Gurjar Sahitya Sangraha

Based on the provided Gujarati text and catalog link, here is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Gurjar Sahitya Sangrah (Yashovani)" in English:

Gurjar Sahitya Sangrah (Yashovani)

Author: Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj Original Compilation/Editing: Panyas Shri Bhadrakarvijayji Maharaj and Shri Mohanlal Dalichand Desai Publisher: Shri Shrutgyan Prasarak Sabha, Ahmedabad Revised/Augmented Edition: Acharya Shri Vijay Pradyumna Suri Maharaj

Overview:

"Gurjar Sahitya Sangrah (Yashovani)" is a significant collection of Gujarati poetic compositions by the renowned Jain scholar and poet, Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj. This book, particularly its revised third edition published in V.S. 2061 (2004 CE), aims to compile and preserve the rich literary heritage of Upadhyay Yashovijayji's works in Gujarati verse. The collection is esteemed for its philosophical depth, devotional fervor, and poetic brilliance, showcasing various forms like Chopai, Vishi, Pad, Sajhay, Samvad Ras, and verses dedicated to the Tirthankaras.

Key Aspects and Content:

1. Author and Significance: Upadhyay Yashovijayji Maharaj (also known as Yashovijay Vachak) was a prominent Jain scholar, philosopher, logician, and poet who lived in the 17th-18th century. He is celebrated for his vast literary output in Sanskrit, Prakrit, Gujarati, and Hindi, and for his significant contributions to Jain philosophy and logic. His Gujarati poetry is particularly noted for its accessibility, depth of meaning, and the integration of scriptural truths into devotional and didactic forms. His teachings are considered a guiding light for the Jain community.

2. Compilation and Revision: The original compilation was undertaken by Panyas Shri Bhadrakarvijayji Maharaj and Shri Mohanlal Dalichand Desai, with the first edition appearing in V.S. 1992 (1935 CE). The book has undergone subsequent revisions and augmentations, notably by Acharya Shri Vijay Pradyumna Suri Maharaj for the third edition (V.S. 2061/2004 CE). This revision involved reordering of poems, improving categorization, incorporating previously unpublished works based on newly discovered manuscripts, and refining existing texts.

3. Content of the Collection: The "Gurjar Sahitya Sangrah" encompasses a wide range of Yashovijayji's Gujarati poetry. The volume includes:

   • Chovishi and Vishi: Collections of hymns and praises dedicated to the 24 Tirthankaras and other Jinas.
   • Stavans (Hymns): Various devotional poems dedicated to different Tirthankaras and sacred sites.
   • Sajhay (Devotional Songs): Lyrical compositions expressing devotion and philosophical insights.
   • Rasa (Narrative Poems): Longer narrative poems recounting religious stories and teachings, such as the "Dravya Guna Paryay no Ras."
   • Miscellaneous Padas and Verses: Other shorter devotional and didactic poems.
   • The revised edition includes several works that were previously unpublished, enhancing the comprehensiveness of the collection.

4. Editorial Philosophy and Approach: The publication is driven by a desire to make the profound wisdom and devotional poetry of Upadhyay Yashovijayji accessible to a wider audience. The focus is on purity and completeness of the texts, drawing from various manuscripts and scholarly research. The revised edition by Acharya Pradyumna Suri Maharaj has been particularly praised for its meticulous re-editing, organization, and the inclusion of new material.

5. Philosophical and Devotional Value: The works of Upadhyay Yashovijayji are highly valued in Jainism for their profound philosophical insights, especially concerning Jain logic (Syadvada), metaphysics (Dravya, Guna, Paryaya), and ethics. His devotional poetry is rich in Bhakti Bhava (devotion) and offers guidance on the path to spiritual liberation. The collection is seen as a treasure trove of religious literature, serving as a source of inspiration and spiritual upliftment for all sincere seekers.

6. Historical Context and Lineage: The text provides historical context about Upadhyay Yashovijayji's life, his education, his debates with proponents of other philosophies, his discipleship, and his establishment in the Upadhyay pada (a high spiritual title). It traces his lineage within the Tapa Gaccha tradition, highlighting his connection to prominent Acharyas.

In essence, "Gurjar Sahitya Sangrah (Yashovani)" is more than just a collection of poems; it is a repository of spiritual teachings, philosophical reflections, and devotional expressions from one of Jainism's most influential literary figures, made accessible and enriched through dedicated scholarly efforts.