Pandit Pravar Jain Kavi Shrimad Devchandraji - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text about Shrimad Devchandraji, authored by Manilal M. Padrakar:

The text is a biographical and literary exploration of Pandit Pravar Jain Kavi Shrimad Devchandraji, a significant figure in Jain literature and spirituality. The author, Manilal M. Padrakar, aims to shed light on the life, works, and impact of this revered scholar.

Key aspects covered in the text:

Pioneering Spirit and Literary Legacy: Shrimad Devchandraji is described as a great preacher of Jainism, an unparalleled knower of the soul, a protector of Jainism, and a muni (ascetic) of deep spiritual insight. He was also a prolific poet and a scholar. The author laments the lack of comprehensive historical records for such a significant personality, attributing it to the absence of systematic documentation in Jain history.
Efforts for Preservation and Research: The author highlights the arduous efforts made to collect and preserve Shrimad Devchandraji's works. This involved extensive correspondence, travel to distant regions like Marwar, Mewar, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Surat, and Bharuch, incurring personal expenses and facing numerous difficulties. The goal was to gather various manuscripts of his works, get them researched and published, which facilitated the creation of this biography.
Origin and Early Life: Based on linguistic analysis of his earliest works, the text suggests that Shrimad Devchandraji was likely born in Gujarat (Gurjarashtra). His initial works, like the 'Ashtaprakari Puja' and 'Ekvees Prakari Puja' from around 1743 (Samvat), exhibit a distinct "Gharagat Gurjar Bhasha" (native Gujarati language), indicating his deep connection to the region. It's also inferred that he might have been born into a high-caste family (Brahmin, Vaisya, or Kshatriya).
Spiritual and Intellectual Lineage: Shrimad Devchandraji studied under Upadhyay Shrimad Jnansagarji in Gujarat. Jnansagarji is believed to have belonged to the Anchalgachha. Devchandraji, who belonged to the Khartargachha, later taught profound philosophical texts to scholars of the Tapagachha, such as Pandit Jinvijayji and Pandit Uttamvijayji. This inter-gachha influence showcases his broad-mindedness in matters of sectarian divisions.
Chronology and Education: The text estimates his birth around 1720 (Samvat) and initiation around 1732 (Samvat), given that his first known work was composed in 1743 (Samvat) when he was likely at least 22 years old. He is thought to have had a household life of about 12 years before his renunciation. He received initiation from Pathak Dipchandji of the Khartargachha.
Extensive Travels and Literary Output: Shrimad Devchandraji traveled extensively throughout Gujarat, Kathiawar, Marwar, Punjab, Sindh, and other regions. His works were composed in various languages, including Sanskrit, Prakrit, Braj Bhasha, Magadhi, and Gujarati.
- Gujarati Works: His command over Gujarati was excellent. He composed 'Dhyandeepika Chatushpadi' in Gujarati in Punjab (Multan) in 1766 (Samvat), demonstrating his deep connection to the language even while traveling. The language used in his early works is described as simple, fluent, and evocative.
- Braj Bhasha Works: He composed 'Dravya Prakash' in Braj Bhasha in Bikaner in 1767 (Samvat).
- Prakrit/Magadhi Works: He composed 'Vicharsar' with Sanskrit commentary in Jamnagar in 1796 (Samvat).
Scholarly Pursuits and Influence:
- He is particularly praised for his commentary on Shrimad Yashovijayji's 'Jnansar Sutra', titled 'Jnanamanjari Tika'. This demonstrates his profound understanding of spiritual knowledge and his ability to elucidate complex philosophical concepts.
- He is recognized for his ability to extract the essence of scriptures, particularly the Dravyanuyog (the study of substances), and present it in an accessible manner through works like 'Agamsar', 'Nayachakra', and 'Vicharsar'. These are considered gateways to understanding all Jain Agamas.
- His work 'Prasnottar' is filled with experiential knowledge.
- He was a scholar who could explain profound subjects in simple Sanskrit for young minds, without resorting to overly complex or archaic language.
Interactions with Contemporaries: The text mentions his interactions with other prominent Jain scholars and ascetics of his time, including Shrimad Yashovijayji, Shrimad Jnansagarji, Shrimad Jnana Vimal Suri, Shrimad Jinvijayji, Shrimad Uttamvijayji, Shrimad Vinayvijayji, Shrimad Udayratna, Shrimad Mohanvijayji, and importantly, Shrimad Anandghanji. It's suggested that Shrimad Devchandraji might have even taught some of these scholars.
Devotional and Spiritual State: Shrimad Devchandraji was deeply devoted to the Tirthankaras. His devotional songs and verses are filled with profound spiritual emotion, conveying his deep love and yearning for the soul's true nature. His poetry is characterized by its simplicity, sweetness, and attractive power, effectively conveying spiritual truths. He used allegorical language, drawing parallels between natural phenomena and spiritual states, demonstrating his unique poetic and spiritual prowess.
Renunciation and Asceticism: His works reflect a deep sense of detachment from worldly affairs and a profound understanding of the impermanence of the body and the world. His verses on Vairagya (detachment) and Sadhuta (asceticism) highlight his advanced spiritual state and his immersion in self-realization. He is described as being in a state of avadhuta (one who has renounced all worldly attachments).
Miracles and Divine Powers: The text recounts several instances of his miraculous powers, including:
- Calming a fierce lion with his compassionate presence.
- Recapturing a Jain temple in Jamnagar from Muslim appropriation through prayer and divine intervention.
- Stopping crows from flocking to the holy Mount Shatrunjay by performing a ritual.
- Manifesting a large quantity of food for a congregation through the power of meditation.
- Being visited by the celestial being Dharanendra, who confirmed his presence in Mahavideha-kshetra as a Kevali (omniscient being).
Legacy and Continuing Influence: Shrimad Devchandraji is considered a guiding light for those seeking spiritual knowledge. His extensive literary output continues to inspire and guide seekers towards the understanding of the soul and the Jain path. The author concludes by expressing gratitude for the inspiration and assistance received from his gurus and father in compiling this tribute.

In essence, the text paints a vivid picture of Shrimad Devchandraji as a multifaceted spiritual master, scholar, and poet whose profound spiritual insights and literary contributions continue to enrich Jain tradition and inspire spiritual seekers. His life exemplifies a deep commitment to the Jain principles of knowledge, devotion, and renunciation.