Chandramalstotram

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Chandramalastotram by Jaysagar, based on the provided text:

The Chandramalastotram, authored by Muni Jaysagar, is a devotional hymn praising a highly revered Jin (Tirthankara), likely Lord Mahavir, as indicated by the bracketed title "[Mahavirastotram]" on page 2. The name "Chandramala" suggests the hymn is comparable to the moon in its purity, luminosity, and ability to dispel darkness and suffering.

The text is structured as a series of verses, primarily in the Vasantatilaka meter, with the final verse shifting to Shikharini. The author expresses profound humility and acknowledges the inadequacy of human language and intellect to fully capture the infinite virtues of the Tirthankara.

Key Themes and Praises:

• Divine Purity and Luminosity: The Tirthankara is described as "Chandramalam" (pure as the moon), having auspicious marks on his fingernails, radiating brilliance, and dispelling darkness and ignorance. His presence is compared to the moon's light that dispels the darkness of the night.
• Transcendence and Power: He is depicted as surpassing celestial beings like Indra and the Sun in his glory and influence. His powers are so immense that even celestial beings and the elements of nature are awed by him. The text emphasizes his ability to overcome all obstacles and afflictions.
• Benevolence and Compassion: The Tirthankara is the fulfiller of desires, a "Kalpavriksha" (wish-fulfilling tree), and a source of liberation for all beings. His teachings are described as the root of all auspiciousness, and his mere remembrance can alleviate suffering and grant prosperity.
• Moral and Spiritual Guidance: His teachings, characterized by the principles of non-violence (ahimsa), are highlighted as the destroyer of the cycle of birth and death. The hymn praises the efficacy of his words in purifying the soul and leading to liberation.
• Overcoming Obstacles and Sins: The Tirthankara's name and presence are potent remedies against sins, diseases, and worldly afflictions. The verses describe how his remembrance can overcome venom, fire, turbulent seas, sickness, and even the fear of death.
• Ego Annihilation and Humility of the Devotee: The author repeatedly expresses his own limitations and insignificance in praising the Tirthankara, highlighting the vastness of the Lord's virtues. He acknowledges his own dull intellect and the futility of his attempts, yet is driven by devotion.
• Metaphorical Comparisons: The Tirthankara's attributes are compared to various celestial and natural phenomena:
  • Moon: Purity, dispelling darkness, bringing comfort.
  • Sun: Illuminating the world, destroying darkness.
  • Wish-fulfilling Tree (Kalpavriksha): Granting desires, removing obstacles.
  • Ocean: Depth, holding precious jewels (virtues).
  • Chakra (Wheel): Symbolizing the Dharma Chakra, radiating brilliance.
  • Indra's Banner: Signifying victory and auspiciousness.
  • Lion: Symbolizing strength and courage.
  • Garuḍa: Symbolizing swiftness and power against venomous creatures.
  • Fire: Consuming afflictions.
  • Medicine/Antidote: Curing sins and suffering.
• Impact on Others: The hymn describes how even those who opposed him were transformed or defeated by his presence and teachings. Celestial beings honor him, and his abode is a place of solace and prosperity.
• Personal Devotion and Plea: The author concludes with a heartfelt plea for divine grace, asking for purification, spiritual insight, peace, and eternal devotion to the Tirthankara, acknowledging his own shortcomings and reliance on divine mercy.

Author and Context:

The colophon at the end (page 21) indicates that the hymn was composed by Muni Jaysagar, a disciple of Shri Anandasagar Surishvarji, who was associated with the Tapagachchha tradition. The hymn was completed in Vikram Samvat 1990.

In essence, the Chandramalastotram is a radiant tribute to a Tirthankara, extolling his divine qualities, the power of his teachings, and the transformative effect of his presence and remembrance, all expressed with deep reverence and humble devotion by the author.