Parshwanathopasargaharini Shasandevi Shree Padmavatimata - Book Summary

Here's a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Parshwanathopasargaharini Shasandevi Shree Padmavatimata," authored by Nandlal B Devluk and published by Arihlnt Prakashan, based on the provided pages:

Title and Author:

The book is titled "Parshwanathopasargaharini Shasandevi Shree Padmavatimata," authored by Nandlal B Devluk and published by Arihant Prakashan. The catalog link provided is https://jainqq.org/explore/005139/1. The text is intended for private and personal use by Jain Education International.

Central Theme: The Glorification of Goddess Padmavati

The primary focus of the book is the worship, significance, iconography, and devotional aspects of Goddess Padmavati, who is revered as the Shasanadevi (guardian deity) of Bhagwan Parshwanath. The text aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of her divine form, powers, and the rituals associated with her worship.

Key Aspects Covered:

Deity of Protection and Boon-Giver: Padmavati Mata is presented as the remover of obstacles (upasarga) and the grantor of boons. She is described as the protective deity of Bhagwan Parshwanath's reign and the entire Jain community (Chaturvidh Sangh). Her worship is believed to bring prosperity, peace, and fulfillment of desires.
Iconography and Various Forms: The book extensively explores the diverse forms and iconography of Goddess Padmavati. It details her physical attributes as described in various scriptures and traditions:
- Complexion: Often depicted as golden or red.
- Attire: Adorned with divine garments and jewelry.
- Arms: Commonly depicted with four arms, but variations with six, eight, twelve, and even twenty-four arms are described.
- Symbols/Attributes: She is shown holding a lotus, noose, goad, fruit, rosary, axe, sword, shield, conch, and sometimes depicted in various mudras (hand gestures).
- Vehicle: Her primary vehicle is often a serpent (Naga), specifically described as a Kukkuta-Sarpa (snake with a rooster's head) or a regular snake. She is also sometimes depicted on a swan or in a lotus seat.
- Head: Often depicted with three or five serpent hoods as a crown, symbolizing protection.
- Dwellings: Her abodes are sometimes described as subterranean realms or lotus seats, emphasizing her connection with the underworld and purity.
Connection with Bhagwan Parshwanath: The text highlights the deep connection between Padmavati Devi and Bhagwan Parshwanath. She is considered his Shasanadevi and is believed to have actively assisted him during the formidable challenges (upasargas) posed by Kamatha and Meghmali. The legend of Dharanendra (her Naga husband) and Padmavati protecting Bhagwan Parshwanath by spreading their hoods over him during the rains is a central narrative.
Worship and Rituals: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the worship of Padmavati Devi. It covers:
- Mantras: Various powerful mantras are provided, emphasizing their efficacy when chanted with devotion and correct pronunciation.
- Yantras: The book illustrates and explains the importance of Yantras (mystical diagrams) associated with Padmavati, highlighting their role in invoking divine energy and achieving desired outcomes.
- Rituals: Details of various rituals, including Panchopachara, Shodashopachara, and Mahapuja, are mentioned, emphasizing the importance of purity, devotion, and correct methodology.
- Fasting and Observances: While not explicitly detailed in the initial pages, the context suggests the importance of various austerities and practices in her worship.
Iconographic Variations and Historical Presence: The book showcases numerous images and sculptures of Padmavati Devi from various Jain temples across India (Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, South India, etc.) and even from abroad (USA). These images highlight the rich artistic and sculptural heritage associated with her worship and the geographical spread of her cult. The evolution of her iconography over centuries, from simpler forms to multi-armed and elaborately adorned depictions, is touched upon.
Syncretism and Cross-Cultural Influence: The text acknowledges that while Padmavati is a significant deity in Jainism, her worship and attributes show similarities with other Hindu goddesses like Lakshmi, Gauri, and the Mahavidyas (Tara, Tripura Sundari, etc.), as well as goddesses in Buddhism. This suggests a syncretic aspect of worship in Indian culture, where deities and their attributes might have influenced each other across different religious traditions.
Spiritual and Material Significance: Padmavati is described as the giver of both spiritual and material benefits. She is invoked for overcoming obstacles, achieving knowledge, gaining wealth, securing good fortune, protection from enemies, and ultimately, for spiritual upliftment and liberation (moksha).
The Role of Ascetics and Gurus: The text emphasizes the importance of guidance from spiritual preceptors (gurus) in the practice of mantra and tantra sadhana, underscoring that true knowledge and Siddhi are attained through their grace and proper initiation.
Philosophical and Historical Context: The book attempts to place the worship of Padmavati within the broader context of Jain philosophy, highlighting concepts like karma, liberation, and the role of spiritual practices. It also touches upon the historical development of her cult, mentioning its popularity from the 10th-12th centuries CE onwards.

Structure and Content:

The book appears to be a comprehensive compilation, featuring numerous articles and contributions from various scholars, monks, and devotees. The table of contents (Anukram) indicates a wide range of topics, including:

Introductory and philosophical discussions on the nature of Shakti and the significance of mantras.
Detailed descriptions of Padmavati's various forms, iconography, and the symbolism behind her attributes.
Legends and myths associated with her life and miraculous deeds.
Detailed explanations of mantras, yantras, and tantric rituals for her worship.
The historical spread of her cult and its presence in various Jain temples.
Devotional hymns, prayers, and rituals related to Padmavati.
Contributions from various esteemed Jain monks and scholars like P.P. Acharya Shree Rajayashsurishwarji Maharaj, P.P. Acharya Shree Yashodevsuri Maharaj, and P.P. Muni Shree Nandighoshvijayji Maharaj, among others.
A substantial "Darshan Vibhag" (Visual Section) featuring numerous photographs of Padmavati and related deities from temples across India.

Overall Purpose:

The book serves as a devotional guide and a scholarly exploration of Goddess Padmavati, aiming to deepen the reader's understanding of her divine essence, the rituals of her worship, and her significance within Jainism and broader Indian traditions. It aims to inspire faith and devotion, guiding practitioners towards spiritual and material fulfillment through her worship.