Vijay Ramsuriji - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, focusing on the life and legacy of Acharya Vijayramsurishwarji Maharaj, based on the provided pages:

The document is an excerpt from a larger work, likely a collection of biographies of significant Jain figures, titled "Shramana Bhagwanto" (Part 2). It specifically details the life and achievements of Acharya Shri Vijayramsurishwarji Maharaj, described as a "Shaashahitachintak, Majna, Samayajna and Param Shaasan Prabhavak" (a thinker of scriptures, knowledgeable, aware of time, and a great propagator of the faith).

Early Life and Renunciation:

Acharya Vijayramsurishwarji Maharaj was born in a prosperous and cultured family in Kubadthal, a village near Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
His father was Bhalabhai and his mother was Gangabai. Both were described as virtuous and devoted individuals.
He had an elder brother named Vadibhai.
Tragically, both brothers lost their father at a young age. They were raised under the care of their grandfather Pujabhai and mother Gangaba, who instilled in them strong values and a religious inclination.
The family later moved to Ahmedabad. However, their grandfather Pujabhai passed away, which deeply impacted the younger brother, Ramanbhai (who would later become Acharya Vijayramsurishwarji Maharaj).
This loss intensified Ramanbhai's sense of detachment from worldly life. He felt the impermanence of the world and developed a strong desire for renunciation.
He was inspired by the renunciation-filled discourse of the esteemed Acharya Bhagwant Shri Vijay Surendrasurishwarji Maharaj, who was then in Ahmedabad.
Ramanbhai sought permission from his mother to take initiation (diksha). After careful consideration, his mother agreed.
His elder brother, Vadibhai, initially opposed the decision, not wanting his beloved younger brother to become a monk.
Despite the family's initial hesitation, Ramanbhai's firm resolve prevailed, and the family ultimately supported his decision.

Initiation and Academic Prowess:

On the auspicious day of Maha Sud Panchami in Vikram Samvat 1973 (1916 CE), the 13-year-old Ramanbhai was initiated into the monastic life by his Guru, Acharya Shri Vijay Surendrasurishwarji Maharaj.
His Guru renamed him 'Ramvijayji'.
Under his Guru's guidance, Muni Shri Ramvijayji dedicated himself to the deep study of Agam scriptures and became proficient in subjects like Nyaya (logic), Vyakarana (grammar), and Sahitya (literature). He achieved mastery of the Agams.
Living a life of strict asceticism with unwavering dedication and pure intent, Muni Shri Ramvijayji demonstrated exceptional suitability for higher monastic titles.

Elevation to Higher Monastic Ranks:

In Vikram Samvat 1999 (1942 CE), on the auspicious day of Ashvin Vad 3, Muni Shri Ramvijayji was honored with the title of Ganipatti (a high monastic rank, often indicating leadership in scripture study).
(The compilation of this section is attributed to Gurupadarenuj Jagdramvijayji Maharaj).
Even before this, Ganivar Shri Ramvijayji Maharaj was actively involved in propagating Jainism. His eloquent and captivating discourses attracted a growing following.
After the passing of his Guru in Vikram Samvat 2006 (1949 CE) on Kartik Sud Panchami, Shri Ramvijayji found it difficult to cope with the loss. However, guided by his profound spiritual insight, he continued his service to the Jain faith with resolve.
His dedicated and continuous religious activities led many Jain communities (Shrisanghs) to request him to accept the position of Acharya.
Finally, on the auspicious day of Vaishakh Sud 3 in Vikram Samvat 2007 (1950 CE) in Patan, his elder monastic brother, Panyasji Shri Ramvijayji Maharaj, bestowed upon him the titles of Panyas (on Vaishakh Sud 3) and Acharya (on Vaishakh Sud 5).
Thus, Ganivar Shri Ramvijayji became Acharya Shri Vijayramsurishwarji Maharaj, the supreme head of the entire monastic community.

Legacy and Current Activities:

Acharya Shri Vijayramsurishwarji Maharaj is currently guiding many virtuous souls towards the righteous path.
His primary areas of spiritual wandering (vihar) are Gujarat and Rajasthan.
He has also spent Chaturmas (the monsoon retreat) in regions like Bihar, Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, and Maharashtra.
He was a successful organizer of the Muni Sammelan (Monastic Conference) held in Vikram Samvat 2044 (1987 CE).
He has made an invaluable contribution to fostering and strengthening the unity of the entire Jain community.
Even at his advanced age, Acharya Shri remains a strict adherent to monastic conduct, showing no signs of relaxation. He possesses a strong willpower and a unique life journey.
The document concludes with repeated salutations (vandana) to this great Acharya.

Mention of Other Figures and Lineage:

The text also lists some of the disciples and grand-disciples of Acharya Shri Vijayramsurishwarji Maharaj (Dhelawala), including Acharya Shri Bhuwanchandrasuriji, Acharya Shri Bhadransuriji, Acharya Shri Abhaydevsuriji, and several Munis. The asterisk (*) denotes deceased individuals.
The document also mentions the inspirational Acharya Shri Ashokchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, who initiated various religious activities.
It briefly touches upon the spiritual environment of Sariyad, a village near Anhilpur Patan, known as the land of literary pursuits of Kalikal Sarvagnya Bhagwan Shri Hemchandracharya Maharaj and the fertile ground for the immortal vine of Ahimsa of Paramahant Shri Kumarpal Maharaj.
It then starts to introduce the parents of another revered figure, Seth Shri Virchandbhai and Shrimati Zabalben from Sariyad, and mentions the auspicious birth of a child with beautiful qualities on the day of the birth-announcement of Lord Shri Mahavir Swami during the Parvashan festival in Vikram Samvat 1960.

In essence, the document is a tribute to Acharya Shri Vijayramsurishwarji Maharaj, chronicling his journey from a devout householder to a respected monastic leader, highlighting his academic achievements, spiritual dedication, and significant contributions to the propagation and unity of Jainism.