Prachin Stavan Ratna Sangraha Part 01

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Prachin Stavan Ratna Sangraha Part 01" based on the provided pages and catalog link:

Book Title: Prachin Stavan Ratna Sangraha Part 01 (A Collection of Ancient Stavan Jewels, Part 1) Author(s): Gyanvimalsuri, Muktivimal Gani Publisher: Jamnabhai Bhagubhai Shreshthi Catalog Link: https://jainqq.org/explore/007271/1

Overall Summary:

"Prachin Stavan Ratna Sangraha Part 01" is a compilation of devotional hymns, known as stavans, composed by the esteemed Jain Acharya, Shri Gyanvimal Suri. The book is published by Jamnabhai Bhagubhai Shreshthi and edited and compiled by Gyanswimal Gani and Muktivimal Gani. This collection aims to preserve and present the rich devotional literature of the Jain tradition, specifically focusing on the stavans penned by Acharya Gyanvimal Suri, a prominent figure in the Tapagachha lineage who lived in the 17th century Vikram Samvat (corresponding to the 17th century CE).

The book serves as a treasure trove of devotional poetry that aims to inspire religious faith, foster devotion towards the Jina's teachings, and evoke feelings of vairagya (detachment) in the hearts of the readers. The stavans themselves are described as being composed with great care and filled with profound spiritual sentiment, capable of bringing immense joy and strengthening faith in the Jain dharma.

Key Information from the Provided Pages:

• Compilation and Editing: The work of collecting and researching these ancient stavans was undertaken by Gyanswimal Gani and Muktivimal Gani, disciples of Gyanswimal Gani.
• Publication: The first edition was published in Vikram Samvat 1973 (1917 CE) with an initial print run of 500 copies. The publisher is Seth Jamnabhai Bhagubhai Shreshthi, and the printing was done at the Ratna Sagar Printing Press in Ahmedabad.
• Life and Work of Acharya Gyanvimal Suri:
  • Birth: Born in the 16th century Vikram Samvat (1694), originally named Nathumal.
  • Lineage: Belonged to the Tapagachha, Vimalashakha, founded by Acharya Vimal Suri. His parents were Shri Vasav Shreshthi and Kanakavati Mata, hailing from Bhinmal Nagar.
  • Renunciation and Initiation: At the age of eight, he was inspired by the teachings of Pandit Dhirvimal Gani, a disciple of Pandit Vinayvimal Gani. He took diksha (renunciation) in Vikram Samvat 1702 (1702 CE) at the age of 17 and was named Shri Nayvimal.
  • Intellectual Prowess: He studied under Vidya Guru Kaviraj Amritvimal Gani and Kaviraj Himvimal Gani, mastering subjects like poetry, logic, and various scriptures. His intellect is described as expanding like oil on water.
  • Panyas and Acharya-pad: In Vikram Samvat 1727, he was honored with the title of Panyas (a high-ranking Jain scholar/monk) by Acharya Vijayprabh Suri in Sadadi. After his Guru Dhirvimal Gani passed away in 1739 VS, Nayvimal continued his spiritual mission, initiating many disciples and guiding the Sangha.
  • Acharya-pad and Name Change: In Vikram Samvat 1747, he arrived in Ahmedabad. After widespread agreement among the wise monks about the need to address the decline in conduct within the Tapagachha, they proposed to Acharya Vijayprabh Suri that Nayvimal be appointed as the Acharya. In Vikram Samvat 1748 (some sources say 1749), under the command of Acharya Vijayprabh Suri, Acharya Mahimasagar Suri performed the ceremony, and Nayvimal Gani was given the title of Acharya, henceforth known as Shri Gyanvimal Suri.
  • Extensive Travels and Influence: Acharya Gyanvimal Suri traveled extensively throughout Gujarat, Marwar, Kathiawad, and other regions, delivering sermons and influencing numerous individuals. He often traveled with other prominent monks of his time, including Mahopadhyaya Vinayvijayji and Yashovijayji.
  • Literary Contributions: He authored numerous works, including Nar Bhavlakshya Upanaymala (in Prakrit), and Sanskrit works like Shripal Charitra and Sansar Davaanal Stuti Vrutti. The collection itself contains many of his stavans, which are praised for their ease of understanding, devotion-inspiring content, and contribution to the propagation of Jainism.
  • Death (Nirvana): Acharya Gyanvimal Suri attained nirvana (liberation) in Vikram Samvat 1782 (1782 CE) on the 4th day of Ashad, Thursday, in Khambhat (Stambhatirtha). His passing was marked by great reverence and devotion, with numerous spiritual and charitable activities undertaken in his memory, including widespread Abhaydan (fearlessness donation) for animals.
  • Legacy: His extensive knowledge, poetic abilities, and spiritual influence are highly regarded. His works are estimated to be around fifty thousand lokas (verses/lines). He is particularly noted for his devotion to Mount Shatrunjay, reportedly composing 3600 stavans dedicated to it.
• Content of the Collection: The collection includes stavans composed on various occasions and themes, often mentioning the Vikram Samvat of their composition. Some specific stavans mentioned include those about Shatrunjay Tirth, Jin Pujo Vidhi, and Visha Sthanak Vidhi. His stavans are noted for their historical insights, scriptural accuracy, and ability to uplift the spiritual state of the reader.
• Praise for the Publishers/Compilers: The book is dedicated to the memory of the publisher and philanthropist, Shri Jamnabhai Bhagubhai, and praises his family's dedication to religious and charitable work, particularly his efforts in propagating Jain literature.

Significance of the Work:

This collection is a valuable resource for scholars and devotees interested in Jain devotional literature. It highlights the literary and spiritual contributions of Acharya Gyanvimal Suri, emphasizing his role in upholding and disseminating Jain teachings through his engaging and spiritually uplifting stavans. The detailed biographical information about the Acharya also provides context for the devotional fervor embedded within the text.