Chaitya Paripati

The book "Chaitya Paripati" by Dipratnasagar and Deepratnasagar, published by Abhinav Shrut Prakashan, is a compilation of devotional songs and prayers intended for use during Jain temple rituals and visits. The title itself, "Chaitya Paripati," signifies a customary practice or sequence of observances related to Jain temples (chaityas).

The book is structured around a "Chaitya Paripati" program that took place from October 19, 1990, to October 24, 1990, organized by Shri Khushalbhavan Jain Sangh. The core of the book consists of:

• 111 Stutis (praises): These are devotional verses recited in the presence of the deity. Each stuti is often associated with a specific Jain Tirthankar or a particular Jain temple.
• 6 Stavans (devotional songs): These are longer, more elaborate songs of praise and devotion.
• 6 Bhavgeet (songs of emotion/feeling): These are songs that express the emotional connection and spiritual longing of the devotee towards the divine.

The book is essentially a practical guide for devotees to perform their prayers and rituals with a collection of appropriate verses. The content is organized day-wise, indicating which temple (Dehrasar) is being visited and which deity is the principal idol (Mulnayak) for that particular day's program. For each location, specific stutis and sometimes stavans or bhavgeets are provided.

Key aspects highlighted in the text:

• Focus on Devotion: The primary purpose is to facilitate a deep and sincere devotional experience. The verses express longing for the divine, repentance for past deeds, a desire for spiritual knowledge and liberation, and gratitude for the teachings of the Jinas.
• Temple Visits: The book is designed to be used during visits to various Jain temples, as indicated by the listing of different temple names and their respective principal deities (e.g., Shri Vasupujya Swami, Shri Shantinath Bhagwan, Shri Sambhavnath Bhagwan, Shri Rishabhdev Bhagwan, Shri Mahavir Swami Bhagwan, etc.).
• Spiritual Guidance: The stutis and stavans often contain philosophical and ethical messages, reinforcing Jain principles such as non-violence (ahimsa), detachment, spiritual knowledge, and the path to liberation (moksha).
• Emotional Expression: The "Bhavgeets" specifically focus on conveying the deep emotional state of the devotee, their aspirations, and their requests to the divine, especially in moments of contemplation or nearing the end of life.
• Compilation for Practice: The book serves as a ready reference for individuals and groups to engage in collective worship and individual prayer with the prescribed verses.

In essence, "Chaitya Paripati" is a devotional anthology intended to enrich the spiritual experience of Jain devotees through the recitation of praises and songs in the sacred environment of Jain temples. It provides a structured way to connect with the divine and to reflect on Jain philosophy and practice.