Dhyanashatakam Part 2 - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Dhyanashatakam Part 2" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Dhyanashatakam Part 2 (ध्यानशतकम्-२) Original Author: Pujyacharya Shrimad Jinbhadragani Kshamashraman Virachitam (युगप्रधानपूज्याचार्यश्रीमद्-जिनभद्रगणिक्षमाश्रमणविरचितं) Commentary Author: Pujyacharya Shrimad Haribhadrasuri Virachitam Vruttya Samanvitam (समर्थशास्त्रकारशिरोमणिपूज्याचार्यश्रीमद्-हरिभद्रसूरिविरचितवृत्त्या समन्वितं) Editors/Researchers: Pujyapadaacharya Shrimad Vijaykeertiyashsurishwarah (प्रवचनप्रभावकपूज्यपादाचार्यश्रीमद्विजयकीर्तियशसूरीश्वराः) Publisher: Sanmarg Prakashan (सन्मार्ग प्रकाशन), Ahmedabad Edition: First (प्रथमा) Publication Year: Vikram Samvat 2066, Vikram Samvat 2536, English Year 2009 (ज्ञानपञ्चमी - Gyan Panchami) Number of Pages: 700 Price: Rs. 275/-

Overall Purpose and Structure:

"Dhyanashatakam Part 2" is the second part of a significant Jain text on meditation (Dhyana). It is presented in a critical edition, enriched with commentary, annotations, and textual variations. This specific part (Bhag 2) contains verses 1 to 36 of the Dhyanashatakam along with an extensive collection of 36 appendices (Parishishta). The publisher, Sanmarg Prakashan, has dedicated this publication to the memory of Pujya Acharya Shrimad Vijay Ramachandrasuri, aiming to perpetuate his legacy through the publication of Sanskrit and Prakrit texts related to Jainism.

Key Figures and Their Contributions:

Acharya Shrimad Jinbhadragani Kshamashraman: The original author of "Dhyanashatakam," a revered figure in Jain tradition, known as "Yugpradhan" (leader of the era).
Acharya Shrimad Haribhadrasuri: The author of the commentary (Vritti) on the Dhyanashatakam, renowned as a "Samarth Shastrakar Shiromani" (foremost scholar of scriptures). His commentary is a crucial element, providing depth and explanation to the original verses.
Acharya Shrimad Vijaykeertiyashsurishwarah: The editors and researchers of this specific edition. They are described as disciples (Charanchancharika) of Acharya Shrimad Vijay Ramachandrasuri and Acharya Shrimad Vijay Gunyashsurishwarah, holding significant positions as propagators of Jain teachings.

Content of Part 2 (Verses 1-36 and Appendices):

While the provided text focuses on the preliminary pages (introduction, editorial notes, acknowledgments, etc.), it clearly states that Part 1 of Dhyanashatakam includes the original text, Haribhadrasuri's commentary, annotations, and textual variations.

Part 2 (Bhag 2) is explicitly stated to contain:

Verses 1 to 36 of the Dhyanashatakam.
36 Appendices (Parishishta): This is a substantial portion of the second volume, indicating a comprehensive exploration of topics related to meditation from various Jain scriptures and traditions. The appendices cover a wide range of subjects, as seen in the index (Page 16 onwards):
- Analysis of different types of meditation: Including discussions on Aartadhyaana (sorrowful meditation), Raudradhyana (fierce meditation), Dharmadhyana (righteous meditation), and Shukladhyana (pure meditation).
- The nature of concentration and contemplation: Including various types of contemplation (Anupreksha) and thought processes (Chinta).
- The process of meditation: Covering aspects like the time of meditation, the master of meditation, the characteristics of meditation, posture, location, diet, and the state of the mind during meditation.
- The fruits of meditation: Both worldly (ihalaukik) and transcendental (moksha) benefits.
- Inclusion of hitherto unpublished manuscripts: This highlights the scholarly and archival value of the appendices.
- Discussions on related philosophical concepts: Such as the nature of the soul (Jeeva), the universe (Loka), karma, scriptures, and the path to liberation (Moksha).
- Examples and narratives: Stories and examples from Jain literature are likely used to illustrate the principles of meditation.
- Cross-referencing with other scriptures: The appendices likely draw upon and reference other important Jain texts like Dashavaikalika, Sambodhprakaran, Adhyatmasara, Darshanratnakarak, Dhyan Deepika, Lokaprakash, etc., to provide a comprehensive overview of meditation practices within Jainism.
- Detailed analysis of specific terms and concepts: Including the meaning of various terms used in the context of meditation and Jain philosophy.

Key Themes and Concepts Covered (Deduced from Appendices Index):

Dhyana (Meditation): The central theme, explored in its various forms and practices.
Aartadhyaana (Sorrowful Meditation): Its nature, causes, and negative consequences.
Raudradhyaana (Fierce Meditation): Its characteristics, typically associated with negative passions like anger, pride, deceit, and greed, and its detrimental effects.
Dharmadhyana (Righteous Meditation): The importance of pure thoughts, contemplation of dharma, and its role in spiritual progress.
Shukladhyana (Pure Meditation): The highest form of meditation, leading to liberation, achieved through the purification of the mind and detachment from all worldly concerns.
Karma and Spiritual Progress: The role of meditation in the purification and shedding of karmas, leading to liberation.
The Path to Moksha (Liberation): Meditation is presented as a crucial means to achieve liberation.
Jain Philosophy: Concepts like soul, karma, liberation, non-violence, and the nature of the universe are integrated into the discussion of meditation.
Commentarial Tradition: The presence of Haribhadrasuri's Vritti underscores the importance of understanding Jain philosophical texts through detailed commentaries.

Publisher's Note (Page 4):

The publisher's note emphasizes the dedication of the publication series to the memory of Acharya Shrimad Vijay Ramachandrasuri, who delivered discourses for eight decades and significantly contributed to the propagation of Jain teachings. The current volume, "Dhyanashatakam Part 2," is presented as the 23rd flower in this series. It highlights the blessings and guidance received from Acharya Shrimad Vijay Mohodayasurishwarji Maharaja and Acharya Shrimad Vijay Keertiyashsurishwarji Maharaja. The note expresses the publisher's joy in releasing this critical edition which includes various commentaries and unpublished manuscripts. It concludes with a prayer for the continued publication of similar scriptural texts and for the readers to attain the supreme state of liberation through the study of these treasures.

Benefactor (Page 5):

The publication of "Dhyanashatakam Part 2" is made possible through the financial contribution of Kumari Rekhaben Shah, daughter of Shri Shah Babulal Kalchandji Shreemali, residing in Sanchor (Satyapur). The funds were generated from the collection made on the occasion of the grand initiation ceremony (Diksha) of Pujya Sadhviji Shri Mokshdhyayashriji Maharaj (formerly Kumari Rekhaben, named Mokshdhyayashriji after initiation) on Vaishakh Sud 7, V.S. 2063. The publisher heartily congratulates her and wishes for continued scripture devotion in the future.

Dedication (Page 8):

The book is dedicated to the memory of Pujyapada Acharya Shrimad Vijay Siddhisurishwarji (Baapji) Maharaj on the occasion of his 50th death anniversary. The dedication expresses deep reverence and gratitude for his spiritual guidance and profound influence on the life of Vijay Keertiyashsurishti, the editor.

Overall Impression:

"Dhyanashatakam Part 2" appears to be a scholarly and comprehensive presentation of Jain meditation practices. The inclusion of verses 1-36 and extensive appendices, along with critical editions and commentaries from eminent Acharyas, makes it a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners of Jainism interested in the profound topic of Dhyana. The book is a testament to the dedication of the Jain monastic community in preserving and disseminating ancient wisdom.