve these issues, acknowledging his own limitations. His health remained poor. At this point, Munni Babu suggested that he "rest his pen." He was already experiencing discomfort even when sitting for extended periods. Varni Maharaj remained silent on this suggestion but never picked up his pen again after that day. His entire life had been dedicated to his pen and literary creation, from which he derived his interest and life force. Now, his passion for action had waned. Munni Babu felt he had committed a grave error, believing that his suggestion would provide Varni Maharaj with solitude, peace, and physical relief. However, Babu's statement had pushed him towards inaction. The decision he had been postponing for a long time had finally arrived: Maharaj decided in his mind to undertake Samadhi-maran.

Virtuous Personality: Shri Varni Maharaj was a man of extraordinary virtues. He possessed an unbiased, truth-abiding, simple, appreciative, and non-sectarian personality. His greatness stemmed not only from his being an exceptionally learned scholar who tirelessly served Jain learning, but also from his sincere efforts to embody his profound insights in his life. His asceticism was even more significant than his scholarship. The most radiant aspects of his life were his simplicity, naturalness, and inclusive, liberal outlook. As he delved deeper into the profound depths of knowledge, these qualities grew immensely within him. The true test of a spiritual life lies in one's simplicity, naturalness, and readiness for the welfare of the world. The integrity and straightforwardness he maintained in his life are rarely found. He had no desire for worldly recognition or personal comfort. Such natural detachment and fearlessness are seldom seen even in great souls. In that sense, Shri Varni was a hundred percent great soul. He was as pure as the Ganges, worthy of veneration, and remembered in the morning.

The work of serving Jin Vani, which a large group of scholars, spending lakhs of rupees, might accomplish, was miraculously done by a lone ascetic – a householder renunciate – without any expenditure. One is captivated by his gentleness, his constant application of knowledge, his detachment, and his sense of non-doership.

The Jain and non-Jain communities of Kashi considered him an ideal Guru, finding no discrepancy between his words and actions. He had a unique trait: he spoke very little and viewed the world with a detached perspective. His vision was so sharp that he could penetrate the profound depths of any subject. His contemplation was gentle, impartial, accurate, and touched the core of matters.

He was a detached, loving seeker, a confluence of truth, love, and renunciation. His life's ideal was to act for truth, to see for truth, to think for truth, and to do everything for truth. He believed that if love for all human beings did not overflow in life, then it was truly not a human life.

His discourses described subtle elements with scientific precision, alongside spiritual mysteries. They were just, comprehensible through personal experience, logical, and easily grasped by the intellect. He gave more importance to individual sermons than to collective teachings. He was never willing to waste valuable time for mere intellectual amusement. Understanding every moment as extremely precious, he advocated for its use solely for self-welfare. He used to say, "If we can calm the thoughts of the mind through the vehicle of knowledge, then we can experience our consciousness in the nirvikalpa (desireless) state and become entitled to liberation, peace, and powerful consciousness."

He was an embodiment of calmness and detachment. He was an ocean of wisdom. His eyes always flowed with a river of affection. He always spoke words that were beneficial, measured, and pleasant, and he himself remained in equanimity. He deeply cherished solitude, believing it necessary for spiritual well-being. He would cover his body with a small shawl. He provided his body only with enough food to remain functional. Merely seeing him brought inner peace, and discussions and his proximity resolved many doubts. His heart was a dwelling place of inner peace, love, and sweetness. He was a radiant benefactor not only to the Jain community but to all of humanity. Indian culture, the world of literature, humanity, and especially Jainism will remain indebted to him forever.

Later Years and Final Days: Shri Varni Maharaj halted his writing and all other activities and, with the resolve of Samadhi-maran, reached Nena Giri in November 1982 AD to meet the revered Shri Vidyasagarji Maharaj. Varni Maharaj humbly requested him, "Lord, all the tasks of my life are complete. Only one task remains, which is 'Sallekhana' (regulated fasting unto death). Grant me refuge now, so that my Sallekhana can be performed properly at your feet." The Acharya did not immediately grant permission but instructed him to come to Ishri (Sametshikhar). Here, on April 12, 1983, he took the auspicious vow of Sallekhana at the feet of the Acharya and renounced food for life. Initially, he consumed only small quantities of liquids. From April 15, 1983, he gave up milk and other milky substances, switching to vegetable soups and water, which he gradually reduced. From April 18, 1983, he gave up everything except water. He also observed intermittent fasts, and from May 23, 1983, he completely renounced water as well. Shri Varni Maharaj, a great worshipper of Jin Vani, diligently listened to scriptures and exchanged ideas with the Acharya, always showing due respect. Ascetics and monks served him day and night. Despite his declining physical strength, he demonstrated his unique consciousness. He remained aware every moment and did not fail to perform his daily spiritual practices even in his final days.

On May 24, 1983, when the Acharya had finished his meal, Shri Varni Maharaj instructed an Alak Maharaj to inform the Acharya that his consciousness was fading. The Acharya came near him. With great humility, Varni Maharaj bowed three times to the Acharya. When the Acharya asked him to recite the Namaskar Mantra, he uttered it twice. On the third occasion, his head fell at the feet of the Acharya. Thus, he departed on May 24, 1983, at 11 AM, in a state of supreme peace. The dedication and composure with which he ascended the peak of Samadhi-maran demonstrate his detachment, his absence of possessiveness, and his strength to rise above the consciousness of the body.