Mantraraj Rahasyam - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Mantrarāja Rahasya" by Śrī Simhatilakasūri, based on the provided content:

Book Title: Mantrarāja Rahasya (मन्त्र राज रहस्यम्) Author: Śrī Simhatilakasūri (श्रीसिंहतिलकसूरि) Publisher: Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan Series: Singhi Jain Series-73 Editors: Critically edited by Acharya Jina Vijaya Muni. General Introduction by Mahāmahopādhyāya Prof. Jayantakrishna Harikrishna Dave.

Overview:

"Mantrarāja Rahasya" is a significant Jain text that delves into the profound secrets and practices of Mantras, particularly within the Jain tradition. The book, as presented, appears to be a critical edition compiled and introduced by esteemed scholars, making its ancient wisdom accessible to a wider audience. It explores the theoretical underpinnings of Mantras in Jainism, their connection to meditation (Dhyāna), the various types of Mantras, their application in achieving specific goals, and the rituals associated with their practice.

Key Themes and Content:

Introduction to Jain Philosophy and Practice: The introduction by Prof. Jayantakrishna Harikrishna Dave provides context on Jainism's core beliefs, such as the absence of a creator God, the concept of Tirthankaras, and the importance of Vitaragatattva (detachment). It also touches upon the mutual influence between Jainism, Hinduism, and Buddhism, particularly in Tantric practices.
The Nature of Mantras and Dhyāna: The text elaborates on the Jain approach to meditation, differentiating between Dharmadhyāna and Śukladhyāna. It highlights the Padastha variety of Dhyāna, which involves the contemplation of Varna (letters), Pada (words), and Vakya (sentences) in Mantras, often associated with specific deities or Sasana Devatas (attendant deities). The commonality with Hindu Mantraśāstra is also noted.
Simhatilakasūri and His Work: The book is attributed to Śrī Simhatilakasūri, a pupil of Vibudhacandra, who was a pupil of Yaśodeva. He composed this work in SY 1322 (or 1332). Simhatilakasūri also authored a commentary called "Lilavati" and other works like "Vardhamāna-Vidya Kalpa."
The Suri Mantra: A significant portion of the text focuses on the "Suri Mantra," which is presented as a highly sacred and ancient Mantra. It traces its lineage back to the first Tirthankara, Rishabhadeva, and his Gaṇadhara, Puṇḍarīka. It is also associated with Śrī Mahāvīra and his first disciple, Śrī Gautama Gaṇadhara. The Suri Mantra is considered the prerogative of Acharyas, while ordinary Sadhus practice the Vardhamāna Vidya.
Panchaparameshthi Mantra: This Mantra, an invocation to Arhats, Siddhas, Acharyas, Upadhyayas, and Sadhus, is identified as the "Jain Gayatri" and is widely recited. It is considered to destroy sins and bestow blessings.
Types of Mantras and Vidyas: The text distinguishes between Mantras (associated with male deities) and Vidyas (associated with female deities), both forming part of the tenth Purva, Vidyanupravāda.
Detailed Practices and Rituals: The book provides intricate details on:
- Mantrayantra diagrams: Specific Yantras (geometric diagrams) are described for various purposes, including the Apraticakra Yantra and Gaṇadhara Valaya.
- Japa Vidhi (Recitation Methods): Different methods of recitation, including Puraka (inhalation), Rechaka (exhalation), and Kumbhaka (retention) of breath, are explained.
- Specific Mantras for Goals: Numerous Mantras are presented with their associated fruits (phalashruti) for achieving various objectives, such as prosperity, health, protection, and spiritual attainment.
- Tapas (Austerities): The text outlines various austerity practices, including fasting and dietary restrictions, to be performed in conjunction with Mantra recitation.
- Mudras (Hand Gestures): Specific Mudras like Āhāna, Sthāpana, Sanidhya, Nirodhana, and Avaguṇṭhana are described for pleasing deities.
- Varna-mandala Dhyāna: Meditation involving the visualization of colors and their corresponding elements and their effects.
- Deity Associations: Mantras are linked to specific Tirthankaras and their attendant deities, such as Chakreśvarī for Rishabhanatha and Padmavatī for Pārśvanātha.
- Five Pithas (Seats) of the Suri Mantra: The text mentions the first Pitha, associated with Brahmi and Bahubali, and the 1003 Vidyas connected to it.
The Five Pithas and Their Significance: The book outlines five "Pithas" (or "Prasthānas") associated with the Suri Mantra, each with its own set of Mantras, deities, and practices. These are described as:
- Vidya Pitha (First Prāsthāna): Linked to various Tirthankaras and their qualities.
- Upavidya Pitha (Second Prāsthāna): Featuring Mantras related to deities like Bahubali.
- Tṛtīya Pitha (Third Prāsthāna): Involving specific Mantras and deities.
- Caturtha Pitha (Fourth Prāsthāna): Described with a connection to specific deities.
- Pañcama Pitha (Fifth Prāsthāna): Focusing on the "Mantra Raja" itself and its associated practices.
The Importance of a Guru: The text strongly emphasizes that Mantra practice is only fruitful and rewarding when received from a properly qualified Guru who can impart spiritual power (Śaktipāta). It warns against practicing Mantras merely by reading them from books, deeming it potentially harmful.
Appendices and Stotras: The book includes various appendices (Parishishta) containing stotras (hymns of praise) dedicated to various deities, Tirthankaras, and specific Mantras, such as the Suri Mantra Stuti, Gautama Gaṇadhara Stotra, and the Śāntikara Stotra. These stotras often detail the methodology and benefits of reciting specific Mantras.

In essence, "Mantrarāja Rahasya" is a detailed guide to the esoteric Mantric practices within Jainism, offering a blend of philosophical insight, ritualistic instruction, and spiritual guidance aimed at self-improvement and the attainment of ultimate liberation. It underscores the power of Mantras when practiced with devotion, knowledge, and the guidance of a spiritual teacher.