Tapagaccha Shraman Vansh Vruksh

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Tapagaccha Shraman Vansh Vruksh" by Jayantilal Chottalal Shah, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Sri Tapagaccha Shraman Vansh Vruksh (Tree of the Ascetics of the Tapagaccha)

Author: Jayantilal Chottalal Shah

Publisher: Jayantilal Chottalal Shah

Overview:

This book, a second edition compiled by Jayantilal Chottalal Shah, serves as a directory and historical reference for the lineage of ascetics (Shramanas) within the Tapagaccha, a significant sect of Jainism. The author aims to present the guru-disciple tradition of the Tapagaccha, making it accessible to the general public. The book is structured into three main sections: a lineage chart (Vansh Vruksh), a section introducing portraits (Chitra Parichay), and an explanatory section (Vivechan).

Key Sections and Content:

1. Vansh Vruksh Vibhag (Lineage Tree Section):

   • This section lists the ascetics of each community within the Tapagaccha.
   • It includes a list of Ganadharas, Shramanas, and Shramanis from the time of the 24 Tirthankaras.
   • It details the lineage of the Nirgrantha Gaccha, starting from the fifth Ganadhara, Sri Sudharma Swami, and tracing it through prominent figures like Bhadrabahu Swami, Mahagiri, and Vajraswami.
   • It then focuses on the specific lineage of the Tapagaccha, starting with its founder, Sri Jagachandrasuri (also known as Hirla Jagachandrasuri).
   • The lineage is meticulously traced through subsequent Acharyas, with numbered entries and symbolic notations (like + for deceased, 'sth.' for Sthavir, 'm.' for Pravartak, 'p.' for Panyas, 'u.' for Upadhyay, 'a.' for Acharya).
   • The book lists a substantial number of Acharyas and their disciples, showing the continuation of the lineage. For example, it traces the line from Jagachandrasuri through Devendra Suri, Somaprabh Suri, Somatilak Suri, Somasundar Suri, Munisundar Suri, Ratneshekhar Suri, Lakshmisagar Suri, Sumatisadhusuri, Hemavimal Suri, Anandavimal Suri, Vijaydan Suri, Hiravijayasuri, Vijayavimal Suri, and many others.
   • The author notes that names of ascetics whose disciples are no longer alive have been omitted. The list is based on available records and may have omissions.
   • As of Kartik Purnima, V.S. 1992, there were 664 living ascetics in the Tapagaccha.

2. Chitra Vibhag (Portrait Section) & Chitra Parichay Vibhag (Portrait Introduction Section):

   • This section contains 20 portraits of prominent Acharyas and Munis from the Tapagaccha.
   • The "Chitra Parichay Vibhag" provides biographical details for each depicted figure.
   • Notable figures whose portraits and biographies are included:
     • Sri Vijaykamalsurishwarji (Punjabi): Described as a protector of the sect, initiator of the Vadodara Muni Sammelan, and known for his scholarly pursuits, influence over disciples, and dedication to the community's welfare. Born in 1856 in Radhanpur, he took initiation in 1904, received Acharya pada in 1917 in Ahmedabad, and passed away in 1918.
     • Sri Vijaykesarsurishwarji: Revered for his mastery of Omkar chanting, yoga practices, and prolific literary contributions. Born in 1877 in Palitana, he took initiation in 1900, received Gani pada in 1916 in Surat, and took his final breath in 1918 in Taranga.
     • Sri Mohanlalji Maharaj: Known for his significant role in propagating Jainism in Mumbai and Surat. Born a Brahmin in Mathura in 1830, he converted to Jainism, took initiation in 1856, renounced his Yati status in 1876, and passed away at the age of 76 in Surat in 1919.
     • Pandit Sri Harshmuniji: Characterized by his peaceful life and dedication. Born in 1868 in Mandavi (Kutch), he took initiation in 1888, received Gani pada in 1911 in Surat, and Panyas pada in 1912 in Mumbai. He passed away in 1918.
     • Yoginisth Sri Buddhisagar Suriji: Celebrated for his spiritualism and literary works. Born in 1874 in Vijapur, he took initiation in 1912 and received Acharya pada in 1914. He was a prolific writer, composing over 750 books, and passed away in 1934.
     • Sri Vijayanandsurishwarji (Atmaramji): A significant figure from Punjab, known for his extensive scholarship and efforts to unite Jain communities. Born in 1835 in Kalash (Punjab), he took initiation in 1853, received Acharya pada in 1899 in Palitana, and passed away in 1908.
     • Sri Vijaydansurishwarji: Distinguished by his profound knowledge, scholarly achievements, and strict adherence to vows. Born in 1868 in Jhinjhuvada, he took initiation in 1890, received Gani pada in 1906 in Khambhat, Panyas pada in 1907, and Acharya pada in 1925 in Chhani. He passed away in 1935.
     • Sri Hiravijayasuriji: A monumental figure in Jain history, known for his influence on Emperor Akbar. Born in 1574 in Palanpur, he took initiation in 1589, received Acharya pada in 1592, and was honored with the title "Jagadguru" by Akbar. He passed away in 1604.
     • Sri Manivijayji Dada: Revered as the chief progenitor of the current Sanghavi sadhus. Born in 1797 in Aghar, he took initiation in 1818, received Panyas pada in 1866, and passed away in 1879.
     • Sri Vruddhivijayji Maharaj: Recognized for his disciplinary approach, peaceful nature, and humility. Born in 1834 in Ramnagar (Punjab), he took initiation in 1848, received Acharya pada in 1857, and passed away in 1904.
     • Sri Vijaydharmasurishwarji: A luminary who fought against superstitions and spread Jainism across India and abroad. Born in 1867 in Mahuva, he took initiation in 1887 and achieved significant influence, including establishing Jain institutions in Bengal and interacting with European scholars. He passed away in 1922.
     • Sri Hansvijayji Maharaj: Known for his asceticism and devotional practices. Born in 1858 in Jamnagar, he took initiation in 1889, received Acharya pada in 1927, and passed away in 1934.
     • Sri Charitravijayji (Kachhi): Celebrated for his commitment to truth, compassion, and the protection of holy sites. Born in 1884 in Petri village (Kutch), he took initiation in 1900, received Acharya pada in 1927, and passed away in 1919 due to plague.
     • Sri Buddhivijayji Maharaj (Buterayji Maharaj): Considered the pioneer of modern Sanghavi sadhus, known for his courage and spirituality. Born in 1807 in Dulva village (Punjab), he took initiation in 1834, and became a leading figure in reforming the Sanghavi tradition. He passed away in 1938.
     • Sri Vijaykamalsurishwarji (Punjabi): A significant figure from Punjab, known for his reformist zeal and influence. Born in 1854, he took initiation in 1886, and received Acharya pada in 1912. He passed away in 1925.
     • Pandit Sri Dharmavijayji: Known for his bold approach and devotional practices. Born in 1876 in Thara, he took initiation in 1906 and passed away in 1934.
     • Sri Muktivijayji Gani (Sri Mulchandji Maharaj): A prominent figure who played a crucial role in the growth of the Sanghavi community. Born in 1830 in Sialkot (Punjab), he took initiation in 1906, and received Gani pada in 1917. He passed away in 1919.
     • Sri Anandavimal Surishwarji: A pivotal figure in the revival of Jain practices and the protection of temples. Born in 1490 in Idar, he took initiation in 1495, received Acharya pada in 1520, and passed away in 1541.
     • Sri Jhaversagarji: His photo is included, but his biography was not available.
     • Sri Vijaykamalamurishwarji (Gujarati): This entry appears twice, once with a brief introduction and once with a more detailed biography. He was known for his scholarly works and reformist activities.
     • Sri Vijaysinghsuri: Mentioned as a significant Acharya in the lineage.
     • Sri Devasuriji: Known for his mastery of logic and the monumental work "Syadvadaratnakara."
     • Sri Hemachandracharyaji: A towering personality, referred to as "Kālīkālasarvajña" (Omniscient of the Kali Yuga), instrumental in reviving Jainism and influencing rulers like Siddharaja and Kumarpala. Born in 1145, he took initiation in 1150 and passed away in 1229.

3. Vivechan Vibhag (Explanatory Section):

   • This section contains four insightful essays on Jain history and the Tapagaccha.
   • Essay 1: "Acharyas of Tapagaccha and Their Literature" by Dheerajlal Dhanjibhai Shah: Discusses the significant contributions of Tapagaccha Acharyas to Jain literature, art, and culture from Jagachandrasuri to the present day. It highlights how Jain Acharyas enriched not only Jain literature but also Vedic and Buddhist literature through comparative analysis and critical study. It emphasizes their role in preserving and developing literature, especially during periods of political upheaval.
   • Essay 2: "A Glimpse into Jain History" by Yogisth Acharya Buddhisagar Suri: Traces the history of Jainism from its origins, emphasizing its philosophical tenets, the importance of the four-fold Sangha (monks, nuns, laymen, laywomen), and the numerical strength of Jains throughout different eras. It discusses the decline in Jain population due to various socio-religious factors, contrasting it with the missionary zeal of other religions.
   • Essay 3: "Origin of Tapagaccha" by Pujyapada Muni Maharaj Sri Darshanvijayji (Delhiwala): Explains that the Tapagaccha originated from the lineage of ascetics following the teachings of Lord Mahavir, who was known as "Nirgrantha Jnatiputra." It clarifies the historical development of Jain monastic traditions, including the distinction between "Nirgrantha" and "Achalak" (ascetics with minimal or no clothing) and the evolution of different monastic orders or "Gacchas" from the original Sangha. It highlights the establishment of various Gacchas like Kotikgaccha, Chandragaccha, Vanavasigaccha, Vadagaccha, and finally, Tapagaccha, stemming from the initial Nirgrantha Sangha, and explains how historical events and evolving practices led to these distinctions.
   • Essay 4: "Didactic Influence of Jain Acharyas" by Muniraj Sri Nyayavijayji (Delhiwala): Focuses on the profound impact of Jain Acharyas on rulers and the general populace. It highlights how Acharyas spread the principles of Jainism, including non-violence (ahimsa), self-control (sanyam), and peace, influencing kings and commoners alike. It provides examples of prominent Acharyas and their interactions with rulers, emphasizing their role in establishing Jain culture, promoting literature, and fostering social reforms.

Key Themes and Significance:

• Lineage and Succession: The book meticulously details the unbroken chain of gurus and disciples within the Tapagaccha, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the tradition and the spiritual authority passed down through generations.
• Historical Preservation: It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the history of Jainism, particularly the development and influence of the Tapagaccha. The detailed biographies of Acharyas and the historical context provided in the essays offer insights into the socio-religious landscape of ancient and medieval India.
• Literary Contributions: The book highlights the significant literary output of Jain Acharyas, demonstrating their intellectual prowess in various fields like philosophy, logic, grammar, poetry, and history.
• Influence on Society and Rulers: The essays showcase how Jain Acharyas exerted a profound influence on rulers and society, promoting principles of non-violence, righteousness, and ethical conduct, thereby shaping the cultural and moral fabric of the time.
• The Tapagaccha as a Continuation of Jain Tradition: The book positions the Tapagaccha as a direct continuation of the original Jain Sangha founded by Lord Mahavir, tracing its lineage and evolution through centuries of history.

Overall:

"Sri Tapagaccha Shraman Vansh Vruksh" is a monumental work that compiles extensive historical and genealogical information about the Tapagaccha. It is a significant contribution to Jain scholarship, providing a rich resource for understanding the lineage, history, literature, and socio-religious impact of this important Jain tradition.