Atma the Self

Author(s): Punyadarshanvijay
Publisher: Sanmarg Prakashan

Page 16

ĀTMĀ
The Self....
THE UNIQUE !
Pujya Acāryadeva Srimad Vijaya Ramacandra Sūriśvarji Mahārāja was the most senior, eldest, extremely eminent and the highest authority on Jainism in the present era. He was the most revered preceptor and philosopher.
His discourses and sermons were melodious and flowed like a deep river. He kept his listeners spell-bound with rapt attention. His mastery over the subject was superb, putting forth very difficult, intricate and deep meanings of the subject and/ or scriptures in very simple and lucid terms explaining in depth making possible for ordinary listeners to understand, appreciate and grasp the essence of Jain philosophy. He would bring forth the same point twice or thrice but with different terms and tenor, throwing new lights, making it possible to get to the heart of the subject under discussion, accompanied by an instant reply without least hesitation to any query from the audience with love and humour. He carried his listeners to higher and higher spiritual heights. He was incomparable.
Even at the age of 96 he used to sit erect and in the same position for hours with boundless energy, reading, writing or memorizing old and new scriptures, fully engrossed. Always ready to compromise but never at the cost of truth or scriptural commands. He was always available to all, young or old, admirer or otherwise, believer or atheist. His saintliness inspired absolute trust, they confided in him unhesitantly their deep secrets and prayed for his spiritual guidance, made confession, accepted penance and departed with relief and unburdened heart.
He had no personal expectations or desires. He remained unconcerned whether it be great receptions and praises or oppositions and insults, he kept himself in equanimity and engrossed in studies, always pleasant and tranquil. Excellent captivating sermons and friendliness to the core, great spiritual guide to innumerable souls.
In his last moments, in spite of several heart attacks, some very severe, with acute pain, not a flicker showed on his face. He was calm and serene,