Chaturvinshatika

This Jain text, titled "Chaturvinshatika," is a significant work attributed to Acharya Shri Pushpabhattasurivar of the 8th century CE. It is presented with a commentary by Purvamunivarya and further enriched by the Gujarati translation and research of Shri Hiralal Rasikdas Kapadia (M.A.). The publication is inspired and guided by the revered Acharya Bhagwant Shri Hemchandrasurishwarji Maharaj.

The "Chaturvinshatika" is a collection of 24 stotras (hymns of praise), each dedicated to one of the 24 Tirthankaras. Each stotra follows a specific structure: praising a particular Tirthankara, followed by praise for the collective Tirthankaras, praise for Shrut-Devata (the deity of Jain scriptures), and finally, praise for the guardian deities of the Jain tradition. The text is notable for its intricate poetic structure, employing various meters and elaborate wordplay (Yamaka).

Key aspects and content of the text:

• Author and Commentary: The primary author is Acharya Shri Pushpabhattasurivar, with a commentary by Purvamunivarya. The Gujarati translation and research are by Shri Hiralal Rasikdas Kapadia.
• Inspirational Guidance: The work is published under the inspiration and guidance of Acharya Bhagwant Shri Hemchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, highlighting a lineage of scholarly and spiritual leadership.
• Structure of the Stotras: Each of the 24 stotras is a "Kadambak," a collection of verses. Each Kadambak includes praise for:
  • A specific Tirthankara.
  • All Tirthankaras collectively.
  • Shrut-Devata (the personification of Jain scriptures).
  • Guardian deities (Shasan-Devatas).
• Linguistic and Poetic Merit: The text is lauded for its scholarly approach to poetry, demonstrating mastery over various Sanskrit meters (Chhandas) and employing sophisticated wordplay (Yamaka). The research by Shri Kapadia highlights the meticulous analysis of these poetic devices.
• Biographical and Historical Information: The text includes a detailed biography of Acharya Shri Bappabhattasurivar (also known as Pushpabhattasurivar), tracing his life from childhood, his encounters with kings like Aam and Dharmaraja, his scholarship, his adherence to strict vows, and his significant role in promoting Jainism. It also includes appended works such as the "Sharada Stotra" by Shri Bappabhattasurivar and the "Shri Bappabhattasurivar Charitra" by Shri Rajshekhar Suri.
• Content of the Stotras: The stotras themselves are described as containing profound philosophical insights, praising the qualities of the Tirthankaras, their divine attributes, and the path to liberation. The text suggests that the Tirthankaras' physical characteristics and the circumstances surrounding their birth are symbolic of their spiritual stature.
• Inspirational Figures: The publication acknowledges and honors several prominent Acharyas and Munis who inspired and contributed to the project, including Shri Vijay Premasurishwarji Maharaj, Shri Vijay Bhuvan Bhanusurishwarji Maharaj, and Shri Vijay Jayaghoshasurishwarji Maharaj.
• Publication Details: The book was published by Shri Jinshasan Aradhana Trust, with valuable contributions and support from various Jain sanghs and individuals across India, reflecting a widespread effort to preserve and disseminate valuable Jain literature. The publication date is Vir Samvat 2532 / Vikram Samvat 2062 / 2006 CE.

In essence, the "Chaturvinshatika" is presented as a devotional, scholarly, and poetically rich work that celebrates the Tirthankaras and provides valuable insights into Jain philosophy, history, and literature, further enhanced by the meticulous research and translation provided in the Gujarati edition.