Jayshekharsuri Krut Dwitiya Neminath Fagu

Here's a comprehensive summary in English of the provided Jain text, "Dwitiya Neminath Fagu" by Jayshekharsuri, based on the provided pages:

Title: Dwitiya Neminath Fagu (Second Neminath Fagu) Author: Acharya Jayshekharsuri Editor/Publisher: Bhogilal J. Sandesara (based on the introductory text) Source: Z_Arya_Kalyan_Gautam_Smruti_Granth_012034.pdf (pages 1-6)

Introduction and Context:

The text introduces Acharya Jayshekharsuri as a prominent Jain poet in ancient Gujarati literature, renowned for his Sanskrit work "Pradh Chintamani" and its Gujarati adaptation, "Tribhuvan Deepak Prabandh." It notes an earlier scholarly hypothesis by Keshavlal Dhru that Jayshekharsuri must have composed other Gujarati poems, a prediction now confirmed.

This "Dwitiya Neminath Fagu" is presented based on a manuscript found in the Gyanbhandar of Chanasma, made available through the kindness of P.P. Ramanikvijayji. This manuscript contains 21 folios of various Gujarati compositions by Jayshekharsuri. This particular "Fagu" is found on folios 17-18.

The introduction draws a parallel with Krishnadev, stating that both wrote about Neminath. However, Krishnadev's "Fagu" uses different metrical patterns. Jayshekharsuri's first Neminath Fagu is entirely in duhas with internal rhymes. This second Fagu, however, begins with 24 duhas also featuring internal rhymes, but the remaining parts of the poem are structured in sets of one duha followed by three or four re'ala verses, forming a total of 6 "Bhas" (sections/verses).

The Chanasma manuscript identifies the first Fagu as "Neminath Fagu" and this second one with the direction "Shri Neminathasya Pharanu Dhen Stutihi" (Praise for Neminath's Fagu).

While the manuscript dates from before the 15th century Vikram Samvat (based on script and language), none of Jayshekharsuri's works in this manuscript have explicit dates of composition.

Content and Themes of the "Dwitiya Neminath Fagu":

The "Fagu" celebrates Lord Neminath, the 22nd Tirthankara. The poem appears to be a descriptive and devotional piece, likely set during the spring season (as indicated by the term "Fagu," which is a genre often associated with spring).

The poem recounts key events and characteristics related to Neminath's life and his renunciation:

• Devotional Opening: The poem begins with devotional verses praising the victor of the universe, the Lord (Arhant), who is saluted by gods and humans.
• Neminath's Divinity and Power: It emphasizes Neminath's might, comparing him to Krishna (Keshava), who defeated enemies and ruled. Neminath is described as dwelling in a beautiful, jewel-adorned palace, like the moon in the lotus family.
• The Marriage Incident: A significant portion of the poem focuses on Neminath's impending marriage and the events leading up to his renunciation.
  • The beauty of Princess Rajulmati (Rajal) is depicted, comparing her to Rambha and others.
  • Neminath is described as being persuaded for the marriage.
  • The arrival of spring (Vasant) is noted as the occasion for the wedding.
  • The poem vividly describes the natural beauty of spring – blooming flowers, singing birds, fragrant breezes, and the joy of the season.
• Neminath's Renunciation: The turning point is Neminath's decision to renounce worldly life.
  • The sight of animals destined for slaughter at his wedding feast is a catalyst for his spiritual awakening.
  • He is described as being attracted to liberation and detached from worldly pleasures.
  • Despite the pleas and attempts of his relatives (Yadavas) and especially Rajulmati, Neminath remains steadfast in his decision to embrace asceticism.
  • The poem portrays Rajulmati's distress and attempts to dissuade him, even falling at his feet.
• Emphasis on Detachment: The poem stresses the impermanence of worldly pleasures, youth, family, and possessions. It advocates for detachment from sensual desires and vices, encouraging focus on spiritual liberation.
• Neminath's Path to Liberation: It describes Neminath's journey towards achieving omniscience (Kevala Jnana) and attaining the supreme abode (Shiva).
• Rajulmati's Devotion: The poem suggests that Rajulmati also eventually follows Neminath's path and attains spiritual liberation.
• Poetic Devices: The poem employs rich imagery, comparisons, and descriptions of nature to convey its devotional message. The use of internal rhymes and the "Bhas" structure contribute to its poetic quality.

Manuscript Issues:

The introduction notes that folios 35, 36, and 37 in the original manuscript are fragmented and disorganized. Specific lines are missing or incomplete, with indications for missing parts present in the manuscript but the missing content not supplied in the margins.

Overall Significance:

"Dwitiya Neminath Fagu" by Jayshekharsuri is a significant work in Old Gujarati literature, offering a devotional and narrative account of Lord Neminath's life, his renunciation, and the spiritual path. It highlights the teachings of detachment and the pursuit of liberation, reinforcing Jain philosophical ideals through poetic expression. The poem's structure and language provide valuable insights into the literary traditions of the period.