Vatsalyanidhi Sanghnayak - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vatsalyanidhi Sanghnayak" (The Benefactor of the Sangha, a Treasure of Affection), authored by Vijayshilchandrasuri and published by Shri Bhadrankaroday Shikshan Trust. The book is a biography of Acharya Shri Vijayanandan Surishwarji Maharaj.

I. Overview and Publisher's Statement:

The book is published under the auspicious blessings of Gachhadhipati Acharya Shri Vijaysuryodaysurishwarji Maharaj and the guidance of his disciple Acharya Shri Vijayshilchandrasuri Maharaj, who established the Bhadrankaroday Shikshan Trust. The publication of this biography is a matter of pride and joy for the trust. The publishers express their gratitude to Acharya Shri Vijayanandan Surishwarji Maharaj for inspiring such endeavors and request his continued blessings. The Valsad Shri Sangh's Shri Mahavirswami Jain Derasar Pedhi is commended for their generous contribution to this publication. This book is a separate re-publication of the biography previously featured in the "Shri Vijayanandan Suri Smarak Granth."

II. Author and Publisher:

Book Title: Vatsalyanidhi Sanghnayak (વાત્સલ્યનિધિ સંઘનાયક)
Author: Vijayshilchandrasuri (વિજયશીલચન્દ્રસૂરિ)
Publisher: Shri Bhadrankaroday Shikshan Trust (શ્રીભદ્રંકરોદય શિક્ષણ ટ્રસ્ટ), Godhra
Publication Year: V.S. 2064 / E.C. 2008
Edition: 1000 copies

III. Editorial and Commendatory Remarks:

Several eminent individuals praise Acharya Shri Vijayanandan Surishwarji Maharaj's qualities and contributions:

Pandit Shribhudas Bechardas Parekh: Stated that Acharya Shri Vijayanandan Surishwarji Maharaj preserved the complete legacy of the "Shasan Samrat" (Emperor of Governance).
Pandit Mafatlal Zaverchand Gandhi: Highlighted Maharaj's practicality, humility, forward-thinking vision, devotion to the Shasan, and foresight. He emphasized Maharaj's ability to maintain unity within the community despite having eight Acharyas, attributing this to his administrative acumen and his role as a neutral decision-maker in any Shasan-related issue.
Shri Ratilal Deepchand Desai: Described Maharaj as possessing wisdom, patience, composure, timeliness, foresight, quick thinking, sharp intellect, profound scholarship, eloquence, indomitable willpower, and adeptness in dealing with people. These qualities enabled him to provide clear and effective guidance during internal and external crises faced by the Shasan, thus protecting the Shri Sangh.
Panditvar Shribhiladas Keshrichand Sanghvi: Remarked that after the passing of Nemisuri Maharaj and Udaysuri Maharaj, the Sangha experienced significant loss. However, the leadership and guidance of Nandan Suri Maharaj mitigated this loss. When Nandan Suri Maharaj himself departed, the Sangha felt the combined loss of all three great Acharyas. While many Acharyas will come and go, it will be rare to find a personality comparable to Nandan Suri Maharaj.

IV. The Unique Era and the Acharya's Role:

The text emphasizes that each era has its achievements and challenges. In the context of the Tapagachha Jain Sangha of the 20th century, the "Tithi Vivad" (dispute over dates/festivals) was a complex problem with formidable contributing factors. Acharya Shri Vijayanandan Surishwarji Maharaj, by firmly upholding his impartiality and adherence to scriptural traditions, confronted these issues. His presence and existence acted as a shield and umbrella for the Tapagachha Sangha. He had no personal agenda or opinion; his only stance was that of scriptural tradition. His life's work was to counter and neutralize those who waged war against the boundaries of Shasan, scripture, and Sangha. The biography aims to illustrate how effectively he accomplished this mission.

V. The Tithi Dispute and the "Devsur Samachari":

A significant portion of the text delves into the "Tithi Vivad" and its historical context, particularly referencing the "Devsur Samachari."

The Tapagachha's Practice: The current practice of the Tapagachha monastic community, especially regarding Tithi matters, is known as "Devsur Samachari." Terms like "Devsur Sangha" and "Devsur Tapagachha Sangha" also refer to this practice.
Historical Context: During the 17th-18th centuries, after Bhattarak Vijayansuri Maharaj, a somewhat tainted atmosphere prevailed in the Tapagachha. Two successors emerged, leading to two branches: Anandsur (Ansur) Tapagachha and Devsur Tapagachha. Later, reconciliation and unification occurred, with the Ansur branch merging into the Devsur branch, which then became the predominant and recognized lineage.
The Tithi Disagreement: The core disagreement between the two branches concerned Tithi. The Ansur faction accepted the 13th day following the New Moon or Full Moon when the first day was omitted. The Devsur faction, however, accepted the 13th day when the first day was omitted, not the day after the New Moon/Full Moon. After their unification, the Devsur practice became more widespread and accepted, leading to the Sangha being known as the Devsur Sangha or Devsur Tapagachha Sangha, as it remains to this day.
Controversy Over "Devsur": The text addresses recent objections raised by some groups against associating the term "Devsur" with the Tapagachha or its practices. These critics argue that "Devsur" narrows the scope of the Tapagachha, may not be universally accepted within the entire Gachha, and might have been introduced for specific purposes, lacking original foundational use. Some have unearthed manuscripts suggesting Vijaydevsuri Maharaj was lax in conduct and was excommunicated, questioning his authority and the lineage named after him. The text asserts that the entire Tapagachhi monastic community descends from the lineage of Vijaydevsuri Maharaj and there is no separate Sangha. Acharya Shri Atmaramji Maharaj also identified himself as a follower of Vijaydevsuri's tradition in "Jain Tattvadarsh."

VI. The Legacy of the Devsur Tradition:

Recitation during Investiture: The text highlights the specific recitation during diksha or investiture ceremonies: "Koti Gana, Vaji Shakha, Chandrakula, Acharya Shri Vijaydevsuri-Vijaysinhsuri Pattaparampara Pratishthit Acharya Shri Vijaynemisuri..." This practice is noted as absent in other communities, even among those who claim to follow Devsur Samachari, like the Sagar Sanghadha.
Historical Basis: The name "Vijaysinhsuri" is found in the "Brihad Yogasidhi" during investiture rituals, suggesting a historical tradition of such pronouncements. The absence of this practice later might be due to ignorance of the tradition.
Debate on "Devsur": The text addresses the controversy surrounding the term "Devsur." It argues that "Devsur" is a distinguishing characteristic, not a limitation. The Tapagachha is one and indivisible; it has been known as "Devsur Tapagachha" since the unification of the Ansur-Devsur factions. The use of "Devsur" is not always necessary but becomes significant when addressing the Tithi dispute, to differentiate from those who disregard the ancient and scripturally sound practices of Vijaydevsuri Maharaj.
Tithi Vivad Resolution: The text elaborates on the Tithi dispute, stating that the core issue revolved around accepting the 13th day after the New Moon/Full Moon in case of omission. The Devsur tradition upholds the 13th day of the waxing or waning moon.
Critique of Revisionism: The text refutes claims that Vijaydevsuri Maharaj was lax in conduct and excommunicated. It cites Pandit Shri Rupvijayji (from Dehlala) describing Vijaydevsuri with the words "Gachhaapy Yesham Namne Olikhay Chhe" (the Gachha is known by his name).
Acceptance and Tradition: The text emphasizes that the Tapagachha is a unified entity, and the name "Devsur Tapagachha" emerged after the reconciliation of the Ansur and Devsur factions. It argues that while "Devsur" is not always required, it becomes crucial in the context of the Tithi dispute to distinguish those who follow the ancient and scripturally correct practices of Vijaydevsuri Maharaj from those who deviate.
The Essence of Devsur Samachari: The "Devsur Samachari," which the text champions, is identified as the specific Tithi-related conduct of the Tapagachha.

VII. Key Aspects of Acharya Shri Vijayanandan Surishwarji Maharaj's Life and Teachings:

The biography covers various facets of Maharaj's life:

Early Life and Upbringing: Born in Botad, his childhood was marked by religious upbringing, filial respect, and a spirit of service and helpfulness.
Desire for Renunciation: Witnessing a grand procession (Samaiyo) for the Acharya sparked a deep desire for renunciation in the young Nartan.
Quest for Knowledge: Maharaj pursued both worldly (English) and religious education diligently. He displayed exceptional intellect and memory, mastering Sanskrit grammar, logic, and various philosophical systems.
Devotion to Guru: His unwavering loyalty and service to his Guru, Acharya Shri Vijayanandan Surishwarji Maharaj, are highlighted as a defining characteristic.
Scholastic Achievements: He mastered numerous Sanskrit and Jain philosophical texts, demonstrating profound erudition.
Expertise in Astrology and Shilpa Shastra: Maharaj possessed exceptional knowledge in astrology and architecture, offering accurate predictions and guiding the construction of temples and idols.
Moral Strength and Diplomacy: His unwavering moral compass and skillful diplomacy were evident in his handling of disputes and his ability to unite diverse factions.
Family Life and Renunciation: Despite a supportive family, his spiritual calling led him to renounce worldly life, a decision his family ultimately respected. His elder brother also later took diksha.
Role in Shasan Prabhavana: He actively worked to enhance the glory and influence of the Jain Shasan through various initiatives, including temple renovations, public discourses, and resolving community disputes.
Upholding Principles: Maharaj demonstrated immense resilience and adherence to his principles, even in the face of opposition or adverse circumstances, particularly in upholding the traditional Tithi practices.
Compassion and Equanimity: His interactions with all, regardless of their background or beliefs, were marked by compassion, impartiality, and a desire for their spiritual upliftment.
The Tithi Debate: A significant portion of the biography details his involvement in the Tithi dispute, his role in promoting unity within the Sangha, and his efforts to resolve the disagreements through peaceful dialogue and scriptural adherence.
Leadership during Crises: He provided steadfast leadership and guidance during times of crisis for the community and the Shasan.
Final Days and Legacy: The biography concludes with his passing, leaving behind a legacy of scholarship, devotion, and unwavering commitment to Jain principles.

VIII. Specific Anecdotes and Teachings:

The text includes several anecdotes illustrating Maharaj's character:

The Tithi Dispute Resolution: His attempts to resolve the Tithi dispute by emphasizing scriptural adherence and proposing logical solutions are detailed.
The "Devsur Samachari": His defense and explanation of the Devsur tradition's significance, especially in the context of the Tithi dispute, are presented.
Upholding the Dharma: His unwavering stance on adhering to the correct Tithi practices, even when faced with opposition, demonstrates his commitment to the Dharma.
Compassion and Tolerance: His ability to remain calm and composed even when criticized, and his emphasis on simplicity and the pursuit of spiritual goals over worldly acclaim, are highlighted.
Guiding Disciples: His dedication to teaching and guiding his disciples, ensuring their intellectual and spiritual development, is evident.
The "Tithi Vivad" and its Resolution: The detailed account of the Tithi dispute and the attempts at resolution, culminating in the Ahmedabad Muni Sammelan, showcases Maharaj's efforts towards Sangha unity. His clear articulation of the traditional practices and his steadfastness in the face of opposition are emphasized.
Public Service and Administration: His involvement in crucial community decisions, such as the festival date disputes and public welfare initiatives, reveals his administrative prowess.
Personal Life and Renunciation: Despite his family's respect, his inner calling for a spiritual life led him to renunciation.
Upholding Scriptural Integrity: His emphasis on the integrity of scriptures and traditions, and his refutation of erroneous interpretations, demonstrate his commitment to preserving Jain philosophy.

IX. Conclusion:

The biography of Acharya Shri Vijayanandan Surishwarji Maharaj is presented as a testament to his profound spiritual attainment, intellectual brilliance, administrative skill, and unwavering devotion to the Jain faith. His life serves as an inspiration for future generations, highlighting the importance of adherence to tradition, compassion, and the pursuit of spiritual liberation. The narrative emphasizes his role as a beacon of hope and guidance for the Jain community, particularly in navigating complex disputes and upholding the sanctity of religious practices.