Bhaj Re Mana Part 01

This document is the first part of a Jain devotional songbook titled "Bhaj Re Mana Part 01," published by Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram. It contains a collection of devotional songs (bhajans) attributed to various saintly poets and figures from the Jain tradition and beyond. The book aims to provide a vast collection of devotional poetry for the benefit of spiritual seekers.

Here's a breakdown of the key information presented in the document:

Title: Bhaj Re Mana Part 01 Author(s): Shrimad Rajchandra Sadhna Kendra Rajnagar (Kukma), District Kutchh (credited as the source/compiler) Publisher: Shrimad Rajchandra Ashram Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/009144/1

Core Theme: The central theme of the book is devotion (bhakti), emphasizing its supremacy as a path to spiritual liberation (moksha). The text quotes Shrimad Rajchandra, highlighting that devotion eradicates ego, removes self-will, and guides one onto the right path, thus being superior to other options. Devotion is presented as the purpose of knowledge, and knowledge is the purpose of liberation. It states that pure devotion, especially when offered at the feet of a true spiritual master, can lead to instantaneous liberation.

Key Points on Devotion (Bhakti):

• Eradication of Ego: Bhakti helps in shedding ego and self-will.
• Path to Knowledge: Devotion is the path to knowledge, and pure, selfless (nishkam) devotion leads to knowledge.
• Love as Essence: Devotion is fundamentally love; when love is added to any noble act, it becomes exceptional.
• Transformation: When devotion is infused into various aspects of life, it transforms them:
  • Travel becomes pilgrimage (yatra).
  • Service becomes virtuous conduct (sadachar).
  • Food becomes consecrated offering (prasad).
  • Renunciation becomes joy (anand).
  • Words become prayer (prarthana).
  • One becomes God (Bhagwan) when imbued with devotion.
• Universality: The concept of devotion is presented as all-pervasive, capable of transforming mundane activities into spiritual practices.

Compilation and Content:

• Compiler: Shri Harshadbhai Panchal, a detached spiritual seeker, is credited with compiling this collection of over 2222 devotional verses (pad).
• Structure: The collection is divided into two parts, with the first part containing 1101 verses and the second part containing 1121 verses. The verses are set to over 150 classical Ragas.
• Aim: The purpose is to provide spiritual solace and guidance to seekers, helping them stabilize their minds and progress on the path to liberation.
• Inclusion of Poets: The book includes works from over 345 renowned devotional poets and saints from India, spanning a period of 500 years. Brief, illustrated introductions of the composers are also provided.
• Features: The book includes detailed indexes, ensuring ease of access to specific verses. The layout is designed for readability, with authors' names noted on the right-hand pages and couplets at the bottom of each page.

Endorsements and Blessings: The publication is supported by blessings and good wishes from prominent spiritual leaders:

• Param Pujya Saheb Shri Gangjibhai Mota (Shriji Prabhu): Adhishthata of Shrimad Rajchandra Sadhana Kendra, Kukma.
• Param Pujya Shri Atmanandji Saheb: Adhishthata of Shrimad Rajchandra Adhyatmik Sadhana Kendra, Koba.
• Padmashri Dr. Kumarpal Desai: Acknowledged for his significant contributions to Gujarati literature, journalism, and Jain philosophy, highlighting the extensive research and effort behind the compilation.
• Shri Mukund Shah: Editor of Navchetan.
• Shri Narendra Modi: Chief Minister of Gujarat, sending a goodwill message.

Overall Impression: "Bhaj Re Mana Part 01" is a comprehensive and extensive compilation of devotional poetry, rooted in the teachings of Jainism and the wisdom of various spiritual masters, particularly Shrimad Rajchandra. The book emphasizes the transformative power of devotion, its ability to purify the mind, and its role in achieving ultimate liberation. The dedication to spiritual practice and the effort to preserve and disseminate these devotional works are evident. The inclusion of a wide range of poets and the attention to detail in the collection's presentation suggest a valuable resource for spiritual exploration and practice.