Karhetak Parshwanath Stotram

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The "Karhetak Parshwanath Stotram" is a devotional hymn dedicated to Lord Parshwanath, the twenty-third Jain Tirthankar. The text states that this stotram was composed by the revered Acharya Shri Somatilakasuri of the Tapagachha lineage. It was discovered on an ancient fragment of a palm-leaf manuscript, and its script suggests it dates back to the 16th century. Since the stotram was previously unpublished, it is presented here for dissemination.

The stotram is a collection of verses (shlokas) that praise Lord Parshwanath, highlighting his divine attributes, compassionate nature, and power to liberate beings from the cycle of birth and death.

Key Themes and Praises within the Stotram:

• Divine Reverence: The opening verses immediately establish the immense reverence due to Lord Parshwanath. He is described as being worshipped by the crowns of gods and demons, and his brilliance is compared to the sun that illuminates the three worlds. The composer, acting as a humble devotee, expresses his profound respect.
• Purity and Transcendence: Lord Parshwanath is lauded as the swan gracing the lake of his lineage (referencing his father, Ashvasena). He is depicted as having transcended the ordinary and as being a source of ultimate auspiciousness for the three worlds. He is free from the cycle of birth and death and is an expert in bringing about the welfare of all beings.
• Destruction of Karma and Suffering: A significant theme is Lord Parshwanath's ability to destroy the karmic obstacles that bind beings to suffering. He is invoked to protect the world from all difficulties and is described as a vessel for crossing the ocean of Samsara (the cycle of rebirth). The stotram mentions that by meditating on him, one can overcome the "fire of meditation" and burn up the fuel of karma.
• Symbolism and Divine Aura: The text uses rich imagery to describe Lord Parshwanath. His divine aura is so powerful that it seems to overshadow the sun. The snakes that protected him in his past life are mentioned, with their hoods described as creating a luminous canopy. His serene and pure countenance is compared to the moon, a stark contrast to the blemishes of the moon itself.
• Liberation and Salvation: The stotram repeatedly emphasizes Lord Parshwanath's role as a savior. He is the "lord of the three worlds" and the one who understands the welfare of the universe. Devotees are encouraged to seek refuge in him, as those who bow to him attain fame, omniscience, and ultimately, liberation (Nirvana).
• Compassion and Auspiciousness: Lord Parshwanath is characterized by his compassionate heart. His white, pure fame is extolled, and it is stated that those who harbor him in their hearts are instantly freed from calamities. His auspiciousness is further highlighted by symbols like the three-tiered umbrella (Chatra Trayam) signifying his sovereignty and dominion over the three realms.
• Final Plea for Liberation: The concluding verses offer a direct plea to Lord Parshwanath. The composer invokes him as the "ornament of Karhetaka" and the "lord of the three worlds" and asks him to destroy the great veil of delusion (Moha) and the dense winds of karma for the devotees, thereby granting them the state of Nirvana.

In essence, the "Karhetak Parshwanath Stotram" is a powerful and evocative hymn that celebrates the divine qualities of Lord Parshwanath. It serves as a guide for devotees seeking spiritual liberation, emphasizing meditation, devotion, and reliance on his compassionate grace to overcome worldly suffering and achieve ultimate freedom.