Girnar Geetganga - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Girnar Geetganga" by Hemvallabhvijay, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Girnar Geetganga Author: Hemvallabhvijay Publisher: Girnar Mahatirthvikas Samiti Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/002497/1

Overview:

"Girnar Geetganga" is a devotional compilation focused on the sacred Jain pilgrimage site of Girnar, and specifically on the 22nd Tirthankar, Lord Neminath, whose life events are intimately connected with this holy mountain. The book serves as a collection of devotional songs, hymns, prayers, and rituals related to Girnar, aiming to spread the glory of this significant Tirth among the Jain community.

Key Themes and Content:

Glory of Girnar Mahatirth: The text extensively emphasizes the unparalleled spiritual significance and sanctity of Girnar. It is described as an eternal mountain, second only to Shatrunjay in its importance. The book highlights that Girnar is blessed by the Diksha (initiation), Kevalgyan (omniscience), and Moksha Kalyanak (liberation) of Lord Neminath, as well as numerous other Tirthankaras from past and future cycles. It also mentions that even animals residing on Girnar attain liberation within eight lifetimes due to the divine aura of the place.
Connection with Lord Neminath: Girnar and Lord Neminath are presented as intrinsically linked. The songs and verses often refer to Neminath as "Girnar-Nem," highlighting his presence and influence on the mountain. The narrative recounts key events from Neminath's life, such as his renunciation of worldly pleasures, his compassion towards animals, his spiritual journey, and his ultimate liberation from Girnar. The story of Rajulmati, Neminath's beloved, and her devotion is also a recurring theme.
Devotional Content: The core of the book consists of:
- Stutis and Stavans: Numerous hymns and songs in praise of Lord Neminath and Girnar are included. These are categorized into ancient and modern renditions, reflecting different styles of devotional expression.
- Bhakti Geets: Devotional songs expressing deep love and devotion for Girnar and Neminath.
- Aarti and Puja: The text includes guidelines and verses for performing rituals and worship at the holy site.
- Diksha Geets: Songs related to renunciation and the path of asceticism, often inspired by Neminath's life.
- Guru Bhakti Geets: Hymns dedicated to the spiritual guides and gurus who propagated the devotion to Girnar.
- Duhas and Chhapa: Short, impactful verses and couplets offering prayers, praises, and reflections.
- Various Other Devotional Sections: The book also contains sections on temple worship rituals (Chaityavandan Vidhi), eulogies (Khamaasamana), and descriptions of the pilgrimage process.
Historical and Mythological Significance: The text weaves in historical and mythological accounts associated with Girnar, including:
- The description of Girnar's physical beauty and its spiritual arrangement resembling a Samavasaran (divine assembly).
- The mention of various divine beings and kings who have worshipped Girnar.
- The unique ancient idol of Lord Neminath, believed to be over 165,735 years old, and its mystical properties.
- The legends of Indra's involvement in constructing temples and installing idols.
- The significance of specific locations on Girnar, such as Sahasavan (where Neminath took initiation and attained omniscience) and Panchmi Tunk (where he attained liberation).
Call to Devotion and Pilgrimage: The book serves as an invitation to the Jain community to embrace the devotion to Girnar and Lord Neminath. It encourages readers to visit the Tirth, perform the prescribed rituals, and internalize the teachings and spirit of renunciation exemplified by Neminath. The "99 Yatra ni Vidhi" (Methodology for 99 Pilgrimages) section suggests a structured approach to experiencing the sanctity of Girnar through repeated visits and specific observances.
Author's Intent: The compiler, Hemvallabhvijay, along with his gurus (Yugpradhan Acharyasam, Shrimad Chandrashekharvijayji and Ganivarya Dharmarakshitvijayji), expresses a desire to spread the glory of Girnar Mahatirth to every household and heart, noting that it has been relatively overlooked compared to other major Tirths.

Structure:

The book is meticulously organized, with a detailed table of contents guiding the reader through various sections, including:

Girnar's Glory (Mahima Nyaro)
Girnar Stuti Sarita (River of Girnar Praises)
General Jin Stuti (Praise of Jinendra)
Girnar-Nemi Thoyna Joda (Couplets of Girnar-Nemi)
Girnar Mahatirthna Khamaasamana (Apologies/Respects for Girnar)
Chaityavandan Vidhi (Temple Worship Procedure)
Girnar-Nemi Stavan (Hymns to Girnar-Nemi)
Nemibhaktamar Stotram (Chant dedicated to Neminath)
Girnar Bhaktidhara (Flow of Girnar Devotion)
General Bhaktigeets
Deeksha Geets (Songs of Initiation)
Guru Bhakti Geets (Songs of Devotion to Guru)
Duhas (Couplets) on various themes like moving on (Chalti na Duhana), and upliftment (Uchhamani na Duhana).
Detailed Yatra (Pilgrimage) procedures and names of Girnar.
Concluding prayers and affirmations.

Overall Impression:

"Girnar Geetganga" is a rich and comprehensive devotional work that aims to connect devotees with the spiritual power and historical significance of Girnar. It offers a wide array of devotional literature designed to inspire faith, encourage pilgrimage, and deepen the understanding of Jain principles through the life and teachings of Lord Neminath and the sanctity of Girnar. The inclusion of specific rituals and the extensive collection of devotional songs make it a valuable resource for Jain devotees.