Jain Granth Sangraha Part 02

This document is the second part of the "Jain Granth Sangraha" (Collection of Jain Texts), compiled by Dhirajlal Tokarshi Shah and edited by Agarchand Nahta. Published by Pushya Swarna Gyanpith, Jaipur, in 1977 (VS 2034), this volume is dedicated to presenting biographies and inspiring stories of prominent figures in Jainism.

The book is structured as a collection of fifteen stories, following a brief mention of figures like Rishabdev, Bharat-Bahubali, Shantinath, Neminath, Parshvanath, and Mahavir in the first part.

The fifteen stories featured in this second volume are:

1. Shri Gandhar Gautam Swami: The life story of Gautam Swami, the chief disciple of Lord Mahavir.
2. Chandanbala: The tale of Chandanbala, a devoted follower who faced great adversity.
3. Saubhagya-shali Veer Dhanna: The fortunate story of Veer Dhanna.
4. Buddhi-nidhi Abhaykumar: The intelligent Abhaykumar.
5. Antim Kevali Jambu Swami: The story of Jambu Swami, the last Kevali (omniscient being).
6. Mahan-kaya Vijeta Shri Sthulibhadra: The great conqueror of the body, Sthulibhadra.
7. Raja Shripal: The life of King Shripal.
8. Maharaja Samprati: The reign and deeds of Emperor Samprati.
9. Maharaja Kumarpal: The life of King Kumarpal.
10. Mantri Vimalshah: The story of Minister Vimalshah.
11. Mahamantri Vastupal-Tejpal: The combined narrative of the influential ministers Vastupal and Tejpal.
12. Peyadkumar: The story of Peyadkumar.
13. Danveer Jagdishah: The charitable deeds of Jagdishah.
14. Sachcha Shah Khema-Devrani: The truthfulness of Shah Khema and Devrani.
15. Danveer Bhamashah: The immense charity of Bhamashah.

The preface emphasizes the universal appeal of stories for moral and spiritual education, highlighting how Jain Acharyas used narratives to disseminate religious and ethical principles effectively. It notes the scarcity of modern, accessible Jain literature in Hindi and the need for translations and original works to cater to contemporary audiences, especially children, to instill moral values and inspire greatness.

The document then proceeds to narrate each of the fifteen stories in detail, providing biographical information, significant events, moral lessons, and spiritual insights associated with each personality. The narratives are rich in detail, showcasing the exemplary lives of these Jain figures, their adherence to principles, their struggles, and their ultimate spiritual achievements or contributions.

The collection aims to provide inspiration, moral guidance, and a deeper understanding of Jainism through engaging biographical accounts.