Jain Prachin Stavanadi Sangraha

This is a comprehensive collection of Jain devotional texts, primarily in Gujarati, titled "Jain Prachin Stavanadi Sangraha" (Collection of Ancient Jain Devotional Songs and Prayers). Compiled and published by Ujamshi Thakarshibhai of Ahmedabad, this book is a significant repository of traditional Jain hymns, prayers, and verses.

Here's a breakdown of its contents and significance based on the provided text:

Core Content:

• Devotional Texts: The book primarily contains a vast collection of stavan (devotional songs), chaitya vandana (prayers offered at temples), stuti (praise), and other devotional compositions.
• Teachings of Ancient Great Souls: It includes hymns and prayers specifically beneficial for remembering and emulating the lives of ancient great Jain souls (Mahapurushona).
• Specific Works: Notably, it features the Chaturvinshti Jinshwar ni Stuti (Praise of the 24 Tirthankaras) composed by Shri Shobhanacharya.
• Variety of Forms: The collection encompasses diverse forms of devotional literature, including:
  • Stavans: Hymns and songs.
  • Chaitra Vandana: Ritualistic prayers performed at Jain temples.
  • Sajjaya: A type of poetic composition, often sung.
  • Dhal: Verses sung in specific meters or tunes.
  • Duhas: Couplets.
  • Ras: Poetic narratives or ballads.
  • Gitas: Songs.
  • Stotras: Hymns of praise.
  • Sankrit Prayers: Some texts are in Sanskrit.
• Tapas (Austerities): Several sections detail the rituals and significance of various Jain austerities like Akshay Nidhi Tap, Vardhaman Tap, and others.
• Index: The book contains a detailed index (Anukramanika) listing the title and page number of each composition, providing a roadmap to the extensive content.

Significance and Purpose:

• Spiritual Upliftment: The primary goal of this collection is to provide spiritual guidance and upliftment for Jain devotees, particularly women and young girls, encouraging them to engage with religious practices.
• Preservation of Tradition: By compiling and publishing these ancient texts, the book serves to preserve and propagate the rich devotional heritage of Jainism.
• Guidance for Practice: It acts as a practical guide for performing various religious rituals, observances (like specific fasts - tpas), and prayers.
• Dissemination of Knowledge: The collection aims to make these devotional practices accessible to a wider audience, fostering greater religious engagement.

Publishing Details:

• Publisher: Ujamshi Thakarshibhai Ahmedabad.
• Author/Compiler: Ujamshi Thakarshibhai Ahmedabad is listed as the publisher, implying they are also the compiler or the driving force behind the publication.
• Edition Information: The provided pages mention "चौथी आवृत्ति" (fourth edition), indicating its popularity and previous successful printings. The publication dates are linked to the Veer Samvat (2449) and Gregorian calendar (1923).
• Patronage: The publication was made possible through the "sadupadesh" (benevolent guidance) of Guruni Shri Shri 108 Vijkor Shri Ji Maharajshri, her disciple Guruni Shri Devshriji, and her disciple Guruni Shri Saubhagyshriji, along with financial support from Master Umedchand Raychand of Khambhat.
• Format: The text indicates various editions used different types of scripts, including Shastri type and Gujarati type. The fourth edition is noted to be significantly larger than previous ones (28 forms compared to approximately 20 forms).
• Pricing: The book was priced at Rs. 1-0-0.

Key Themes and Figures:

• Vitarag Paramatma: Emphasis is placed on devotion to the Vitarag Paramatma (liberated souls who have transcended worldly attachments).
• Spiritual Teachers: The text highlights the lineage of revered Jain nuns (Guruni) who inspired and guided this compilation.
• Purity of Life: The importance of leading a pure life through religious observance and study is underscored.
• Spiritual Pursuit: The book encourages readers to dedicate their human lives to the service of the Vitarag Paramatma and the study of their teachings for the ultimate welfare of the soul.

In essence, "Jain Prachin Stavanadi Sangraha" is a significant and devotional work within Jainism, offering a vast collection of prayers, hymns, and rituals, designed to deepen the spiritual understanding and practice of its readers.