Aarahana Panagam

This document is the "Aarahana Panagam" (Aaradhana Pangam), a Jain text compiled and translated by Hemsagarsuri, Hemlatashreeji, and Ikshitagnashreeji. It was published by Shrutgyan Prasarak Sabha.

The book contains several important sections related to Jain philosophy and practice:

• Sharanaashtakam: An eight-verse hymn expressing surrender and devotion to the divine. The verses highlight the ceaseless cycle of birth and death and the ultimate reliance on the divine for liberation, seeking forgiveness for past actions, and finding solace in devotion amidst the ocean of existence.

• Aarahana Pancham (Five Aarahana): This is the core of the book, presenting the "Five Aarahana" (practices or modes of worship) derived from the "Kuvalayamala Katha" authored by Acharya Udyotan Surishwarji. These five sections detail the practices of five muni-kings who achieved Kevala Jnana (omniscience) by eradicating their karma:

  1. Shri Manirath Muni: The text details his practice and eventual attainment of Kevala Jnana.
  2. Shri Kamgajendra Muni: Similarly, this section focuses on his spiritual journey and liberation.
  3. Shri Vajragupta Muni: His practices and path to omniscience are explained.
  4. Shri Swayambhudeva Maharshi: This section outlines his spiritual discipline and attainment.
  5. Shri Mahayash Munivar: His practices and ultimate liberation are described.

  Each of these Aarahana sections appears to involve detailed explanations of the muni's path, often presented in a question-and-answer or confessional format, where the muni reflects on and repents for past actions (karma jhosana), and outlines the proper path of conduct (Aaradhana).

• Shatrunjay Tirthadhiraj Stotra (with translation): A hymn dedicated to the sacred pilgrimage site of Shatrunjay and its presiding deity. The verses praise the sanctity of the mountain, the various Jinmandirs, the miraculous aspects of the site, and the spiritual benefits derived from worshipping there.

• Nindo Na Kopi etc. (Eight Stanzas with poetic translation): This section includes eight verses, likely offering spiritual reflections or moral teachings, presented with a poetic translation.

• Introduction and Dedication: The book includes introductory remarks by the publisher, acknowledging the work of Acharya Hemsagarsuri and Sadhvi Hemlatashreeji and Sadhvi Ikshitagnashreeji. There is also a dedication to Pujya Sadhvi Shri Paltaashreeji Maharaj, recognizing her spiritual stature and love for such devotional works. A brief biography of Sadhvi Shri Paltaashreeji Maharaj (also known as Ba Maharaj) is also included, detailing her life, spiritual journey, family, and significant events like her children's renunciation and her own initiation.

• Letter from Sadhvi Shri Paltaashreeji Maharaj: A letter written by Sadhvi Shri Paltaashreeji Maharaj to Pujya Panyas Shri Pradyumnvijayji Maharaj (while he was still in worldly life) offering blessings and encouragement for his spiritual path.

• Favorite Hymns of Sadhvi Shri Paltaashreeji Maharaj: The book includes two of her favorite hymns: "Shri Anathi Muni Ni Sajhay" and "Shri Rishabhdev Bhagwan Nu Stavan."

In essence, "Aarahana Panagam" is a compilation of devotional hymns and detailed expositions of the spiritual practices and paths to liberation followed by revered Jain ascetics, with a special tribute to the life and teachings of Sadhvi Shri Paltaashreeji Maharaj. It emphasizes self-reflection, repentance, adherence to Jain principles, and ultimate surrender to the divine for spiritual upliftment.