$JES 904 Compendium of Jainism (Jain Academic Bowl Manual 3rd Edition)

Author(s): JAINA Education Committee
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

Page 328

F02 Story - Ganadhars and Acharyas
Ächärya Hemchandra composed several literary works consisting of many verses. He was the first to put non-violence on a political platform and was the architect of the greatness and unification of Gujarat. In the field of metaphysics, he was a Yogi. His work, Yoga-shästra, a treatise on yoga, is very famous. People called him "Kali-käl Sarvajna" meaning "all knower in the present era of darkness". He died in 1173 A.D. at the age of eighty-four. Jain culture still shines bright in Gujarat due to the influence of the literary works contributed by the great Ächärya Hemchandra.
Moral:
07 - Ächärya Hemchandra
Mother Pähini's sacrifice of her love for her son is very praiseworthy, demonstrating willingness to serve the community over her self-interest or attachment for her son. Because of Hemchandra Ächärya's influence as a teacher, King Kumärpäl accepted Jainism and became a Jain. It is because of this that Jainism and vegetarianism flourish in Gujarat. Hemchandra Ächärya's contribution of numerous literary masterpieces is a treasure for us. Only by studying these books, we can pay tribute to him.
Highlights:
Born Changdev in 1088 AD to mother Pähini; renamed by Ächärya Devasuri
Great influence on Jainism in Gujarat, due to involvement with first King Siddharäj and then, most importantly, King Kumarpal
Bowed down to the virtuous attributes of Hindu gods, demonstrating Jainism's ability to coexist with other religions
Page 328 of 398
Compendium of Jainism - 2015