Gurustuti Rup Tran Laghu Krutio

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Gurustuti Rup Tran Laghu Krutio" by Bhanvarlal Nahta:

Book Title: Gurustuti Rup Tran Laghu Krutio (Three Short Compositions in the Form of Gurustuti) Author: Bhanvarlal Nahta (Editor) Publisher: ZZ_Anusandhan Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/229545/1

Context: The preface indicates that this compilation presents three short, previously unpublished compositions. These compositions are reproductions of palm-leaf manuscripts from a collection in a Bhandar (archive) in Jaisalmer, dating back to the 14th century. The texts are primarily related to the Acharyas (spiritual leaders) of the Khartar Gachchha (a prominent Jain sect). The editor, the esteemed Jain scholar Pandit Shri Bhanvarlal Nahta of Calcutta, has presented these three specific compositions.

Summary of the Three Compositions:

1. Shri Jinprabodh Suri-Shri Jinachandra Suri Chandrayana (Composed by Shri Modmandir Gani)

This composition is a eulogy (Chandrayana) dedicated to Acharyas Shri Jinprabodh Suri and Shri Jinachandra Suri.

• Praise for Jinprabodh Suri: The text praises Jinprabodh Suri as a treasury of pure knowledge, a great Muni (ascetic), and one who descended with divine grace like Gautam Gandhar, the chief disciple of Lord Mahavir. He is described as being worshipped by kings and princes of the entire world.
• Comparison to the Moon: The Acharya is compared to the moon, illuminating and bringing forth the lotus-like hearts of beings desirous of spiritual progress. He is likened to the moon that dispels darkness.
• Qualities and Attributes: He is further depicted as a jewel of the world, the upholder of the earth, and one who alleviates the suffering of worldly existence with his pure conduct. He is also described as being protected by the divine.
• Devotion and Impact: The Acharya is praised for his radiant form, his ability to explain pure doctrines, and his lineage. He is considered fortunate and praised for his virtuous qualities.
• Uniqueness: The text highlights the Acharya's unmatched virtues, stating he cannot be compared to any other being, much like the vast ocean or the sun. Even the moon is seen as blemished compared to him. He is presented as a wish-fulfilling tree for his devotees.

2. Shri Jineshwara Suri Kundaliya (Composed by Shri Sajjan Shravak)

This is a Kundaliya (a specific poetic meter) in praise of Acharya Shri Jineshwara Suri, composed by Sajjan Shravak.

• Spiritual Foundation: The Acharya is described as possessing steadfastness in his conduct, embodying the five restraints (samiti) and the three guarded vows (gupti). He upholds the five precepts and is a source of spiritual fervor.
• Divine Aura: He is described as having a celestial glow, a radiant presence that dispels darkness, and a voice that proclaims the truth. He is compared to a lion in his roaring proclamations of Dharma (righteousness).
• Overcoming Obstacles: The Acharya is lauded for his effortless destruction of the "pillar of delusion" and his ability to break the chains of worldly attachment. He is also credited with subduing anger and other vices.
• Spiritual Leadership: He is referred to as the "jewel-staff" among ascetics and the protector of the Harigachchha. He is the dispeller of misguided beliefs and a source of strength.
• Symbolism of Purity: His character is likened to a lake of chastity, where he resides like a swan. He is described as a lotus, filled with many virtues, admired by those seeking spiritual guidance.
• Devotion and Guidance: The Acharya is seen as a source of immense spiritual bliss, guiding beings with his wisdom and devotion. His actions are compared to the divine, and he is considered the paramount among spiritual leaders.

3. Shri Jinprabodh Suri Narachbandha Chhand (Composed by Shri Sajjan Shravak)

This is a Narachbandha Chhand (another poetic meter) in praise of Acharya Shri Jinprabodh Suri, also composed by Sajjan Shravak.

• Devotion and Lineage: The composition begins with devotion to the feet of Lord Virabhadra, emphasizing purity and adherence to the path of Brahmacharya (celibacy). It highlights the Acharya's lineage and his connection to the disciples of Jambuswami.
• Adherence to Principles: The Acharya is praised for upholding the seventeen principles of conduct and the ten fundamental aspects of Dharma. He exemplifies purity and auspicious conduct.
• Leadership and Strength: He is described as being at the forefront of the noble Gachchha, effortlessly bearing the weight of the five great vows. He is a master of the eighteen-thousand qualities of chastity.
• Radiance and Discerning Wisdom: His physical form is adorned with a celestial glow, and he possesses the wisdom to discern the right path after vanquishing the four passions (kashayas). He imparts knowledge and guidance to those seeking it.
• Spiritual Authority: The Acharya is presented as a sage who clarifies doubts and guides beings towards enlightenment. He is lauded for his spiritual eminence and virtuous nature.

Overall Significance: This collection offers valuable insights into the devotional literature and the reverence held for prominent Acharyas of the Khartar Gachchha in medieval Jainism. The poetic compositions, though short, are rich in devotional sentiment and philosophical undertones, highlighting the exemplary virtues and spiritual authority of these revered figures. The inclusion of palm-leaf manuscript references underscores the historical importance and scholarly effort behind this publication.