Chaturvinshati Jin Namaskar Kavyo

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Chaturvinshati Jin Namaskar Kavyo" by Shilchandrasuri, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Chaturvinshati Jin Namaskar Kavyo (Chants of Salutation to the Twenty-Four Jinas) Author: Shilchandrasuri (attributed, as the author is unknown, but attributed to a learned Jain monk of the 17th century) Publisher: ZZ_Anusandhan

Overview:

This text presents a collection of twenty-four Sanskrit verses, each dedicated to one of the Tirthankaras (Jinas) of Jainism, from Rishabhadeva to Mahavir. While countless eulogies and hymns to the Tirthankaras exist, this particular work is noted for its unique metrical structure and sophisticated use of literary devices.

Key Features and Significance:

• "Vastu" Meter: The verses are composed in the "Vastu" meter (a quantitative meter primarily used in Prakrit languages). The use of this meter in Sanskrit poetry is considered rare, and the collection of all twenty-four verses in this meter as a contiguous composition is deemed exceptionally uncommon.
• Author and Time Period: The author and precise time of composition are not definitively known. However, based on the style of writing and the meter employed, scholars estimate it to be a creation of a learned Jain monk from the 17th century.
• "Shrinkhala Yamak" (Chain Rhyme/Alliteration): The most striking feature of this work is its masterful application of Shrinkhala Yamak.
  • Inter-Verse Chain: The last word of each verse seamlessly becomes the first word of the subsequent verse, creating a continuous chain of sound and meaning.
  • Intra-Verse Chain: This chain effect is further extended within each verse. The final syllable or word segment of each line forms the initial syllable or word segment of the next line.
• Artistic Skill: The text highlights the poet's extraordinary ability to execute this complex metrical and alliterative structure with apparent ease and naturalness, while simultaneously maintaining the sweetness and devotional quality of the poetry.
• Manuscript Origin: The provided text is based on two different manuscript copies of scattered pages, both believed to be from the 17th century. These copies were obtained from Munishri Dhurandharvijayji. The current reading is a compilation of these copies, with variant readings noted in the footnotes.
• Devotional Content: Each verse offers praise and adoration to a specific Tirthankara, highlighting their virtues, powers, and the auspicious qualities associated with them. The language is devotional and aims to evoke reverence and spiritual inspiration.

In essence, "Chaturvinshati Jin Namaskar Kavyo" is a remarkable example of Jain devotional literature that showcases exceptional poetic artistry. Its innovative use of the "Vastu" meter and the intricate "Shrinkhala Yamak" across all twenty-four verses dedicated to the Tirthankaras makes it a noteworthy composition, likely dating back to the 17th century.