Panch Stotrani

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Panch Stotrani" by Dharmtilakvijay, based on the provided catalog link and content:

Book Title: Panch Stotrani (Five Hymns) Author/Editor: Munishri Dharmtilakvijay Publisher: Smrutimandir Prakashan Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/002211/1

Overview:

"Panch Stotrani" is a collection of five significant Jain hymns, meticulously compiled and edited by Munishri Dharmtilakvijay. Published by Smrutimandir Prakashan, this book is dedicated to spiritual seekers, offering profound insights and devotional praise dedicated to various Tirthankaras and the Jain path. The hymns included are notable for their rich philosophical content, poetic beauty, and devotional depth, often accompanied by commentaries from esteemed Jain scholars. The publication also highlights the efforts of various trusts and individuals in preserving and propagating Jain scriptures.

Content and Key Hymns:

The book comprises the following five hymns (Stotras):

1. Shri Vardhaman Dwatrinshika (श्री वर्धमानद्वात्रिंशिका):

   • Author: Acharya Shrimad Siddhasen Diwakar Suri M.S.
   • Commentary: Acharya Shrimad Udaysagar Suri M.S. (Avachuri) and a translated commentary by an unknown scholar.
   • Summary: This hymn, attributed to the great scholar Acharya Siddhasen Diwakar, is a praise of Lord Vardhaman (Mahavir Swami). It emphasizes the supreme and unparalleled nature of the Vitaraaga (free from passions) soul, contrasting it with worldly deities who are still bound by desires. The hymn extols the virtues of the pure, liberated soul as the ultimate refuge. The commentary by Udaysagar Suri delves into the deep philosophical meanings, making the verses accessible.

2. Shri Veerjin Stotra (श्री वीरजिनस्तवः):

   • Author: Acharya Shrimad Hiravijay Suri M.S.
   • Commentary: Muni Sushilvijay M.S. (Deepika)
   • Summary: Composed by the renowned Acharya Hiravijay Suri, known for his role in influencing Emperor Akbar, this hymn is a devotional offering to Lord Veer (Mahavir Swami). It showcases the composer's profound scholarship and deep devotion. The commentary by Muni Sushilvijay, titled "Deepika," explains the verses with great clarity and aesthetic appreciation.

3. Siddha Sarasvata Stotra (सिद्धसारस्वतस्तवः):

   • Author: Acharya Shrimad Bappabhatta Suri M.S.
   • Commentary: Muni Dhrudharvijay M.S. (Shishuhita)
   • Summary: This hymn is attributed to Acharya Bappabhatta Suri, who is said to have been blessed by Goddess Saraswati herself during its composition. It is considered a powerful hymn for those seeking spiritual knowledge and excellence. The "Shishuhita" commentary by Muni Dhrudharvijay explains the profound meanings and beautiful expressions of the hymn.

4. Sanyagna Shramana Atm-ninda Kulakam (संविग्नश्रवणयोग्य आत्मनिन्दाकुलकम्):

   • Author: Acharya Shrimad Jinprabh Suri M.S.
   • Translation/Commentary: Muni Hitvardhanvijay M.S.
   • Summary: Authored by Acharya Jinprabh Suri, this hymn is a profound piece of self-reflection and introspection aimed at monks (Shramanas) who are earnestly seeking liberation. It highlights the potential pitfalls and shortcomings in spiritual practice, encouraging a sincere examination of one's conduct and motivations to avoid spiritual decline. The translation and commentary by Muni Hitvardhanvijay make its introspective message relatable.

5. Stuti Yamalam (स्तुति यमलम्):

   • Hymns: Gyanpanchmi Stuti (ज्ञानपञ्चमी स्तुति) and Maun Ekadashi Stuti (मौन एकादशी स्तुति).
   • Commentary: Muni Kundkundvijay M.S.
   • Summary: This section comprises two popular hymns, the "Gyanpanchmi Stuti" and the "Maun Ekadashi Stuti," which are well-known and recited within Jain communities. These hymns are praised for their deep meaning, requiring thoughtful contemplation. Muni Kundkundvijay's commentary elucidates the profound philosophical and devotional aspects of these widely revered hymns.

Editorial and Publication Context:

• Editor's Dedication: Munishri Dharmtilakvijay has diligently compiled and edited this work.
• Inspiration: The publication is dedicated to the memory of Paramaradhya Acharya Devesh Shrimad Vijay Ramchandrasurishwarji Maharaj and celebrates the completion of the "Suri Mantra Panchprasthan" by Acharya Devesh Shrimad Vijay Shreyansprabhsurishwarji Maharaj.
• Support: The book is supported by the Kusum-Amrut Trust, Vapi, and published by Shri Smrutimandir Prakashan, Ahmedabad.
• Purpose: The stated purpose is to make these previously inaccessible hymns available to the Jain community for spiritual benefit. The book is printed from a "Gyan Khata" (knowledge department) and is not for sale, with a nominal donation suggested for householders to ensure its distribution for knowledge.

Overall Significance:

"Panch Stotrani" serves as a valuable resource for Jain scholars, monks, and lay followers interested in the devotional and philosophical literature of Jainism. It brings together classic hymns with insightful commentaries, offering a pathway to deeper spiritual understanding and devotion towards the path of liberation as taught by the Tirthankaras. The collection emphasizes the importance of scripture, meditation, and sincere spiritual practice.