Vijay Dharmsuriji - Book Summary

This text is a biographical account of Acharya Shri Vijaydharmasurishwarji Maharaj, a prominent Jain spiritual leader and scholar. It details his life, teachings, and significant contributions to Jainism.

Here's a comprehensive summary:

Early Life and Education:

Born in 1960 VS (1903 AD) in Wadhwan, Saurashtra, to Shah Hirachand Rathabhai and Chabhaben.
His given name was Bhaiachand.
His father passed away when he was six, and his devout mother instilled in him a deep religious inclination.
He excelled in his religious studies from a young age, even leading prayers at a young age.
He pursued further education in Ahmedabad, where his sharp intellect and diligent study habits impressed his teachers, who predicted a great future for him.
His mother wished for him to lead a life of renunciation and spiritual pursuit.

Initiation and Rise to Prominence:

At the age of 16, he accepted spiritual initiation from Acharya Shri Vijaymohanasurishwarji Maharaj.
He was initiated as Muni Shri Dharmavijayji in 1976 VS (1919 AD).
His mother, Chabhaben, also took initiation later and attained salvation on Shri Shatrunjay hill.
Under the guidance of his gurus, he immersed himself in the study of Jain scriptures, grammar, logic, literature, and karmic science, becoming a renowned expert in Dravyanuyoga (the doctrine of substance).
He was honored with the titles of Pravartak (1987 VS), Ganipanyas (1992 VS), and Upadhyay (2002 VS).
In 2007 VS (1950 AD), he was conferred the title of Acharya by Acharya Shri Vijaypratapsurishwarji Maharaj, and subsequently became known as Acharya Shri Vijaydharmasurishwarji Maharaj.
In 2020 VS (1963 AD), he was bestowed the epithet "Yugdivakar" (Lamp of the Era) by the Jain community of Mumbai.

Contributions and Impact (Shasanprabhavak - Propagator of the Faith):

Spiritual Leadership: His presence brought an atmosphere of devotion and auspiciousness through japa, tapas, and spiritual observances wherever he stayed for Chaturmas.
Eloquent Speaker: He was a powerful orator, particularly renowned for his discourses on the Bhagavati Sutra, evidenced by a substantial written work on the subject.
Promoter of Asceticism: He regularly conducted Upadhana Tapa (a specific religious observance) during his Chaturmas, which was observed 25 times under his guidance. These events raised significant funds for charitable causes.
Organizer of Religious Festivals: He inspired and led numerous religious festivals and celebrations, including the grand "Shri Vishwashanti Jain Aradhana Satra" in Mumbai in 2018 VS.
Temple Construction and Renovation: He inspired the construction of several Jain temples, including Shri Rishabhdev Bhagwan temple in Chembur (10 lakh expense) and Shri Munisuvratswamiji temple in Ghatkopar (25 lakh expense). He also oversaw the renovation of about a hundred Jain temples.
Education and Literature: He placed great emphasis on the propagation of right knowledge and religious education. He gave lectures on scriptures to monks, nuns, and lay followers. He was instrumental in establishing the Jagadguru Shri Hirsuri Sanskrit-Prakrit Pathshala in Mumbai and ensured funding for its faculty and students. He also actively promoted the creation and publication of Jain literature.
Literary Works: He authored the Sumangala Teeka on the Navatattva Prakaran in Sanskrit (6000 verses) in 1990 VS. He also provided detailed translations of important Jain texts like Laghu Kshetra Samas, Pancham Karma Granth, Shravak Pratikraman, and Vanditsutra. His magnum opus, "Shraman Bhagwan Mahavir," chronicling Lord Mahavir's past lives, showcased his exceptional writing style. He also oversaw the ornate transcription of the Agam Sutras.
Philanthropy and Social Service: He was deeply devoted to the welfare of the Jain community (Sadharmik Bhakti). He inspired the establishment of the Shri Jain Sadharmik Seva Sangh in Mumbai, which supports 250 Jain families monthly. Recognizing the need for a Jain dharamshala (religious inn), he initiated its construction, which culminated in a grand building in Bhuleshwar-Lalbaug in 2021 VS, housing a dharamshala, bhojanshala (dining hall), and a hospital. He also contributed to general welfare activities, initiating relief efforts during the Gujarat drought in 2028-29 VS.
Philanthropic Endeavors: Under his inspiration, crores of rupees were donated for noble causes. Notable examples include contributions for the Gadiji Upashray (5,50,000), Chembur Tirth construction (10 lakh), Mumbai Jain Dharamshala-Bhojanshala (20 lakh), Shri Shatrunjay Hospital (25 lakh), and Dharmavihar for Aradhana (4 lakh).
Community Initiatives: He was instrumental in organizing the 25th Nirvana Shatabdi of Lord Mahavir in Mumbai in 2031 VS. He also led significant pilgrimages, including the Shatrunjay Mahatirth Padayatra Sangh from Mumbai in 2033 VS and the Girnar Tirth Padayatra Sangh from Palitana in 2034 VS.
Personal Discipline: He was deeply committed to his daily spiritual practices and undertook various fasts and austerities like Gyanpanchami, Navpadji Eli, and Varshitap.

Legacy:

Acharya Shri Vijaydharmasurishwarji Maharaj left behind a strong lineage of disciples and grand-disciples who continue to contribute significantly to Jainism as scholars, orators, artists, and ascetics. Prominent among these are Shri Vijaydevsuriji, Shri Vijayanandsuriji, Shri Vijaykankaratnasuriji, Shri Vijaymahanandsuriji, and Shri Vijaysuryodaysuriji.
His life was a testament to his profound wisdom, spiritual discipline, philanthropic spirit, and dedication to the propagation and upliftment of Jainism.

The text also briefly mentions Acharya Shri Vijayyashodevsurishwarji Maharaj as another eminent Jain scholar and artist, highlighting Gujarat's tradition of producing individuals whose impact extends far beyond regional boundaries.