Bhadrankar Jin Gun Stavan Manjari

The book "Bhadrankar Jin Gun Stavan Manjari" (ભદ્રંકર જિન ગુણ સ્તવન મંજરી) is a collection of devotional hymns, prayers, and verses dedicated to the Tirthankaras and other revered figures in Jainism. Compiled and edited by Jinprabhsuri and Yugprabhvijay, the book aims to provide spiritual solace and guidance to its readers.

Key aspects and contents of the book:

• Extensive Collection: The book is a comprehensive compilation of various Jain devotional literature, including:
  • Over 100 Stutis (praise songs) and Arahant Vandanaavali (verses for saluting the liberated souls). In addition to the stutis, the book also includes:
  • 100 Chaityavandanas (verses for saluting temples or holy sites).
  • 120 Thoyas (a form of devotional poetry).
  • Around 350 ancient Stotras (hymns).
  • Duhas (couplets) related to various festivals and rituals.
  • Duhas for circumambulating sacred sites.
  • Over 200 ancient Sajaay (devotional songs).
  • 60 Bhavas (principles) of Samyaktva (right faith).
  • Collection of Padmavati Santharo and other devotional works.
• Purpose: The primary purpose of this collection is to facilitate devotion towards the Jain Tirthankaras, particularly Lord Mahavir, and to guide individuals on the path to liberation (Moksha). The text emphasizes that devotion to the divine (Paramatma-bhakti) is the seed for attaining spiritual qualities and achieving ultimate happiness.
• Spiritual Philosophy: The book elaborates on the significance of devotion, stating that all virtues are perfected in the Paramatma. It highlights that devotional hymns, recited with proper understanding and devotion, strengthen the connection with the divine, reduce negative tendencies, increase purity, clarify the intellect, and sow the seeds of Dharma (righteousness).
• Practical Guidance: It provides verses for various rituals and occasions, making it a valuable resource for daily spiritual practice and community worship.
• Inspiration from Gurus: The text acknowledges the guidance and blessings of respected Jain monks and scholars, including Acharya Shrimad Buddhisagar Surishwarji, Acharya Shrimad Kailassagar Surishwarji, and Acharya Dev Shrimat Vijay Jinprabh Surishwarji Maharaj, who compiled and edited the work. The dedication mentions spiritual inspiration from Muni Shree Ahapraha vijayji and Muni Shree Yugprabh Vijayji.
• Historical Context: The book includes lists of donors and patrons, indicating its publication in Vikram Samvat 2058 (2002 CE) with multiple editions, reflecting its popularity and the community's support for propagating Jain scriptures. The presence of various "Sajhay" (devotional songs) related to different spiritual figures and stories suggests a rich tradition of oral and written devotional literature within Jainism.
• Structure: The book is organized into distinct sections, covering:
  • Stutis: Praise songs and invocations.
  • Chaityavandana: Verses for temple worship.
  • Thoyas: Devotional poems.
  • Stavan Sangraha: Collections of hymns, including those for specific festivals and the Siddha Chakra.
  • Sajhay Sangrah: Devotional songs, often narrating stories of saints and spiritual heroes.
  • Samadhi Maran ni Chavi: Guidance on achieving peaceful death (a significant concept in Jainism).

In essence, "Bhadrankar Jin Gun Stavan Manjari" serves as a repository of Jain devotional practices, offering a wide array of spiritual resources for the laity to connect with the divine, understand Jain principles, and progress on the path to spiritual liberation. The book is a testament to the rich devotional heritage within the Jain tradition.