Prabha Raivat Charitra Prachin Stavanavali - Book Summary

This comprehensive summary is based on the provided Jain text, "Prabha Raivat Charitra Prachin Stavanavali," compiled by Ramchand D. Shah and published by Jaswantlal Girdharlal Shah.

I. Title and Publisher:

Title: Prabha Raivat Charitra Prachin Stavanavali (A Collection of Ancient Hymns/Praises related to Prabha and Raivat's Conduct).
Author/Compiler: Master Ramchand D. Shah, Head Professor of Shri T.A. Sankubai Jain Pathshala and Sethshri Chhaganbhai Jain Shravikashala, Cambay.
Publisher: Shri Jaswantlal Girdharlal Shah, Ahmedabad.
Dedication: The book is dedicated at the lotus feet of Guruni Maharaj Shri Prabhashriji Maharaj, a disciple of Tapgachhiya Panch-Pujyapad, and by the inspiration of Guruni Maharaj Shri Prabhashriji Maharaj's disciple Revatshriji Maharaj's disciple Charitra Shreeji Maharaj.
Sponsorship: Presented as a gift by Shri Chimanalal Wadalal, formerly of Cambay, by the inspiration of Shri Charitra Shreeji Maharaj.
Second Edition: Published in Vir Samvat 2491 (corresponding to V.S. 2021).

II. Preface/Introduction ("Pustak Ange Kaik" - Something about the Book):

The preface emphasizes the importance of an introduction for any book, much like a door is needed to enter a house. It aims to provide readers with a concise understanding of the book's content, its utility, and its intended audience. The author notes that humans are driven by emotions and feelings, and like young saplings that can be easily shaped, individuals seeking spiritual depth and self-realization are akin to children in their quest. The book's purpose is to present a collection of spiritual songs and biographies that originate from the depths of great souls, aiming to bring humanity back to nature from its corrupted state.

III. Core Content and Philosophy:

Nature of the Collection: The book is a compilation of "Stavans" (hymns/praises) and "Sajjhays" (narrative devotional songs, often depicting life stories).
Purpose of Stavans: Stavans are dedicated to Vitraga Bhagwant (the liberated souls) and express the devotional fervor of the singers. They are presented as a way to understand profound philosophical truths and life stories in an enjoyable manner, making complex concepts accessible even through simple recitation or singing.
Purpose of Sajjhays: Sajjhays, on the other hand, delve into the lives of virtuous individuals like Amka, Subhadra, and Kalavati. These narratives are intended to provide sustenance for the spiritual journey towards liberation.
Ancient Origin: The Stavans and Sajjhays included are not modern but ancient compositions by great yogis and ascetics who delved deep into their souls, detached from worldly complexities. Their words are described as the experiences of intense practitioners.
Spiritual Impact: The collection is intended to help readers become "Mumukshu" (seekers of liberation) and to aid others in their spiritual pursuits. The compiler's effort is considered successful to the extent the collection helps in this transformation.

IV. Key Figures and Their Roles:

Guruni Maharaj Shri Prabhashriji Maharaj: Revered spiritual leader whose teachings and influence are acknowledged.
Revatshriji Maharaj: A disciple of Guruni Shri Prabhashriji Maharaj, whose guidance was instrumental.
Charitra Shreeji Maharaj: A disciple of Revatshriji Maharaj, whose good counsel inspired the publication.
Shri Chimanalal Wadalal: The donor of the book, a respected individual from Cambay, whose brief life sketch is included in the book.
Master Ramchand D. Shah: The compiler and chief editor, with significant experience in religious and spiritual literature, credited for his notable effort in preparing the content.
Pandit Chhabildas Keshriachand: Author of a section in the book, a professor of Sanskrit and Prakrit at Shri Bhattibai Syadvad Sanskrit-Prakrit Pathshala.

V. Biographies and Life Sketches:

The book includes brief biographical details of key figures associated with its creation and inspiration:

P.P. Sadhviji Shri Prabhashriji Maharaj (Pages 15-16 & 21-24): A highly accomplished and influential Sadhvi. Her life story highlights her birth in a religious family, early inclination towards spiritual practices, marriage, widowhood at a young age, extensive study of scriptures, and her spiritual journey under revered gurus. She is credited with guiding a large community of disciples and leaving behind a legacy of renunciation and knowledge. Her passing is noted with respect and the observance of memorial ceremonies.
P.P. Sadhviji Revatshriji Maharaj (Page 19 & 20): Mentioned as a disciple of Sadhvi Shri Prabhashriji Maharaj. Her brief life sketch indicates a dedication to spiritual studies and tapasya. Her passing is also noted.
P.P. Sadhviji Charitra Shreeji Maharaj (Page 19 & 20): A disciple of Revatshriji Maharaj, initiated at a young age, dedicated to knowledge and tapasya. Her involvement in the book's publication is highlighted.
Shri Chimanalal Wadalal (Page 25 & 27-29): A businessman from Cambay, known for his religious devotion and philanthropic activities, particularly in education and social welfare. His life journey, from early responsibility to his contributions to Jain institutions, is detailed. His sudden demise due to an accident is noted with sorrow.

VI. Structure and Content Categories:

The book is richly structured with a detailed Table of Contents (Vishayanukramanika) covering various devotional and instructive sections:

Chaitra Vandan Section (Pages 45-53): Devotional hymns for various deities and holy places, including Adishwarji, Siddha Chakra, Simandhar Swami, Vasupujya Swami, Mallinathji, the 24 Tirthankaras, Diwali festival, Gautam Swami, Ashtapadji, Jan Puja, and others.
Stavan-Dhal Section (Pages 54-63): A vast collection of hymns, often categorized by meters or themes, including verses on the 24 Tirthankaras, Diwali, Gautam Swami, various specific devotional requests and praises.
Sajjhay Section (Pages 276-378): This forms a significant portion of the book, containing narrative devotional songs detailing stories of disciples, ethical teachings, and spiritual insights. These include Sajjhays on:
- Gautam Swami: His spiritual journey and teachings.
- Twelve Vows: Explanations and praises of the vows.
- Kanyalavti: A narrative of a virtuous woman.
- Punya-Pap: The consequences of deeds.
- Vairagya: Detachment and renunciation.
- Bhavishya: The future and its uncertainties.
- Shikhamani: Moral guidance.
- Chetavan: Awakening and exhortation.
- And many more, covering a wide range of Jain teachings, life stories of devotees, and ethical principles.

VII. Specific Praises and Devotional Songs Mentioned (Examples):

Chaitra Vandan: Praises for various Tirthankaras and sacred sites.
Stavans: Hymns dedicated to specific Tirthankaras (Adishwarji, Shantinathji, Vasupujya, Mallinathji, Parshwanathji, Mahavir Swami, Neminathji, etc.), festivals (Diwali), and holy concepts (Siddha Chakra, Navpad).
Sajjhay: A large repertoire of didactic and narrative songs about the lives of saints, satees, kings, and the teachings of Jainism, emphasizing virtue, detachment, and spiritual practice. Examples include Sajjhays on Amka Sati, Marudevi Mata, Anjana Sati, Sati Draupadi, Kalavati, Rohini, etc.
Special Prayers: Prayers for Goddess Saraswati and various forms of Parshwanathji (Chintamani, Shankheshwar, Godi, Stambhan Parthnath) are included, along with a mantra for Manibhadraji.

VIII. Key Themes and Messages:

Devotion and Reverence: The primary theme is unwavering devotion to the Tirthankaras and Jain principles.
Spiritual Practice: Emphasis on the importance of "Tapa" (asceticism), "Samyam" (restraint), and "Dhyan" (meditation) for spiritual progress.
Ethical Living: Teachings on compassion, non-violence, truthfulness, detachment, and the importance of virtuous conduct in daily life.
Understanding of Karma: The consequences of actions and the cycle of birth and death are implicitly or explicitly discussed.
Path to Liberation: The ultimate goal is to achieve Moksha (liberation) through righteous living and spiritual devotion.
Guidance from Gurus: The importance of guidance from spiritual preceptors is a recurring theme.

IX. Overall Impression:

"Prabha Raivat Charitra Prachin Stavanavali" appears to be a rich and extensive collection of Jain devotional literature, serving as a valuable resource for spiritual learning and inspiration. The book's meticulous compilation and the inclusion of biographical information about the figures involved underscore its significance in preserving and propagating Jain spiritual heritage. The variety of hymns and Sajjhays suggests a deep exploration of Jain philosophy, ethics, and the lives of its revered personalities.