Devvandanmala

Here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Devvandanmala" by Khantishri, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Devvandanmala Author: Khantishri Publisher: Hansrajbhai Manek Shah Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/001257/1

Overall Purpose and Theme:

The "Devvandanmala" is a collection of devotional practices, rituals, and hymns intended to guide Jain ascetics (Sadhvis) and lay followers (Shravaks and Shravikas) in their spiritual journey. The core theme revolves around the worship of Jineshwar Dev (Tirthankaras) and the observance of various vratas (vows), tapasyas (austerities), and rituals to attain true happiness and liberation (Moksha). The text emphasizes the Jain principles of knowledge, conduct, and penance as the path to overcoming worldly suffering and karmic bondage.

Key Sections and Content:

1. Introduction and Background (Pages 5-8):

   • The text begins by lamenting the worldly pursuit of happiness through materialistic means, which ultimately leads to more suffering. It states that true, eternal, and supreme happiness can only be attained through spiritual practices like devotion, charity, virtuous conduct (Shila), and austerities (Tapa) performed with pure intent, free from worldly desires.
   • It highlights the inspiration behind the book: the desire of spiritual leaders like Acharya Sagarchandrasuriji Maharaj and Muni Jagatchandragani to compile devotional practices.
   • The text details the journey of compilation, starting with the collection of materials by Sadhvi Khantishriji, incorporating works from other respected monks, and the eventual publication. It also mentions the contributions and support from the Jain community and patrons.
   • The author, Sadhvi Khantishriji, is introduced with her biographical details, including her birth, initiation, and the significant "Pravartini" title she received.

2. Devotional Rites and Rituals:

   • Navpad Aaraadhan Vidhi (Navpad Worship Rituals) (Pages 20-46, 51-61): This is a major focus of the book. It details the nine-day ritual of worshipping the nine fundamental principles or souls in Jainism (Navpads): Arihant, Siddha, Acharya, Upadhyaya, Sadhu, Darshan, Gyan, Charitra, and Tapa.
     • Each day is dedicated to worshipping one Pad.
     • The rituals include specific procedures for the entire day: morning prayers (Pratikraman), purification rituals (Parilehan), daily worship (Devavandan), specific vratas like Ayambil (eating only one meal a day, cooked with boiled water, salt, and milk/curd, but here often interpreted as rice and water for specific Tirthankaras), and the recitation of specific mantras and prayers related to the day's Pad.
     • The text provides detailed descriptions of the specific prayers (Stotras and Sijay) for each of the nine days, often involving the recitation of specific numbers of "Khamaasna" (prostrations or respectful bows), "Sathiya" (auspicious symbols), "Phala" (fruits), and "Namaskaravali" (rosaries of mantras). The number of these elements often corresponds to the number of virtues or qualities associated with each Pad.
     • The colors associated with each Pad are also mentioned, guiding the worship. For instance, Arihant is associated with white, Siddha with blue, Acharya with yellow, Upadhyaya with green, Sadhu with black, Darshan with white, Gyan with white, Charitra with dark/ash-colored, and Tapa with white.
   • Chaitra/Aaso Sud 7 Oli: The text specifies that the Navpad Oli typically starts on the 7th day of the bright fortnight of Chaitra or Asho.
   • Specific Devavandan Vidhis: The book includes various specific Devavandan (worship) rituals for different occasions:
     • Chaitya Vandan: General worship of Tirthankaras and temples.
     • Aayambil Pachaṇkhaṇ: The ritual of taking vows for Ayambil fasts.
     • Jnan Panchami Tapa Vidhi: A detailed ritual for the worship of knowledge, often performed around the festival of Gyan Panchami.
     • Diwali Devavandan: A ritual associated with the festival of Diwali, likely referring to the commemoration of Mahavir Swami's Nirvana.
     • Choumasi Devavandan: Worship performed during the Choumas (monsoon retreat).
     • Siddhachakra Nandi-Stavanam: Hymns and worship of the Siddhachakra, which encompasses the Navpad.
   • Other Tapa (Austerity) Rituals: The text also describes rituals for other significant austerities like:
     • Sthanak Tap: (20 Vratas or Olies).
     • Akshaynidhi Tap.
     • Vardhaman Tap: A progressive austerity where the number of Ayambil meals or fasting days increases.
     • Dash Pachakkhaṇ Tap: Ten different types of vows.
     • Kshira Samudra Tap.
     • Meru Teras Tap.
     • Panch Kalyanaka Tap.
     • Chandan Bala Tap.
     • Siddhachalji Chhath Tap.
     • Ashtapad Tap.

3. Prayers, Hymns, and Stotras:

   • The book contains numerous prayers, hymns (Sijay), and stotras dedicated to the Tirthankaras and the Navpad. These are often in poetic form and are meant to be recited during worship and meditation. Examples include stotras for Rishabhdev, Parshvanath, Mahavir Swami, Gautam Swami, and the Navpads themselves.
   • The language used is primarily Gujarati, with some Sanskrit terminology and phrases integrated.

4. Biographies and Devotional Narratives (Pages 12-18):

   • A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the inspiring life story of Srimati Kunverbai Hansraj, the patron of this particular edition. Her life is portrayed as one of deep devotion, virtue, and a remarkable, peaceful death (Samadhi Maran). This narrative serves as an example for devotees.
   • The dedication of the book is also a testament to the reverence for spiritual teachers.

5. Guidance on Vows and Practices:

   • The text provides instructions on how to observe various vows, including the specific rules for Ayambil and other fasting rituals.
   • It explains the significance of each ritual and the benefits derived from their correct observance.

6. Philosophical and Spiritual Insights:

   • The underlying philosophy is that true happiness and liberation are achieved by transcending the material world and focusing on the soul's inherent purity.
   • The importance of detachment from worldly pleasures, controlling senses and desires, and cultivating virtues like compassion, forgiveness, and equanimity is emphasized.

7. Structure and Organization:

   • The book is well-structured with an index (Anukramnika) at the beginning, guiding readers to specific sections.
   • The content is organized logically, moving from general principles to specific rituals and then to detailed instructions.

Overall Impression:

"Devvandanmala" is a practical guide for spiritual aspirants in the Jain tradition. It provides a comprehensive framework for daily worship, periodic observances, and the practice of various austerities, all aimed at spiritual purification and the ultimate goal of Moksha. The inclusion of inspiring life stories and devotional hymns makes it a rich resource for fostering devotion and guiding the conduct of followers. The emphasis on detailed rituals and the consistent repetition of mantras and prayers underscores the importance of discipline and sincere effort in the Jain spiritual path.