350 Gathanu Stavan

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Book Title: 350 Gaathanu Stavan (Three Hundred and Fifty Stanzas of Verses) Author: Muni Gunhansvijay Publisher: Kamal Prakashan Trust Original Author of the Stavan: Upadhyaya Yashovijayji

Overview:

This book is a detailed commentary (vivechan) on the "350 Gaathanu Stavan" composed by the esteemed Jain scholar Upadhyaya Yashovijayji. The stavan is presented as a devotional piece addressed to Simandhar Swami, one of the living Tirthankaras. The commentary aims to unravel the profound meaning and relevance of this stavan, particularly in the current era (Pancham Kaal), where various misunderstandings and deviations from the true Jain path are prevalent.

Key Themes and Content of the Commentary:

The commentary, written by Muni Gunhansvijay, is structured to delve deeply into the stavan, stanza by stanza, and verse by verse. The provided pages primarily focus on the Introduction (Prastavana) and the First Stanza (Dhal-1), along with explanations of the underlying philosophy and the reasons for undertaking such a detailed commentary.

1. Introduction (Prastavana):

• Purpose of the Commentary: Muni Gunhansvijay explains that a detailed commentary on Upadhyaya Yashovijayji's 350-verse stavan was necessary due to its rich philosophical content and the potential for misinterpretation. The goal is to reveal the "true secret" of the stavan without deviating from established Jain principles (Sutra-pra-rupaṇa).
• Author's Humility: The author expresses humility, acknowledging the possibility of errors and inviting corrections from learned individuals.
• Structure and Accessibility: The commentary is divided into smaller sections (parts) for ease of reading and understanding, making it accessible even for ascetics to carry during their travels.
• Personal Gratitude: Muni Gunhansvijay expresses deep gratitude to his Gurus:
  • Acharya NaradevSagar Surishwarji, who instilled the stavan and other scriptures in him during his pre-ascetic life.
  • Panyas Pravar Shri Chandrashekharvijayji M.Sa., whose grace is credited for the author's intellectual capabilities.
  • Panyas Meghdarshan M. and Muni Ratnavallabh M., who laid the foundational knowledge upon which this work is built.
  • Acharya Shri Pradyumnasuriji M.Sa., who, despite health challenges, wrote the preface, acknowledging his kindness.
• Core Message of the Stavan: The stavan is presented as a powerful tool to destroy "Kuvāsanā" (negative desires, wrong beliefs, and bad habits) that bind souls to the cycle of birth and death. It's described as a divine sword against these bonds, a cosmic fire that consumes them, and an elixir that neutralizes their poison. The destruction of these "Kuvāsanā" is directly linked to achieving liberation (Moksha).
• Prevalence of "Kuvāsanā" in the Current Era: The commentary highlights the alarming spread of wrong beliefs and actions in the current era, making it difficult for even virtuous individuals to combat them effectively.
• Upadhyaya Yashovijayji's Motivation: In the face of such widespread "Kuvāsanā," Upadhyaya Yashovijayji felt compelled to create this stavan, drawing from the vast ocean of Jain scriptures. He used the accessible Gujarati language to make its teachings understandable to the masses.
• The Stavan as a Solution: The stavan is presented as a concise yet potent solution to counter various "Kuvāsanā" related to different philosophical viewpoints (Nayas), rigid adherence to certain paths, complacency, and misunderstanding of righteous conduct.

2. First Stanza (Dhal-1) and its Interpretation:

The first stanza is presented as a plea to Lord Simandhar Swami for guidance on the "pure path" (Shuddha Marg).

• The Ultimate Goal: The commentary reiterates that the ultimate goal is Moksha (liberation), and reaching it requires following the correct path.
• The Confusion of Paths: In this era of decline (Vishama Kaal), numerous paths are presented as the "path to Moksha," creating confusion. Different sects and philosophies claim their way is the only true path, leading to doubt and uncertainty.
• The Analogy of Cancer Patients: The text uses the analogy of a cancer patient struggling to choose the right treatment amidst conflicting advice from various medical practitioners. This mirrors the confusion faced by a soul seeking the true path to Moksha amidst conflicting religious explanations.
• The Problem of Divergent Jain Sects: The commentary specifically points out the differing views and practices within Jainism itself (Digambara, Sthanakavasi, Terapanthi, Shrimad Rajchandra followers, etc.), each claiming their path is the true one. Even within traditions, different sub-sects have their own interpretations.
• The Dilemma of the Soul: The text describes the plight of a soul genuinely seeking Moksha, overwhelmed by the multitude of paths, the doubts about their authenticity, and the fear of endless transmigration if they choose the wrong path.
• The Plea to Simandhar Swami: In such a state of distress and confusion, the soul (represented by the prayer) turns to Lord Simandhar Swami, the living Tirthankara, recognizing His detachment from passions (Raga-Dvesha) and His inherent purity. The plea is for Him to provide true wisdom and guidance, enabling the soul to abandon incorrect paths and follow the pure, righteous path.
• Why Simandhar Swami? The commentary addresses the question of why Lord Mahavir was not addressed directly. The reasons provided include:
  • Lord Mahavir is no longer physically present, while Simandhar Swami resides on this Earth.
  • All Tirthankaras are equal in their Vitraag (passionless) nature.
  • Addressing Simandhar Swami may inspire a rebirth in Mahavideh Kshetra, facilitating immediate spiritual progress.
• The Meaning of "Shuddha" (Pure): The commentary clarifies that the word "Shuddha" is used because many paths, though claiming to be for Moksha, have become impure due to incorrect beliefs and practices.
• The Importance of "Mohanmurti" (Captivating Form): The term is explained as referring to the Lord's form, which captivates the mind and inspires faith, especially when other paths lead to confusion.

3. Discussion on "Kuvāsanā" and the Nature of the Path:

The commentary delves into the essence of "Kuvāsanā" (wrong beliefs and practices), categorizing them into:

1. False beliefs and their ingrained impressions.
2. False practices and their ingrained impressions.

It emphasizes that the absence of "Kuvāsanā" is crucial for achieving Moksha and highlights the challenges of adhering to the true path in the current era, where deviations are rampant. The author stresses the need for careful discernment, as many paths falsely claim to lead to liberation.

4. The Distinction between "Utsarg" and "Apavād" Marg:

A significant portion of the commentary explores the concepts of "Utsarg" (the general, strict rule) and "Apavād" (the exception).

• Utsarg as the Ideal: The commentary asserts that adhering to the strict principles outlined in scriptures ("Sutranusar") is the foundation of the pure path.
• Apavād as Exception: While "Apavād" (exceptions) are also part of the scriptures, they are meant to be followed only under specific, justifiable circumstances.
• The Danger of Misinterpreting Apavād: The core argument is against the misuse and misinterpretation of "Apavād." The commentary criticizes those who create false justifications (Nabal Aālamban) to deviate from the strict path ("Utsarg") or to accommodate their weaknesses and desires, calling this deviation "Avidhi" (unscriptural conduct).
• Types of "Avidhi": The text details three types of deviations from the ideal path:
  1. Following Deviations with valid reasons ("Pushta Ālāmbana").
  2. Following Deviations with weak reasons ("Apushta Ālāmbana").
  3. Following Deviations without any reason ("Ālāmbana J Nani").
• The Role of "Ālāmbana" (Reason/Justification): The commentary stresses that genuine exceptions ("Apavād") require strong, unavoidable reasons. Creating flimsy justifications or simply following convenience is considered a distortion of the path.
• Critique of "Sashan Raksha" (Protection of the Faith) as an Excuse for "Avidhi": The commentary refutes the argument that deviating from scriptural rules is necessary for the "protection of the faith" in the current era. It argues that such compromises ultimately weaken and destroy the faith, rather than protecting it.
• The Importance of "Vidhi" (Strict Adherence to Rules): The text underscores the critical role of "Vidhi" in all aspects of life, using everyday examples like cooking, bathing, and driving to illustrate the dire consequences of "Avidhi" (lack of adherence to rules). It contrasts the strict adherence to "Vidhi" in worldly matters with the laxity often seen in religious practices.
• The Difference Between "Abhavya" and "Marganusari" Souls: A key distinction is made between souls incapable of liberation ("Abhavya") and those on the path to liberation ("Marganusari"). The former, even with external adherence to rituals, cannot achieve true spiritual progress, while the latter, even with minor deviations due to circumstances, can still progress.
• The Role of "Bhāva" (Inner Attitude): The commentary emphasizes that the inner attitude is paramount. While external rituals are important, they are meaningless without the correct inner disposition (purity of mind, devotion, adherence to principles).
• Critique of "Bahu Maat" (Majority Opinion): The text argues against blindly following the majority, stating that true knowledge and the path to liberation are not determined by popular opinion but by scriptural authority and the guidance of knowledgeable saints ("Geetarth").
• The True Meaning of "Mahajan": The commentary clarifies that "Mahajan" in Jain scriptures refers to those who are knowledgeable about the scriptures and rigorously follow Jain principles ("Aajnāshuddha"), not simply the majority of people.
• Critique of "Adhakachara Gyana" (Partial Knowledge): The author warns against the dangers of incomplete or superficial knowledge, likening it to a "half-learned doctor" who can cause more harm than an illiterate person.
• The Distinction between "Shrut Gyana" and True Knowledge: The commentary differentiates between merely memorizing scriptures ("Shrut Gyana") and possessing the deep, insightful understanding ("Chintan and Bhavana Gyana") required for spiritual progress.
• The Nature of Bhakti (Devotion): True devotion is presented not merely as singing or rituals but as sincere adherence to the Lord's commandments, coupled with an aspiration for liberation. Blind devotion or seeking material benefits through devotion is discouraged.
• The Concept of "Sadhuvēsha" (Ascetic Garb): The commentary clarifies that the ascetic robe itself is not the path to liberation but a symbol and a means. True liberation comes from internal purification and adherence to the principles of asceticism, not just the outward appearance.
• The Danger of "Shithilata" (Laxity) and its Promotion: The text strongly condemns the normalization and promotion of laxity in monastic life, highlighting how such behavior by a few can lead to widespread moral decay and the erosion of true spiritual practice. It criticizes the practice of "vandan" (bowing or showing respect) to those who are clearly lax, as this implicitly condones their behavior.
• The Importance of Discrimination: The commentary urges readers to discern between true spiritual leaders and those who merely adopt the outward appearance without the inner substance. It warns against being swayed by popularity, wealth, or eloquent speech, emphasizing that true guidance comes from those who are deeply learned in the scriptures and embody the principles they teach.

Overall Message:

The commentary on "350 Gaathanu Stavan" serves as a guide to understanding the true essence of Jainism, emphasizing the paramount importance of adhering to the scriptures, cultivating inner purity, and discerning the true path from misleading ones. It advocates for a balanced approach, recognizing both the importance of external practices ("Vyavahar") and the ultimate goal of internal transformation ("Nishchay"). The work highlights the need for critical thinking, unwavering faith in the teachings of the omniscient beings, and the guidance of truly knowledgeable and virtuous spiritual preceptors.