Kalyan Mandir Stotram - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Kalyan Mandir Stotram" by Rasiklal Chhaganlal Sheth, based on the provided Gujarati text:

Overall Purpose and Structure:

The "Kalyan Mandir Stotram" is a significant Jain devotional hymn composed by Acharya Shrisiddhasena Divakar. This particular edition, compiled by Rasiklal Chhaganlal Sheth, is a detailed exposition that includes the preface, the original verses (Mulagatha), an analysis of their grammatical structure (Anvay), a word-by-word meaning (Shabdarth), and the deeper spiritual significance (Paramarth). The book aims to provide a profound understanding of the stotram and its devotional impact.

Author and Publisher:

Author of the commentary/analysis: Rasiklal Chhaganlal Sheth, B.Com., P.P. Ac. Gunratnasuri, M.S.
Publisher: Niranjan Rasiklal Sheth
Publication Details: First edition, 5000 copies, published on Veer Samvat 2506 (April 17, 1980) / Vikram Samvat Akshaya Tritiya 2036.

Dedication and Introduction:

The author dedicates this work to Param Pujya Tarabai Mahasatiji, under whose guidance and proximity the spiritual meaning (Paramarth) of the stotram was elaborated. The introduction by Shri Baldevbhai Dosabhai Patel highlights the devotional depth and philosophical richness of the stotram, drawing parallels with the renowned "Bhaktamar Stotram." It emphasizes that the stotram, through its beautiful verses and insightful commentary, awakens devotion and a deep experience of the divine.

Key Themes and Explanations:

The Nature of the Stotram: The stotram is described as extremely powerful ("Param Prabhavik") and a "temple of welfare" ("Kalyan Mandir") due to its ability to guide individuals towards spiritual well-being. The commentary meticulously explains the poetic devices used, such as Utpreksha (simile/metaphor), Slesh (pun/double meaning), and Vidhalankar (an अलंकार used for praise), enhancing the stotram's aesthetic and devotional appeal.
The Significance of Lord Parshvanatha: The stotram is specifically dedicated to Lord Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara. The book delves into the life story and past lives of Lord Parshvanatha, explaining the karma and spiritual evolution that led to his omniscience and liberation. This includes the detailed narrative of Kamatha's (who later becomes Meghamali, and causes suffering to Parshvanatha) animosity and the divine intervention of Dharanendra and Padmavati, the serpent deities, who protect Parshvanatha from the afflictions caused by Kamatha.
Commentary on the Verses:
- Opening Verses (1-2): These verses set the devotional tone, invoking the Tirthankara as the sole savior from the cycle of birth and death, the destroyer of sins, and the giver of fearlessness. The "Kalyan Mandir" appellation signifies the Tirthankara as the abode of ultimate welfare.
- Humility of the Author (3-6): The author, Rasiklal Sheth, expresses profound humility, comparing himself to a child trying to describe the ocean or an owl trying to describe the sun. He acknowledges the Tirthankara's infinite qualities, which are beyond human comprehension, even for the omniscient.
- Power of Divine Name and Actions (7-10): The stotram emphasizes the immense merit of meditating on and remembering the Tirthankara's name, drawing parallels with the soothing effect of cool breezes or lotuses on a hot day. It illustrates how even a brief remembrance can alleviate worldly suffering and lead to spiritual progress. The verses also highlight the transformative power of devotion, where associating with the divine essence leads to spiritual elevation.
- Conquering the Mind and Desires (11-18): Several verses focus on the subjugation of inner enemies like desire ( Kama), anger, pride, and greed. The Tirthankara's mastery over these passions is illustrated through examples like Lord Shiva's victory over Kama and the metaphorical victory of water over fire. The concept of "Brahma-charya" (celibacy/spiritual discipline) is also emphasized as a path to conquering worldly attachments.
- The Eight Astha-Pratiharyas (19-27): The stotram then elaborates on the eight divine attributes or "Pratiharyas" that adorn a Tirthankara during their enlightenment, such as the Ashok tree, celestial showering of flowers, divine music, the white parasol, the royal throne, the halo, the divine drum, and the divine fly-whisks. These are explained as symbolic representations of the Tirthankara's spiritual glory and power to uplift beings.
- The Doctrine of Karma and Past Lives: A significant portion of the text is dedicated to explaining the concept of karma and tracing the past lives of Lord Parshvanatha, highlighting how past actions influence present circumstances and the path to spiritual liberation. This includes detailed accounts of lives as Marubhuti, a prince, a Vajjirya King, a Muni, a Chakravarti, and eventually as Lord Parshvanatha. The karmic retribution faced by Kamatha for his animosity is also explained.
- The Principle of Devotion and Faith: The author consistently emphasizes the paramount importance of "Bhav" (true inner feeling or devotion) in spiritual practice. He asserts that rituals performed without genuine feeling are devoid of true merit, citing examples from Jain scriptures.
- The Ultimate Goal: The stotram ultimately aims to guide the reader towards the attainment of "Siddha-pada" (the liberated state), the ultimate goal of Jainism, through unwavering devotion, virtuous conduct, and self-discipline.
The Role of the Translator/Commentator: Rasiklal Chhaganlal Sheth's commentary is praised for its clarity, depth, and eloquent explanation of the profound philosophical and spiritual concepts within the stotram. His ability to connect the stotram's verses with historical events and earlier Jain texts like the Bhaktamar Stotram is also noted.

Historical and Biographical Context:

The book includes the story of Acharya Shrisiddhasena Divakar's own spiritual journey and the historical context surrounding the composition of the Kalyan Mandir Stotram, which is linked to the legend of King Vikramaditya and the scholar Mukunda. It also highlights the author's personal connection to the work and the guidance he received.

Overall Message:

The "Kalyan Mandir Stotram," as presented by Rasiklal Chhaganlal Sheth, is a devotional masterpiece that offers a path to spiritual liberation through the remembrance and adoration of Lord Parshvanatha. It emphasizes the power of pure devotion, the understanding of karma, and the importance of virtuous living, all contributing to the ultimate goal of attaining salvation. The detailed commentary makes the profound teachings accessible to a wider audience, fostering a deeper connection with Jain philosophy and the Tirthankaras.