Mandatt Adi Munikrut Vividh Stavan Sazzayo - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Mandatt Adi Munikrut Vividh Stavan Sazzayo" in English:

This book, "Mandatt Adi Munikrut Vividh Stavan Sazzayo," compiled by Sadhvi Samaypragnashreeji, is a collection of devotional hymns (Stavan) and meditative songs (Sajjhay). The work is based on a three-page manuscript originally composed by Muni Mandatt and Muni Megh, who were disciples of Acharya Vijayshilchandra Suri. The manuscript, believed to have been written in the 19th century, contains ten compositions filled with devotion and inspiration for renunciation. Out of these, eight are attributed to Muni Mandatt, and the remaining two are by Muni Megh.

The compiler humbly requests readers to point out any errors in this initial effort, which is presented as a basic attempt at compilation.

The book then presents a series of devotional pieces, each with its own theme and often set to a particular meter or tune. Here's a breakdown of the main compositions:

Abhaykumar Swadhyay (Chapter 1): This section focuses on the concept of Karma and its power. It highlights how even powerful beings and avatars like Rishabhdev, Lord Mahavir, Rama, Krishna, and the Pandavas experienced suffering due to Karma. It emphasizes that Karma cannot be escaped without experiencing its consequences. The narrative then shifts to Abhaykumar, who, upon hearing the Lord's words, resolves to fight against Karma by embracing virtues like equanimity, knowledge, patience, forgiveness, and adherence to vows. He prepares for this spiritual battle, and upon winning, attains liberation.
Shil Swadhyay (Chapter 2): This composition extols the virtues of celibacy and ethical conduct (Shil). It declares that no vow is equal to Shil. The text cites examples of virtuous individuals like Sita, Subhadra, Draupadi, and Chelana, whose purity and steadfastness brought them renown and divine favor. It describes how adhering to Shil helps overcome worldly attachments and leads to spiritual progress. The importance of following the path shown by the Guru is also stressed.
Aranak Siddhya (Chapter 3): This is a narrative song about Muni Aranak. While on his begging round (gochari) during the heat of the day, he is attracted by the beauty of a woman. He is tempted by her offer of worldly pleasures in her chambers. However, he initially resists, but his mind gets swayed. The story then shifts to Muni Aranak's mother, who sees him playing dice and chides him. Muni Aranak expresses remorse and seeks his mother's forgiveness. The song concludes with Muni Aranak taking a vow of fasting (anasana) and successfully crossing the ocean of existence, achieving salvation.
Aarti (Chapter 4): This is a devotional hymn praising Lord Jinendra. It describes the Lord's divine attributes, such as the eight auspicious symbols (ashta-maha-pratiharaya), His lack of defects, His omnipresence, and His ability to fulfill all desires like a celestial wish-fulfilling tree. It also mentions the devotion of celestial beings and great devotees like Megh.
Sumati Nath Geet (Chapter 5): This song is in praise of Lord Sumatinath. It highlights the importance of remembering the Lord for spiritual well-being and overcoming negative tendencies. It encourages devotion to the Jinraj and seeking His grace to attain happiness and liberation. It also includes a passage about the importance of honoring the Guru and following his teachings, with a warning against ignoring them.
Jain Pratima Puja Swadhyay (Chapter 6): This section emphasizes the significance of worshipping the idol (pratima) of the Jin. It refers to various Jain scriptures and teachings to support this practice. It states that worshipping the image is akin to worshipping the Lord Himself and that those who do not do so are not worthy of reverence. The importance of correct understanding of scriptures, right faith, knowledge, and conduct is also mentioned, along with a warning against falling into a well of ignorance by disregarding the teachings.
Chintamani Parshwagit (Chapter 7): This song is a prayer to Lord Parshwanath, particularly referred to as "Chintamani" (one who fulfills desires). The devotee expresses immense suffering and seeks the Lord's intervention. They acknowledge their own shortcomings but believe in the Lord's boundless compassion and ability to save even the fallen. The prayer is offered with deep humility and a plea for the Lord's saving grace.
Stavan (Chapter 8): This is a general devotional hymn where the devotee addresses the Lord as the "life and soul" and seeks His mercy as a savior. They plead for deliverance from the ocean of existence, acknowledging their own limitations and the Guru's wisdom.
Narukaka Geet (Chapter 9): This section seems to be a part of a larger work, possibly a story or a discourse. It includes verses that speak of wandering through various life forms and experiencing immense suffering. It highlights the meeting with the Guru and the subsequent turning towards the Lord. It also mentions the presence of manifold virtues in the Lord and the devotee's own failings, seeking the Lord's support like a ship supports a passenger.
Vishayatyag Geet (Chapter 10): This composition focuses on the theme of renouncing worldly desires (vishaya). It describes the destructive nature of sensual pleasures, using examples of individuals who fell prey to them and suffered dire consequences, including rebirth in lower realms. It highlights how even great beings and rulers were consumed by desires. The song strongly advises abandoning worldly pleasures for spiritual well-being.
Kalyug Swadhyay (Chapter 11): This section addresses the signs and characteristics of the Kali Yuga (the current age of spiritual decline). It describes a future scenario where cities and villages will resemble each other in their spiritual emptiness, and individuals will become self-centered and greedy. It paints a picture of moral decay, disrespect for elders, weakening of family bonds, and the rise of negative influences. The text mentions that these predictions are based on the teachings of Bhagvati Sutra and the lineage of Acharyas, including Rupdatt Muni and Sarupdatt Muni, and culminates with Muni Mandatt's acceptance and understanding of these pronouncements.

Finally, the book includes a Glossary that defines various terms used in the compositions, aiding readers in understanding the meanings of specific words and phrases. The contact information for the publisher, "C/o. Neetu Amritlal Jain," is also provided.