Vijayvallabhsuri

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text about Acharya Vijayvallabhsurishwar, based on the scanned pages:

This text is an introduction to the life and contributions of Acharya Shri Vijayvallabhsurishwar, who is also referred to as "Punjab Kesari" (Lion of Punjab). The author, Punyavijay, aims to provide a concise overview of this highly virtuous, influential, devoted, and selfless personality who dedicated his life to the Jain community. The author notes that a complete biography would require a much larger work and recommends "Adarsh Jeevan" edited by Krishnalalji Verma for further details.

Early Life and Renunciation:

• Acharya Vijayvallabhsurishwar was born in Baroda in Vikram Samvat 1927 (1870 CE) on Kartik Shukla Dwitiya.
• His parents were Shri Deepchandbhai and Shrimati Ichhabai.
• His birth name was Chhaganlal.
• From childhood, he possessed a strong inclination towards the Jina-proclaimed religion, a trait inherited from his religiously-minded family and his own innate nature.
• In Vikram Samvat 1942 (1885 CE), when he was about fifteen years old, he was deeply moved by the religious discourse of his Guru, Shri 1008 Shri Vijayanandsurishwar (Atmaramji Maharaj), who visited Baroda.
• This encounter solidified his resolve to dedicate his life to his Guru and take initiation (diksha).
• His elder brother, Shreemchandbhai, initially opposed his decision. However, after seeing Chhaganlal's unwavering renunciation and his continued spiritual practice with the Guru, he eventually gave his consent.
• In Vikram Samvat 1944 (1887 CE), on Vaishakh Shukla 13, he was initiated in Radhanpur by his Guru, becoming a disciple of Shri Harshavijayji Maharaj and was given the name Muni Shri Vallabhvijayji.

Discipleship and Succession:

• As a devoted and virtuous disciple, Muni Shri Vallabhvijayji absorbed the vast knowledge, character, teachings, and spiritual prowess of his Guru, Shri Vijayanandsurishwar.
• He became a reflection of his Guru, embodying his scholarly wisdom, pure character, potent religious discourses, argumentative skills, and qualities of forgiveness and solemnity.
• His Guru recognized his potential and entrusted him with significant religious responsibilities, even anticipating that he would be the one to nurture the Jain community after his demise.
• This deep trust led his Guru to express a desire for Vallabhvijayji to be honored with the Acharya Pad (position of Acharya) before his passing.
• In accordance with his Guru's final wish, in Vikram Samvat 1981 (1924 CE), on Margashirsha Shukla Panchami, he was formally installed as the Acharya in Lahore by the Punjab Shri Sangh, with the consent of learned and experienced monks. He succeeded his Guru.
• His Guru firmly believed that Vallabh would be the one to sustain the religious activities and fulfill his spiritual aspirations.

Activities and Influence:

• Travel (Vihar): Acharya Vijayvallabhsurishwar traveled extensively across regions like Marwar, Mewar, Malwa, Gujarat, and the South, sanctifying these lands with his presence and spreading his teachings. However, his central focus, as per his Guru's dying wish, remained Punjab. He was an independent traveler, always willing to undertake arduous journeys if there was a possibility of even minimal benefit to others.
• Scholarship: He studied various Jain scriptures extensively under his Guru's guidance.
• Teaching and Preaching: His religious discourses are described as comprehensive, eloquent, scholarly, and peaceful. He expounded the essence of true religion without criticizing other sects or communities. This inclusive approach attracted followers from all backgrounds, Jain and non-Jain alike, leading to strengthened faith and spiritual growth. His sermons have been instrumental in resolving long-standing disputes and animosities in hundreds of villages, earning him the title of "Ambassador of Peace".
• Argumentative Prowess (Dharmacharcha ki Labdhi): He possessed a remarkable ability to engage in religious discussions with anyone, regardless of their sect, belief, or intention (whether curious, testing, or argumentative). He maintained composure and pleasantness throughout these discussions, even when faced with heated debates, never losing his equanimity. This characteristic earned him the popular title of "Punjab Kesari".
• Establishment of Institutions: Following his Guru's directives, he established numerous educational centers, including schools, gurukuls, and libraries, across various locations. He understood the importance of educating the Jain populace and preserving their intellectual heritage for the progress of Jainism.
• Embodying Guru's Vision: He effectively brought to life his Guru's vision for the revitalization of the Jain community, which had been declining in religious, moral, intellectual, and economic aspects over centuries.

Disciple Community:

The text highlights several prominent disciples of Acharya Vijayvallabhsurishwar:

• Upadhyayji Maharaj Shri Sohanvijayji Maharaj: Highly influential and a trusted associate, considered like an arm to the Acharya.
• Acharya Maharaj Shri Vijaylalitsuriji: A learned and eloquent disciple whose captivating speech and influential teaching style have led to the establishment of institutions like "Parshwanath Umed Jain Balashram" in Umedpur and the continued growth of "Parshwanath Jain Vidyalaya" in Varkana. He is also considered like an arm to the Acharya.
• Tapswiji Shri Vivek Vijayji Maharaj: Known for his peaceful nature, dedicated to scriptural study and meditation.
• Acharya Shri Vijayvidyasuriji Maharaj: His younger brother, initiated with him, who spent significant time in Punjab, providing religious guidance in his Guru's absence.
• Acharya Shri Vijayumangsuriij Maharaj: A great-grand-disciple (prashishya), a scholar actively editing significant texts.
• Panyas Shri Samudravijayji Maharaj: A devoted great-grand-disciple who faithfully carries out his Guru's commands and travels with him.

The text concludes by stating that the Acharya has many other learned disciples and great-grand-disciples whose detailed accounts are beyond the scope of this summary.

Qualities of Forgiveness and Efficiency:

• Despite facing opposition and challenging circumstances throughout his life, Acharya Vijayvallabhsurishwar maintained his intellectual acuity, composure, and steadfastness. He overcame obstacles with his unwavering devotion and efficient execution, like a skilled navigator guiding a ship through a storm. He never fostered negativity or animosity towards his opponents. He is lauded for his forgiveness and efficiency.

The summary ends with a wish for the Acharya's long life and continued progress for the Jain society under his guidance. The article is attributed to "Sevak" from Gujranwala, Punjab, dated November 1, 1940.