Handbook of Jainology

Author(s): Bhuvanbhanusuri
Publisher: Divya Darshan Trust

Page 9

A HEARTFELT UTTERANCE
(Preface from the first edition)
Who has not known the tremendous magnetism and the sublime literary and scriptural creativity of the revered Acharyashri Bhuvanbhanusoorishwarji?
The great Acharya has been carrying out the lofty task of ennobling the lives of the younger generation by showing them the path of self-discipline and noble conduct; and by elevating them to higher levels of culture through the media of training programmes and spiritual sessions. The historians of the Jain Sangh have to write his story in golden letters.
The Acharyadev himself is a Sadhak of a high level of excellence; and has a multidimensional genius. His spiritual magnetism can be measured by the fact that he has one hundred and eighty five disciples (Sadhus) most of whom are highly educated. His disciples (Sadhus) who include scholars, poets, literatteurs, speakers, as well as men of spiritual attainments and magnetism are indeed functioning as the spiritual props of the Jain Sangh.
He is my revered Gurudev. 36 years ago, I received the Deeksha from him and also received spiritual training and education from him. I lived in his company for years and had the opportunity of making a deep study of the Jain Agams and doctrines and of carrying out scriptural studies, meditation, and austerities under his elevating guidance.
Some years ago i.e. from 1952 to 1956, I got the golden opportunity of noting down his discourses, editing them and publishing them in Divyadarshan and also writing some books, I feel that those golden days have returned to me !
I have had the opportunity of only being a cause for the publication of this English version of his book. Even this is the... result of his grace.
I am grateful to Muni Shri Nandibhushanvijayji who is a devoted disciple of our Gurudev and Shri Kumarpal V. Shah,