Chamatkari Savchuri Stotra Sangraha Tatha Vankchuliya Sutra Saransh

This book, "Chamatkari Savchuri Stotra Sangraha tatha Vankchuliya Sutra Saransh" (Collection of Miraculous Stotras and Essence of Vankchuliya Sutra), compiled and researched by Muni Kshantivijay and published by Hirachand Kakalbhai Shah, presents a collection of devotional hymns and a summary of important Jain philosophical concepts.

Key Content and Themes:

The book is divided into several sections, each focusing on different aspects of Jain devotional literature and philosophy:

• Chamatkari Savchuri-Stotra Sangrah (Collection of Miraculous Stotras):

  • This section features eleven stotras (hymns of praise) and their commentaries (Avchuri). The stotras are dedicated to various Tirthankaras and revered gurus.
  • Notable stotras include:
    • Ekadash Sandhana Stuti: Praises eleven Tirthankaras and Guru Vijaydan Surishwar. The accompanying commentary elaborates on the divine qualities and significance of each Tirthankara in relation to the specific context of the praise.
    • Shat Sandhana Stuti: Praises six Tirthankaras (Ajitnath, Mahavir, Sadharan, Ajit, Bharatish, Vardhamaan). The commentary explains the meaning and devotional aspects of these hymns.
    • Viddadgoshthi: A philosophical discourse presented as a debate or discussion among scholars, exploring various perspectives on virtue and knowledge.
    • Naravruttamukam: A collection of verses describing virtues and ethical conduct.
    • Vanaravallabhashtakam: Eight verses on desirable qualities, potentially including those related to the "monkey's beloved" or qualities appreciated by all.
    • Satpurushashtakam: Eight verses dedicated to the characteristics of righteous individuals.
    • Sajjan Chittavallabha Grantha: A work by Mallishen, containing verses that highlight the qualities of virtuous individuals and the importance of righteous conduct. It also includes a commentary in Gujarati.
    • Shree Antariksha Parshwanath Mahatmya: This significant section narrates the glory and miracles associated with Lord Parshvanath, specifically the Antariksha Parshvanath idol. It includes the autobiography of Pandit Bhavvijay Gani, detailing his spiritual journey, miraculous experiences (like regaining his eyesight), and the history and powers of the Antariksha Parshvanath idol. It also provides a Hindi translation of this autobiography.

• Shri Vankchuliya Sutra-Saransh (Essence of Vankchuliya Sutra):

  • This section summarizes the Vankchuliya Sutra in Gujarati. The text discusses the cycle of birth and rebirth through various life forms, detailing the karmic consequences of actions. It narrates the story of twenty-two men who, due to their wicked deeds and attachment to a courtesan, underwent immense suffering through transmigration across different species and states of existence before eventually finding liberation through the teachings of Jainism. This section highlights the importance of righteous conduct, detachment from worldly desires, and the pursuit of spiritual knowledge.

Author and Context:

• Author: Muni Kshantivijay is credited as the compiler and researcher. The book also references the autobiographical account of Pandit Bhavvijay Gani regarding the Antariksha Parshvanath Mahatmya.
• Publisher: Hirachand Kakalbhai Shah, through Shree Sudharmaswami Gyanbhandar, Umara, Surat.
• Historical Context: The publication date is noted as Vikram Samvat 1979 and Veer Samvat 2450, placing its origin in the early 20th century. The book was sponsored by the Jain Swetambar Murtipujak Sangh of Lunara village, Buldhana district, in memory of Seth Hansraj Ganjisanchta.

Overall Significance:

This compilation serves as a valuable resource for understanding Jain devotional practices and philosophical teachings. The "Chamatkari Savchuri Stotra Sangraha" offers inspiring hymns that express devotion and seek divine blessings, while the "Vankchuliya Sutra Saransh" provides a profound philosophical lesson on karma, transmigration, and the path to liberation. The inclusion of the detailed narrative of the Antariksha Parshvanath idol and Pandit Bhavvijay Gani's life story adds a significant layer of devotional and historical importance to the collection. The book emphasizes the transformative power of devotion, adherence to Jain principles, and the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation.