Gyatnandan Gunavali Yane Shraman Bhagwan Mahavir Parmatmana Prachin 101 Stavanono Sangraha

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Gyatnandan Gunavali" based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Gyatnandan Gunavali Yani Shraman Bhagwan Mahavir Parmatmana Prachin 101 Stavanono Sangraha (జ్ఞాతనందన్ గుణావళి યાને શ્રમણ ભગવાન મહાવીર પરમાત્માના પ્રાચીન ૧૦૧ સ્તવનોનો સંગ્રહ)

Author: Narendrasagar (as credited for research/compilation of this edition)

Publisher: Shri Shasan Kantakoddharak Suriji Jain Gyanmandir

Overview:

"Gyatnandan Gunavali" is a collection of 101 ancient devotional hymns (Stavans) dedicated to Shraman Bhagwan Mahavir Swami, the 24th and last Tirthankar in Jainism. The book aims to compile these ancient verses, which praise Mahavir Swami's virtues, life, and teachings, making them accessible to the Jain community.

Key Aspects and Content:

• Compilation of Ancient Hymns: The primary purpose of the book is to gather 101 historical and devotional poems (Stavans) praising Bhagwan Mahavir. These hymns are considered ancient, highlighting their significance in Jain tradition.
• Devotional Focus: The Stavans are expressions of devotion, reverence, and admiration for Bhagwan Mahavir. They likely describe his divine qualities, his compassionate nature, his role as a spiritual guide, and the impact of his teachings on liberation.
• Biographical and Teachings Elements: While primarily devotional, the Stavans would also likely touch upon key aspects of Mahavir Swami's life, such as his birth, renunciation, asceticism, attainment of Keval Gyan (omniscience), and his teachings on Jain principles like Ahimsa (non-violence), Aparigraha (non-possession), and Anekantavada (non-absolutism).
• Authorship and Research: The text indicates that this particular edition was researched and compiled by P.P. Muni Shri Munindrasagarji Maharaj (a disciple of Acharya Shri Hanssagarsurishwarji Maharaj) and P.P. Pandit Shri Narendrasagarji Maharaj (a scholar). This suggests a meticulous effort to gather, verify, and present these ancient hymns.
• Publisher and Series: The book is published by the Shri Shasan Kantakoddharak Suriji Jain Gyanmandir and is part of their "Shasan Kantakoddharak Granthamala" (Book Series), specifically being Granthanka 39. This indicates it's part of a larger initiative to disseminate Jain knowledge.
• Previous Editions and Context: The "Prakashkiya Nivedan" (Publisher's Note) mentions that an earlier edition in Hindi type was published in V.S. 2019 by P.P. Muni Shri Gunasagarji Maharaj. Due to its demand and unavailability, this second edition in Gujarati script was undertaken. The note also expresses gratitude to those who supported the publication.
• Panch Parmeshthi Mantra: A significant portion of the initial pages is dedicated to highlighting the glory and importance of the Panch Parmeshthi Mantra. This is presented in a question-and-answer format, emphasizing the mantra's central role in Jainism, its universality, and its significance in various spiritual practices.
• Structure of the Stavans: The Stavans are presented with numbered titles, indicating a systematic collection. The content is in Gujarati script, typical for Jain literature originating from Gujarat.
• Content Examples (from the Stavans): Many Stavans begin with themes of devotion, remembering Mahavir's birth, his virtues, his compassion, his teachings, and the ultimate goal of spiritual liberation. They use evocative language and imagery common in devotional poetry.
• Price and Availability: The book is priced at Rs. 5.00 (for the second edition) and lists the "Praptisthan" (Place of Acquisition) as Shri Shasan Kantakoddharak Suriji Jain Gyanmandir in Thaliya, via Talaja, Bhavnagar district, Gujarat.
• Support and Acknowledgements: The book also includes a list of donors and supporters, indicating the community's involvement in bringing this work to light.

In essence, "Gyatnandan Gunavali" is a valuable compilation for Jain devotees and scholars, offering a collection of ancient hymns that celebrate the spiritual grandeur of Bhagwan Mahavir Swami and serve as a source of inspiration for spiritual practice. The book reflects a dedicated effort to preserve and propagate these traditional devotional songs.