Devchandraji Stavan Chovishi Part 02 - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Devchandraji Stavan Chovishi Part 02," authored by Dhirajlal Dahyalal Mehta and published by Jain Dharm Prasaran Trust:

Title: Devchandraji Stavan Chovishi Part 02 Author: Dhirajlal Dahyalal Mehta Publisher: Jain Dharm Prasaran Trust

This book is the second part of a series dedicated to explaining the "Stavan Chovishi" (a collection of 24 devotional hymns) composed by the revered Jain monk, Shri Devchandraji Maharaj. The hymns are dedicated to the 24 Jain Tirthankaras. This volume covers hymns 13 through 24.

Introduction and Author's Purpose: The book begins by introducing Shri Devchandraji Maharaj as one of the prominent spiritual figures who flourished between the 16th and 18th centuries, known for composing devotional hymns (Chaitravandano-stavan and stutis) in Gujarati. The author, Dhirajlal Dahyalal Mehta, states his intention to explain the meanings of Devchandraji's stanzas, noting that Devchandraji's compositions are particularly rich in "Dravyanuyoga" (a branch of Jain philosophy focusing on the nature of substances). The publication aims to make these profound spiritual texts accessible to a wider audience.

Biography of Shri Devchandraji Maharaj: The book dedicates a significant portion to recounting the life and teachings of Shri Devchandraji Maharaj.

Birth and Early Life: He was born in the village of Chang, near Bikaner in Marwar, to Tulsi das Shah and Dhanbai. His mother had a dream of a moon entering her mouth during her pregnancy, which was interpreted by a saint as a sign of her child becoming a great soul – either a powerful king or a supreme yogi.
Renunciation and Initiation: At the age of eight, following his parents' vow, Devchandraji was dedicated to Jainism and initiated by Pujya Rajasagarji Maharaj. He received further "Vadi Deeksha" at the age of ten, being named Rajvimal, though he remained widely known as Devchandraji.
Spiritual and Literary Pursuits: Under the guidance of his guru Deepchandraji, Devchandraji mastered Jain scriptures and engaged in deep spiritual practices. He is credited with receiving divine inspiration from Goddess Saraswati, which led him to compose numerous literary works. He was a profound scholar of various Jain texts, including Karmagrantha and Kamapadiya, and a gifted poet.
Lineage: The book traces his spiritual lineage, highlighting the gurus in his tradition, including Jinachandrasuri, Punyapradhanji, Sumatisagarji, Sadhurangji, and Rajasagarji, the guru of his parents.
Key Works and Travels: The biography details his travels and significant literary contributions, including:
- "Dhyan Deepika Chaturpadi" (V.S. 1766) composed in Multan.
- "Dravya Prakash" (V.S. 1767) written in seven languages at the age of 21.
- "Agam Saroddhar" (V.S. 1776) composed for his friend Durgadas in connection with his spiritual welfare.
- His involvement in the consecration of the Sahagnakuta Jinabimba in Patan, where he fostered a friendship with Gyanvimal Suriji, leading to the co-authorship of two stanzas in Anandghan Chovishi.
- His role in various consecrations and rectifications (Kriyoddhar), with a special emphasis on detachment (Aparigrahata).
- His travels across Gujarat and Rajasthan, visiting important pilgrimage sites like Shatrunjaya, performing consecrations, revitalizing old sites, and spreading Jain principles. He notably converted individuals from other faiths to Jainism and re-established Jain idol worship where it had been prohibited.
Key Qualities and Achievements: Devchandraji Maharaj is described as a learned scholar, influential preacher, prolific writer, devoted teacher, and a deep spiritual practitioner. He was a Brahmachari and possessed extraordinary spiritual prowess. He was respected across various Jain sects for his wisdom and spiritual attainment.
22 Virtues: The book lists 22 virtues attributed to him, including Truthfulness, Intelligence, Knowledgeable, Scripture Meditator, Deceitless, Angerless, Humbleness, Master of Sutras, Expert in all Shastras, Generosity, Lover of establishing centers of learning, Collector of books, Holder of the title of 'Vachak', Debater, Builder of new temples, Eloquent speaker, Revered by kings, Destroyer of calamities, Famous, Reformer of practices, Wearer of a jewel on his head, and propagator of the faith.
Spiritual Depth: The author emphasizes Devchandraji's introverted and self-realized nature, noting that his profound spiritual state was reflected in his writings. His life was characterized by detachment and a deep connection to his true self.
Contribution to Jain Literature: Devchandraji Maharaj is lauded for his ability to condense complex Jain philosophical concepts, particularly from Dravyanuyoga, into simple and accessible verses through his stanzas on the 24 Tirthankaras. He also made this profound literature accessible to children through his commentaries.
Passing: Shri Devchandraji Maharaj attained liberation in V.S. 1812 in Ahmedabad. He was honored with the title of 'Vachak'. His funeral rites were performed with great ceremony in Haripura, Ahmedabad.

Structure of the Book: The book includes an index listing the stanzas dedicated to each Tirthankara from 13 (Vimalnath) to 24 (Mahavir Swami), along with their corresponding page numbers. Each stanza is then presented with its Gujarati meaning (Gatharth) and a detailed commentary (Vivechan) by Dhirajlal Dahyalal Mehta. The explanations delve into the philosophical and spiritual significance of each Tirthankara's attributes and the devotional messages conveyed in the hymns.

Key Themes in the Stanzas (as evident from the summarized content): The summarized content from the stanzas of Vimalnath, Anantnath, Dharmanath, and Shantinath reveals several recurring themes:

Praise of the Tirthankara's Purity and Divinity: The stanzas repeatedly emphasize the absolute purity, omniscience, and detachment of the Tirthankaras.
Incomparability of Divine Qualities: The author uses metaphors and analogies to illustrate the infinite and immeasurable nature of the Tirthankaras' virtues, often comparing them to vast oceans or celestial bodies to convey their greatness.
Significance of Devotion and Imitation: The hymns highlight the transformative power of devotion and the importance of emulating the Tirthankaras' path of righteousness, non-violence, and detachment for spiritual liberation.
Philosophical Concepts: The commentaries explain complex Jain concepts like the nature of substances (Dravyas), spiritual paths (Nayas), the doctrine of reality (Syadvada), and the principles of karma.
Metaphorical Language: Devchandraji employs rich metaphorical language, drawing from nature and everyday life to make profound spiritual truths relatable.

Conclusion and Gratitude: The author expresses gratitude to those who helped in the creation of this work and seeks forgiveness for any shortcomings, requesting readers to point out any errors for future editions. He concludes by emphasizing the devotional nature of the stanzas, encouraging readers to recite them with devotion.

Other Publications by the Publisher: The book also lists other religious and philosophical works published by Jain Dharm Prasaran Trust, covering various aspects of Jain philosophy, ethics, and rituals.

In essence, "Devchandraji Stavan Chovishi Part 02" serves as a bridge between the profound spiritual legacy of Shri Devchandraji Maharaj and the modern seeker, offering both biographical context and detailed explanations of devotional hymns that aim to inspire spiritual growth and understanding of Jain principles.