Treasure Of Qualities Introduction To Inspiring Life Of Acharya Vijaydharmsuri Maharaj - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text, "Treasure of Qualities: Introduction to the Inspiring Life of Acharya Vijaydharmsuri Maharaj," based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Treasure of Qualities: An Introduction to the Inspiring Life of Pujyapad Yugdivakar Aacharya Shri Vijay Dharmasurishwarji Maharaj Author: Muni Prashamratnavijay Publisher: Shri Dharmakrupa Trust, Dabhoi, Vadodara Publication Date: October 11, 2016 (Vikram Samvat 2072)

Core Theme: The book aims to introduce readers to the inspiring life and exemplary qualities of Acharya Vijay Dharmasurishwarji Maharaj. It seeks to provide guidance for character development and spiritual growth by showcasing the saint's virtuous life, dedication, and profound spiritual journey. The author emphasizes that a Sadhu's greatness is not measured by followers but by their progress on the spiritual path.

Key Figures and Their Roles:

Acharya Vijay Dharmasurishwarji Maharaj (Yugdivakar - "Sun of the Era"): The central figure of the book. He is portrayed as a legendary saint who minimized passions through prolonged spiritual practice. His life is characterized by generosity, courtesy, foresight, intelligence, dedication, and immense compassion. He was instrumental in inspiring the construction of numerous temples and upaashrays.
Acharya Shri Suryodaysurishwarji Maharaj (Mahaanshāshanjyotirdhar - "Great Light of the Jain Dispensation"): The grand-gurudev (great-grandfatherly guru) of the author, Muni Prashamratnavijay. His immoderate devotion to his own guru, Dharmasuri Maharaj, was the driving force behind the creation of this book. He is depicted as a source of inspiration and guidance for his disciples, constantly remembering and propagating Dharmasuri Maharaj's teachings and legacy.
Acharya Shri Rajratnasuriji Maharaj (Tejasvivakta - "Eloquent Speaker"): The grand-gurudev of Muni Prashamratnavijay. He is credited as the founder of this book, having inspired Muni Prashamratnavijay to undertake this endeavor. He showed immense trust in the author and guided him throughout the process.
Panyaspravar Shri Rashmiratnavijayji Gani (Yuvapravakta - "Young Speaker"): The gurudev of Muni Prashamratnavijay. He provided crucial guidance and support, including offering a quiet corner for writing during Chaturmas.
Muni Prashamratnavijayji Maharaj: The author, undertaking this significant literary work as his first major creation in English. He completed the book in a remarkably short period of four and a half months, demonstrating immense dedication amidst his monastic responsibilities.

Genesis of the Book: The book originated from a "Gunakirtan Samaroh" (event to praise qualities) organized to honor Muni Prashamratnavijay's gurudev, Acharya Rajratnasuriji Maharaj. During this event, Muni Prashamratnavijay delivered a discourse in English eulogizing his gurudev. Inspired by this, Acharya Rajratnasuriji Maharaj suggested that Muni Prashamratnavijay should also write about Dharmasuri Maharaj, viewing it as an auspicious start to his writing career. The author embraced this task, driven by the legacy of his gurus and the dream of his great-grand-gurudev.

Narrative Style and Content: The book is structured as a series of biographical anecdotes and stories, each highlighting a specific quality or aspect of Acharya Vijay Dharmasurishwarji Maharaj's life. These stories aim to illustrate his principles, compassion, devotion, and leadership. Some of the highlighted chapters and their themes include:

Birth of Bhaichand (later Muni Dharmavijayji): Details the auspicious birth of Dharmasuri Maharaj in Vadhvan, emphasizing his pious upbringing and early signs of spiritual inclination.
A Truly Bona Fide Mother: Focuses on the role of his mother, Chabalben, in shaping his values and providing moral guidance, especially after his father's untimely death.
The First Samvatsari at Lakhtar: Illustrates his early leadership and ability to guide religious practices, even at a young age.
A Touch of the Pious: Depicts his early exposure to the teachings of great saints and his deep reverence for them, leading to the adoption of religious vows.
A Test for Himself: Shows his self-discipline and foresight in preparing for the challenges of ascetic life.
Saanganpur Transmutes to Shramanpur: Chronicles his journey towards monkhood and the meticulous preparation involved.
A Splendid Devotion: Highlights his unwavering obedience and dedication to his gurudev.
As Strict as a Father: Illustrates his firm yet loving approach to teaching and guiding his disciples.
Modesty of Panyas Dharmavijayji: Showcases his humility and deep respect for his gurus.
From Mothra to Sanosara: Demonstrates his immense patience and resilience in the face of adversity.
A Principled Saint: Emphasizes his commitment to his principles, even in challenging situations.
A Principal of Principles: Details his initiative in establishing a Jain nursery, demonstrating his foresight in nurturing the younger generation.
An Adventure at Aabhopur: Recounts his daring act of rescuing ancient idols from a dense forest, showcasing his devotion and courage.
A Sadhu in True Sense: Emphasizes his enduring hardships with remarkable courage and his commitment to ascetic practices.
A Visit to Pen: Illustrates his ability to pacify anger and resolve conflicts through his compassionate approach.
A Mansion of Compassion: Highlights his dedication to the welfare of the underprivileged and his vision for a "Jain Colony."
A Legend Demands: Shows his influence in inspiring a non-Jain to adopt Jain principles.
Incredible Devotion of Disciple: Depicts the miraculous outcome of faith and devotion through his guidance.
Rectifies his Mistakes: Illustrates his ability to handle criticism with equanimity and focus on self-improvement.
The Same Always: Underscores his consistent dedication and attribution of success to his gurus.
All are Mine: Demonstrates his boundless generosity and eagerness to help all beings.
A Perfect Mentor: Highlights his balanced approach of appreciating good qualities while correcting mistakes.
The Erection of Shatrunjay Hospital: Showcases his foresight in recognizing the need for healthcare facilities and his ability to inspire their creation.
Shramani Vihar in Palitana: Details his efforts to provide comfortable accommodation for Sadhviji Bhagwant, addressing societal imbalances.
Morbi Flooded with Water: Illustrates his profound compassion and timely intervention in aiding flood victims by redirecting funds.
A Good-bye Forever: Recounts his peaceful departure from the world, emphasizing his lifelong commitment to serving humanity and achieving Samadhi-Maran (peaceful death).

Author's Perspective: Muni Prashamratnavijay views this book as a "salute to his great life" and an effort to "make yourself like him." He acknowledges the difficulty of the topic but feels the saint's life made the writing process flow naturally. He expresses gratitude to his gurus and the many individuals who supported the book's creation. He hopes the book will inspire readers towards "Character Development" rather than just "Personality Development."

Overall Message: "Treasure of Qualities" is more than a biography; it's a spiritual guide. It presents Acharya Vijay Dharmasurishwarji Maharaj as a beacon of Jain ideals, demonstrating how a life lived with unwavering devotion, compassion, principles, and foresight can create a lasting positive impact on society and inspire countless individuals towards righteousness and spiritual progress. The book aims to instill these virtues in the reader, encouraging them to follow the path of a virtuous and purposeful life.