Prachin Stavan Sazzay Sangraha - Book Summary

This is a comprehensive summary of the Jain text "Prachin Stavan Sazzay Sangraha" (Collection of Ancient Stanzas and Sajhays), compiled by Acharya Vijaykanaksuri. The book, published by Gurjar Granthratna Karyalay in Ahmedabad, is a collection of devotional songs, hymns, and verses, primarily focused on praising and remembering Jain Tirthankaras and revered Jain ascetics.

Here's a breakdown of the summary:

Book Title: Prachin Stavan Sazzay Sangraha (Collection of Ancient Stanzas and Sajhays) Author: Acharya Maharaj Shri Vijaykanaksuri Publisher: Gurjar Granthratna Karyalay Second Edition: May 1960

Core Content and Purpose:

The book is a compilation of ancient Jain devotional literature, including:

Stavan: These are devotional hymns, often sung in praise of Tirthankaras, Jain deities, and revered monks.
Sajhay: These are devotional songs or narratives, usually recounting spiritual stories, teachings, or aspects of Jain philosophy.
Chaitryavandan: These are verses recited during worship and salutations to Jain temples and deities.
Stutis: Hymns of praise and adoration.
Duhas, Kavitas, Gadhuli: Various forms of poetry and verses.

The primary purpose of the collection is to provide spiritual solace, guidance, and devotion to the Jain community. It aims to preserve and disseminate traditional Jain devotional practices and literature.

Key Figures and Lineage:

The preface and biographical sections highlight a prominent lineage of Jain monks, emphasizing their spiritual achievements and contributions to Jainism. Key figures mentioned include:

Acharya Maharaj Shri Vijaykanaksuri: The compiler of the collection, who was a disciple of Acharya Maharaj Shri Jeetvijayji and grandson-disciple of Acharya Maharaj Shri Hirvijayji.
Acharya Maharaj Shri Jeetvijayji: A highly respected monk, disciple of Acharya Shri PadmVijayji, known for his austerities and spiritual influence. His life story is included in the book.
Acharya Maharaj Shri Hirvijayji: A significant figure, instrumental in the revival of Jainism, and an influential spiritual leader.
Acharya Shri Manivijayji: A predecessor in the spiritual lineage.
Acharya Shri Padm Vijayji: The guru of Acharya Shri Jeetvijayji.

The text emphasizes the importance of following the teachings and examples of these spiritual leaders for attaining liberation.

Themes and Spiritual Content:

The collection is rich in themes central to Jainism:

Devotion to Tirthankaras: Many stavan and stutis are dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras like Adinath, Parshvanath, Mahavir Swami, Neminath, and others, praising their virtues, qualities, and the essence of their teachings.
Adherence to Jain Principles: The book implicitly or explicitly promotes adherence to core Jain principles like non-violence (Ahimsa), truthfulness, non-possession, celibacy, and austerities.
Spiritual Path to Liberation: The verses often describe the cycle of birth and death, the suffering in the mortal world, and the path to achieving liberation (Moksha) through right faith, knowledge, and conduct.
Grief and detachment: The concept of impermanence and detachment from worldly pleasures is a recurring theme.
Importance of Gurus: The profound respect and gratitude towards spiritual teachers (Gurus) for their guidance and blessings are evident throughout the text.
Consequences of Karma: The text touches upon the principles of Karma, explaining how actions lead to future consequences, particularly highlighting the suffering caused by attachment to worldly objects and the importance of renunciation.
Praise of Austerities and Virtues: The collection celebrates the spiritual power derived from fasting, meditation, and other ascetic practices undertaken by Jain monks and nuns.

Structure and Contents:

The book is meticulously structured, with the preface by Pra. Dipvijay providing context and historical background. The main body of the work is divided into sections:

Chaitryavandan (pages 1-27): Salutations and verses for temple worship.
Stutis (pages 28-59): Hymns of praise.
Stavan (pages 60-151): A substantial collection of devotional songs.
Sajhay (pages 154-328): A large section dedicated to devotional songs and narratives.
Pariśiṣṭa (Appendices):
- Pariśiṣṭa 1 (pages 1-60): More Stavan.
- Pariśiṣṭa 2 (pages 61-107): More Sajhay.
- Pariśiṣṭa 3 (pages 108-132): Miscellaneous verses including poems, couplets, and Gadhuli.
Shuddhi Patrak (Errata): A page listing corrections.

Overall Significance:

"Prachin Stavan Sazzay Sangraha" is a valuable resource for understanding traditional Jain devotionalism. It serves as a spiritual guide, offering comfort, inspiration, and a connection to the rich heritage of Jain literature and practice. The book's re-publication highlights its enduring importance for the Jain community, particularly for preserving and transmitting these devotional songs across generations. The detailed index at the end (pages 45-58) demonstrates the vastness and variety of the content, covering numerous Tirthankaras, vows, and spiritual concepts.