Jinabhakti

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Jinabhakti" by Bhadrankarvijay, based on the provided pages:

Book Title: Jinabhakti (જિન-ભકિત) Author: Bhadrankarvijay (ભદ્રંકરવિજય) Publisher: Namaskar Aradhana Kendra Palitana (શ્રી નમસ્કાર આરાધના કેન્દ્ર પાલિતાણા)

Core Theme: The book "Jinabhakti" is a collection of Sanskrit stotras (hymns) dedicated to the reverence and devotion of Lord Jina (Jineshwara Dev). It aims to foster devotion, detachment, and spiritual knowledge in the reader, presenting Jinabhakti as a gateway to liberation (moksha).

Key Features and Content:

• Purpose: The book emphasizes that Jinabhakti (devotion to the Jina) is a significant path to achieving liberation. It presents carefully selected, influential Sanskrit stotras composed by ancient acharyas, rich in knowledge, detachment, and devotional sentiment.
• Translation and Exposition: Each stotra is accompanied by a Gujarati translation and an explanation of its significance and glory. This makes the profound spiritual content accessible to a wider audience.
• Translator and Commentator: The translator and commentator is revered as Param Pujya Panyasji Pravar Shri Bhadrakarvijayji Ganivarya, described as a "Prashantmurti" (embodiment of peace).
• Content of the Stotras: The stotras are chosen to help the soul:
  • Understand the true nature of the Jina.
  • Develop a deep affection for the Jina and His teachings (Shasan).
  • Purify one's right faith (Samyagdarshan).
  • Become increasingly immersed in Jinabhakti.
  • Ultimately achieve the eight siddhis and nine nidhis, and the ultimate goal of liberation.
• Underlying Philosophy: The core message is that through contemplation, meditation, and recitation of these stotras, one can achieve purity of mind, clarity, stability, and absorption in the divine. This leads to the destruction of accumulated sins and the weakening of karmic bonds, ultimately facilitating liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
• Authors of the Stotras: The book features stotras from prominent Jain acharyas and poets, including:
  • Shri Siddhasen Divakar: His "Shri Vardhaman Dvātrinśikā" is highlighted as a foundational and easily understandable praise, considered the first of its kind in Jain literature. He is also credited with other stotras.
  • Shri Siddharshi Gani: Author of "Shri Jinstavan."
  • Kavi Shri Dhanpal: Author of "Shri Rishabh Panchashika," which received high praise from Acharya Hemchandra.
  • Kalikal Sarvajna Shri Hemchandra: Featured prominently with stotras like "Ayogavyavachedika" and "Anyayogavyavachhedika," known for their profound spiritual insights presented in simple language. He also composed "Shri Vitragastotra" for King Kumarpal's daily study.
  • Maharaja Shri Kumarpal Bhupal: The devout king composed a heart-touching stotra dedicated to the Jina.
  • Nyayacharya Shri Vijayji: Author of "Paramjyoti Panchvinśatika" and "Paramatma Panchvinśatika."
  • Mahopadhyaya Shri Yashovijayji: His contributions include "Paramjyoti Panchvinśatika" and "Paramatma Panchvinśatika."
  • Shri Vitragastotra: Specifically mentioned as composed by Shri Hemchandra for King Kumarpal and considered essential for devotees.
• Structure and Format: The book includes a "Nivedan" (Foreword/Introduction) and a "Prastavana" (Preface) by Pujya Panyasji Mahasadhvi, detailing the significance of the stotras and the book's purpose. It also features an index of the included stotras and their respective authors and page numbers.
• Second Edition: The book is stated to be the second edition, indicating its popularity and demand after the first edition was exhausted.
• Publisher and Distributors: Published by Shri Namaskar Aradhana Kendra, Palitana, it is available through various Jain booksellers in major cities like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Palitana.
• Value: The price of the book is mentioned as three rupees.

Overall Message: "Jinabhakti" serves as a guide for Jains seeking to deepen their spiritual practice through the recitation and contemplation of ancient hymns. It champions the power of devotion to the Jina as a means to attain spiritual purification, knowledge, and ultimately, liberation from the cycle of rebirth. The inclusion of translations and explanations makes this profound spiritual literature accessible and relevant for modern devotees.