Devadhidev Bhagwan Mahavir - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Devadhidev Bhagwan Mahavir" by Tattvanandvijay, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Devadhidev Bhagwan Mahavir (Meaning: The Supreme Deity, Lord Mahavir) Subtitle: (Sarv Tirthkar Swaroop Sakar Paramātmatattva) - The Embodiment of All Tirthankaras, The Incarnation of the Supreme Soul. Author: P.P. Muniraj Shri Tattvanandvijayji M.Sa. Publisher: Shri Arhadvatsalya Prakashan Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/011516/1

Overall Theme: The book is a detailed exposition of Lord Mahavir, presented as the embodiment of the Supreme Soul and the collective ideal of all Tirthankaras. It focuses on his divine attributes, particularly the thirty-four types of atishayas (supernatural qualities or miracles) and the eight mahapratiharyas (great regal attendants or symbols of divinity). The author emphasizes that these twelve qualities (four core atishayas and eight mahapratiharyas) are unique to Tirthankaras and specifically to Lord Mahavir, signifying his status as Devadhidev (Lord of Lords).

Key Concepts and Sections:

Fair Use Declaration: The initial pages highlight The Free Indological Collection's (TFIC) commitment to making texts available for educational and research purposes under Fair Use guidelines, believing the book to be in the public domain.
Illustrations and Their Significance:
- Cover Image: Depicts Lord Mahavir seated on a crystal lion throne, attended by divine symbols (pratiharyas). These include the Ashoka tree, umbrellas, fly-whisks (chamara), halo (bhamandal), and celestial musical instruments. The numbering on the image indicates the sequence of pratiharyas.
- Vihar Image: Shows Lord Mahavir in his post-enlightenment wandering (vihar). He is depicted walking on golden lotuses, with divine beings offering blessings and showering flowers. The image illustrates various divine accompaniments, including the Ashoka tree, umbrellas, and fly-whisks (pratiharyas).
The Divine Status of Lord Mahavir (Devadhidevapanu): The text asserts that the eight mahapratiharyas are unique divine signs that establish Lord Mahavir's (and all Tirthankaras') supreme divinity. These are not found in any other beings.
Author's Inspiration and Dedication:
- The author credits the simarimantra (meditative mantra) and the vasakshep (sacred powder) with granting the power to write this book.
- Deep reverence is expressed for his gurus: Acharya Shri Vijay Lakshmansurishwarji M.Sa. (Southern gatekeeper, unparalleled expounder) and Shatavadhani Acharya Shri Vijay Kirtichandrasurishwarji M.Sa. (under whose guidance the work was completed).
- A tribute is paid to Sw. Shri Vardhaman Manchand Shah, whose suggestion initiated the publication.
The Twelve Qualities (Four Core Atishayas + Eight Mahapratiharyas): The book explains that only those possessing these twelve qualities are worthy of the title Devadhidev. These qualities are inherent to all Tirthankaras, especially Lord Mahavir, and are not found in others. The descriptions in the book apply generally to all Tirthankaras but are focused on Lord Mahavir.
The Core Concept of "Arahant-Vatsalya":
- The author explains the series title "Arhatsalya Pushkaravart" (meaning "Vatsalya towards the Arhats, like the Pushkaravarta clouds").
- Vatsalya (affection, love, devotion) towards the Arhats is identified as the first of the twenty sthanakas (stages) that lead to becoming a Tirthankara. This profound and unique affection is a characteristic of Tirthankara souls.
- Arhat is explained through its four forms: Nama (names), Sthapana (idols/images), Dravya (physical form from conception to nirvana), and Bhava (the state of experiencing divinity during sermons in samavasarana).
- The author emphasizes the profound connection between Vatsalya and attaining Tirthankara namakarma (the karma that determines one's birth as a Tirthankara).
Theological Foundation:
- The text draws heavily from Jain scriptures like Samavayanga Sutra, Mahaniishith Sutra, Vitragastav, Abhidhan Chintamani, and Lokprakash.
- The author emphasizes the importance of sammyakdarshan (right faith) and jinvatsalya (devotion to Tirthankaras) as essential for understanding the true nature of the divine.
- The importance of adhering to the teachings of previous acharyas (great scholars and spiritual leaders) is highlighted, warning against personal interpretations (svamati) that deviate from tradition.
The Thirty-Four Atishayas: The book elaborates on the thirty-four atishayas, categorizing them into:
- Four Sahaj Atishayas (Innate Miracles): Present from birth, relating to the body's perfection, scent, and sustenance.
- Eleven Karmakshaya Atishayas (Miracles from the Destruction of Karmas): Manifest after the destruction of destructive karmas (ghati karmas), relating to the impact of the Tirthankara's presence on the environment and beings.
- Nineteen Devakrita Atishayas (Miracles Created by Deities): Attributed to deities who manifest these miracles out of devotion to the Tirthankara. This category includes the eight mahapratiharyas.
The Eight Mahapratiharyas: These are detailed as divine regalia and accompaniments, which are described as manifestations of divine power and the Tirthankara's supreme status:
- Ashoka Tree (Ashoka Vriksha)
- Flower Shower (Pushpa Vrishti)
- Divine Sound (Divya Dhwani)
- Fly-whisks (Chamar)
- Lion Throne (Simhasan)
- Halo (Bhamandal)
- Divine Drum (Dundubhi)
- Three Umbrellas (Trish Chhatra)
Focus on Detailed Descriptions: Each atishaya and mahapratiharaya is described with great detail, often referencing classical verses and explaining the symbolic meaning behind these divine manifestations. The author's deep devotion and extensive scriptural knowledge are evident in these descriptions.
The Power of Devotion and Meditation: The text repeatedly underscores that understanding and experiencing the divine attributes of the Tirthankaras, particularly through Vatsalya and meditation (dhyana), is crucial for spiritual progress and liberation.
The Significance of the Tirthankara Name Karma: The book explains how the attainment of Tirthankara namakarma is a result of intense spiritual discipline, including the twenty sthanakas, and that this karma is responsible for the unique qualities and powers of a Tirthankara.

Summary of Key Points:

Lord Mahavir as the Supreme Being: The book establishes Lord Mahavir as the ultimate spiritual figure, embodying the essence of all Tirthankaras.
The Divine Attributes: The thirty-four atishayas and eight mahapratiharyas are presented as undeniable proofs of his divine status, unique to him and all Tirthankaras.
Theological Framework: The author grounds his explanations in Jain philosophical concepts, emphasizing Vatsalya, sammyakdarshan, and adherence to traditional teachings.
The Power of Vatsalya: The devotion and love towards the Tirthankara (Vatsalya) are highlighted as the foundation for spiritual realization and the eventual attainment of the Tirthankara state.
Scriptural Basis: The work is meticulously supported by references to numerous Jain scriptures, demonstrating a profound understanding of the tradition.
Devotional Tone: Throughout the text, there is an overriding tone of deep reverence and devotion towards Lord Mahavir and the Tirthankaras.

In essence, "Devadhidev Bhagwan Mahavir" is a devotional and scholarly work that meticulously details the sublime attributes of Lord Mahavir, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of his divine status and the spiritual path leading to such perfection, as described in the Jain tradition.