Prachin Stavanavli 21 Naminath - Book Summary

Here is a comprehensive summary in English of the Jain text "Prachin Stavanavali 21 Naminath," authored by Hasmukhbhai Chudgar:

Title: Prachin Stavanavali 21 Naminath (Ancient Hymns Collection: Bhagwan Naminath) Author: Hasmukhbhai Chudgar Publisher: Hasmukhbhai Chudgar

Overall Purpose: This book is a compilation of ancient hymns (stanzas) dedicated to Lord Naminath, the twenty-first Tirthankara in Jainism. The primary aim of the collection is to facilitate the reader's connection with the divine through devotion (bhakti) and to inspire spiritual upliftment and progress towards liberation (moksha).

Key Themes and Content:

Introduction and Philosophy (Prastavika, Prabhubhakti):
- The introductory sections emphasize that true devotion (bhakti) to the divine (Paramaatma) can help an individual transcend external attachments and realize their inner divine nature.
- The author highlights that many people may not experience profound joy from daily worship because they haven't truly understood or recognized the divine. True devotion, born from genuine understanding rather than mere routine, leads to immense joy and spiritual strength.
- The text contrasts the futility of shedding tears for worldly possessions with the immense spiritual merit gained from even a few tears shed in devotion to the Lord. Such devotion brings one closer to liberation.
The Navkar Mahamantra:
- The initial pages (Page 2) are dedicated to the glory of the Navkar Mahamantra. It is described as the essence of the fourteen Purvas, with limitless and immeasurable significance.
- It is stated that the mantra should be remembered in all circumstances – in happiness and sorrow, day and night, while living and dying, and by everyone.
- The mantra is praised for its 68 letters, its connection to 68 sacred pilgrimage sites, and its ability to grant the "eight siddhis" (supernatural powers).
- The nine entities (Nav Pad) of the mantra are said to bestow the "nine treasures" and alleviate the suffering of countless lifetimes. The poet "Chandra" is mentioned as having his words imbued with the essence of the mantra, leading to a connection with the Supreme Soul.
Table of Contents (Annamanika):
- The book contains a comprehensive index listing numerous hymns dedicated to Lord Naminath. Each hymn is attributed to a specific author (kartā), indicating the rich tradition of devotional poetry in Jainism.
- The table of contents spans several pages (Pages 6-8), showcasing a wide array of devotional songs written by various revered monks and scholars, such as Shri Veer Vijayji, Shri Padmavijayji, Shri Gyanvimalji, Shri Vinayvijayji, Shri Anandghanji, Shri Yashovijayji, Shri Bhan Vijayji, and many others.
Chaiyavandan Vidhi (Ritual of Worship):
- Significant portions of the book are dedicated to explaining the correct Jain ritualistic procedures for worship (Chaiyavandan), particularly for Lord Naminath.
- This includes detailed instructions on reciting specific sutras (verses) such as:
  - Ichchhāmi Khamāsamaṇ Sutra: A respectful salutation to the Tirthankaras and Jain monks.
  - Iriyāvaahiyam Sutra: A verse to absolve oneself of sins committed inadvertently through movement and actions.
  - Tassa Uttari Sutra: A verse for further purification after the Iriyāvaahiyam Sutra.
  - Annath Sutra: A verse for kāyotsarga (meditation or self-absorption), detailing various postures and mindful conduct.
  - Logassa Sutra: A praise of the 24 Tirthankaras, culminating in a prayer for well-being and liberation.
  - Jankinchi Sutra: A salutation to all Jin temples and idols in the three worlds.
  - Namukkunna Sutra: A detailed eulogy of the qualities of Arihant Bhagwan.
  - Javantichi Cheiyāi Sutra: A verse acknowledging all Jin temples in the universe.
  - Javant Kevi Sāhū Sutra: A salutation to all Jain monks and nuns in the three realms.
  - Namo Arihanta-Āchārya-Upādhyāya-Sarvasādhubhyaḥ: A direct salutation to the Panch Parmeshthi (five supreme beings).
  - Jay Viyarāy Sutra: A prayer for auspiciousness, requesting divine protection and the attainment of liberation.
  - Arihanta Cheiyāṇa Sutra: A specific verse for dedicating kāyotsarga to the idols in a temple.
- The text often provides the meaning (Bhāvārtha) of these sutras, making the ritual accessible and understandable.
The Hymns (Stavans):
- The core of the book comprises the diverse hymns dedicated to Lord Naminath. Each hymn is presented with its author and often a specific meter or tune (e.g., "Rūshabhno vansh rāyanāyaru-e deshi").
- These hymns describe various aspects of Lord Naminath's life, virtues, and teachings:
  - Birth and Life: Details of his birth in Mithila, his parents (King Vijay and Queen Vapra), his complexion (golden), his stature (15 dhanush), his lifespan (10,000 years), and his lineage (Ikshvaku dynasty).
  - Attributes and Virtues: Hymns praise his compassionate nature, his victory over passions (like anger, pride, Maya, greed), his detachment, his omniscient knowledge, and his role as a guide to liberation.
  - Devotion and Prayer: Many hymns are prayers from devotees expressing their longing for the Lord's presence, their desire for liberation, and their commitment to his teachings. They often use metaphors from nature and everyday life to express their spiritual aspirations.
  - Philosophical Insights: Some hymns delve into deeper Jain philosophy, discussing concepts like the nature of the soul, the path to liberation, and the superiority of Jain deities over other gods.
Biographical Information of Lord Naminath:
- The final page (Page 68) provides a concise summary of Lord Naminath's key biographical details, including:
  - Father: King Vijay
  - Mother: Queen Vapra
  - Birthplace: Mithila
  - Birth Star: Ashwini
  - Birth Sign: Aries
  - Lifespan: 10,000 years
  - Height: 15 Dhanush
  - Complexion: Yellow
  - Marital Status: Married
  - Number of Disciples: 1000 monks
  - Chedmastā period: 9 months
  - Initiation Tree: Bakul tree
  - Number of Ganadharas: 10
  - Number of followers: 20,000 monks, 1,00,000 lay disciples
  - Guardian Yaksha: Bhakuti
  - Chief Consort: Gandhari
  - First Ganadhara: Subh Ganadhar
  - Chyavan Kalyanaka: Asho Sud 15
  - Birth Kalyanaka: Shravan Vad 8
  - Deeksha Kalyanaka: Ashadh Vad 9
  - Kevalgyan Kalyanaka: Maghshir Sud 11
  - Moksha Kalyanaka: Vaishakh Vad 10
  - Moksha Place: Sametshikhar
  - Mudrak (Printer): Ronak Offset, Ahmedabad.

Overall Significance: "Prachin Stavanavali 21 Naminath" serves as a valuable resource for Jain devotees interested in the devotional literature surrounding Lord Naminath. It provides both the hymns for chanting and prayer, along with the ritualistic framework and the essential biographical information about the Tirthankara. The collection highlights the devotional practices and the profound philosophical underpinnings of Jainism.