Prachin Stavan Ratna Sangraha Part 02

Here's a comprehensive summary of the provided Jain text, "Prachin Stavan Ratna Sangraha Part 02," based on the scanned pages:

Book Title: Prachin Stavan Ratna Sangraha Part 02 (Collection of Ancient Jewel-like Stanzas, Part 2)

Author(s): Acharya Shri Gyanvimalsuri and Muktivimal Gani

Publisher: Jamnabhai Bhagubhai Shreshthi

Overview:

This book is the second volume of a compilation of ancient Jain devotional hymns (Stavans). It is a collection of religious poetry and prayers that have been passed down through generations within the Jain tradition, specifically associated with the Vimalshakh of the Tapagachha lineage. The work aims to preserve and make accessible these valuable spiritual compositions to the Jain community.

Key Sections and Content:

The book is meticulously organized, featuring a detailed index (Anukramanika) that spans numerous pages, listing a vast array of Stavans and their respective authors. Based on the index and the initial scanned pages, the collection appears to cover a wide range of themes and compositions:

1. Stavans by Acharya Shri Gyanvimalsuri: The primary author of this volume is Acharya Shri Gyanvimalsuri, whose compositions form a significant part of the collection. The index indicates numerous Stavans attributed to him, covering various Tirthas (holy places), Tirthankar Gods, and devotional themes like:

   • Stavans for Suryaabhanatak (a dramatic portrayal of celestial events related to a Tirthankar).
   • Stavans related to the Trishatishalakapurush (the 63 great souls in Jainism).
   • Stavans on various Tirthas (e.g., Siddhachal, Girnar, Abu, Sankheshwar, Patan).
   • Stavans for specific Tirthankar Gods (e.g., Rishabhdev, Ajitnath, Sambhavnath, Parshvanath, Mahavir Swami).
   • Stavans on concepts like Siddha Chakra, Chovisi (hymns about the 24 Tirthankaras), and Virahaman Jin (living Tirthankaras).
   • Stavans covering various philosophical and spiritual practices like Dhyaan (meditation) and Chaitvavandan (worship of idols).

2. Stavans by Other Vimalshakh Sadhus: The collection also includes Stavans composed by other learned monks (Sadhus) from the Vimalshakh. This demonstrates a rich tradition of poetic and devotional composition within the lineage. Some of the notable names mentioned in the index include:

   • Shri Kirtivimal (Visi)
   • Shri Danvimai (Chovisi)
   • Shri Vibudavimal (Virahaman Jin)
   • Shri Vineetvimal (Geld Dev's Song)
   • Shri Udayvimal Suri
   • Shri Amrutjivitimal
   • Shri Sadhvimal
   • Shri Vimalesh
   • Shri Vishuddhvimal
   • Shri Dhirmal
   • Shri Ratnavimal
   • Shri Jivmal
   • Shri Manikyavimal
   • Shri Gunvimaljit
   • Shri Muktivimal

3. Thematic Diversity: The Stavans cover a wide range of topics relevant to Jain philosophy and practice, including:

   • Praise of Tirthankar Gods and their virtues.
   • Descriptions of Jain Tirthas and their significance.
   • Narratives from Jain history and mythology (e.g., stories of Tirthankaras, Chakravartis, Balidev, Vasudev).
   • Explanation of Jain principles, rituals, and meditation techniques (Pindasthadi Dhyaan).
   • Devotional songs and prayers for specific occasions or deities.
   • Praise of virtuous monks and spiritual leaders.

4. Detailed Index: The index is a crucial feature, providing a comprehensive roadmap to the content, organized by subject matter and author. This allows readers to easily locate specific Stavans.

5. Publisher's Note and Patronage: The book includes a significant section acknowledging and praising the generous patron, Seth Shri Jamnabhai Bhagubhai, for financing the printing and publication. It details his family lineage and their significant contributions to Jain religious activities, including building temples and sponsoring religious literature. This highlights the importance of patronage in preserving Jain heritage.

6. Editorial Notes: The book also includes editorial notes regarding the accuracy of the text, acknowledging that some of the ancient manuscripts might have been imperfect or had variations, and requesting readers to help in rectifying any errors that may have slipped through due to transcription or printing.

7. Specific Stavans Mentioned (from index and samples):

   • Shri Suryabh Natak: Appears to be a detailed narrative or drama.
   • Trishthi Shalaka Purush: Hymns about the 63 illustrious figures in Jainism.
   • Tirth Mala Yatra: A collection of hymns describing pilgrimages to various holy sites.
   • Adish Jin: Hymns dedicated to the first Tirthankar, Rishabhnath.
   • Nabhinandan: Hymns dedicated to the Tirthankar born in the Nabhi lineage.
   • Many Parshvanath Stavans: The index shows a remarkable number of hymns dedicated to Lord Parshvanath, indicating his significant devotion.
   • Sajhjhaya: This term refers to a specific genre of devotional poetry, often narrative or instructional, and the book contains many such compositions.

Overall Significance:

"Prachin Stavan Ratna Sangraha Part 02" is a valuable resource for scholars and practitioners of Jainism. It provides a repository of devotional literature, offering insights into the spiritual practices, history, and philosophy of the Jain tradition, particularly within the Vimalshakh. The detailed compilation and the emphasis on preserving ancient texts underscore the importance of this work for cultural and religious continuity. The generous patronage by Shri Jamnabhai Bhagubhai highlights the community's commitment to preserving their heritage.