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Devvandan Mala

Added to library: September 1, 2025

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First page of Devvandan Mala

Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Devvandan Mala" by Jashwantlal Girdharlal Shah, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Devvandan Mala (Compilation of Devotional Chants/Prayers) Author: Jashwantlal Girdharlal Shah (Compilation and Publisher) Key Contributors/Authors of individual Devotional Chants: Acharya Shri Gyanvimal Suri, Acharya Shri Vijaylakshmi Suri, Pandit Roopvijayji, Pandit Danvijayji, Pandit Veervijayji, Pandit Padm vijayji. Publisher: Jashwantlal Girdharlal Shah Publication Year: Veer Nirvan Samvat 2500 / Vikram Samvat 2030 (Christian Era 1974) Eighth Reprint

Overview:

"Devvandan Mala" is a collection of devotional prayers (Devvandan) and narratives related to significant Jain festivals and figures. The book aims to provide guidance on Jain devotional practices, including the specific prayers associated with various festivals, and the stories that illustrate their significance. It includes prayers for Diwali, Gyan Panchami, Choumase, Chaitra Purnima, and Eleven Ganadharas, along with other important Jain compositions. The compilation also emphasizes the importance of virtuous conduct and the purification of the soul through these devotional practices.

Key Contents and Themes:

The book is structured to include:

  1. Katha (Stories) of Festivals:

    • Shri Gyanpanchami Ki Katha: The story of Varatdatta and Gunamanjari, illustrating the consequences of disrespecting knowledge and the benefits of its worship, particularly through the observance of Gyan Panchami.
    • Shri Maun Ekadashi Ki Katha: The significance of Maun Ekadashi (Mourning Eleventh), celebrated on Margashirsh Shukla Ekadashi, due to the 150 Kalyanakas (auspicious events) of Tirthankaras from three sets of 24. The story of Sur Seth is presented to highlight the rewards of observing this fast.
    • Shri Chaumasi Ki Katha: Explains the three Chaumasi (quarterly observances) falling on Kartik Sud 14th, Phagun Sud 14th, and Ashadh Sud 14th. It emphasizes the importance of adhering to vows and the benefits of dedicating oneself to dharma during the rainy season. The story of King Kumarpal is used to illustrate adherence to vows even amidst difficulties.
    • Shri Chaitri Purnima Ki Katha: Focuses on the significance of Chaitra Purnima, particularly the liberation of Lord Adinath's first Ganadhara, Pundarik Swami, with 5 crore ascetics on this day. It also highlights the liberation of Nami and Vinami, sons of Lord Rishabhdev, and the general glory of Shri Shatrunjaya (Palitana) pilgrimage, especially on Chaitra Purnima.
    • Diwali Parva Ki Katha: Explains the origin and significance of Diwali, linking it to the Moksha (liberation) of Lord Mahavir Swami on the night of Kartik Amavasya and the attainment of Keval Gyan by his chief Ganadhara, Gautam Swami. The story of King Samprati and the practices associated with Diwali, such as lighting lamps, are discussed.

  2. Devvandan (Devotional Prayers) by Various Acharyas and Pandits: The core of the book is the collection of these prayers, attributed to respected Jain monks and scholars:

    • Diwali Devvandan: By Shri Gyanvimal Suri.
    • Gyanpanchami Devvandan: By Shri Vijaylakshmi Suri, explaining the five types of knowledge.
    • Maun Ekadashi Devvandan: By Pandit Roopvijayji, detailing the 150 Kalyanakas. Another Devvandan for Maun Ekadashi is also included by Shri Gyanvimal Suri.
    • Chaitri Purnima Devvandan: By Pandit Danvijayji, highlighting the glory of Siddhachal and Lord Adinath's first Ganadhara. Another Chaitri Purnima Devvandan by Shri Gyanvimal Suri is also present.
    • Chaumasi Devvandan: By Shri Gyanvimal Suri, including descriptions of the 20 Tirthankaras and various sacred places. Devvandan for Chaumasi by Pandit Veer Vijayji and Pandit Padm Vijayji are also included, with similar content structure.

  3. Other Compositions:

    • Eleven Ganadharas Devvandan: By Shri Gyanvimal Suri, detailing the lives and significance of Lord Mahavir's eleven chief disciples.
    • Chhand of 24 Jinshwaras: Poetic verses dedicated to each of the 24 Tirthankaras.
    • Neminath's Shlokas: Poetic verses dedicated to Lord Neminath.
    • Four Sharanas: The four refuges in Jainism (Arhant, Siddha, Sadhu, Dharma).
    • Jain Sahastranam Laghu Stotram: A shorter version of the thousand names of Jain Tirthankaras, likely praising their virtues.

Purpose and Significance:

  • Promoting Devotional Practice: The book serves as a practical guide for Jains to perform specific devotional rituals during important festivals.
  • Educational Value: The included stories provide moral and spiritual lessons, explaining the karmic consequences of actions and the path to liberation.
  • Preservation of Tradition: It helps in preserving and disseminating the traditional Jain devotional literature and practices.
  • Spiritual Upliftment: The prayers and stories are intended to inspire devotion, cultivate virtuous qualities, and lead the reader towards spiritual progress and liberation.
  • Clarification of Rituals: The book clarifies the specific rituals, timings, and reasons behind the observance of various Jain festivals.

Overall Message:

"Devvandan Mala" is a compilation that emphasizes the profound connection between devotion, ethical conduct, and the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation in Jainism. It encourages adherence to rituals and the contemplation of Jain philosophy and history to foster spiritual growth and attain blessings. The inclusion of stories and the detailed explanations of the Devvandans make it a valuable resource for understanding and practicing Jain devotional life.