Jain Sazzaya Sangraha

The "Jain Sazzaya Sangraha" (Jain Sazzaya Collection), compiled and researched by Sarabhai Manilal Nawab, is a significant collection of ancient Jain devotional hymns known as "Sazzayas." Published in Vikram Samvat 1996 (1940 CE) by Sarabhai Manilal Nawab, this book is the ninth volume in the "Shree Jain Prachin Sahityoddhar Granthavali" (Collection of Ancient Jain Literature) series. It was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Seth Maneklal Chunilal Shah J.P. and his wife Kamalabehn Maneklal Chunilal Shah.

The book is a collection of "Sazzayas" composed by various revered Jain monks from the 17th to the late 19th century. The editor, Sarabhai Manilal Nawab, aimed to present these ancient hymns in a pure, rhyming, and ભાવવાહી (emotionally resonant) manner, accompanied by relevant illustrations, unlike some earlier collections that were noted for their inaccuracies, lack of poetic flow, and irrelevant imagery.

Key Aspects and Content:

• Purpose: The primary purpose of this collection is to preserve and disseminate valuable ancient Jain devotional literature that might otherwise be lost. The editor expresses a desire to publish similar collections annually if supported by the Jain community.
• Definition of Sazzaya: The introduction explains that "Sazzaya" (Sajjhaya in modern Gujarati) essentially means "Swadhyaya" (self-study or contemplation). These hymns typically describe the unfavorable consequences of negative emotions (kashayas), the benefits derived from the four types of Dharma (charity, morality, asceticism, and devotional contemplation), and the excellent virtues of pious individuals who practice these four Dharma types.
• Content: The book contains a vast array of Sazzayas, covering a wide range of themes, narratives, and historical figures from Jain tradition. These include:
  • Biographical Sazzayas: Many Sazzayas narrate the life stories and teachings of prominent Jain monks and disciples, such as Aryasthulibhadra, Bahubali, Dasharnabhadra, Ajatsatru, Shrenik, Sudarshan Seth, Indrabhuti Gautam, and various other saints and devotees.
  • Didactic Sazzayas: Several Sazzayas focus on Jain philosophical concepts, such as the sixty-six points of Samkit (right faith), the twelve bhavnas (contemplations), the nature of the soul, karma, detachment, and the transient nature of worldly pleasures.
  • Narrative Sazzayas: The collection includes numerous stories from Jain scriptures and history, illustrating moral and ethical principles.
  • Illustrations: The book is noted to contain twenty illustrations, which are integral to understanding the context and devotional essence of the Sazzayas. The acknowledgments specifically mention the origin of several illustrations, crediting institutions and individuals for their use.
• Authorship: The Sazzayas are attributed to various Jain scholars and monks, indicating a rich tradition of devotional literature within Jainism. The index lists the names of several prominent authors, including Yashovijayji, Jaisoma, Sakalchandraji, Jinharsa Suri, Gyanvimal Suri, Padmavijayji, and others, highlighting their contributions to this genre.
• Editorial Effort: Sarabhai Manilal Nawab's dedication to researching, compiling, and ensuring the purity and thematic relevance of these ancient texts is evident. He acknowledges the contribution of various individuals and institutions that provided access to manuscripts and printing support.
• Structure: The book is meticulously organized with a subject-wise index, making it easy for readers to navigate through the diverse content. The index lists the Sazzaya's name, the first line (Pahillum Pad), the author, and the page number.

In essence, the "Jain Sazzaya Sangraha" is a monumental work that serves as a treasure trove of Jain devotional poetry and narratives, reflecting the rich spiritual and literary heritage of the Jain tradition. It is a valuable resource for scholars, devotees, and anyone interested in exploring the devotional and philosophical aspects of Jainism.