Dharm Pravarttan Sara Granth

The book "Dharm Pravartan Sara Granth" (धर्म प्रवर्तन सार ग्रंथ) by Surchandbhai Swarupchand Shah, published by Ratanchand Laghaji Shah, is a comprehensive Jain text encompassing various aspects of Jain philosophy and practice, particularly within the Shvetambara tradition. The catalog link provided directs to a digital copy hosted by Shree Sudharmaswami Gyanbhandar-Umara, Surat.

The book appears to be a collection of treatises and devotional works, as indicated by its subtitle: "Kshayaak Bhavatattva Vilas, Shraddhaprakaran, Navapadaji ni Puja, Adhyatm Chovishi, Chaityavandano, Stutiyo, Stavano, Sajjayo, Ane Gurubhaktina Raas Sahit" (क्षायक भावतत्व विलास, श्रद्धाप्रकरण, नवपदजीनी पूजा अध्यात्म चोवीशी, चैत्यवंदनो, स्तुतियो, स्तवनो, सज्जायो, अने गुरुभक्तिना रास सहित). This translates to: "The Jewel of the Propagation of Dharma, along with Delight in the Principle of the Abolition of Karmic Dispositions, the Chapter on Faith, Worship of the Nine Essences, Spiritual Twenty Verses, Veneration of Holy Places, Praises, Devotional Songs, Verses, and Songs of Devotion to the Guru."

Based on the provided pages and the table of contents (अनुक्रमणिका), the book is structured into several distinct sections:

1. Dharm Pravartan Sara Granth (धर्म प्रवर्तन सार ग्रंथ): This is the primary section, focusing on the propagation and essence of Dharma. The preface (प्रस्तावना) and later sections discuss the superiority of Jain Dharma, the distinction between Shvetambara and Digambara sects, and the importance of understanding the nuances of Nayas (नय) – the different perspectives or standpoints in Jain philosophy, namely Vyavahar Naya (व्यवहार नय) and Nischay Naya (निश्चय नय). The author aims to elucidate the correct path by highlighting deviations from pure doctrine and presenting the teachings of revered acharyas like Harinprsuriyashovijay Upadhyay and Devchandji. The importance of following the teachings of the Purvacaryas (पूर्वाचार्य) is emphasized. The text also delves into concepts like the destruction of karma (आश्रव), sustenance (संवर), and the different types of conduct (आचार). It references scriptures like Jita Kalpa and Brihat Kalpa.

2. Kshayik Bhavatattva Vilas (क्षायक भावतत्व विलास): This section, consisting of eighteen chapters (ढाळ), explores the state of perfect knowledge and perception (क्षायक भाव), which is the ultimate liberated state in Jainism. It seems to detail various spiritual stages and concepts such as Samyak Darshan (सम्यक् दर्शन - Right Faith), Charitra (चारित्र - Conduct), Keval Gyan (केवल ज्ञान - Omniscience), and Keval Darshan (केवल दर्शन - Omniscience of Perception). It also touches upon the six substances (द्रव्य) of Jainism: Jiva (जीव - Soul), Pudgala (पुद्गल - Matter), Dharma (धर्म - Principle of Motion), Adharma (अधर्म - Principle of Rest), Akasha (आकाश - Space), and Kala (काल - Time). Various aspects of Pudgala (Matter) are discussed, including its qualities like color, taste, smell, touch, and form, and the intricacies of the soul's journey through different life forms (गति).

3. Shraddhaprakaran (श्रद्धाप्रकरण): This section is dedicated to the principle of faith (Shraddha - श्रद्धा). It likely elaborates on the nature of the Divine (Deva - देव), the Guru (गुरु - spiritual teacher), and Dharma (धर्म - Jain path). It discusses concepts like Desavirati (देसविरती - partial vows) and Sarvavirati (सर्वविरती - complete vows).

4. Navapada Puja (नवपदजीनी पूजा): This is a devotional section containing the worship (Puja - पूजा) of the Navapada (नवपद), which are the nine supreme entities in Jainism: Arihant (अरिहंत), Siddha (सिद्ध), Acharya (आचार्य), Upadhyay (उपाध्याय), Sadhu (साधु), Dharma (धर्म), Darshan (दर्शन - Faith), Gyan (ज्ञान - Knowledge), and Charitra (चारित्र - Conduct).

5. Adhyatm Chovishi (अध्यात्म चोवीशी): This section contains twenty verses or chapters (Chovishi - चोवीशी) dedicated to spiritual contemplation and meditation. It likely delves into the inner spiritual aspects of Jainism.

6. Chaityavandano (चैत्यवंदनो): This section includes verses for the veneration of Jain temples and holy images (Chaityavandan - चैत्यवंदन).

7. Stutiyo, Stavano, Sajjayo (स्तुतियो, स्तवनो, सज्जायो): These are devotional hymns, praises, and verses sung in praise of Jinas and Tirthankaras.

8. Gurubhaktina Raas (गुरुभक्तिना रास): This final section is dedicated to the devotion and glorification of Gurus (Guru - spiritual preceptors). It includes devotional songs and verses (Raas - रास) celebrating their teachings and spiritual guidance.

Overall Theme and Content: The book aims to provide a comprehensive guide to understanding and practicing Jain Dharma, emphasizing the importance of correct knowledge, faith, conduct, and devotion. It strives to clarify doctrinal points, refute incorrect interpretations, and offer a path towards spiritual liberation. The author, Surchandbhai Swarupchand Shah, draws heavily upon the scriptures and the teachings of previous Jain scholars. The publication aims to benefit a wide audience, including monks, nuns, and lay followers. The inclusion of devotional songs, verses, and worship rituals underscores the importance of Bhakti (devotion) in the Jain path. The language used is Gujarati, as indicated by the script and the names of authors and publishers.

The text also mentions a "Shuddhipatraka" (शुद्धिपत्रक - errata or correction sheet), suggesting a commitment to accuracy in presenting the spiritual teachings. The publication's pricing and distribution details highlight its aim to make this spiritual knowledge accessible.