Prabhu Sathe Prit

The book "Prabhu Sathe Prit" (Love with the Lord) by Mahodaysagar, published by Shri Kastur Prakashan Trust, is a devotional compilation of hymns, stotras, and spiritual songs designed to foster love and devotion towards the Tirthankaras, particularly Lord Adinath.

The book emphasizes the profound significance of divine love, presenting it as the ultimate remedy for the suffering inherent in the cycle of birth and death (samsara). It highlights that worldly attachments to wealth, relationships, and reputation are illusory and lead to suffering, whereas unwavering devotion to the Tirthankaras purifies the soul and leads to eternal bliss.

The compilation includes a wide array of devotional pieces, such as:

• Vyakhyans (discourses): The book suggests these hymns can be sung during collective prayers, temple rituals, and during Chaturmas (a four-month period of spiritual retreat).
• Stutis, Stavans, and Stotras: These are devotional poems and hymns praising the virtues and divine qualities of the Tirthankaras.
• Spiritual Songs: These are presented as a means to connect with the divine on an emotional level.

The text quotes various Jain Acharyas, including Acharya Shri Hemchandrasuri and Upadhyay Shri Yashovijayji Maharaj, to underscore the importance of devotion. It uses the analogy of offering chocolate to a child to distract them from unwanted items, suggesting that the sweetness of divine love can easily wean the mind away from worldly attachments.

The book also features a detailed table of contents, listing numerous devotional works by various revered saints and poets, covering a vast range of topics such as:

• Praise of the Tirthankaras (e.g., Adinath, Parshvanath, Mahavir).
• Chaiytavandans (obeisance to the Tirthankaras).
• Nishas (spiritual insights).
• Dhyana (meditation).
• Mantras (like the Navkar Mantra).
• Prayers for spiritual upliftment and detachment.

A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the "Navkar Mantra" and its various interpretations and praises, highlighting its central role in Jain devotion. It also includes specific prayers and stotras dedicated to important Tirthas (holy places) and deities.

The publisher's note and the dedications reveal a deep sense of gratitude towards the author's parents and spiritual preceptors, emphasizing the importance of family values and spiritual guidance in their lives. The book is presented as a contribution to disseminating righteous knowledge and fostering spiritual growth.

The book is structured to be a comprehensive guide for devotional practices, offering solace, inspiration, and a path towards spiritual liberation through heartfelt love and devotion to the divine.