Vijayprashasti Mahakavyam - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Vijayprashasti Mahakavyam" based on the provided pages:

Title: Vijayprashasti Mahakavyam Authors: Hemvijay Gani, Gunvijay Gani Publisher: Jinshasan Aradhana Trust, Mumbai

Overview:

The "Vijayprashasti Mahakavyam" is a grand epic poem (Mahakavya) authored by Hemvijay Gani. It is accompanied by a detailed commentary titled "Vijay Pradipika" written by Gunvijay Gani. The text chronicles the life and achievements of a great Acharya of the Tapagachha lineage, Shrimad Vijay Sen Suri Maharaja. The publisher, Jinshasan Aradhana Trust, is dedicated to the preservation and dissemination of Jain scriptures. This particular publication is from Vikram Samvat 2045 / Veer Samvat 2515.

Content and Significance:

Biographical Focus: The primary subject of this epic is the biography of Acharya Shrimad Vijay Sen Suri Maharaja, a prominent figure in the Tapagachha tradition.
Authorship and Completion: Hemvijay Gani composed the main epic, creating twenty-one chapters (Sargas). However, he passed away after completing sixteen chapters. The remaining five chapters were completed by his colleague and disciple, Gunvijay Gani, who also authored the commentary.
Acharya Vijay Sen Suri's Achievements:
- Spiritual Influence: He was a highly influential spiritual leader, adept in scriptural knowledge (Shrut sindhu) and spiritual practices (Tapas). He significantly impacted the reign of Emperor Akbar, guiding him towards principles of compassion (Jivdaya) and other virtuous conduct.
- Architectural and Devotional Works: He was instrumental in the renovation of numerous Jain temples and the installation of many sacred images (Pratimas).
- Spiritual Hierarchy: Under his guidance, there were eight esteemed scholars (Upadhyayas), two hundred and fifty learned pandits, and two thousand ascetics (Munis).
- Literary Contributions: The epic itself, along with its commentary, is a testament to his significant influence and the flourishing of Jain literature during his time. The total volume, including the commentary, is estimated to be around ten thousand verses.
Commentary (Vijay Pradipika): Gunvijay Gani's commentary, "Vijay Pradipika," is highly valued for its clarity and elucidates the complex verses of the epic, making the profound teachings accessible to a wider audience. The commentary was completed in Samvat 1688.
Historical Context: The epic provides valuable historical insights into the religious and social milieu of the 17th century, particularly highlighting the interaction between Jain Acharyas and the Mughal emperor Akbar.
Praise for Previous Publications: The Jinshasan Aradhana Trust expresses gratitude to Pandit Hargovind and Becherdas for their research and publication of the text in Vikram Samvat 1967, as well as to the patron Shri Harshachandra Bhurabhai of Varanasi.
Truss's Mission: The Jinshasan Aradhana Trust was established on the auspicious day of Vijay Dashami in Samvat 2034, inspired by Muniraj Shri Hemchandra Vijayji (now Acharya Shri Vijay Hemchandrasuri). The trust engages in various commendable activities, including temple construction and renovation, support for monastic disciples, and the preservation of scriptures through manuscript writing and printing. The trust has published about sixty texts, distributing over 25,000 copies, and aims to continue its mission of scriptural preservation.
Inspiration and Guidance: The publication is dedicated to the spiritual lineage, mentioning Pujyapad Acharya Shri Vidyavijay Surishwarji Maharaj and the inspiration of Acharya Shri Vidyachandrasuri Maharaj.

Structure of the Epic (as indicated by the Table of Contents):

The epic is divided into twenty-one chapters (Sargas), covering various aspects of Acharya Vijay Sen Suri's life, including:

Mangalacharana (Invocation)
Description of His Birthplace and Lineage
Early Life and Education
Spiritual Journey and Renunciation
Ascetic Ordination and Spiritual Development
Travels and Preaching
Interactions with Royalty (Emperor Akbar)
Miracles and Spiritual Powers
Temple Renovations and Image Installations
Dissemination of Jain Teachings
Establishment of Spiritual Centers
His Passing and Legacy

Overall Message:

The "Vijayprashasti Mahakavyam" serves as a powerful tribute to the life and work of Acharya Vijay Sen Suri, celebrating his spiritual prowess, his dedication to Jain principles, and his significant contribution to the propagation of Jainism. It is a valuable historical and religious document that inspires devotion and reverence for the Jain tradition.