125 150 350 Gathaona Stavano

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "125-150-350 Gathaona Stavano" by Danvijay, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: 125-150-350 Gathaona Stavano (Hymns of 125, 150, and 350 Verses) Author: Danvijay (Disciple of Panneasji Maharaj Shrimad Danvijay Ganī, disciple of Acharya Shrimad VeerVijayji) Publisher: Khambat Amarchand Premchand Jainshala Original Author of the Hymns: Shrimad Yashovijayji Key Figures Mentioned:

• Shrimad Yashovijayji: The original author of the hymns, a renowned scholar and philosopher.
• Shrimad VeerVijayji: The guru of the author Danvijay, a prominent figure who guided the compilation.
• Shrimad Vijayanandsurishwar: Acharya whose disciples published the work.
• Shrimad Vijayaamalhariji: Whose teachings inspired the publication.
• Sheth Popatbhai Amarchand: The main sponsor and publisher from Khambat.
• Panneasji Maharaj Shrimad Danvijay Ganī: The author and editor of this compilation.

Historical Context:

• Published in Vikram Samvat 1975 / Shrivir Samvat 2445.
• First edition, 500 copies printed.
• Printed at Shri Jain Vidyavijay Press, Ahmedabad.

Content and Structure:

The book is a compilation of three significant devotional hymns (Stavano) written by the eminent Jain scholar Shrimad Yashovijayji, presented with a detailed commentary and explanation in Gujarati by Panneasji Maharaj Shrimad Danvijay Ganī. The preface (Prastavana) provides extensive biographical details about Shrimad Yashovijayji, highlighting his immense intellect, miraculous powers (like Avadhan Shakti), and significant contributions to Jain philosophy and debate. It also delves into the purpose of this compilation.

Summary of the Hymns (as described in the preface and table of contents):

The book contains three stanzas, each of a specific length:

1. 125 Gatha Stavan: This hymn is primarily a prayer to Lord Simandhar Swami. It addresses various philosophical concepts within Jainism, including:

   • Guidance to misguided gurus.
   • The nature of the soul, consciousness, and matter.
   • The difference between true (Nishchay) and conventional (Vyavahar) paths.
   • The importance of proper conduct and the dangers of incorrect practices.
   • The nature of righteousness and unrighteousness.
   • The principles of non-violence (Ahimsa) and its relevance to worshipping Jineshwar (Jain Tirthankaras).
   • Discussions on the teachings of Shrimad Jainendra Dev found in scriptures like the Gyatasutra, using examples like Draupadi.
   • Guidance to lay followers (Shravaks) regarding their devotional practices.

2. 150 Gatha Stavan: This hymn focuses on refuting the doctrines of the "Dhundhaki" sect and expounding on the greatness of Lord Mahavir Swami. It clarifies various aspects of Jain philosophy and practice, including:

   • The validity of Nichepas (categories of existence) like Sthapana Nichepa.
   • The nature of truth (Satya) in its various forms.
   • The authority of the Avashyak Sutra.
   • The prohibition for monks to observe images of women.
   • The right of ascetics (Janghacharan and Vidyacharan Munis) to worship Jinpratimas (images of Tirthankaras).
   • The meaning of "Chaitya" (temple/idol).
   • The authority of the Shrut (scriptures) and its correct understanding.
   • The worship of Jinpratima and the role of deities like Suryabhā.
   • The importance of respecting Samyakdrishti (righteously oriented) deities.
   • The superiority of humans over deities in terms of spiritual potential.
   • The right of lay followers like Ambada and Anand to worship Jinpratimas.
   • Refutations of arguments claiming that idol worship involves violence, using examples like the practices of Shri Krishna and others.
   • The merits of righteous actions (Karmas) even for those with distorted views (Mithyatva).
   • The crafts and sciences taught by Lord Rishabhdev for the welfare of humanity.
   • The nature of inherent violence (Hetu Ahimsa) and consequential violence (Anubandhi Ahimsa).
   • The description of eternal Jinpratimas and celestial festivals.
   • The importance of scripture study for monks and its prohibition for householders.
   • The avoidance of improper study (Aswadhyayan).

3. 350 Gatha Stavan: This extensive hymn, the longest of the three, addresses the misconceptions and differing views of heterodox sects and individuals, offering guidance to followers. Key topics include:

   • Refuting those who speak and act against scriptures, or who cling to the 'Ogha Marg' (stream path) and literal austerities as the sole path to Jainism.
   • Correcting the belief that only outward renunciation (dravya ling) is paramount.
   • Providing righteous counsel to those with corrupt intellects and mistaken beliefs.
   • Emphasizing the importance of virtue, respect for enlightened souls (Gitasthas), and seeking knowledge.
   • Highlighting the necessity of community living for spiritual progress and the benefits of following the teachings of enlightened souls.
   • Explaining the concept of Ahimsa in its true form (Hetu Ahimsa, Swaroop Ahimsa, and Anubandhi Ahimsa) through paradoxical reasoning (Syadvada).
   • Guiding those who reject scriptural principles and idol worship, emphasizing the importance of intention and context.
   • Describing the twenty-one virtues of a lay follower (Dravya Shravak).
   • Detailing the six characteristics of a true devotee (Bhav Shravak).
   • Explaining the seven characteristics of a state of true renunciation (Bhava Sadhu).
   • Validating the changes made by enlightened souls in past eras (Bhut Vyavahar) in the context of the present era.
   • Praising virtuous monks.
   • Discussing the four states of life (Nidra, etc.), the distinction between soul and matter, and the importance of pure conventional practice (Shuddha Vyavahar).
   • Concluding with praise for the Tapgachh (a lineage of Jain monks) and the attainment of liberation through knowledge and action.

Commentary by Danvijay: The preface by Danvijay emphasizes the profoundness of the original hymns by Yashovijayji and the necessity of their commentary for the understanding of common people. He mentions the difficulty in obtaining complete biographical information about Yashovijayji but highlights his exceptional memory and intellectual prowess. The preface also includes a critique of certain individuals (specifically mentioning "Raychand") who misinterpreted or misrepresented scriptures, showcasing the author's commitment to accurate interpretation and upholding Jain principles.

Overall Significance: This book is a valuable resource for understanding complex Jain philosophical concepts, devotional practices, and the refutation of heterodox views. It showcases the scholarly depth of Shrimad Yashovijayji and the dedicated efforts of Danvijay in making these profound teachings accessible through detailed commentary. The work underscores the importance of scriptural adherence, the role of the guru, and the balanced approach to spiritual practice within Jainism, integrating knowledge, conduct, and devotion.