Agnatkartuka Vachurita - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Agnatkartuka vachurita" by Dhurandharvijay, based on the catalog link and the text itself:

Book Title: Agnatkartuka vachurita (Commentary by an Unknown Author) Author of the Original Stuti: Shri Hiravijayasuri Editor/Compiler: Muni Dhurandharvijay Publisher: ZZ_Anusandhan Subject: A detailed commentary on a four-layered (chaturarthi) devotional poem (stuti) dedicated to Lord Mahavir, composed by the renowned Jain scholar Shri Hiravijayasuri.

Summary:

The book presents a remarkable Jain devotional poem (Virastuti) attributed to the illustrious Jagadguru Shri Hiravijayasuri. What makes this text particularly significant is the commentary (Avachuri) by an unknown author. The core of the commentary lies in its exploration of four distinct and profound interpretations of a single, complex verse of the Virastuti. This ability to derive multiple meanings from one verse is highlighted as a testament to the author's exceptional poetic skill.

The provided text includes the original verse of the Virastuti and then proceeds to elaborate on each of the four interpretations through detailed grammatical analysis and exposition.

The Original Verse (Virastuti):

The verse addresses Lord Mahavir with numerous epithets, praising his various qualities and powers. The structure of the verse is highly condensed, allowing for layered meanings.

The Four Interpretations (Avachuri):

The commentary meticulously breaks down the verse, explaining the meaning of each word and its potential application in different contexts. Here's a breakdown of the essence of each interpretation:

First Interpretation (Prathamo arthah): This interpretation focuses on Mahavir as the protector of all beings, skillful in knowledge, free from pride and attachment, a dispeller of darkness (ignorance), and someone who conquers enemies. He is also described as having lotus-like hands and feet, bestowing wealth, and being a refuge for all. The prayer is for him to be pleased and to grant victory over desires and worldly attachments.
Second Interpretation (Dwitiyo arthah): This interpretation views Mahavir as possessing special knowledge, bestowing happiness, and being free from base human tendencies. He is the giver of wealth and sustenance, the protector of the righteous, and the master of scholars. The prayer here is for him to remove our ignorance and grant us prosperity.
Third Interpretation (Tritiyo arthah): This interpretation elaborates on Mahavir as the conqueror of the trinity (Brahma, Vishnu, Mahesh), skilled in arts and sciences, and free from conflict. He is also described as bestowing wealth and liberation, and as the destroyer of worldly suffering. The prayer is for him to sever our desires and grant us liberation.
Fourth Interpretation (Chaturtho arthah): This interpretation presents Mahavir as the conqueror of the world, the destroyer of wars, and one who is honored by warriors. He is someone who has renounced ego and attachment, who bestows knowledge and wealth, and who is associated with auspiciousness. The prayer is to Lord Mahavir, addressed as "Matangayaksha" (a specific deity), to be pleased with Shri Hiravijayasuri.

Key Themes and Significance:

Devotional Exaltation: The primary purpose of the text is to praise and glorify Lord Mahavir.
Linguistic and Poetic Mastery: The commentary highlights the intricate wordplay and the ability to extract multiple profound meanings from a single verse, showcasing the advanced literary and philosophical understanding of the Jain tradition.
Spiritual Guidance: Each interpretation offers insights into Mahavir's divine attributes and guides the devotee in their spiritual aspirations, such as overcoming ignorance, desire, and suffering.
The Power of Commentary: The "Agnatkartuka vachurita" demonstrates the importance of scholarly commentary in unlocking the deeper layers of spiritual texts.
The Editorial Role of Muni Dhurandharvijay: The compilation and presentation of this ancient text by Muni Dhurandharvijay are crucial for its preservation and dissemination.

In essence, "Agnatkartuka vachurita" is a scholarly and devotional work that delves into the multifaceted glory of Lord Mahavir through the lens of a single, richly layered verse, providing readers with profound spiritual and intellectual insights.