Wanted some good compilations of stories of Jain monks like upagupta
Certainly! Jainism has a rich tradition of inspiring stories about its monks, acharyas, and great devotees. While Upagupta is more commonly associated with Buddhist tradition, Jainism has its own illustrious monks and nuns whose lives are chronicled in various texts. Below are some good compilations and sources for stories about Jain monks:
### Key Jain Monks and Story Compilations
#### 1. Jain Dharma ka Itihas (History of Jainism)
- Contains biographies and stories of Tirthankaras, Ganadharas, Acharyas, and famous monks and nuns.
- Available in Hindi and English translations.
#### 2. Uttaradhyayana Sutra
- A canonical Jain text featuring many parables and moral stories about monks, their discipline, and spiritual journeys.
#### 3. Kalpa Sutra
- Contains the lives of Tirthankaras, especially Mahavira, with stories of his disciples and prominent monks.
#### 4. Jain Stories for Inspiration
- Many websites and books compile short stories about Jain monks. Some examples:
- *Jain Monk Stories* by JainLibrary.org
- *Inspiring Jain Stories for Children* by Dr. Kumarpal Desai
- *Champaben nu Jivandarshan* (Gujarati) – Stories about Sadhvi Champaben
#### 5. Jain Acharyas and Their Life Sketches
- Books like *Great Acharyas of Jainism* (by Dr. J.C. Jain) provide sketches and stories of monks like Acharya Kundakunda, Acharya Hemachandra, Acharya Bhadrabahu, etc.
#### 6. Online Resources
- Jainelibrary.org: Search for “Jain monk stories” or names of famous monks.
- Jainworld.com: Has a section on Jain stories, including those of monks.
- Jainism.net: Provides stories of Jain monks and their virtues.
### Notable Jain Monks for Storytelling
- Acharya Bhadrabahu (the last Shrut Kevali)
- Acharya Kundakunda (author of Samayasara)
- Acharya Hemachandra (scholar and poet)
- Acharya Haribhadra Suri (philosopher and author)
- Acharya Shantisagar Ji (reviver of Digambara monk tradition in 20th century)
- Sadhvi Chandana Ji (modern era nun known for social service)
### Example Story: The Humility of Acharya Kundakunda
Acharya Kundakunda, despite being a great scholar and revered monk, would always bow to every monk he met, irrespective of their knowledge or seniority, teaching the value of humility and non-ego (amaan).
---
If you would like specific stories about any particular Jain monk, please let me know!