Jain Kavi Kamalshekharmuni Krut Shri Dharmmurtisuri Fagu

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Shri Dharmmurtisuri Fagu" by Kamalshekharmuni, based on the provided information:

Book Title: Shri Dharmmurtisuri Fagu Author: Kamalshekharmuni Compiler/Editor: Dr. Bhogilal J. Sandesara Publisher: Z_Arya_Kalyan_Gautam_Smruti_Granth_012034.pdf Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/230110/1

I. Introduction and Origin of the Text:

• Discovery: A handwritten manuscript of this poem was found in the Gujarati section of the scripture collection (No. 3717) at the Jain Gyanmandir in Vadodara, belonging to the scholar Shri Kantivijayji Maharaj.
• Manuscript Condition: The manuscript is not considered entirely accurate (pure) and, based on its script, appears to have been written in the 18th century Vikram Samvat.
• Author's Identity: The author, Kamalshekharmuni, was a Jain monk belonging to the Achalgachha sect. Evidence from his other works confirms this.
• Author's Other Works: Kamalshekharmuni composed "Navatattva Chapai" in Khambhat in VS 1609 and "Pradyumnakumar Chapai" near Mandal, Vadgam, in VS 1626.
• Dating of the Work: While the specific year of composition is not mentioned, Kamalshekharmuni's other dated Gujarati works suggest that this "Fagu" was likely composed in the first half of the 17th century Vikram Samvat.

II. Content and Structure of the Poem:

• Genre and Form: The poem is a "Fagu" (also known as "Phagu" or "Fagu"), a genre of medieval Jain literature that typically describes the joy of spring or commemorates significant religious figures. This particular Fagu consists of 23 verses (kadi). The structure is a blend of Chhandobandh (metrical verses) and Fagu (Doha).
• Subject Matter: The poem is a praise (prashasti) of Achalgachha Acharya Dharmamurtisuri.
• Narrative Description: The poet describes:
  • The birth of the Acharya in Trambavati (Khambhat).
  • Details about his parents.
  • The initiation ceremony (diksha) in Ahmedabad.
  • His assumption of the Acharya's title (Suripada).
  • His profound engagement in religious discourse and practice (Dharma pravanuta).
• Distinction from Other Fagus: Unlike some older Fagus poems that might describe seasons like Vasant (spring) or incorporate themes of Kamavijaya (conquest of desire) or Shringar (erotic sentiment) as inciting factors, this poem does not contain such descriptions. Its structure is clearly defined as Fagu, and the manuscript also refers to it by the name "Fagu."

III. Key Themes and Descriptions within the Poem (Verse by Verse Summary):

• Verse 1-3: Invocation to Lord Parshvanath, seeking divine inspiration for poetic composition.
• Verse 4-5: Describes the birth of Acharya Dharmamurtisuri in Trambavati (Amravati Avatar), belonging to the Shrimali caste, who would later journey along the path to a great destiny.
• Verse 6-7: Mentions his parents, Hansraj and Hasaldev, and his name being given as Dharmadas, highlighting his auspicious birth and destiny.
• Verse 8-9: Describes his spiritual development, recognizing the teachings of the Jinas and developing detachment (vairagya). He renounces worldly life and embraces a divine path.
• Verse 10-12: Details his renunciation, taking on the role of a spiritual leader (Acharya) named Dharmamurtisuri. He diligently studies all scriptures and gains profound knowledge.
• Verse 13: Mentions his wisdom and meditative practices, leading to significant spiritual gains, and encourages the congregation to listen.
• Verse 14: Urges the wise congregation to hear the praise of the Acharya, who is renowned for his knowledge and virtue.
• Verse 15-17: Describes the grand initiation ceremony in Ahmedabad, with music, singing, and immense joy.
• Verse 18-21: Celebrates his enthronement as Acharya. He abandons all worldly possessions and embraces a life of austerity. He diligently observes the five great vows, eradicates afflictions, respects all beings, and proclaims the teachings of the Jinas. He overcomes seven fears and pride, adheres to six types of conduct, upholds ten vows of righteousness, and understands the essence of the eleventh principle (Ekadasa Pratima).
• Verse 22-23: Highlights his attainment of 36 virtues and hails him as Dharmamurtisuri. He is praised for his spiritual leadership and deep spiritual ocean-like knowledge.
• Verse 24-25: Offers salutations to the great Acharya. He is honored in Thambhanpur (Khambhat), leading to salvation.
• Verse 26-27: Kamalshekharmuni concludes by bowing at the feet of his Guru and states that those men and women who sing this poem will attain great happiness.

IV. Significance:

"Shri Dharmmurtisuri Fagu" is a valuable work in medieval Jain literature, specifically from the Gujarati tradition. It serves as a biographical and eulogistic poem celebrating the life, achievements, and spiritual prowess of Acharya Dharmamurtisuri, a significant figure in the Achalgachha. The poem also offers insights into the religious practices and celebrations of the Jain community during that period.