Namaskar Swadhyay Prakrit Vibhag

This Jain text, "Namaskar Swadhyay Prakrit Vibhag," is a comprehensive exploration of the Namaskar Mahamantra (Panch Namaskar) from a Prakrit language perspective. Published by Jain Sahitya Vardhak Sabha, Mumbai, in 1961, this book delves deep into the various facets of this foundational Jain mantra.

Here's a breakdown of its key aspects:

Core Content:

• Focus on the Namaskar Mahamantra: The book's primary objective is to illuminate the "Shree Namaskar Mahamantra" in its true essence. It recognizes the vast and rich literature surrounding this mantra and aims to bring it to the forefront for spiritual seekers.
• Three-Part Structure: The collected literature on the Namaskar Mantra has been organized into three distinct volumes:
  1. Namaskar Swadhyay: Prakrit Vibhag (The Current Book): This volume focuses on the Prakrit texts related to the Namaskar Mantra.
  2. Namaskar Swadhyay: Sanskrit Vibhag: This volume will cover Sanskrit literature pertaining to the mantra.
  3. Namaskar Swadhyay: Apabhramsha-Hindi-Gujarati Vibhag: This volume will encompass texts in these languages concerning the mantra.
• Prakrit Section: The present volume, the first of the three, presents approximately 550 pages of meticulously collected and translated Prakrit literature.

Key Components and Content Areas:

The table of contents reveals a vast array of texts and discussions related to the Namaskar mantra:

• Mangal Panchakam: An introductory section featuring five auspicious verses.
• Explanations and Commentaries: The book includes detailed explanations and commentaries on various aspects of the Namaskar mantra, including:
  • The auspicious invocation of the Bhagavati Sutra (with commentary by Abhaydev Suri).
  • The first of the seven remembrances: Namaskar Smaran (with commentaries by Siddhi Chandra Gani and Harsh Kirti Suri).
  • Detailed analysis of various meanings of individual words within the Namaskar mantra ('Namo', 'Sarva', etc.) with insights from scholars like Pandit Gunaratna Muni and Agamic Shri Devratna Suri.
• References from Major Jain Texts: The book extensively references the significance and mentions of the Namaskar mantra in various foundational Jain scriptures, such as:
  • Shri Mahanishith Sutra
  • Chaityavandan Mahabhashya
  • Uvahanavihisuttam (attributed to Shri Man Dev Suri)
  • Vardhaman Vidhya Vihi (attributed to Bhagwan Shree Bahubali Swami)
  • Namokar Niyukti (found within Aavashyak Sutra)
  • Shatkhanda Agama (as commented by Virsenacharya on Pushpadant and Bhu Bali's work)
  • Kuvalayamala
  • An extensive list of other related texts, indicating a comprehensive research effort.
• Specific Texts and Sections: The table of contents details numerous specific stotras (hymns) and treatises dedicated to the Namaskar mantra, including:
  • Arhanta Namaskaravali and Siddha Namaskaravali (describing the glories of the five supreme beings).
  • Arihadai Stut (Panch Parmesthi Namaskar Stotra).
  • Shree Bhadra Gupta Swami's Pancha Namaskara Chakra Uddhara Vidhi (details on the mystical diagram of the five supreme beings).
  • Dhyana Vichar (a treatise on meditation, potentially linked to the mantra).
  • Namaskar Saravanam and its commentary by Shree Man Tunga Suri.
  • Kuvallayamala Sandarbha.
  • Various stotras focusing on the fruits and benefits of reciting the Namaskar mantra.
• Yantras and Figures: The book includes a comprehensive index and introduction to various yantras (mystical diagrams) and figures associated with the Namaskar mantra, suggesting a focus on its esoteric and meditative aspects.
• Translations and Explanations: A significant portion of the work involves translating and explaining these Prakrit texts, making them accessible to a wider audience. The preface highlights the extensive effort by Pan. Dhurandharvijayji, Muni Jambuvijayji, and Muni Tattvanandvijayji in ensuring the accuracy and depth of the translations.
• Editorial Process: The preface emphasizes the rigorous editorial process, involving the correction and reprinting of nearly two-thirds of the manuscript due to dissatisfaction with initial translations, underscoring a commitment to purity and comprehensibility.
• Purpose and Inspiration: The main objective is to reveal the true form of the "Shree Namaskar Mahamantra." The inspiration stemmed from the realization that each of the nine spiritual remembrances (Nav Smaran) has a vast and rich body of literature, necessitating independent works for each.
• Collaborative Effort: The publication is acknowledged as a collective endeavor, involving numerous revered monks, individuals, and institutions, highlighting the collaborative spirit behind this significant work.
• Acknowledgements: The text expresses deep gratitude to various scholars, Jain knowledge repositories, and institutions for their invaluable contributions, particularly in providing manuscripts and guidance.

Overall Significance:

"Namaskar Swadhyay Prakrit Vibhag" appears to be a monumental work in Jain scholarship, dedicated to the preservation, study, and dissemination of knowledge related to the Namaskar Mahamantra in its Prakrit roots. It reflects a deep commitment to textual accuracy, scholarly interpretation, and the spiritual enrichment of its readers. The inclusion of numerous commentaries, analyses of word meanings, and references to a wide array of Jain scriptures demonstrate the thoroughness of the research. The book serves as a vital resource for scholars, practitioners, and anyone seeking a profound understanding of the Namaskar mantra within the rich tapestry of Jain literature and philosophy.