Bar Bhavna Sazzaya - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Bar Bhavna Sazzaya" by Jayanti Kothari, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Bar Bhavna Sazzaya Author: Jayant Kothari (Editor), Jayant Suri (Original Author) Publisher: ZZ_Anusandhan Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/229691/1

Overview:

"Bar Bhavna Sazzaya" is a Jain religious composition authored by Jayant Suri (also known as Gunsaubhagya Suri), a prominent scholar and poet of the 16th century. The work, compiled and edited by Jayant Kothari, is a collection of 39 verses (kadi) written in a specific poetic style employing dhal (a type of lyrical meter) and trotak (a rhythmic meter). This composition is noted for its focus on the "Twelve Bhavnas" (reflections or meditations) prescribed within Jain tradition as essential means to attain liberation (moksha).

Author's Background (Jayant Suri):

Jayant Suri was a disciple of Upadhyay Vinaymandan of the Vadta Gaccha's Sthankar branch.
His known works include two Ras compositions: 'Shringarmanjari' (dated 1558 VS 1614) and 'Rushidatta Ras' (dated 1587 VS 1643).
Evidence suggests he was active from the latter half of the 16th century possibly into the early 17th century, based on the inscription of a commentary on 'Kavyaprakash' in 1596 VS 1652.
Beyond his Ras works, he is credited with various other forms of poetry, including stavan, letters, dialogues, phag, and baramasa, totaling around 80 songs. His poetry is characterized by diverse emotions and expressive styles, showcasing his erudition and poetic skill.

Work's Content and Style (Bar Bhavna Sazzaya):

The "Bar Bhavna Sazzaya" consists of 39 verses, arranged in dhal and trotak meters.
Each verse can be quite lengthy, with some sections (those with dhal and trotak divisions) extending up to 6-8 lines, and others up to four lines. There's a lyrical connection between the dhal and trotak sections.
The work is unique among Jayant Suri's known compositions as it is entirely focused on sectarian Jain theological subject matter. While some of his other songs might touch upon these themes, this work is dedicated to them, allowing his poetic talent to flourish within this specific framework.
The core of the work expounds on the "Twelve Bhavnas" (meditations) which are considered crucial practices for liberation in Jainism. These Bhavnas are philosophical principles that one should contemplate, such as the impermanence of the body and the transient nature of worldly existence.
The verses vividly describe the impermanence of life, using the example of Ravana's prosperity and power, and the futility of worldly pursuits by detailing the sufferings in hell. However, these descriptions are presented in a traditional manner, without seeking to introduce new or fresh perspectives in their philosophical exposition.

Manuscript Details:

The only known manuscript of this work is preserved at the La. Da. Bharatiya Sanskriti Vidyamandir, cataloged as No. 6680.
The manuscript comprises four folios, measuring 21x10 cm each.
Each side of the folio has 13 lines, with the last folio having only four lines on its verso.
Each line contains approximately 37 characters.
The script is described as large, clear, and well-formed.
The manuscript is very accurately written.
The use of diacritics is evident, and 'kh' is written as 'ṣ'.
The scribe's name and the date of writing are not mentioned, but the manuscript is estimated to be from the 17th century.

Key Bhavnas (Reflections) Discussed in the Text:

The text systematically elaborates on various Bhavnas, including:

Anityata (Impermanence): Discusses the fleeting nature of life, body, youth, wealth, and relationships, using vivid imagery. The example of Ravana's fallen kingdom is cited to illustrate this.
Asharan (Lack of Refuge): Highlights that in the cycle of birth, death, and suffering, no worldly relations like parents, friends, or even wealth can provide true refuge. Only Dharma (righteousness) offers lasting solace.
Ekatva (Oneness/Solitude): Emphasizes that one faces the consequences of their actions alone, and that worldly companions are often driven by self-interest.
Asar (Uselessness): Considers the vanity of worldly possessions and relationships, noting that they are temporary and offer no lasting support.
Samsara Asara (The Vain Nature of Samsara): Reflects on the endless cycle of rebirth and the suffering it entails.
Niraya Gati (The State of Hell): Provides a graphic and detailed account of the excruciating tortures and sufferings endured by souls in hell, serving as a strong deterrent against unrighteous actions.
Kayaprakriti (Nature of the Body): Describes the body as impure, a vessel of waste, and ultimately impermanent, advising against attachment to its outward appearance.
Lokaswaroop (The Nature of the World): Discusses the impermanence of existence in the three worlds (heaven, earth, and underworld) and the cyclical nature of worldly pleasures and pains.
Ashrav (Influx of Karma): Emphasizes the need to curb the influx of karma by controlling the senses and avoiding attachment to worldly desires.
Samvar (Cessation of Karma): Details the practices of controlling karma through right conduct, such as practicing forgiveness, humility, truthfulness, and contentment.
Nirjara (Shedding of Karma): Explains the process of shedding accumulated karma through ascetic practices like fasting, reducing consumption, and meditation.
Charitra (Conduct/Virtue): Highlights the importance of pure conduct and virtuous living as a path to liberation.
Bodhi (Spiritual Awakening): Describes the attainment of ultimate spiritual knowledge and liberation as the culmination of these Bhavnas.

Significance:

"Bar Bhavna Sazzaya" is a significant work for its systematic presentation of the Twelve Bhavnas, which are fundamental to Jain spiritual practice. Jayant Suri's poetic rendering makes these profound philosophical concepts accessible and impactful for the reader, encouraging introspection and detachment from worldly affairs in the pursuit of liberation. The detailed glossary of terms provides valuable insight into the specific language and terminology used in medieval Gujarati Jain literature.