Gurugun Shattrinshtshatrinshika Kulak Part 01 - Book Summary

Gurugun Shattrinshtshatrinshika Kulak Part 01: A Comprehensive Summary

This Jain text, Gurugun Shattrinshtshatrinshika Kulak Part 01, authored by Ratnabodhivijay and published by Jinshasan Aradhana Trust, is the first volume of a series that delves into the virtues of a Guru. The book is presented with a Sanskrit commentary and a Gujarati translation called "Premiyavritti" by Muni Ratnabodhivijay, inspired by the teachings of Acharya Dev Shrimad Vijay Hemchandrasurishwarji Maharaj.

The core of this work is the Gurugun Shattrinshtshatrinshika Kulak, originally composed by Shri Ratnashekharsuri Maharaj. This philosophical poem, written in Prakrit, systematically explains thirty-six sets of thirty-six virtues of a Guru, totaling an astonishing 1,296 qualities. The commentary by Muni Ratnabodhivijay aims to clarify these profound concepts for those unfamiliar with Sanskrit, utilizing numerous scriptural passages to elucidate the original text's meaning.

Key Themes and Content:

The Importance of the Guru: The text begins by establishing the paramount importance of the Guru, comparing them to a skilled physician who can cure the blindness of ignorance with the collyrium of knowledge. The Guru is presented as the remover of suffering and the bestower of eternal happiness.
Enumeration of Guru's Virtues: The central focus of the "Kulak" is the detailed enumeration of the Guru's virtues. The first part of the text covers the first seven "Chattrisīs" (sets of thirty-six virtues). These virtues are categorized and explained through various scriptural references and illustrations.
Structure and Presentation: The book is divided into three parts, with this being the first. Each page includes a title indicating the subject matter. The text follows a structured format, beginning with auspicious invocations (Mangala) and then proceeding to explain the author's intent (Abhidheya), purpose (Prayojan), and the relationship (Sambandh) of the text.
Inspiration and Guidance: The work is presented under the inspiration and guidance of Param Pujya Acharya Dev Shrimad Vijay Hemchandrasurishwarji Maharaj, emphasizing the lineage and tradition of Jain spiritual scholarship.
Purpose: The ultimate aim of this work is to foster deep respect and reverence for Gurus in the hearts of all beings by helping them understand the Guru's immeasurable virtues. It also serves as a valuable resource for spiritual study and adherence to Jain principles.
Detailed Breakdown of Virtues (Illustrative Examples from Volume 1):
- First Chattrisi (Verses 1-7): These verses focus on foundational aspects such as the Guru's role in imparting knowledge, the four types of preachings (Deshna), four types of narratives (Katha), four types of dharma, four types of contemplation (Bhavana), four types of remembrance (Smarana), and the four types of meditation (Artadhyana, Raudradhyana, Dharmadhyana, Shukladhyana).
Comprehensive Commentary: Muni Ratnabodhivijay's "Premiyavritti" provides extensive commentary, citing various Jain scriptures and philosophical texts to support the explanations. The commentary aims for clarity and accessibility, making complex concepts understandable through simple language and illustrative examples.
Collaboration and Support: The publication is a testament to the dedication of the Jinshasan Araradhana Trust, with specific individuals and organizations acknowledged for their contributions to the "Shrutoddhar" (preservation and propagation of scriptures). This highlights the collective effort involved in making such sacred texts available to the public.
Appreciation: The preface expresses gratitude to Akhilesh Mishra for typesetting, Shivkripa Offset (Bhavinbhai) for printing, and Multigraphics (Mukeshbhai) for the title design, acknowledging their role in the book's production.

In essence, Gurugun Shattrinshtshatrinshika Kulak Part 01 is a scholarly and devotional work dedicated to exploring and understanding the multifaceted virtues of a Guru within the Jain tradition. It serves as a guide for spiritual aspirants to appreciate the Guru's role in their journey towards liberation.