Acharya Haribhadra Suri

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

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ACHARYA HARIBHADRA-SURI Haribhadra-suri was a prolific writer. He wrote 1444 religious books covering many aspects of Jainism. Unfortunately only about 170 of his books are presently available. The commentaries on Dash Vaikalika-sutra, Tattvartha-sutra, Pancha-sutra, and Avashyaka-sutra are among his well-known compositions. Moreover, he wrote Lalit-vistara, Dharma Sangrahani, Upadeshapad, Shodashtaks, Dharmabindu, and Anekanta Jayapataka. He was probably the first Jain scholar to write on Yoga. Yogabindu, Yoga-vinshika, Yoga-shatak and Yogadrashti Samuchchaya are his compositions on Yoga. He will always be remembered for his valuable contribution to Jain literature. The entire life of Haribhadra-suri depicts his keen desire for learning. Even though he was an established Brahmin scholar, he was humble enough to learn from a simple Jain Sadhvi. This is a great lesson in humility. One should not let pride come in the way of acquiring knowledge. Jain Agams describe the essence of Jainism in a logical and convincing manner. A deep understanding of the Agams will lead one to practice the principles of Jainism with more discipline and faith. The various compositions of Haribhadra-suri are very precious and help us gain a better understanding of this very complex but well-defined and logical religion. 57 Jain Story Book