Vishwani Mahavibhuti Vijayanandsurishwarno Akshardeh

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Vishwani Mahavibhuti Vijayanandsurishwarno Akshardeh," authored by Punyavijay:

The text is an essay written as part of a memorial volume celebrating the centenary of the world-renowned Jain Acharya Shri 1008 Shri Vijayanandsurishwar, also known as Shri Atmaramji Maharaj. The author, Punyavijay, emphasizes the importance of remembering and drawing inspiration from great historical figures when society feels spiritually and intellectually depleted. He likens these great souls to "living flames" whose brilliance can re-energize and guide the populace.

The essay highlights that ordinary individuals cannot fully grasp the vastness of a great person's life and teachings. Therefore, enlightened Mahapurushas (great souls) devise ways to make their wisdom accessible. Throughout history, various occasions like festivals, auspicious events, and religious gatherings have been used to impart teachings on right knowledge, right perception, and right conduct. Similarly, in modern times, anniversaries, centenaries, and lectures are organized to foster the gradual acquisition and growth of inner and outer virtues.

The current occasion is the centenary of Acharya Shri Vijayanandsurishwar, a significant event that has come about due to the devotion and inspiration of Acharya Shri Vijayvallabhsuriji, who followed in his footsteps.

The author acknowledges a potential artificiality in writing about a person one hasn't personally met. However, he argues that great souls, though they may have left their physical bodies, remain alive in a subtle or "Akshar" (immortal/written) form. Therefore, understanding them through their "Akshardeh" (literally, body of letters, meaning their written works and legacy) is not artificial.

The essay then delves into the literary contributions of Acharya Shri Vijayanandsurishwar, stating that his extensive textual creation is a significant part of his life's accomplishments. His works are described as both elucidating and argumentative (refuting and establishing points). The author asserts that a deep study of his writings reveals his profound scholarship, vast and insightful perspective, seriousness in critical analysis, and remarkable erudition in organizing important subjects section by section.

Key works mentioned include "Tavanirnayaprasad," "Jenatvad," "Ajnana Timirbhaskar," "Navatattva," "Jain Dharmavishayak Prashnottar," "Chika Prashnottar," "Samyaktvadar," and "Puj-Stavan-Sajhay-Bhavanapad Sangrah." It's noted that these were all composed in Hindi for the welfare of the common people, making Jainism and the essence of other religions accessible to all.

The essay addresses criticism from some who questioned Acharya Shri Vijayanandsurishwar's depth of study due to his exclusive use of Hindi rather than Sanskrit or Prakrit. The author defends this by pointing to the numerous scriptures and philosophical discussions embedded in his works, which demonstrate his extensive knowledge, scientific understanding, and profound analytical abilities. He further emphasizes this by mentioning the Acharya's personal library and his meticulous work on manuscripts.

A significant example cited is his correction of a handwritten manuscript of the "Sanmatitarka Shastra," a complex text that even today few Jain monks can master despite extensive study and expense. The author presents this as proof of the Acharya's extraordinary genius and intellectual power, especially considering his background from a community less focused on traditional scriptural learning. His proficiency in logic and reasoning is deemed self-evident from his engagement with such profound texts.

The essay also highlights the establishment of vast libraries initiated by Acharya Shri Vijayanandsurishwar across Punjab. These libraries are described as the true "lamps" of knowledge in the region, containing carefully collected important texts, including rare copies of works like the "Patanjal Yogdarshan Tika" and "Anekanvyavastha" by Nyayavisharad Nyayacharya Mahopadhyaya Shri Yashovijayaji. The author notes that these specific copies are no longer found elsewhere.

The Acharya's diligence in examining and transcribing texts from village libraries during his travels is presented as evidence of his keen eye for valuable literature.

The essay further discusses Acharya Shri Vijayanandsurishwar's role as a respected figure who received and answered questions from congregations and individuals on various matters. His responses are characterized by equanimity, generosity, impartiality, and freedom from bias. The author uses the example of questions regarding the practice of breaking coconuts on Mahavir's birthday during Paryushan and the appropriate way to address such customs to avoid discord within the community, as published in the "Jain Dharm Prakash" magazine. These examples illustrate his profound wisdom and ability to provide guidance tailored to the inquirer's curiosity and the situation.

In conclusion, the essay posits that when society experiences religious and moral decline, an avataric figure is born to revitalize it. Acharya Shri Vijayanandsurishwar is presented as such a figure who infused new life into the Jain community in numerous ways. The author notes that during his time, the number of Jain monks was small, scriptures were scarce, and the propagation of Jainism was limited. Acharya Shri Vijayanandsurishwar's genius significantly contributed to improving these aspects. His influence is credited with enabling figures like Shri Virchand Raghavji Gandhi to present Jainism on the world stage at the Parliament of Religions in Chicago.

The essay concludes by expressing the hope that through the immense radiance of this revered Acharya, individuals can gain the strength to engage in religious service, literary service, and public service relevant to the current era. A Sanskrit quote from Acharya Hemachandra is included, expressing the earnest desire to understand the qualities of such a great soul.