Chaturvinshati Stotra

This Jain text, Chaturvinshati Stotra by Acharya Mahavir Kirti, is a devotional work praising the twenty-four Tirthankaras of Jainism. The book, published by Digambar Jain Vijaya Granth Prakashan Samiti, Jaipur, features a Hindi commentary by Aryika Shri Vijayamati Mataji.

Key aspects of the text include:

• Author and Tradition: Acharya Mahavir Kirti was a prominent disciple of Acharya Adisagar Ji Ankalikar, a significant figure in the Digambar Jain tradition. The text belongs to the lineage established by these revered Acharyas.
• Content: The stotra, or hymn, offers praise and contemplation on the lives and teachings of the twenty-four Tirthankaras. It delves into profound philosophical, theological, and ethical concepts within Jainism, including the nature of the soul, the path to liberation, the principles of Jainism like ahimsa (non-violence), anekantavada (non-absolutism), and the importance of right faith, knowledge, and conduct (Samydarshan, Samyagyan, Samyakcharitra).
• Purpose: The text aims to guide individuals towards spiritual upliftment and self-realization. It highlights the Tirthankaras' attainment of supreme purity, detachment, and omniscience through intense spiritual practice and meditation, presenting their lives as an inspiration for spiritual seekers.
• Commentary: Aryika Vijayamati Mataji's Hindi commentary is praised for its clarity and accessibility, making the complex philosophical ideas understandable to a wider audience. It explains the intricate doctrines and spiritual insights embedded within the stotra, enriching the reader's understanding.
• Spiritual Significance: The stotra is considered a powerful tool for spiritual growth. It is believed that studying and reflecting on its verses can lead to the generation, growth, and strengthening of right faith, paving the way for right knowledge and right conduct, ultimately guiding individuals on the path to moksha (liberation).
• Context of Publication: The third edition of this work is being published by the Digambar Jain Vijaya Granth Prakashan Samiti, celebrating the 38th initiation anniversary of Acharya Sanmati Sagar Maharaj. This underscores the ongoing effort to disseminate Jain scriptures and teachings.

In essence, the "Chaturvinshati Stotra" is a devotional and philosophical composition designed to foster spiritual contemplation and guide practitioners towards the ultimate goal of liberation, drawing profound lessons from the lives and teachings of the twenty-four Tirthankaras.