Chaturvinshati Jin Stav

This Jain text, "Chaturvinshati Jin Stav" (Psalms of the Twenty-Four Jinas), is a devotional work praising the twenty-four Tirthankaras (spiritual guides) of Jainism. It was originally composed by Jinprabhsuri, also known as Kavi Vare, and this specific edition features a detailed commentary (vivriti) by Muni Shri Chandrodayvijayji. The publication is credited to Shri Sangh, and the editing to Muni Ashok Chandravijayji.

The book is presented as a devotional offering, aiming to bring spiritual benefit and peace to its readers.

Here's a breakdown of the content and its significance:

Structure and Content:

• Introduction: The initial pages include a salutation to deities and gurus, followed by an introduction to the work and its commentary. It highlights the lineage of the gurus involved, including Acharya Shri Kailassagarsuri, Acharya Shri Vijay Nemi Surishwar, Acharya Shri Vijay Vignansurishwar, and Acharya Shri Vijay Kastursurishwar.
• The Stav (Psalms): The core of the book consists of verses (stanzas) dedicated to each of the twenty-four Jinas. Each verse typically addresses a specific Tirthankara, highlighting their unique qualities, epithets, and the auspicious events associated with their lives.
  • The verses employ poetic meters (like Upajati, Vamsasthavrittam, VasantaTilaka, Shardulavikriditam) to praise the Jinas.
  • The language is a blend of Sanskrit and Prakrit, characteristic of Jain scriptures.
• The Vivriti (Commentary): Following each verse of the stav, Muni Shri Chandrodayvijayji provides a detailed explanation. This commentary:
  • Explains the literal meaning (Anvay): Breaking down the verse into its grammatical components and providing the intended sequence of words.
  • Elaborates on the meaning (Vivriti): Delving into the deeper spiritual and philosophical significance of each epithet and attribute used to describe the Jina. This often includes etymological explanations of the Jina's name, referencing their past lives, auspicious dreams, and the impact of their teachings.
  • Provides contextual information: Explaining the significance of various terms, referencing other Jain scriptures, and illustrating the virtues being praised.
  • Highlights the qualities of each Jina: Such as their purity, omniscience, compassion, liberation from passions, and their role as guides for humanity.
• Concluding Verses: The final verses express the author's (Muni Chandrodayvijayji) devotion and hope for the blessings of the Jinas. They also include details about the completion of the work, including the date and location of its inscription, and a plea for correction by learned individuals.

Key Themes and Significance:

• Devotion to the Tirthankaras: The primary purpose of the "Chaturvinshati Jin Stav" is to express deep devotion and reverence towards the twenty-four Tirthankaras, who are seen as embodiments of ultimate spiritual attainment.
• Praise and Glorification: The verses are designed to glorify the virtues and accomplishments of each Jina, inspiring readers to emulate their path.
• Spiritual Guidance: The Jinas are presented as guides who have shown the way to liberation from the cycle of birth and death. The text emphasizes their role in dispelling ignorance and leading beings towards spiritual enlightenment.
• Theological Exposition: The commentary provides a rich theological exposition of Jain principles, the characteristics of the Tirthankaras, and the path to liberation. It draws upon a deep understanding of Jain philosophy and scriptures.
• Transmission of Knowledge: The commentary by Muni Shri Chandrodayvijayji serves to preserve and transmit the profound teachings of Jinprabhsuri to future generations, making the text accessible and understandable.
• Blessings and Well-being: The ultimate aim of reciting or studying this text is to invoke the blessings of the Jinas, leading to spiritual progress, peace, and well-being.

Publishing Details:

• Publisher: Shree Sangh (likely a Jain religious organization).
• Editor: Muni Ashok Chandravijay.
• Commentator: Muni Shri Chandrodayvijay.
• Original Author: Jinprabhsuri (Kavi Vare).
• Publication Context: The text appears to be published in India, with printing details mentioning Pune and Ahmedabad. The publication year is indicated as Vikram Samvat 2013 (2013 VS, approximately 1956 CE) and 2483 (2483 V.S., likely a typo or alternative dating system, but the former is more standard for modern publications).

In essence, "Chaturvinshati Jin Stav" with its accompanying commentary is a significant Jain devotional text that offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the lives and teachings of the twenty-four Tirthankaras, fostering spiritual devotion and understanding among its readers.