Vijay Vvallabhsuri Smarak Granth

This comprehensive summary synthesizes the information from the provided Jain text, "Vijay Vallabhsuri Smarak Granth," focusing on its key aspects:

Book Title: Vijay Vallabhsuri Smarak Granth (Commemoration Volume for Acharya Vijayavallabhasuri) Publisher: Shri Mahavira Jaina Vidyalaya, Bombay Year of Publication: 1956

Overview:

The "Vijay Vallabhsuri Smarak Granth" is a commemorative volume published by the Shri Mahavira Jaina Vidyalaya in Bombay in 1956. It is dedicated to the esteemed Jain Acharya Shri Vijayavallabhasuri, a prominent figure of the Jain faith known for his vast knowledge, austerity, and service to the Jain community. The granth aims to honor his memory and highlight his contributions to Jainism, culture, art, and education.

Key Content and Themes:

The granth is a rich compilation of essays, articles, poems, and visual materials, organized into three sections: Gujarati, Hindi, and English. It covers a wide range of topics related to Jainism, its history, philosophy, art, literature, and the life and teachings of Acharya Vijayavallabhasuri.

Acharya Vijayavallabhasuri:

• Spiritual Lineage: He was the successor to Acharya Shri Vijayanandsuri, whom he served devotedly. He is described as a reflection of his guru's virtues and a beacon of spiritual guidance.
• Life and Legacy: Acharya Vijayavallabhasuri was a significant proponent of Jainism. His life was dedicated to spiritual practice, religious service, and the upliftment of the Jain community. He is remembered for his profound intellect, unwavering equanimity, administrative efficiency, foresight, patience, and great courage.
• Educational Contributions: A major contribution highlighted is his role as the inspiration and driving force behind the establishment and growth of the Shri Mahavira Jaina Vidyalaya in Bombay. He also played a role in the establishment of other educational institutions like the Parshvanath Jain Vidyalaya in Varkana. His vision was to provide comprehensive education that nurtured both spiritual values and practical knowledge.
• Social Reform and Activism: The text details his efforts to combat social evils like the practice of Kanyavikray (selling daughters) and child marriage. He actively worked for the progress of society, advocating for education, particularly for women.
• Philanthropy and Service: His life was marked by extensive travel across India, engaging in discourses and establishing educational institutions. He established educational centers and inspired many to contribute to the community's welfare.
• Miraculous Incidents: The granth includes several anecdotes that illustrate the spiritual power and influence of Acharya Vijayavallabhasuri, such as instances of blessings being fulfilled, healing through divine intervention, and miraculous occurrences that instilled faith and awe in people.
• Inclusivity and Universalism: Despite his deep roots in Jain tradition, Acharya Vijayavallabhasuri's teachings transcended sectarian boundaries. He advocated for universal brotherhood and treated all individuals with compassion and equality, regardless of their faith or background. His broad perspective embraced humanity and sought to dispel ignorance and darkness with the light of knowledge.
• Poetic and Literary Contributions: He was also a poet and scholar, having authored several devotional hymns, treatises, and literary works that expounded Jain philosophy and ethics in accessible language. His writings often drew upon the rich tapestry of Indian culture and history to convey his spiritual messages.

Content of the Granth:

The granth is structured into sections dedicated to:

• Shraddhanjali (Tributes and Life Sketch): This section contains articles and poems paying homage to Acharya Vijayavallabhasuri, narrating his life, his spiritual journey, his character, and his significant contributions.
• Articles on Jain Philosophy and Culture: A substantial portion of the granth comprises scholarly articles by various experts covering topics such as:
  • Philosophy: Concepts like Ahimsa (non-violence), Anekantavada (non-absolutism), Karma Vada (law of karma), and Yoga.
  • History: Details about ancient Jain acharyas, guru traditions, historical figures, coins, and events in Jain history.
  • Art and Architecture: Descriptions and illustrations of ancient Jain temples, sculptures, iconography, cave architecture, painting, and pillar carvings.
  • Literature and Languages: Discussions on Prakrit, Apabhramsha, and their contribution to the development of Indian languages and literature.
  • Education: The importance of Jain education, the establishment of educational institutions, and the need for a comprehensive approach to learning.
• Visual Materials: The granth is enriched with numerous photographs and illustrations of Jain temples, sculptures, artifacts, manuscripts, and historical sites, providing a visual journey through Jain heritage.

Overall Significance:

The "Vijay Vallabhsuri Smarak Granth" serves as a comprehensive tribute to a remarkable spiritual leader and social reformer. It not only preserves the memory of Acharya Vijayavallabhasuri but also acts as a valuable resource for understanding the depth and breadth of Jain philosophy, history, and art. The publication reflects the dedication of the Shri Mahavira Jaina Vidyalaya in promoting Jain education and preserving its rich cultural heritage. The collaborative effort of numerous scholars, editors, and contributors has resulted in a work of immense historical and spiritual significance for the Jain community and beyond.