Smruti Mandir Prashasti Kavyam - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Smruti Mandir Prashasti Kavyam":

Book Title: Smruti Mandir Prashasti Kavyam (The Praiseworthy Poem of the Memory Temple) Author: Muni Shri Prashamrativijayji Publisher: Pravachan Prakashan, Pune Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/009101/1

This work, "Smruti Mandir Prashasti Kavyam," is a significant Jain text authored by Muni Shri Prashamrativijayji and published by Pravachan Prakashan, Pune. It is essentially a poetic eulogy and historical account related to the construction and consecration of a "Smruti Mandir" (Memory Temple) dedicated to Acharya Bhagwant Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj of the Tapa Gaccha.

Key Themes and Content:

The book can be broadly divided into several sections, each contributing to the overall narrative of the temple's creation, the lineage of the spiritual guides, and the life and teachings of Acharya Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj.

1. Introduction and Publisher's Note (Page 2): The publisher expresses joy in releasing the translated version of this important document, noting the high demand for a Gujarati translation. The text is described as a valuable record for the Jain Shasan (Jain religion and its followers). It highlights the collaborative effort, with the Manch Jain Sangh facilitating the distribution of the work to monks and nuns. The publication is noted to be from the "Gnan Khata" (knowledge department), emphasizing its importance for spiritual learning.

2. Author's Gratitude and Inspiration (Page 2): The publisher also mentions the author, Muni Shri Prashamrativijayji, as a disciple of Acharya Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj. He is praised for his quick poetic skills and dedication to study and disseminating knowledge through lectures and literature. The author acknowledges the divine inspiration derived from the presence of Shri Ramchandraprabhu during the construction of the Smruti Mandir, a feeling that he believes Muni Shri Prashamrativijayji has beautifully articulated in his work.

3. Critical Appreciation of Poetry and Style (Page 3): This section, likely a foreword or critical review, discusses the essence of poetry, emphasizing that true poetry lies not just in elaborate language or style but in conveying profound emotions and experiences. It critiques a tendency to equate ornate language with poetic merit and stresses the importance of conveying inner feelings and the meaning behind the words. The author of this appreciation acknowledges the influence of previous poets but cautions against plagiarism. The author himself humbly states that his ability to undertake this work is due to his Guru's grace, despite any perceived shortcomings in his own poetic skill. He considers the "Smruti Mandir Prashasti" to be a poetic presentation of a historical report detailing the history of the Jain Shasan, the life of Suri Ram, and the consecration ceremonies of the temple.

4. Temple Description (Pages 5-7): A significant portion of the text is dedicated to the architectural and aesthetic description of the Smruti Mandir.

Verse 5: Describes the temple dedicated to Shri Ramachandra Guru, shaped like an elephant chariot, adorned with beautiful pillars featuring delicate carvings. Its white facade is compared to nectar and moonlight, and its stairs offer a heavenly experience to those who ascend.
Verse 6: Details the temple's structure, from its mountain-like peak to its sun-like golden finial, its flagpole that harnesses the wind, and its flag that spreads across the sky like a cloud.
Verse 7: Explains the symbolism of the temple's three peaks representing knowledge, perception, and conduct. The fourth level signifies the cessation of the cycle of rebirth. The temple also features eight circles, akin to the protective "Pravachan Matas" that guard ascetics.
Verse 8: Describes the cool and serene underground chambers of the temple, offering a meditative experience similar to that of a yogi in a cave.
Verse 9: Details the first floor, highlighting its resplendent assembly hall, beautiful pillars, and five doors, each representing the five virtues of Jainism, meant to bring joy to ascetics.
Verse 10: Describes a long gallery on the second floor, whose construction inspires wonder, giving the illusion of a sky bridge.
Verse 11: Depicts the third floor with its windows, where the wind seems to pause, attracted by the intricate carvings, and then rustles through the latticework. The floor is described as shining like a divine abode.

5. Guru Lineage (Pages 7-12): This section traces the revered lineage of Jain spiritual leaders (gacchas and acharyas) from Lord Mahavir's time up to the present era. It details the succession of prominent figures like Gautam Swami, Sudharma Swami, Jambu Swami, Prabhava Swami, Shyambhavya Swami, Yashobhadra Suri, Bhadrabahu, Sthulabhadra, Mahagiri, Suhasthi, Kotisuri, Indradinna, Singhgiri, Vajraswami, Vajrasen Suri, Chandracharya, Jagachandrasuri (who received the title "Tapa"), Heerasuri (who influenced Emperor Akbar on non-violence), Senasuri, Devasuri, Singhsurisuri, Satyavijay, Buddhivijay, Anandasuri, Kamalsuri, Viravijay, Dansuri, Premsuri, and finally Ramachandrasuri. The lineage of the Tapa Gaccha is specifically highlighted, emphasizing the transmission of knowledge and spiritual authority.

6. Praise of Acharya Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj (Pages 12-24): This is the core of the Prashasti, dedicated to the glory and achievements of Acharya Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj.

Praise of his qualities: He is described with numerous epithets, comparing him to Rama in virtue, Krishna in statesmanship, Arjuna in valor, the Sun in radiance, Gautam in fortune, Mallavadisuri in debate, Abhaykumar in friendship, Saraswati in knowledge, and the ocean in fame.
His Impact: He is lauded for his ability to counter false arguments, uphold the truth of temporal calculations (tithi), grant initiation with great fanfare, and uphold the sanctity of Jain religious principles.
His teachings: His teachings are summarized as emphasizing the need to renounce worldly pleasures, focus on liberation, control desires, practice penance, and uphold the Jain principles of non-violence and right conduct. He is credited with reforming societal practices, such as discouraging the consumption of tea and stopping animal sacrifices in temples.
His role in promoting initiation (Diksha): He is particularly praised for his efforts to facilitate the initiation of monks and nuns, overcoming obstacles and opposition. His own difficult journey to initiation inspired him to ensure a smoother path for future aspirants.
His legal battles: The text mentions his legal struggles to protect the right to initiate, facing opposition from the ruling powers, but ultimately succeeding through the support of the Jain community.
His academic and spiritual prowess: He is depicted as a scholar who mastered various scriptures, a preacher who enlightened the masses, and a spiritual guide who inspired devotion and virtuous living.
His family background: His birth in a respectable family, his early life marked by parental loss, and the nurturing influence of his grandmother are described. His childhood devotion and aspiration for initiation are also highlighted.
His achievements in establishing the Smruti Mandir: The entire process of building and consecrating the temple, from its conception to its completion, is detailed, including the vast number of devotees, the elaborate rituals, the extensive decorations, and the contributions made by various individuals and communities. The temple's location, naming, and architectural features are elaborately described.
His passing (Nirvana): His final moments, marked by serenity and deep meditation despite illness, are described. His enduring influence on his disciples and devotees is emphasized.

7. Temple Consecration and Festivities (Pages 25-33): This section vividly describes the grand festival of consecration (Pratishtha Mahotsav) of the Smruti Mandir.

The Grandeur: The festival lasted for twenty-seven days, with elaborate rituals, prayers, and celebrations.
Devotee Participation: Devotees from India and abroad participated with immense devotion and generosity. The scale of offerings and contributions, including the naming of invitation cards, was phenomenal.
Symbolic Acts: The bringing of holy water from various sacred rivers for the ritualistic bathing of deities and gurus is mentioned.
Art and Architecture: The temple's construction, made of marble, and its intricate sculptures, including depictions of the Tirthankaras and the Gurus in their respective lineages, are praised. The individual Murtis (idols) of the Gurus and Tirthankaras are described in detail.
The Legacy: The text concludes with prayers for the perpetual existence of the temple, the presence of the deities, and the continuation of the lineage, as well as the author's humble request for forgiveness for any shortcomings in his poetic endeavor.

Overall Significance:

"Smruti Mandir Prashasti Kavyam" is more than just a temple description; it's a hagiography and a historical document that celebrates the life and spiritual contributions of Acharya Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj and the establishment of the Smruti Mandir. It serves to:

Preserve History: Document the establishment of a significant Jain temple and the lineage of its spiritual leaders.
Glorify the Guru: Extol the virtues, teachings, and achievements of Acharya Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj.
Inspire Devotion: Encourage faith, spiritual practice, and adherence to Jain principles among the readers.
Promote Jain Heritage: Showcase the rich cultural and religious heritage of Jainism through poetic narrative and detailed descriptions.
Acknowledge Contributions: Recognize the efforts of all those involved in the temple's construction and the propagation of Jain teachings.