Bruhad Nirgranth Stutimani Manjusha Part 01

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Title: Bruhad Nirgranth Stutimani Manjusha Part 01 (The Great Jewel Box of Jain Hymns, Part 01) Editors: Madhusudan Dhaki and Jitendra B. Shah Publisher: L. D. Institute of Indology, Ahmedabad Period Covered: Approximately 200 BCE to 900 CE

Overall Purpose and Content: This is the first volume of a multi-part series aiming to compile the finest and most devotional hymns, praises (stutis), and prayers (stotras) from Jain literature, specifically focusing on the period up to the 10th century CE. The collection is organized chronologically and by linguistic quality, presenting original compositions. This first volume specifically covers works from the ancient to the early medieval period of Jain literature.

Key Features of Volume 1:

• Scope: It includes significant and important works from approximately 150 BCE to 900 CE.
• Linguistic Diversity: The volume features a total of 74 works in four languages:
  • Ardhamagadhi: 3 works
  • Maharashtri Prakrit: 20 works
  • Apabhramsha: 11 works
  • Sanskrit: 40 works
• Chronological Arrangement: The works are presented in historical chronological order.
• Authorship: Information about the authors is provided, including available details and, in some cases, potential attributions.
• Introductory Essay (Bhumika): The editors have written a detailed introductory essay that covers various aspects, themes, and characteristics of Jain hymns and prayers, offering a scholarly review based on scriptures and other sources.
• Detailed Analysis: Following the introduction, the subsequent sections provide a concise discussion on each selected hymn/prayer, covering its history, author (if known), and intrinsic content.
• Inclusivity: The collection aims to include hymns from various ancient Jain sects, ensuring that readers from all traditions can benefit from and appreciate the material equally.
• Uniqueness: The editors claim that no other systematic and well-organized compilation of this nature on the subject has been published before.

Editorial Vision and Process: The plan to compile these hymns originated during research on the Bhaktamara Stotra. The editors consulted with numerous scholars and monastic figures, and examined manuscripts from various libraries to select the most excellent hymns. The process was extensive, taking considerable time. The introduction highlights the personal challenges faced by Prof. Madhusudan Dhaki during the compilation, including health issues and the passing of his wife, acknowledging the support received from Upadhyay Bhuvanchandji Maharaj and Sadhvi Chandanbalaji during the proofreading phase after his demise.

Dedication: The first volume is dedicated to the memory of the late Hiralal Rasikdas Kapadia, recognizing his pioneering work in the study of Jain literature and his significant contributions in this field.

Content Highlights from the Index and Introduction:

• Introduction (Bhumika): Discusses the general overview of Jain stotra literature, its sources, Apabhramsha stutis, and the authors of Jain Sanskrit stotras.
• Ardhamagadhi Section: Includes seminal works like the "Shri Namaskara Mangalam," "Shri Mangalpathah," and hymns from the "Sutrakritanga" and "Namostu Stava."
• Maharashtri-Shouraseni Prakrit Section: A substantial portion of this section contains hymns from classical Jain works like the "Pauumacariya" (by Vimalasuri, Ravana), "Ajitashanti Stava" (by Nandisena), "Uvasaggahara Stotra," and various hymns embedded in works like "Tiloyapannatti" and "Dharmopadeshamala." It also features important works by Haribhadra Suri and Jinendrasuri.
• Sanskrit Section: Features foundational texts like the "Dwatrimshika" by Siddhasena Divakara, the universally acclaimed "Bhaktamara Stotra" by Manatunga Acharya, and numerous other stotras by renowned authors like Patrakesari, Pujyapada Devanandi, Jatasimha Nandi, Dhananjaya, Haribhadra Suri, Badrkirti Suri, and Jinaseana.

Significance and Value: The "Bruhad Nirgranth Stutimani Manjusha" is considered a treasure for scholars and practitioners alike. It offers:

• A gateway to the devotional outpourings of great Jain scholars and saints across centuries.
• Rich material for researchers studying the historical, linguistic, and literary aspects of Jain stotra literature.
• A valuable resource for poets, orators, and students of Sanskrit and Prakrit languages.
• Insights into the history of Jainism and Indian history through the evolution of stotra literature.
• A means to foster harmony and understanding between different Jain traditions, as it draws from various sects.

The editors express hope that this meticulously organized and compiled work will be well-received by scholars and enthusiasts. The preface emphasizes the enduring relevance of stotra literature as a timeless and youthful genre that adapts to changing styles and languages, connecting with people across ages. The volume is noted for its rigorous research, detailed historical analysis, and comprehensive approach.