Devchandraji Stavan Chovishi Part 01 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Devchandraji Stavan Chovishi Part 01," authored by Dhirajlal Dahyalal Mehta and published by Jain Dharm Prasaran Trust:

This book, "Devchandraji Stavan Chovishi Part 01," presents the first twelve devotional hymns (stanzas) from the "Chovishi" (Twenty-four hymns dedicated to the twenty-four Tirthankaras) composed by the revered poet-saint Acharya Devchandrasuri (also known as Devchandji Maharaj). The commentary and elaboration on these hymns are provided by Dhirajlal Dahyalal Mehta.

Introduction and Author's Background:

The book is dedicated to the worship of Lord Vitraag (the liberated souls). It highlights that numerous saints in the 17th and 18th centuries composed poetic hymns in Gujarati for this purpose. Prominent among them are Yashovijayji, Mohanvijayji, Devchandrasuri, and Anandghanji. The "Stavan Chovishi" composed by these saints is still widely sung in Jain households.
The introduction emphasizes that Acharya Devchandrasuri's twenty-four hymns are particularly rich in their "Dravyanuyog" (philosophical and metaphysical aspects of Jainism). The decision to publish the meanings of these hymns was driven by their popularity and the profound philosophical content.
The biography of Acharya Devchandrasuri is detailed:
- Born in the village of Chang near Bikaner in Marwar, to Tulsi Das Shah and Dhanbai.
- His parents made a vow to dedicate their child to the Jain faith if they were blessed with one.
- Dhanbai dreamt of the moon entering her mouth during her pregnancy, signifying the birth of a great soul.
- Jinchandraji Maharaj predicted that the child would be either a great king or a great ascetic.
- Born in Vikram Samvat 1746, he was named Devchandra, reflecting his auspicious birth.
- At the age of eight, he was dedicated to his Guru, Rajsagarji Maharaj, as per his parents' vow.
- He received initiation (diksha) at the age of ten in Vikram Samvat 1756, later receiving the higher initiation and was named Rajvimal, though commonly known as Devchandji.
- Under the guidance of his Guru Deepchandraji, he excelled in scriptural studies and spiritual practices.
- He attained mastery over scriptures, including "Karmagranth" and "Kammapadi," and became a renowned poet.
- He was a disciple in the lineage of Acharya Jinachandrasuri (61st in succession), a prominent figure of the Khartargachha sect.
- He composed significant works like "Dhyan Deepika Chaturpadi" and "Dravya Prakash" at a young age, demonstrating his deep scriptural knowledge and literary prowess.
- His life was marked by extensive travels, writing numerous treatises, conducting recitations (vachana), consecrating idols (pratishtha), and performing renovations (jirnoddhar) of Jain temples and sacred sites. He also played a crucial role in resolving social and religious issues.
- He had a profound respect for scholars of other sects, including Yashovijayji and Anandghanji from the Tapagachha lineage, often referencing their works.
- His personality was characterized by twenty-two virtues, including truthfulness, intelligence, scriptural mastery, purity, forgiveness, humility, and a strong influence on the Jain faith.
- Acharya Devchandrasuri was a yogi, introspective, and self-realized, leading a life of celibacy and detachment. His compositions reflect his high spiritual attainment, infused with devotion, spiritual wisdom, renunciation, and equanimity.

Content of the Hymns (Stavan 1-12):

The book focuses on the first twelve hymns, each dedicated to a specific Tirthankara:

First Tirthankara Adinath (Rushabhdev): The hymn explores the philosophical concept of devotion to the Tirthankaras, particularly the distance separating the soul from the liberated Tirthankaras. It questions how to establish devotion when there's no physical interaction or communication. The commentary delves into the subtle nature of such devotion, emphasizing the internal transformation required.
Second Tirthankara Ajitnath: This hymn focuses on the infinite and inexhaustible qualities of the Tirthankaras. It highlights the role of divine grace and the inherent potential within the soul, emphasizing that while the Tirthankara is the cause for manifestation, the soul itself is the primary agent of its own liberation. It stresses the importance of recognizing this inner potential and striving for it.
Third Tirthankara Sambhavnath: The commentary on this hymn, presented in two parts, elaborates on the Tirthankara's inscrutable nature, their role as illuminators of both the self and the external world, and their embodiment of perfect equanimity. It underscores the profound impact of their presence and teachings, leading to ultimate peace and spiritual realization.
Fourth Tirthankara Abhinandan Swami: This hymn delves into the concept of detachment from worldly pleasures and the attainment of true bliss through spiritual devotion. It emphasizes shedding the attraction towards materialistic possessions and experiences, recognizing them as fleeting and ultimately unfulfilling, to achieve the eternal joy found in the self.
Fifth Tirthankara Sumatinath: This hymn explores the profound paradoxes of the Tirthankara's existence – their eternal yet ever-changing nature, their solitary yet all-pervading presence, and their omniscient yet detached state. It highlights the divine qualities and the incomprehensible yet accessible nature of their spiritual perfection.
Sixth Tirthankara Padmaprabha: This hymn focuses on the transformative power of devotion and the importance of understanding the subtle philosophical principles. It compares the process of spiritual growth to the refining of metal, suggesting that through constant devotion and adherence to the teachings, the soul can shed its impurities and attain its true, pure state.
Seventh Tirthankara Suparshvanath: This hymn elaborates on the Tirthankara's immaculate and blissful existence, characterized by freedom from suffering and the attainment of perfect knowledge and perception. It emphasizes the Tirthankara's role as the source of true happiness and liberation.
Eighth Tirthankara Chandraprabha: This hymn highlights the Tirthankara's omnipresence in guiding the path to liberation. It emphasizes that their teachings act as a beacon, illuminating the spiritual journey for all souls. The commentary explains the nuanced philosophical concepts through various logical standpoints (Nayas) to deepen the understanding of the spiritual path.

Overall Significance:

The book serves as a profound devotional and philosophical guide, offering detailed explanations of Acharya Devchandrasuri's devotional hymns. It aims to provide readers with a deeper understanding of Jain philosophy, the life and teachings of Acharya Devchandrasuri, and the path to spiritual liberation through unwavering devotion and adherence to dharma. The commentary by Dhirajlal Dahyalal Mehta is highly valued for its clarity and scholarly depth.