Veer Dharm Pattavali - Book Summary

The provided text is "Veer Dharm Pattavali" by Mangalvijay, published by Hemchand Savchand Shah. This book serves as a historical account and lineage of Jain Acharyas, tracing their succession and significant contributions to Jainism.

Here's a comprehensive summary of its content based on the provided pages:

Overall Theme: The "Veer Dharm Pattavali" is a chronicle of the succession of Jain spiritual leaders (Acharyas or Suris) from the time of Lord Mahavir's first disciple, Sudharmaswami, up to a later period. It details the lineage, key disciples, their teachings, significant events, and the establishment and spread of various Jain gacchas (lineages or sub-sects). The text emphasizes the continuity of Jain tradition, the preservation of scriptures, and the efforts of these Acharyas in spreading Jain Dharma and upholding its principles.

Key Figures and Lineages:

Lord Mahavir: The text begins by venerating Lord Mahavir, his attainment of Kevala Jnana (omniscience), and his teachings.
Sudharmaswami: He is identified as the first direct disciple of Lord Mahavir and the recipient of his spiritual succession. The text highlights his role in transmitting the teachings and mentions that he was eligible for the Gurugaddi due to his special qualities, unlike other Ganadharas who were short-lived.
Jambuswami: The disciple of Sudharmaswami, he is described as a great muni who achieved Kevala Jnana and played a vital role in the tradition. His disciples included Prabhava and Shyayambhav.
Arya Prabhava Swami: A successor in the lineage, he received spiritual knowledge and was followed by Arya Shyayambhav.
Arya Shyayambhav: He achieved Shrut Kevala Jnana (knowledge of all scriptures) and was succeeded by Yashobhadra.
Yashobhadra: Described as a powerful Acharya, he was instrumental in enlightening many beings.
Shambhutivijaya: A disciple of Yashobhadra, he was learned in scriptures.
Bhadra Bahu: A significant figure, he compiled the Kalpa Sutra from Drishtivada and authored the Upasargahara Stotra, known for its efficacy in removing calamities. He is credited with preserving Jain Dharma.
Sthulabhadra: A disciple of Shambhutivijaya, his story is detailed, including his transformation from a worldly life (associated with a courtesan named Koshā) to renunciation after contemplating the nature of death. He achieved Shrut Kevala Jnana and is considered a foremost among virtuous saints. His disciples included Arya Mahagiri and Suhasti.
Arya Mahagiri and Arya Suhasti: Disciples of Sthulabhadra, they continued the lineage. The text mentions a severe famine during their time and the efforts of Suhasti in preserving Jain Dharma.
Bhadra Shravaka's son, Avantikumara: The text narrates how Avantikumara renounced worldly pleasures and attained initiation, highlighting the importance of spiritual resolve.
The Lineage Continues: The Pattavali then lists a long succession of Acharyas, detailing their contributions, the establishment of different gacchas (lineages), their philosophical debates, and their roles in spreading Jainism across various regions of India. Notable names include:
- Kālikacharya: His story of confronting King Gardabhilla and rescuing a pious nun is highlighted, along with the establishment of the Paryushana festival.
- Arya Dinna, Arya Simhagiri, Gautam Muni, Vashvamhi, Muninda, Dhanagiri, Balisaha, Bodhilinga, Devacharya, Dharma, Umaswati, Shvamacharya, Arya Poornika, Kaliṅga Bhikshu, Pushyamitra, etc.
- Vajraswami: His influence and the establishment of the Vajra Gachha are mentioned.
- Samantabhadra Suri: Credited with composing important works like Yuktyanushasana and Devagama Stotra.
- Vardhamana, Bappa Bhatti Suri, Sidhasena Divakara, Hemachandra Suri, Vadi Deva Suri, Hemachandra (Kalikalsarvajna), etc.
- The text extensively details the contributions of Hemachandra Suri, a highly influential Acharya, who was instrumental in the spiritual and intellectual development of Jainism. His works in various languages and his influence on kings like Kumarapala are highlighted.
- The lineage continues through Vijaydharmasuri, Vijaydevsuri, Somaprabhacharya, Somtilak Suri, Devsundar Suri, Somusundar Suri, Munisundar Suri, Vijaydev Suri, and many others.

Key Themes and Concepts:

Succession of Acharyas (Gachhas): The text meticulously traces the chain of spiritual succession (Pattavali) and the formation of various gacchas, often named after prominent Acharyas or their qualities (e.g., Nirgrantha Gachha, Koti Gachha, Chandra Gachha, Vat Gachha, Tapogachha).
Preservation of Scriptures: The text emphasizes the role of Acharyas in preserving, compiling, and commenting on Jain scriptures, such as the Kalpa Sutra and various Agamas. The development of commentaries (bhashyas and tikas) is a recurring theme.
Scholasticism and Debates: Many Acharyas are described as great scholars, logicians, and debaters who defended Jain philosophy against other schools of thought. The text mentions victories in philosophical debates and the establishment of the superiority of Jain principles.
Impact on Society and Rulers: A significant portion of the text details how these Acharyas influenced kings and societal practices. They were instrumental in promoting Jainism, establishing temples, encouraging vegetarianism, and guiding rulers towards righteous conduct. The conversion of rulers and their courts to Jainism is frequently mentioned.
Famines and Challenges: The text acknowledges periods of hardship, particularly famines, and the efforts of Acharyas and the Jain Sangha to overcome them and preserve the faith.
Virtuous Conduct and Renunciation: The biographies often highlight the rigorous asceticism, renunciation, and virtuous conduct of the Acharyas, serving as exemplary models for followers.
Spread of Jainism: The Pattavali illustrates the geographical spread of Jainism across different regions of India, with specific mentions of kingdoms and cities where Acharyas propagated the faith.
Compilation of Texts: The text lists numerous philosophical, grammatical, poetic, and doctrinal texts authored by these Acharyas, underscoring their intellectual prowess and contribution to Jain literature.
Unity and Disunity: While celebrating the achievements, the text also touches upon instances of internal dissension or challenges within the Jain community and the efforts of Acharyas to resolve them.

Structure and Style: The book is written in a verse format (often in Sanskrit or Prakrit poetic meters), detailing the lives and deeds of each Acharya in chronological order. It is presented as a devotional and historical account, aiming to inspire faith and reverence for the lineage of spiritual guides.

In essence, "Veer Dharm Pattavali" is a vital historical document within Jain tradition, providing a detailed genealogy of its spiritual leaders and a testament to their enduring legacy in shaping and propagating Jain philosophy and practice.