Kirtikala

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Kirtikala" by Hemchandracharya and Muni Chandrasuri, based on the provided catalog link and the text itself:

Book Title: Kirtikala Author(s): Hemchandracharya (original text), Muni Chandrasuri (commentary, editor) Publisher: Sha Bhailal Ambalal Petladwala Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/002579/1

Overall Purpose:

The book "Kirtikala" presents the Shri Veetaraga Stotra (Hymn to the Detached) composed by the renowned Jain scholar Kǎlikālasarvajña Shri Hemchandracharya. The primary contribution of this volume is the extensive Sanskrit commentary titled "Kirtikala" (meaning 'The Art of Fame' or 'The Work of Kirti') authored by Shri Kirtichandravijayganni. The book was compiled and edited by Muni Munichandravijay.

Key Content and Structure:

The book is structured around Hemchandracharya's Shri Veetaraga Stotra, a devotional hymn praising the Jina, who is characterized by the absence of attachment and aversion (Veetaraga). The commentary "Kirtikala" meticulously explains each verse of the Stotra, elucidating its philosophical, spiritual, and ethical significance within the Jain tradition.

Commentary ("Kirtikala") by Shri Kirtichandravijayganni:

• In-depth Explanation: The "Kirtikala" commentary provides a detailed and scholarly explanation of the Veetaraga Stotra. It aims to make the profound teachings of Hemchandracharya accessible to a wider audience.
• Philosophical Depth: The commentary likely delves into Jain philosophy, including principles like syadvada (conditional predication), the nature of the soul, karma, liberation, and the path to spiritual realization.
• Literary Style: The commentary is written in Sanskrit, aiming for clarity and a sophisticated literary style that honors the original text and its author.
• Contextualization: The commentary likely places the Veetaraga Stotra within the broader context of Jain devotional literature and the teachings of Hemchandracharya, who is revered for his extensive contributions to Jainism.

Editor (Muni Munichandravijay):

• Dedication: The editor, Muni Munichandravijay, expresses his gratitude to his gurus and emphasizes the importance of Hemchandracharya's stotras in Jain spiritual practice.
• Motivation: The editor highlights the necessity of a systematic and pure commentary, noting that while existing commentaries are valuable, a fresh attempt is both welcome and essential.
• Prior Publications: The editor mentions the prior successful publication of commentaries on other important works by Hemchandracharya, such as the Ayogavyavachchhedadvatrinshika and Anyayogavyavachchhedadvatrinshika (collectively published as Dvatrinshika Dvayi), which were also well-received. This indicates a series of efforts to make Hemchandracharya's works accessible.
• Future Publications: The editor expresses hope for the future publication of Hindi translations of these works, making them even more widely accessible.

Content of the Shri Veetaraga Stotra (as explained by the commentary):

The commentary covers multiple Prakāśas (chapters or sections) of the Stotra, each focusing on different aspects of the Jina's qualities and the devotional path. Based on the chapter titles and initial verses:

• Prakasha 1: Focuses on the Jina as the ultimate soul (Parātmā), the supreme light (Paraṁ Jyotiḥ), the highest among the Paramēṣṭhins (the five supreme beings), and the one who dispels darkness (Tamasḥ Parastāt). It describes the Jina's role in uprooting afflictions (kleśapādas).
• Prakasha 2: Elaborates on the Jina's inherent virtues (sahajātiśaya), such as the radiant complexion of his body, the auspicious fragrance of his being, his freedom from disease, and the purity of his form.
• Prakasha 3: Discusses the Jina's spiritual powers, including his omnipotence, his role as the disseminator of knowledge (Vidyāḥ Pravartakāḥ), and his perfect knowledge (Jñānaṁ).
• Prakasha 4: Explores the Jina's divine attributes and the miracles associated with his presence, such as the Dharmachakra (Wheel of Dharma), the divine umbrella (Chhatra), and the adoration he receives from deities. It emphasizes his unique transcendence (Lokōttara).
• Prakasha 5: Details the eight auspicious symbols of perfection (Aṣṭaprātihārya) that manifest around the Jina, including the divine umbrella, the chamar (fly-whisk), the Ashoka tree, and the celestial music.
• Prakasha 6: Addresses the detractors and critics of the Jina, arguing that their criticisms stem from ignorance and attachment, and that true understanding leads to devotion.
• Prakasha 7: Critiques the concept of a creator God, presenting the Jain perspective on the soul, karma, and liberation, arguing against the necessity of an external creator.
• Prakasha 8: Delves into the doctrine of anekānta (non-one-sidedness) and the nature of reality, showing how the Jain perspective resolves apparent contradictions.
• Prakasha 9: Highlights the significance of Kaliyuga (the present era) in the context of devotion, suggesting that devotion to the Jina in this era yields swift results.
• Prakasha 10: Praises the Jina's unparalleled qualities, emphasizing his impartiality and universal compassion.
• Prakasha 11: Focuses on the Jina's detachment (Vairāgya) and how it is the foundation for his spiritual powers and liberation.
• Prakasha 12: Continues to explore the Jina's detachment, demonstrating its comprehensive nature across all states and circumstances.
• Prakasha 13: Explains the Jina's actions and motivations, emphasizing his compassion and the nature of his guiding principles.
• Prakasha 14: Discusses the Jina's mastery over his mind and senses (Yoga), illustrating the profound control he exercises.
• Prakasha 15: Elaborates on the Jina's victory over worldly desires and afflictions, highlighting his unique spiritual prowess.
• Prakasha 16: Continues to examine the Jina's detachment and the nature of his spiritual discipline, contrasting it with flawed paths.
• Prakasha 17: Focuses on the Jina's surrender to the path of righteousness, his compassion for all beings, and his ultimate refuge in the divine.
• Prakasha 18: Critiques the perceived qualities of other deities, contrasting them with the Jina's absolute purity and transcendence.
• Prakasha 19: Explains the Jina's teachings on righteous conduct, emphasizing the importance of detachment from afflictions (Ashrava) and attachment to liberation (Samvara).
• Prakasha 20: Concludes the devotional praise with the compiler's (Muni Munichandravijay's) humble submission and a prayer for the well-being of the readers and his gurus.

Significance:

"Kirtikala" serves as a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners of Jainism, offering a deep understanding of Hemchandracharya's devotional hymn and the philosophical underpinnings of Jainism. The commentary makes the profound teachings accessible and highlights the enduring relevance of Hemchandracharya's work. The publication reflects a continued effort within the Jain community to preserve and propagate its rich literary and philosophical heritage.