Jain Bhaktikatya Ki Prushtabhumi

This comprehensive summary outlines the key themes and content of "Jain Bhaktikavya ki Prishtabhoomi" (Background of Jain Devotional Poetry) by Dr. Premsagar Jain. The book explores the historical, philosophical, and literary foundations of devotional practices within Jainism, arguing against the notion that Jainism is purely knowledge-centric and devoid of devotion.

Core Argument:

The central thesis of the book is that Jainism, despite its emphasis on knowledge and self-control, has a rich and integral tradition of bhakti (devotion). This devotion is deeply intertwined with its philosophy and practices, manifesting in various forms of worship, prayer, and poetic expression.

Key Themes and Content:

1. The Nature and Essence of Jain Bhakti:

   • Etymology of "Bhakti": The book delves into the linguistic origins of "bhakti," connecting it to service, veneration, and love.
   • Bhakti, Seva, and Shraddha: It establishes that in Jainism, bhakti is closely aligned with seva (service) and shraddha (faith/conviction). This service is often directed towards the Tirthankaras, Acharyas, and scriptures.
   • Anurag in Vitaraag Bhagwan: A significant discussion focuses on how devotion or anurag (deep affection/love) can be directed towards the vitaraag (those free from attachment and aversion) Tirthankaras. This love is not worldly attachment but a yearning for spiritual union and emulation of their virtues. It's a selfless love aiming for self-transformation.
   • Bhakti and Knowledge: Jain bhakti is presented as being knowledge-informed. True devotion, or sushraddha, is based on right knowledge (samyak gyan) and right faith (samyak darshan). Knowledge and bhakti are seen as complementary rather than contradictory.

2. Components of Jain Bhakti:

   • Pooja Vidhan (Worship Rituals): This section details various forms of worship, including dravya-pooja (worship with material substances like flowers, incense, etc.) and bhava-pooja (worship through inner feeling, meditation, and contemplation of the Tirthankaras' virtues). It traces the evolution of rituals and includes specific pooja texts.
   • Stuti Stotra (Praise and Hymns): The book highlights the extensive body of Jain hymns and prayers composed in various languages (Sanskrit, Prakrit, Apabhramsha) over centuries. It emphasizes that these hymns are not mere flattery but an expression of deep reverence and aspiration towards the Tirthankaras' qualities.
   • Samstava, Stava, and Stavana: These terms, related to praise and eulogy, are discussed, differentiating between them and highlighting their role in Jain devotional literature.
   • Vandana (Salutation/Bowing): This covers various forms of respectful salutation, including bowing to Tirthankaras, Acharyas, and scriptures, recognizing the Guru-Shishya parampara.
   • Vinaya (Humility and Respect): The importance of humility, respect for knowledge, scriptures, and virtuous individuals is elaborated. This includes gyan-vinaya (respect for knowledge), darshan-vinaya (respect for right faith), charitra-vinaya (respect for righteous conduct), and upachar-vinaya (outward forms of respect).
   • Mangala (Auspiciousness): The concept of auspiciousness in Jainism is explored, linking it to the removal of impurities (sins) and the attainment of well-being. It discusses various types of mangala and the purpose behind them.
   • Mahotsava (Festivals and Celebrations): Jain festivals, including birth anniversaries of Tirthankaras, elaborate temple rituals, processions, and dramatic performances (rasa), are presented as expressions of collective devotion.

3. Classification of Jain Bhakti:

   • The book presents a detailed classification of Jain bhakti into twelve types, later consolidated into ten:
     • Siddha-Bhakti: Devotion to the Siddhas (liberated souls).
     • Shruta-Bhakti: Devotion to scriptures and knowledge.
     • Charitra-Bhakti: Devotion to righteous conduct.
     • Yogi-Bhakti: Devotion to yogis and ascetic practitioners.
     • Acharya-Bhakti: Devotion to spiritual preceptors and guides.
     • Panch-Parmeshthi-Bhakti: Devotion to the five supreme beings (Arhants, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, Sadhus).
     • Tirthankara-Bhakti: Devotion to the Tirthankaras (founders of Jain traditions).
     • Shanti-Bhakti: Devotion for peace, often associated with Tirthankara Shantinath.
     • Samadhi-Bhakti: Devotion focused on attaining deep meditative absorption and peaceful death.
     • Nirvana-Bhakti: Devotion aimed at attaining liberation or nirvana, including veneration of pilgrimage sites.
     • Nandishwar-Bhakti: Devotion related to the celestial Nandishwar Island and its sacred sites, especially during the Ashtahnik festival.
     • Chaitya-Bhakti: Devotion towards sacred sites, trees, images, and temples.

4. Devotional Deities (Aaradhya Deviyan):

   • The book provides detailed discussions on specific female deities worshipped in Jainism, examining their iconography, mythology, literary references, and archaeological evidence. These include:
     • Devi Padmavati: The principal Yakshi of Tirthankara Parshvanath, her iconography, mantras, and significance are explored.
     • Devi Ambika: Identified as the Yakshi of Tirthankara Neminath, her diverse forms, stories, and artistic representations are analyzed.
     • Devi Chakreshwari: The Yakshi of Tirthankara Rishabhanatha, her attributes, significance, and archaeological evidence are discussed.
     • Devi Jwalamalini: The Yakshi of Tirthankara Chandraprabha, her fierce aspect and associated tantric practices are examined.
     • Sacchiyāmātā: A deity whose worship has links with the Hindu goddess Mahishasuramardini, her historical integration into Jainism is discussed.
     • Devi Saraswati: Her role as the goddess of knowledge and learning in Jain tradition, along with her iconography and literary mentions.
     • Devi Kurukulla: A tantric deity whose worship is found in some Jain traditions, her mythological origins and associated practices are touched upon.

5. Worshipped Deities (Upaasya Dev):

   • The book also covers the worship of other celestial beings within Jainism, such as:
     • Yakshas: Discusses their classification and role in supporting the Jain faith.
     • Dharanendra: The Naga king who protected Parshvanatha.
     • Indra: The king of the gods, his role in Tirthankara ceremonies.
     • Laukantika Devas: Celestial beings who assist Tirthankaras.
     • Surya: The Sun deity.
     • Nagamesha: Associated with conception and procreation.
     • Brahma Deva: The creator deity.
     • Naga Devas: Serpent deities.
     • Bhutas: Minor spirits, often propitiated for protection.

Overall Significance:

"Jain Bhaktikavya ki Prishtabhoomi" is a scholarly work that meticulously reconstructs the history and multifaceted nature of devotion in Jainism. It draws heavily on ancient Jain scriptures, philosophical treatises, archaeological findings, and poetic compositions to demonstrate that bhakti is an integral and dynamic aspect of the Jain spiritual landscape. The book serves as a vital resource for understanding the devotional underpinnings of Jain art, literature, and religious practice.