Jain Mantra Stotra Ane Yantra

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jain Mantra Stotra Ane Yantra" by Gunant Barvalia, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Jain Mantra, Stotra Ane Yantra (Jain Mantras, Stotras, and Yantras) Author/Editor: Gunvant Barvalia Publisher: Arham Spiritual Centre, Mumbai Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/035316/1

Overall Purpose and Content:

This book, "Jain Mantra, Stotra Ane Yantra," is a collection of scholarly papers and essays presented at a seminar on Jain Mantras, Stotras, and Yantras organized by the Institute of Jainology, London-India. The book aims to delve into the scientific, philosophical, and spiritual significance of these elements within Jainism, showcasing the depth of knowledge and research by various scholars. It explores the practical applications and underlying principles of these devotional and meditative practices.

Key Themes and Sections:

The book is structured as a compilation of articles covering a wide range of topics related to Jain mantras, stotras, and yantras. Based on the table of contents and the content of the provided pages, the key themes include:

1. The Significance of Stotras: Several articles focus on specific stotras, highlighting their profound impact and underlying scientific or spiritual secrets.

   • Shri Uvasaggaharam Stotra: This stotra, attributed to Acharya Bhadrabahu Swami, is extensively discussed. The articles emphasize its "Reason N Vision," its role in spiritual purification and attainment of salvation, its scientific basis beyond mere miracles, and the power of sincere devotion. It's presented not just as a prayer but as a vehicle for self-realization and overcoming karma. The detailed analysis of the first few verses reveals the symbolic meaning of each word and its connection to activating energy centers and invoking divine powers.
   • Bhaktamar Stotra: Described as a "Shakti-source," this stotra is explored for its synthesis of mantra, yantra, and devotion. It's highlighted for its ability to resolve contemporary problems. The historical context of its composition by Acharya Mantung Suri, linking it to overcoming physical bondage through intense devotion and the power of divine vibrations, is also a key point. The book lists the seed mantras associated with each of the 48 verses of the Bhaktamar Stotra and their respective benefits.
   • Kalyanmandir Stotra: This stotra is analyzed as a "Bhakti-darshan" (vision of devotion) and a journey from the soul to the supreme soul. It is presented as a means to achieve spiritual goals, purify the soul, attain peace, destroy sins, and ultimately achieve liberation (moksha). The connection between devotion, knowledge, and conduct is emphasized, and how devotion is considered superior to knowledge and conduct in achieving moksha.
   • Jinpanjar Stotra: This stotra, composed by Acharya Kamalprabha Suri, is presented as a powerful tool for warding off physical ailments (adhyatmik upadhis), diseases, and obstacles. Its efficacy is linked to the mantra of the Tirthankaras. The article provides historical context about the composer and details the verses with their specific benefits and rituals for chanting.
   • Rishimandal Stotra: This ancient and mystical stotra is described as a powerful tool for spiritual practice, often performed by monks and dedicated lay followers. The article delves into the meaning of "Rishimandal" itself, linking it to the concept of establishing and worshipping the Tirthankaras and other deities in a circular formation. It discusses the importance of mantra japa and the placement of Tirthankaras' names and figures in Yantras for invoking their divine energy.
   • Navkar Mahamantra: Presented as a "rare specialty among universal mantras," the Navkar Mahamantra is discussed for its unparalleled influence. Its "lokottar" (transcendent) nature, its primary purpose of self-purification and moksha, and its subtle incorporation of powerful seed mantras are highlighted. The book emphasizes that while other mantras might have specific deities or worldly benefits, the Navkar mantra encapsulates the essence of Jain philosophy and the path to liberation. Its efficacy is described as originating from the Tirthankaras and Ganadharas themselves. The "Panch-Namaskar" concept is explained through its five purposes: guiding towards the path, ensuring indestructibility, establishing proper conduct, fostering humility, and aiding in moksha. The article also touches upon the idea that the Navkar mantra is a "living mantra" that transcends mere words and connects directly to the soul's innate potential.
   • Other Stotras: The index also lists stotras like "Sarvatobhadra Stotra," "Chintamani Parshvanath Stotra," "Namimyun Stotra," and "Sarvatobhadra Yantra," indicating a comprehensive coverage of significant stotras and their associated yantras.

2. Mantras and Their Science: The book explores the scientific and energetic aspects of mantras.

   • Mantras are described as sound vibrations with inherent power. The science of sound (dhwani vigyan) is invoked, suggesting that sounds, once created, never truly disappear.
   • The composition of mantras, including seed mantras (bijaksharas), their phonetic structure, and their connection to specific deities or energies, is discussed.
   • The concept of "Reason N Vision" behind the mantras is highlighted, suggesting that their effectiveness comes from understanding their underlying principles and having faith.
   • The book touches upon the idea of "mantra viniyog" (application of mantras), implying specific uses for different goals.

3. Yantras and Their Significance: Yantras are presented as visual representations of divine energies and tools for concentration and spiritual practice.

   • The "Panchsathiyo Yantra" is described as a special Jain yantra, a grid of numbers where the sum in each row, column, and diagonal equals 65. It's mentioned that this yantra is linked to the 24 Tirthankaras and other auspicious elements.
   • The concept of "Pran-Pratishtha" (infusion of life force) into yantras is discussed, emphasizing that a yantra without it might have negative effects.
   • The intricate structure of the "Panchsathiyo Yantra" and its connection to cosmic energies and planetary influences is hinted at.
   • The "Vapi Yantra" is described as a large yantra encompassing the entire Uvasaggaharam Stotra, with detailed instructions on its creation and purpose.

4. Jain Acharyas and their Contributions: The book features the lives and works of prominent Jain scholars and saints who contributed to the development of mantra, stotra, and yantra traditions.

   • Acharya Bhadrabahu: His life and the composition of the Uvasaggaharam Stotra are detailed, linking it to his mastery of yantra, mantra, and astrology, and its use in averting epidemics.
   • Acharya Mantung Suri: The miraculous composition of the Bhaktamar Stotra while imprisoned is narrated, highlighting the power of devotion.
   • Acharya Sidhsen Diwakar: His life story, his intellectual prowess, his debates, and his composition of the Kalyanmandir Stotra are discussed. The incident involving the manifestation of the Parshvanath idol from a Shiva linga due to the stotra's power is a notable anecdote.
   • Acharya Hemachandra: His vast literary contributions and his role in advising kings are mentioned, including his connection to Saraswati mantra sadhana.
   • Acharya Jayantmuni: His "Devadhi-dev Naam Mantra Faladesh" book is lauded for its unique approach to Tirthankara names as mantras for specific benefits, based on his decades of experience.
   • Acharya Ratnakarsuri: Mentioned in the context of the Suri mantra tradition.
   • Acharya Dharam Singhji: Highlighted for his remarkable memory and his 25 yantras, including the "Panchsathiyo Yantra."

5. Interplay of Mantra, Stotra, and Yantra: The book stresses the interconnectedness of these three elements in Jain practice. Mantras are described as the sound aspect, stotras as the devotional expression, and yantras as the visual or energetic framework.

6. Philosophical and Scientific Underpinnings: The authors attempt to bridge the gap between traditional spiritual practices and modern scientific understanding, suggesting that the efficacy of mantras and stotras lies in vibrations, energy, and psychological focus, supported by principles like "Reason N Vision."

Key Takeaways:

• Holistic Approach: The book presents a holistic view of Jain spiritual practices, integrating mantras, stotras, and yantras as tools for spiritual growth, well-being, and liberation.
• Empowerment through Devotion: It emphasizes that these practices are not mere rituals but powerful techniques that, when combined with sincere devotion, faith, and proper understanding, can lead to profound results, including overcoming obstacles, healing, and spiritual progress.
• Scientific Basis: The articles explore the underlying "scientific" principles, such as sound vibrations, energy centers, and mental focus, that contribute to the effectiveness of these practices.
• Personal Transformation: The ultimate aim is presented as not just external benefits but internal transformation, purification of the soul, and the journey towards self-realization and moksha.
• Scholarly Rigor: The collection represents the culmination of research and discourse by learned individuals, offering a deep dive into the subject matter.

This summary provides a comprehensive overview of the book's content, highlighting its emphasis on the profound and multifaceted nature of Jain mantras, stotras, and yantras within the context of spiritual development and Jain philosophy.