Bhaktamar Stotra Sarth Samet

This document is a Gujarati translation and commentary on the Bhaktamar Stotra, a revered Jain text. The full title is "Shri Bhaktamar Stotra Sarth Samet (Bhaktamar Poojan)" by Acharya Shri Vijay Yashobhadrasoorishwarji M. Sa. and edited by Muni Shri Ratnaprabh Vijayji M. Sa. It was published by Shri Khanpur Jain S. M. P. Sangh in Ahmedabad.

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided text:

Core Purpose:

The book aims to present the Bhaktamar Stotra with its meaning (Sarth) and rituals (Samet), including a section on Bhaktamar Poojan (worship). It seeks to spread the glory and benefits of reciting the Bhaktamar Stotra, believed to have profound spiritual and worldly effects.

Key Sections and Content:

1. Introduction and Publisher's Note (Pages 4-6):

   • This section details the background of the publication, highlighting the activities of the Khanpur Jain community in Ahmedabad.
   • It mentions the successful Chaturmas (a four-month religious retreat) of Acharya Shri Vijay Yashobhadrasoorishwarji M. Sa. and his disciples, during which various religious observances, fasts, and temple inaugurations took place.
   • The inspiration for publishing this book came from the collective chanting of the Bhaktamar Stotra, which was attended by a large number of devotees. The immense positive impact of the Stotra on attendees led to the decision to make it accessible through this publication.
   • It acknowledges individuals who contributed to the publication, including Vidhikarak Shri Jasbhai Lalbhai for his guidance on rituals.

2. Origin and Influence of the Bhaktamar Stotra (Pages 7-11):

   • This section narrates the traditional story of the Bhaktamar Stotra's origin. It describes how Acharya Shri Mantung Suri, initially a Digambara monk named Mahakirti, converted to the Shvetambara tradition after a profound spiritual realization prompted by his sister-in-law's compassionate advice and an observation about insects in water.
   • A significant part of this section recounts the famous incident where King Bhoj of Dharanagari, influenced by the perceived miracles of Shaivite scholars, challenged the efficacy of Jainism. Acharya Mantung Suri, imprisoned and bound with iron chains, composed the Bhaktamar Stotra. The power of his devotion caused the chains to break, demonstrating the immense power of the Stotra and Jain principles. This event led to the widespread popularity and reverence for the Bhaktamar Stotra.
   • It also mentions the practice of reciting the Bhaktamar Stotra in groups from an early age, citing the example of the renowned scholar Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji M. Sa.

3. The Power and Efficacy of the Bhaktamar Stotra (Pages 12-13):

   • This section elaborates on the transformative power of the Bhaktamar Stotra. It states that reciting it daily leads to a peaceful, conflict-free, and joyful day, removing worldly anxieties and calming inner anger.
   • Each verse of the Stotra is considered a mantra capable of detaching one from the material world and destroying physical and mental afflictions.
   • Anecdotal evidence is provided of its power in granting children to the childless, wealth to the poor, health to the sick, resolving marital issues, and aiding students in their studies. It is also mentioned to stop attacks by enemies, wild animals, fire, and sea storms.
   • The overall message emphasizes that devotion to Jinendra (Jain Tirthankaras) has a wonderful and protective effect, leading to spiritual advancement and the attainment of liberation.

4. Detailed Verse-by-Verse Commentary and Stories (Pages 36 onwards):

   • The majority of the book comprises a verse-by-verse explanation of the Bhaktamar Stotra, accompanied by stories illustrating the power and specific benefits associated with each verse (or groups of verses).
   • For each of the 44 verses:
     • The Sanskrit verse is provided.
     • Its Gujarati meaning is explained.
     • Associated Riddhi (mantra or spiritual power) and Mul Mantra (root mantra) are given.
     • A story demonstrating the Stotra's efficacy is narrated. These stories often involve overcoming poverty, enemies, diseases, curses, natural calamities, negative influences (like spirits or demonic forces), and achieving desired outcomes like wealth, children, or victory.
   • Examples of these stories:
     • Verse 1-2: Devchand Sheth, imprisoned in a well, is freed by reciting the Bhaktamar Stotra. King Bhoj's illness is cured by its recitation.
     • Verse 3-4: Veerchandbhai, a poor merchant, becomes wealthy by reciting the Stotra, overcoming hardships at sea.
     • Verse 5-7: Dhanavah Sheth's house is freed from destructive forces by reciting the Stotra.
     • Verse 8-9: Keshavdatt, a poor merchant, is saved from a fraudulent thug and gains wealth by reciting the Stotra.
     • Verse 10-11: Seth Kamdi's devotion to the Bhaktamar Stotra brings him wealth and the opportunity to serve the community.
     • Verse 12: A magician's insult to Jain deities is countered by the power of the Stotra.
     • Verse 13-14: Dahli, a devoted daughter, protects herself and her companions from robbers by reciting the Stotra.
     • Verse 15: Raja Dhursen is freed from a demon's influence by reciting the Stotra.
     • Verse 16-17: Raja Mahipat Singh's son, afflicted by illness, is cured by the Stotra.
     • Verse 18: Minister Akhad's mother's devotion to the Stotra saves their caravan from supernatural hindrances.
     • Verse 19: Seth Laxmikant uses a gem empowered by the Stotra to navigate through darkness and danger.
     • Verse 20: Raja Ajitsinh's predicted son's birth is confirmed by the Stotra.
     • Verse 21: Devsuriji M. is protected by the Stotra from hostile Brahmins.
     • Verse 22: Mati Sagar M. defeats a Buddhist monk and a Yaksha through the Stotra.
     • Verse 23: A Jain monk is protected from the wrath of Goddess Chandika by reciting the Stotra.
     • Verse 24-25: Raja Jayasen's wife's disfigurement is cured by the Stotra.
     • Verse 26: King Bhimsen is cured of a debilitating illness by the Stotra.
     • Verse 30-31: King Bhimsen's son, Vira, becomes a king due to his devotion to the Stotra.
     • Verse 32-33: Raja Jayasen's wife regains her beauty through the Stotra.
     • Verse 34-35: King Bhimsen is cured of a severe fever by the Stotra.
     • Verse 36: Jinadas, a merchant, is saved from a forest fire by the Stotra.
     • Verse 37: Suvrata is protected from a poisonous snake by the Stotra, and her persecutors convert to Jainism.
     • Verse 38-39: Raja Ranaketu's brother, Grihavarma, wins a battle and becomes king due to the Stotra.
     • Verse 40: Seth Vijaysheth's ships are saved from a sea deity and continue their journey due to his devotion.
     • Verse 41: Prince Vijaysinh is cured of dropsy and regains his health and status through the Stotra.
     • Verse 42: Prince Randhir breaks free from prison chains by reciting the Stotra.
     • Verse 44: Devotion to the Stotra brings wealth and prosperity.

5. Instructions for Rituals and Mantras (Pages 44-45, 111-116):

   • The book provides specific instructions on how to use the mantras and Rddhis associated with certain verses for achieving particular results (e.g., wealth, victory over enemies, protection, curing illnesses).
   • It details procedures for "Siddhikaran" (making mantras potent) through rituals like Ambitap (a specific type of fasting), Brahmacharya (celibacy), specific diets, and chanting a prescribed number of times.
   • It outlines procedures for "Bhumi Shuddhi" (purification of the ground), "Jal Chhantkav Mantra" (water sprinkling mantras), "Chandan Chhantkav Mantra" (sandalwood sprinkling mantras), and "Snan Mantra" (bathing mantras).
   • It explains "Bhuja Sparsh Mantra" (arm touching mantras) and "Akshar Balva Purvak Ang Raksha Mantra" (mantras for self-protection with letters).
   • The "Vajrapanjar Stotra" is mentioned for protection, followed by the Pancha Namaskara mantras.
   • Instructions for "Kshetrapal Pujan" (worship of the guardian deity of the place) are given.
   • A section on the specific worship of Chintamani Parshvanath Bhagwan is included, detailing rituals, mantras, and the benefits of devotion.

6. Concluding Salutations and Dedication (Page 156):

   • The book concludes with profound salutations to Acharya Shri Mantung Suri M. Sa., the composer of the Bhaktamar Stotra, and to Acharya Shri Vijay Yashobhadrasoorishwarji M. Sa., the editor.

Overall Significance:

"Bhaktamar Stotra Sarth Samet" serves as a comprehensive guide for Jain devotees to understand, recite, and worship with the Bhaktamar Stotra. It emphasizes the Stotra's role in spiritual purification, worldly well-being, and the ultimate goal of liberation, supported by numerous anecdotal accounts and specific ritualistic instructions. The book underscores the power of devotion and adherence to Jain principles as demonstrated through the life and teachings of the Tirthankaras and learned ascetics.